Thailand's largest island, and undeniably the most popular. Phuket has an exceptional climate, with warm and sunny days all around the year. An island for relaxation and adventure. The blue waters, the sandy beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving, and spicy Thai cuisine. There are so many things to do in Phuket, that at times it might be a lot confusing. Sitting on the Andaman Sea and being a big island, it has many magnificent beaches, but that's not all, there is also dazzling Classical architecture, a very welcoming atmosphere, and famous nightlife. The place has both tranquil and crowded beaches. It is an ideal vacation holiday.

8 Things To Do In Phuket For A Marvelous Vacation

The island has gained its popularity from the vast range of activities and tours, from human-made attractions and glittering temples to natural wonders and fabulous beaches, it has it all.

1. Stride For The Phi Phi Island Tour

Stride For The Phi Phi Island Tour

A group of islands, the most pristine and well preserved. Just a short sail away from Phuket lies the magical island of Phi Phi. It is blessed with the best that nature has got. The island is an archipelago of comely beaches and immense cliffs. Being a very popular destination, you can't imagine yourself alone walking on the beach, like in movies, but doesn't stop the island from being majestic. One of the major tourist attractions in Thailand, Phi Phi is a stunning place.  Whether you explore the exquisite underwater world with exotic aquatic life or just trying to find a perfect frame to add to your landscape collection, it has it all. The gorgeousness of this island should not be missed, if in Phuket.

Best Time To Visit - November to March

Timings- You can visit anytime but, are advised to ask the local authority about the ferry and Speedboat timings to reach the island

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Phuket, Thailand For An Enthralling Thai Vacation

2. Take A Ride Along With The Phuket Town

Take A Ride Along With The Phuket Town

Situated at the southeastern coast of Phuket Island lies Phuket town on a picturesque bay. The classical architecture reflects the influence of Chinese immigration and a Portuguese aesthetic, and also providing an interesting contrast to the culture and tradition of Thai styles seen elsewhere.  The town caters to an interactive 3D art gallery, Sino-Portuguese mansions, temples, and well-preserved shophouses. For all the foodies out there the street of the town is lip-smacking (to be honest, it's so delicious that the feeling can't be described through the words). There are so many things to do in Phuket Town, it bustles with activities. There are numerous tourist attractions, hotels, massage parlors, and restaurants.

Best Time To Visit - November to December, you can enjoy the sunny day as well as the nightlife of the town.

Timings- Not Applicable

Suggested Read: List Of Top Hotels In Thailand That Promises A Comfy Stay

3. Gape The Beaches From The Karon Viewpoint

Gape The Beaches From The Karon Viewpoint

The Thai name is "Kho Sam Haad" which translates to the " Hill of three beaches". While being amazed by the island you ought to stop here and enjoy the panoramic view. Once you reach here, you will see exactly three beaches, the Kata Noi, Karon beaches, and Kata Yai. Karon Viewpoint has plenty of parking, a large gazebo (along with seats), drinks, and snacks. It is about a 10- minute ride from the Kata beach, and one of the major viewpoints of Phuket. The iconic view from this place highlights snow-white surfs, sparkling blue sea, white sand beaches (the most fascinating beaches in Thailand), nearby islands, and the deep green hues of Phuket's hillside. It becomes usually crowded, but even a few minutes at this place will take away all your fatigue.

Best Time To Visit - Early Morning or late afternoon

Timings- Is open during the day

Suggested Read: Island In Phuket: Discovering Every Tropical Attraction Along The Shores

4. Take A Glimpse At 007 Island: The James Bond Island

Take A Glimpse At 007 Island: The James Bond Island

This Thailand island became famous after being featured in the movie " The Man with the Golden Gun". A tour of this island includes a cruise through Phang Nga Bay. Boats are forbidden from getting too getting close to the islands, but there are still sightseeing opportunities. This island covers an area of 400 sq km and has around 100 islands. With its signature Rocky pinnacle, it has been famous since the movie. You can view it from a boat or a small beach on Kon Ping Ghan. A popular destination for sailing and kayaking. How would you like to make your friend green from envy? It is the most beautiful spot for being a backdrop for your pictures, just jaw-dropping. Admire the stunningly well-formed cliffs rising dramatically out of the sea.

Best Time To Visit - Early Morning or late afternoon

Timings- Is open during the day

5. Enter An Upside World At Baan Teelanka

Enter An Upside World At Baan Teelanka
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This upside world is the most unique and is among the top 5 fun activities to do in Phuket, also a quirky and goofy photoshoot backdrop. The first and only one in Thailand. Baan Teenlanka is a location for friends, family, and kids. An illusion that defies gravity. While everything is upside down you can try walking, dancing, or whatever it is that you want to do. It is a different experience and is ideal for a fun day out with family or even friends. Snap the optical illusion and amaze your friends online. There is a life-size garden maze just outside the upside-down house, and escape rooms, you can either get lost or challenge yourself and find your way out.

Best Time To Visit - During the day

Timings- Opens at 10 AM and closes at 6 PM

Suggested Read: Malls In Thailand That Will Give You A High-End Shopping Experience

6. Be Dazzled By The Simon Cabaret Show  

Be Dazzled By The Simon Cabaret Show
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This extravagant show with resplendent performances has the power to sweep you off your feet. One of the most intriguing things to do in Thailand is to watch the Simon Cabaret Show. The nightlife of Phuket is incomplete without The Simon cabaret show. The acts performed in this show are from different countries including Korea, Japan, and China. The use of lights and costumes is so commendable. From performance to sets of the show, everything is extravagant. Not to forget the shows' star attractions are not the lightning, set,  glittery costumes, or the performance (which is phenomenal by the), it is the "ladyboys".

Best Time To Visit - The show is performed at night, so that is the best time.

Timings- Starts at 6 PM and ends at 10:30 PM

Suggested Read: Famous Villas In Phuket, Thailand For A Refreshing Retreat

7. Admire The Big Buddha Of Phuket

Admire The Big Buddha Of Phuket

The official name of this grand statue is "Phraphutthamingmongkhol-akenagakhiri Buddha" Which is translated to " Happiness on top of Nakerd Mountain.  The road to the statue is easy to ride and well-paved despite many curves. There is a sweeping staircase that leads to the Buddha monument but they are only to walk up, but there is a different way to walk down. This 45 meters tall white marble statue is visible from anywhere in the southern part of Phuket. The visit to the effulgent statue is one of the top things to do in Phuket and an impressive landmark on the island. This statue is dedicated to the late King of Thailand His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej. Thais are big on religion, and this being one of the religious places you should avoid short apparels

Best Time To Visit - During the day

Timings- Opens at 8 AM and closes at 6 PM

Suggested Read: Nightlife In Thailand: The Coolest Experience People Should Try Out At Least Once

8. Surf Into The Exotic Marine Life Of Phuket Aquarium

Surf Into The Exotic Marine Life Of Phuket Aquarium
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A great place to entertain yourself and your kids. The Phuket Aquarium in Cape Panwa is not enormous because the tunnel itself is only a few meters long, yet it is a great place to visit. Further, there are gigantic tanks that host some local species, including leopard sharks, moray eels, giant grouper, sea turtles, even Piranhas (seeing these creatures is itself an adventure in Phuket) from Amazon and the list goes on and on. The highlight of the aquarium is the 10-meter long walk through the glass tunnel where you can witness many tropical and colorful marine creatures floating on either side of the glass tunnel.

Best Time To Visit - During the day (or whenever it rains)

Timings- Opens at 8:30 AM and closes at 4:30 PM

9. Attend the Signature Phuket Dolphin Show at Dolphins Bay

Attend the Signature Phuket Dolphin Show at Dolphins Bay

The most renowned Theme Park of Phuket, Dolphins Bay is the only Dolphinarium in the city that attracts millions of tourists every year. You will be welcomed and greeted by the aquatic creatures namely Ami, Alice, Maya, Grand, and Casper and the exotic fur seals Masha & Ponchik. Your close marine-life encounters will leave you speechless for the invigorating experience offered in the most thrilling ambience. Capture snapshots with the friendlier dolphins, observe them, how they have been trained by coaches to entertain the tourists. Don’t forget to capture the dolphins playing with the hula hoops, splashing in water giving you thrills and spills during the tour.

Best Time to Visit: Morning till Evening

Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM (Remains closed on Monday)

10. Plan a Romantic Dinner at Mom Tri’s Kitchen

Plan a Romantic Dinner at Mom Tri’s Kitchen
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Visit this award-winning restaurant Mom Tri’s Kitchen for a remarkable culinary experience to be remembered for a lifetime in Phuket. Being on Kata Beach, this restaurant is highly acclaimed for its gourmet dining experience featured on multi-level terraces engulfed by lush greenery on all sides and the Andaman Sea. Plan a romantic dinner in this restaurant for a memorable night with your beloved one and savor some scrumptious delicacies overlooking the majestic views of the sea. The Seashell Bar & Veranda Lounge has the ideal setup to enjoy refreshing drinks, exquisitely crafted international cocktails along with the mesmerizing views of the Andaman on the forefront.

Best Time to Visit: During Nighttime

Timings: 12 PM to 10 PM

11. Undertake a Thai Culinary Class for Cultural Insights

Undertake a Thai Culinary Class for Cultural Insights
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Connect with Thai local culture by taking up a culinary class in one of the best traditional Thai cookeries, Phuket Thai Cooking by VJ. Learn about the local farm-fresh ingredients used in cooking the Thai delicacies by visiting the local market early morning to grab the best picks available in abundance to see and taste. You will be surprised to witness the perfect blend of Southeast Asian traditional cooking methods to curate the exquisite Thai cuisine which has won the hearts of many. Interact with the culinary star to gain insights on the authentic Thai recipes which are segmented according to the days and experience the best of culinary odyssey undertaken at Phuket.

Best Time to Visit: Afternoon

Timings: 11 AM to 6 PM (Monday to Saturday)

3 PM to 6 PM (Sunday)

12. Enjoy Shopping at Phuket Weekend Market

Enjoy Shopping at Phuket Weekend Market

The Phuket Weekend Market is the one of the major highlights of Phuket that will captivate your senses with the huge array of local souvenirs, apparel, jewelry, fashion accessories, gadgets, shoes, bags, watches, mobile phones, jeans etc. Also known as the Naka Market or Talad Tai Rot, it is one of the best ways to experience Phuket’s nightlife is where you can jostle into cultural adventures. Never forget to visit the food section of the market where you can gorge on varied Thai delicacies ranging from boiled buttered corn on the cob, grilled meats, sausages, fishcakes, to fresh fruits and deep-fried insects. If you are on a shopping spree, include this market in your itinerary to have a jaw-dropping shopping experience.

Best Time to Visit: During Night (You can visit in the evening to avoid crowds)

Timings: 4 PM to 11 PM (Saturday to Sunday)

Phuket is a rain forested and mountainous island, situated mainly situated along the clear waters of the Western shore of the Andaman Sea. The island houses spas, restaurants, resorts, old shophouses, busy markets. The nightlife of Phuket is equally and more often than not better than the day life. The nights include pubs, nightclubs, theatre shows discos, and theme parks. There are so many things to do in Phuket, you can't just have enough (there is so much fun and life).

There are plenty of memorable things to do in Phuket. Whilst the island is rich in tourist attractions it is also famous for its arts and theatre shows. The open island houses many creatures, adventures, human-made structures, natural wonders, illusions, and festivals (especially the water festival is so.... fun). This place is dreamy, just like a fairytale come true. The list of things doesn’t end here as there several other things that make Phuket a perfect vacation destination for you. So, what is it that you are waiting for? Book your Phuket plane tickets now, and if you already have, do not forget to try the above-mentioned things to have a splendid and scrumptious vacation.

FAQs

Q1. Is 3 days enough in Phuket?

Yes, 3 days in Phuket is ideal enough to experience the best of the city starting from the tranquil beaches to the bustling city streets brimmed with local delicacies best known for the extravagant flavors and traditional culinary techniques. You can extend your trip in Phuket based on your preferences.

Q2. What is special in Phuket?

Phuket is mostly popular for the tranquil beaches and islands which are home to solitude and best known for the religious and historical sites like Wat Chalong and other temples. Plunge into deep adventure by taking up water sport activities like scuba diving or snorkeling for a thrilling experience. Moreover, Phuket is also famous for its vibrant night markets which will help you undertake rich cultural tours.

Q3. Which is the main airport in Phuket?

The main airport in Phuket is Phuket International Airport.

Q4. How far is James bond island from Phuket?

A tour of James Bond Island is quite picturesque, soothing, and easy on the eyes. James Bond Island is about 25 kilometers, direction north-east of Phuket into the heart of Phang Nga Bay.

Q5. Is Phuket a safe place to visit during COVID-19?

Covid 19 is really dangerous and it is safe to travel with precaution be it any place in the world. Thailand has started serving tourists and people can travel there. So, yes, it is safe to travel to Phuket. But keep in mind no matter how safe a country is, it is better to be preventive than sorry. You should travel taking all the necessary precautions and also follow the location’s rule for safety.

Q6. Are there any fun activities in Phuket?

This group of islands is full of many fun and adventurous activities. The upside-down or Baan Teelanka is one of the major fun attractions. There are many other fun activities, you can go for an island tour on a long-tailed boat, or surfing, or kayaking, or be lost in a life maze, and of course shopping, you name it and Phuket has it.

Q7. Is Phuket an adventurous island?

Yes, Phuket is an adventurous island where almost all the beaches have water sports to enjoy like surfing, snorkeling, rafting, kayaking, scuba diving, jet-skiing, and kite surfing. Not only that, you can take a tour of the nearby islands as there are many adventurous locations to explore.

Q8. Is Thailand an expensive country?

No, Thailand is not an expensive country. In fact, it is rather a great destination for vacation, on an average budget. This country is very cheap to visit even in the south where you can enjoy enticing and tranquil beaches and lip-smacking food. Thailand is a country for all budgets where you can have a lavish stay at an expensive 5-star hotel or stay alongside a cozy villa.