Things to do in Phuket

The decision to split our trip to Thailand between Krabi and Phuket turned out to be a brilliant choice. By spending one week in each location, we were able to make the most of our time and experience a wide range of incredible attractions. Krabi, with its stunning limestone cliffs, offered us the perfect opportunity to do some rock climbing. On the other hand moving on to Patong, we were greeted by a bustling city that never seemed to sleep. In this article you will be sure to find some of the best things to do in Phuket.

Whether it is visiting the iconic Big Buddha, a massive statue that overlooks the island, exploring Phuket Old Town or relaxing at Patong Beach, your trip to Thailand will be perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. 

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Where to Stay in Phuket?

When my friend excitedly informed me about her upcoming vacation at The Senses Resort & Pool Villas, a luxurious 5-star hotel, I couldn’t resist planning a holiday to Phuket. Together with my partner we decided that the 4-star Courtyard by Marriott Phuket would be an ideal fit for us. Its proximity to the Patong Beach and strategic location promised us the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the lively atmosphere of Phuket.

From the moment we stepped foot into Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, we were transported to a serene oasis that felt worlds away from the busy streets of Patong. Courtyard by Marriott Phuket adorned with vibrant greenery, created a tranquil atmosphere that made us forget about the outside world.

Things to do in Phuket

During our recent one-week stay in Phuket, we had the opportunity to explore some incredible attractions that we are excited to share with you. One of the highlights of our trip was visiting Elephant Sanctuary. We also enjoyed exploring Similan Islands and Phuket Old Town.

If you’re looking to venture beyond Phuket, I highly recommend checking out Krabi, another stunning destination in Thailand. In my article about what to visit in Krabi, I share some of the top attractions that you won’t want to miss. From limestone cliffs to hidden lagoons, Krabi is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the beauty of Thailand.

Visit Islands in Phang-nga Province – Things to do In Phuket

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Similan Islands

During our trip to Thailand, we found ourselves facing a dilemma when it came to deciding whether or not to embark on a tour to the Similan Islands. We were a bit hesitant at first, mainly due to the early start time required for the tour, as the islands are quite a distance away from popular tourist spots like Krabi and Phuket. Despite our initial reservations, the allure of the picturesque island, reminiscent of Seychelles, proved to be too tempting to pass up.

I was amazed when I woke up at the pier after a long bus ride and realized that I had slept through the entire journey. It was such a relief to know that I had gotten a good rest and would have plenty of energy for the exciting day ahead.

We were able to explore the stunning landscapes, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and relax on pristine beaches. As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our hotel, feeling a mix of exhaustion and contentment. It had been a whopping 14 hours since we embarked on the tour, but every minute was well-spent.

Marine Life at Similan Islands

I consider myself incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to witness the beauty of turtles in different parts of Europe, including Cyprus and Zakynthos. However, my excitement reached new levels when I finally set foot on the Similan Islands in Thailand. I had heard so many stories about these amazing creatures thriving in the waters surrounding the islands, and I couldn’t wait to see them for myself.

Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on my side during the tour, and I was a bit disappointed that I hadn’t spotted any turtles yet. However, my disappointment quickly faded away when one of my friends had a close encounter with numerous turtles just a few days later. It was a clear sign that with a bit of luck, spotting these magnificent creatures in the Similan Islands is definitely possible.

Even though we didn’t get to see any turtles, the Similan Islands had a wonderful surprise in store for us. As we explored the crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands, we were amazed by the variety of fish species we encountered, some of which we had never seen before.

Our experiences in Mexico and Jamaica had already exposed us to diverse marine life, but the Similan Islands managed to exceed our expectations by introducing us to fish species that were completely new to us.

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Hong Island 

When we were in Phuket, we decided to embark on an adventure and explore the captivating islands of Phang-na Province. We had the option to visit these islands from Krabi as well, but we chose the closer option. With excitement in our hearts, we eagerly booked a tour to James Bond island, which also included a visit to the stunning Hong Island.

As we set off on our journey, we were fortunate to have a knowledgeable tour guide accompany us, making our experience even more enjoyable. One of the highlights of the tour was the kayaking activity around the island. The best part was that our guide took care of all the paddling, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the breathtaking scenery that surrounded us without exerting any energy.

While on our kayaking adventure, our guide took the time to highlight the diverse rock formations of Hong Island. One of the most intriguing formations we came across resembled a piranha, injecting a sense of thrill into our journey. Moreover, when we looked up, we were pleasantly surprised to spot a heart-shaped formation formed by the branches of the trees above us.

The overall experience of kayaking through the stunning islands of Phang-nga Province was truly unforgettable. I highly recommend this activity to anyone who is planning a trip to Thailand.

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James Bond Island

When I visited James Bond Island, I was amazed by its fame that stemmed from its appearance in the 1974 Bond movie “The Man With The Golden Gun” starring Roger Moore and Christopher Lee. Prior to the movie, not many people knew about this hidden gem. Now, it has become a must-visit spot for tourists exploring Phuket and its surrounding areas.

Although the island is relatively small, it attracts a large number of tourists, making it quite crowded at times. However, I was still able to appreciate the unique rock formations and breathtaking scenery that the James Bond Island offers. Despite the challenge of capturing photos without other tourists in the background, I managed to snap some beautiful shots of this iconic location.

One of the highlights of my trip to James Bond Island was exploring the local stalls. I was pleasantly surprised by the wide variety of unique souvenirs available for purchase. Among them, a beautiful shell bag instantly caught my attention and I couldn’t resist falling in love with it.

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Panyee Island

My experience exploring Ko Panyi, or Koh Panyee, was truly amazing. This small fishing village located in Phang Nga Province, Thailand, left me in awe with its distinctive charm. The village is perched on stilts above the water, a testament to the ingenuity of the Javanese fishermen who originally built it. With approximately 360 families residing in Ko Panyi, the community is bustling with around 1,600 residents, each contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the village.

During our tour boat stop at Ko Panyi for lunch, I felt a surge of excitement to explore the island. The stories I had heard about the floating football pitch and mosque had piqued my curiosity, and I was eager to witness them firsthand. As we disembarked, I soon realized that the village was not easily accessible by foot from where we had stopped for lunch.

Although I couldn’t wander around the village on foot as much as I had initially planned, I found myself captivated by the stunning architecture of the buildings near the restaurant. While my initial plans to explore the island on foot didn’t quite pan out, the boat rides and the opportunity to admire the architectural wonders of Ko Panyi made the visit worth it.

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Naka Island

My time in Thailand was truly unforgettable, especially when I had the chance to visit more than 10 islands. While most of the islands I visited had shallow waters and jellyfish, my experience at Naka Island stood out. The crystal-clear waters were deep and jellyfish-free, allowing me to enjoy a relaxing swim without any worries.

Koh Naka Yai is conveniently situated near Phuket, making it a perfect spot for a day trip or even an extended vacation. For those looking to indulge in a luxurious stay, I highly recommend booking a room at The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket. The resort offers top-notch amenities, stunning views, and comfortable accommodations that will make your stay truly memorable.

Visit Islands in Krabi Province – Things to do in Phuket

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Maya Bay, Ko Phi Phi Le

Maya Bay had become incredibly popular after being showcased in the movie The Beach, starring the incredibly talented Leonardo Di Caprio. It was like a dream come true to know that I could visit this iconic destination and witness its breathtaking beauty firsthand.

Unfortunately, the immense popularity of Maya Bay took a toll on its fragile ecosystem. The sheer number of tourists flocking to this paradise caused significant damage to its natural habitat. It was heart-wrenching to see the negative impact that human activity had on such a pristine location.

Thankfully, measures were taken to protect and restore the delicate ecosystem of Maya Bay. In order to give the bay a chance to recover, it was decided to close it off to visitors for a period of four years, from 2018 to 2022. This closure allowed for the necessary restoration work to take place, ensuring that future generations could continue to enjoy the beauty of Maya Bay while preserving its ecological balance.

Can you swim at Maya Bay?

With the implementation of new regulations, I am pleased to inform you that Maya Bay can still be enjoyed while prioritizing its long-term preservation. Unfortunately, swimming in the crystal-clear waters is now strictly prohibited. However, visitors are still able to immerse themselves in the beauty of the bay by walking in water up to knee depth.

Although the swimming ban may disappoint those who have always dreamed of diving into the inviting waters of Maya Bay, there is a silver lining to this restriction. It actually enhances the overall experience by creating a more tranquil and picturesque atmosphere. Without the bustling crowds of swimmers, you can fully appreciate the serenity of the bay and capture breathtaking photos without any distractions.

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Ko Phi Phi Don

During our trip to Thailand, we had the incredible opportunity to explore the enchanting Ko Phi Phi Don. This island, which is the largest in the Ko Phi Phi archipelago, left us in awe with its breathtaking beauty. Spanning an impressive area of 9.73 square kilometers (3.76 square miles), Ko Phi Phi Don stretches for about 8 kilometers (5.0 miles) in length and is approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) wide.

One interesting fact about Ko Phi Phi Don is that a portion of the island is under the administrative jurisdiction of Ao Nang in Krabi Province. What truly sets Ko Phi Phi Don apart is the fact that it is the only island in the group that boasts permanent inhabitants. Although most of these residents are temporary workers who cater to the needs of the thriving tourist industry, their presence adds a vibrant and lively atmosphere to the island.

Staying at Ko Phi Phi Don Island

If you’re thinking about visiting Ko Phi Phi Don, I would highly recommend considering staying overnight on the island instead of just going for a day trip. Personally, I believe that by spending the night, you’ll truly get to experience the island’s unique charm and have the freedom to explore at your own pace. One of the absolute highlights of staying on the island is the opportunity to hike up to the viewpoint, which offers absolutely stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.

It’s interesting to note that Ko Phi Phi Don, like the other islands in the archipelago, is primarily made up of limestone and doesn’t have a volcanic origin. What’s even more fascinating is that the island is almost divided into two separate land masses, but there’s a narrow strip of flat land that connects them.

This strip of land is where you’ll find the largest settlement on the island, as well as the majority of the resorts such as Phi Phi CoCo Beach Resort, Phi Phi Cliff Beach Resort or Phi Phi Harbour View Hotel. These resorts provide a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring that you’ll find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Ko Phi Phi Don.

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Bamboo Island

When my partner and I reached Bamboo Island, we were greeted by a lively scene of people enjoying the beach. Unfortunately, the low tide made it challenging for us to fully immerse ourselves in a refreshing swim. Moreover, the exhaustion from our day’s adventures had taken a toll on us, preventing us from fully embracing the beauty of our surroundings.

Nevertheless, we made a conscious decision to take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, hoping to discover a more serene spot. To our absolute joy, we unexpectedly stumbled upon a secluded area that offered breathtaking vistas of the pristine, crystal-clear water. As we gazed into the distance, we noticed a scattering of rocks that added a touch of natural charm to the landscape. The tranquility of this hidden gem provided us with a much-needed respite from the bustling beach, allowing us to appreciate the true essence of Bamboo Island.

Ethical Animal Experience – Things to do in Phuket

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Elephant Sanctuary

During our time in Thailand, my partner and I decided to pay a visit to Elephant Sanctuary (Bang Tao Branch) not far from Phuket. The idea of being able to interact with these magnificent creatures in a responsible and ethical way was something that really appealed to us.

Our trip to the Elephant Sanctuary turned out to be one of the absolute highlights of our entire journey in Thailand. It was an incredibly heartwarming experience to know that by taking part in the tour, we were actively contributing to the well-being of elephants that had previously endured difficult conditions in forestry operations and riding camps. These sanctuaries play a vital role in rescuing elephants from exploitation and providing them with a safe and comfortable environment to call home.

One of the most extraordinary aspects of our visit to the Elephant Sanctuary was the chance to interact with these incredible animals without exploiting them in any way. We had the opportunity to feed them, observe their natural behavior, and even join them for a refreshing bath in a beautiful natural setting. The elephants appeared to be genuinely content and at ease, displaying their natural behaviors without any signs of distress. Witnessing these gentle giants in their element was an experience that truly touched our hearts and left a lasting impact on us.

Explore Phuket Architecture and Religious Buildings – Things to do in Phuket

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Phuket Old Town (Things to do in Phuket)

A friend of mine from Thailand suggested that I visit Phuket Old Town, and as soon as I began browsing through images of the vibrant buildings, I was instantly captivated. The intricate details and vibrant colors of the buildings made me eager to experience the charm of the town in person.

For those looking to explore the must-visit attractions in Phuket Old Town, I highly recommend taking a look at the article I wrote specifically about this enchanting destination. In the Phuket Old Town article, you will discover a wealth of intriguing facts and captivating photographs showcasing iconic landmarks such as the Promthep Clock Tower, the charming Aungku Phuket bakery, and the stunning Sino-Portuguese architecture that defines the town’s unique character.

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Big Buddha

I am amazed by the grandeur of Phuket Big Buddha, also known as The Great Buddha of Phuket, a magnificent seated Maravija Buddha statue located in Phuket, Thailand. The statue sits majestically atop Nakkerd Hill near Chalong, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

As you gaze out, your eyes will be drawn to the stunning Makam Bay, Lon Island, Coral Island and Pomthep Cape, jutting out into the Andaman Sea. The panoramic view from Buddha Phuket Viewpoint also encompasses the picturesque Kata Beach, Thanan Island, Chalong Bay, Racha Island, Keaw Island, and Karon Beach.

Standing as the third-tallest statue in Thailand, Phuket Big Buddha is surpassed in height only by the Great Buddha of Thailand and Luangpho Yai. One of the things that struck me about the Phuket Big Buddha was how accessible it was to visitors.

Unlike the challenging climb we experienced at Wat Sumea temple in Krabi a few days prior, ascending the Big Buddha was a breeze. Stairs were not very steep so made it easy for people of all ages and fitness levels to reach the top and admire statue from close up.

Construction of this impressive monument began in 2004, and it has since become one of the must-visit attractions in Phuket. Standing tall at 45 meters (148 feet) and measuring 25.45 meters (83.5 feet) in width, it portrays Gautama in a serene sitting position. 

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the statue is constructed using a combination of concrete and adorned with exquisite Burmese white marble. Its pristine white exterior adds to its grandeur and radiates a sense of tranquility.

Positioned in such a way that it faces the picturesque Ao Chalong Bay, the statue serves as the focal point of the Wat Kitthi Sankaram temple, also known as Wat Kata.

In recognition of its significance and cultural value, the statue was bestowed with the prestigious title of the “Buddhist Treasure of Phuket” in 2008. This honor was bestowed upon it by Somdet Phra Yanasangwon, the esteemed Supreme Patriarch of Thailand.

The statue’s construction was made possible through generous donations, with a total cost of 30 million Baht. It is heartwarming to know that the community came together to contribute towards the creation of this remarkable symbol of spirituality and devotion.

Explore Guinness World Records – Things to do in Phuket

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Carnival Magic

As soon as I heard of the Carnival Magic theme park in Phuket, with its astounding collection of 9 Guinness World Records, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming desire to witness it firsthand. 

Visiting various light displays in the past, like Blackpool Illuminations and Lightopia festival in London during winter, has always been a magical experience for me. However, nothing quite compared to the awe-inspiring gate at Carnival Magic. 

Walking under that massive illuminated gate at Carnival Magic theme park was truly a surreal moment for me. The sheer size of it left me speechless, and I found myself struggling to find the right words to describe its grandeur.

Guinness World Records at Carnival Magic

The Carnival Magic holds an impressive Guinness World Record for having the Largest LED sculpture. This breathtaking peacock LED sculpture stands tall at 18.01 meters, stretches out to 10.47 meters in length, and spans 7.54 meters in width.

I was absolutely amazed when I discovered that the Carnival Magic holds yet another Guinness World Record, this time for having the largest LED structure. This incredible feat is achieved through the use of 41,805 individual LED lights, which come together to form the shape of the Carnival Magic itself.

However, trying to capture the magnificence of this LED structure in a photograph is no easy task. Its immense size presents a challenge for anyone attempting to capture the Carnival Magic in a single frame.

I am amazed by the various Guinness World Records that can be found on the Carnival Magic theme park. Some of these records include having the largest popcorn machine, the longest single-chassis parade float, and the tallest proscenium arch.

I want to highlight that capturing photos and videos inside Carnival Magic Theatre is strictly prohibited. As you enter the theater to enjoy the show, you will be required to store your phone and camera in the designated lockers provided.

Additionally, the Carnival Magic also boasts records such as having the largest paper-mache sculpture, the largest outdoor chandelier, and the most LED lights on a van. However, one of the most fascinating records held by the Carnival Magic is having the most lights used in a permanent light and sound show. 

Carnival Magic Attractions

I have to admit, despite its numerous Guinness World Records, I personally think that Carnival Magic is a bit of a plastic attraction that caters more towards kids rather than adults. However, I must say that there were a few interesting spots that caught my attention.

One of these spots was the buffet restaurant, which was a massive room filled with colorful chairs and tables arranged at a 45-degree angle, leading the way to a stunning decorative peacock.

However, what truly amazed me was the restroom. As I stepped into the spacious white room, my eyes were immediately drawn to the fountain placed right in the center. The actual toilets were cleverly concealed behind pristine white walls, adding an element of elegance to the overall design. It was definitely the most beautiful restroom I have ever come across.

Stepping into the restrooms at the Carnival Magic theme park was like entering a whole new world. The attention to detail in the colorful designs was simply mesmerizing, and it felt as though I had been transported to a fantastical playground. I could only imagine the excitement and wonder that children must feel when they enter these restrooms.

The unique and creative themes of Carnival Magic really stood out to me. Exploring the vibrant and enchanting designs of luminous mushrooms and flowers was fun thing to do in Phuket. I hope this detailed information about my experience at Carnival Magic will help you in deciding whether it is the right fit for your next adventure.

Visit Patong – Things to do in Phuket

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Relax at Patong Beach

During our holiday in Phuket, we had the pleasure of staying at the Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, which is conveniently located along the stunning 3 km stretch of Patong Beach. This beach is known for its wide range of hotels and attractions that line its shore. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the endless options for dining, shopping, and entertainment that were just a stone’s throw away.

One of the highlights of our time in Phuket was exploring the famous Bangla Walking Street that leads to Patong Beach. The vibrant nightlife scene was truly something to behold, and it was easy to see why this area is so popular among tourists. 

Moreover, the water quality for swimming was surprisingly good, allowing us to cool off and relax in the refreshing waters. For those seeking a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, we highly recommend a visit to Freedom Beach, which is conveniently located near Patong.

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Chinese Lanterns

During our stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, we decided to take a stroll around the area. As we ventured out, we stumbled upon a captivating pathway adorned with Chinese lanterns at Patong Beach. These lanterns, created a magical atmosphere that transported us immediately to Asian culture.

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Jungceylon Shopping Center

Walking through Jungceylon Phuket is like taking a stroll through a completely different place than busy streets of Patong. The combination of shopping, dining, and entertainment makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Phuket. Jungceylon Phuket is the biggest Shopping Center on Phuket Island.

Places to Eat in Patong – Things to do in Phuket

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Malin Plaza

Unlike Krabi, where authentic Thai restaurants were abundant, I found it a bit challenging to locate them in Patong. To satisfy our cravings for Thai cuisine, we opted to explore the night markets and sample various dishes.

Among the places we tried, Malin Plaza stood out as one of the best dining spots in Patong. Conveniently situated less than a 10-minute walk from our accommodation at Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, it offered a wide array of delicious food options.

One particular dish that caught my eye during my time in Thailand was the Pineapple Chicken with Cashews Nuts. The presentation of the dish in a pineapple was simply stunning, and I couldn’t resist the urge to give it a try.

As I sat down at Malin Plaza in Patong, I eagerly awaited the arrival of the dish. When it finally arrived, I was amazed at the generous portion of rice and chicken spilling out of the pineapple. Trying Pineapple Chicken with Cashews Nuts at Malin Plaza was definitely a highlight of my culinary adventures in Phuket.

I was also pleasantly surprised when I discovered the delicious chicken kebab at Malin Plaza. Thailand isn’t typically known for its kebabs, but it was a true testament to the culinary diversity and excellence that can be found in this country. The preparation and taste of the chicken kebab at Malin Plaza was truly impressive.

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Banzaan Fresh Market

During our stay in Patong, Banzaan Fresh Market quickly became one of our favorite spots, especially since it was conveniently located near our friends’ hotel, The Senses Resort & Pool Villas. Being in such a central location in Patong meant that the market was always bustling with people at night.

When we visited Banzaan Fresh Market, we couldn’t resist trying the chicken kebab. It was absolutely incredible, although it didn’t quite compare to the delicious kebab we had at Malin Plaza. The only downside was that if we arrived later, we wouldn’t have been able to place an order because they had a limited amount of meat available and there were so many people eager to try it.

In that case, we would have opted for the grilled chicken on a stick, which was still delicious but had a fiery kick to it. We also decided to be adventurous and try the grilled crocodile meat on a stick, but unfortunately, it didn’t become our favorite choice.

We are not also huge fans of sushi, but when we visited Banzaan Fresh Market, we were pleasantly surprised by the wide variety of fresh fish available. The market offers an array of options for seafood lovers to choose from.

During my visit to Banzaan Fresh Market, a friend of mine suggested that I try the coconut ice cream. The dessert was presented in a coconut shell and was beautifully decorated with a variety of toppings. I definitely recommend it to others visiting Banzaan Fresh Market. 

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Owl Cha

I also received a recommendation from a friend to try the milk tea with boba at Owl Cha, located just a short distance from her hotel, The Senses Resort & Pool Villas. To my delight, it turned out to be the highlight of our trip to Patong. We enjoyed it so much that we made it a daily ritual to walk for 20 minutes from our hotel, Courtyard by Marriott Phuket to Owl Cha just to savor their delicious milk tea.

Among the wide variety of options available, our absolute favorites were the Hazelnut Milk Tea and the Fruity Milky Strawberry. We have tried this beverage in numerous places, but none have come close to the quality and taste of Owl Cha. If you’re planning a trip to Phuket, I highly recommend putting Owl Cha at the top of the places worth visiting.

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