Dubbed the 'Pearl of the South', Phuket is Thailand's largest island and it revolves around and thrives on its tourist industry. Its diversity draws thousands of visitors year on year, but thanks to its size it rarely seems too packed or too hectic. Another major attraction for Phuket is that it offers accommodation and activities for just about every budget, and with its tall cliffs, white sands, lush forests and delightful waterfalls, Phuket has something for every taste. The island is also packed with amenities and entertainment options, and is one of the most adequately equipped areas of Thailand. The weather in Phuket stays hot all year round and temperatures often stay above 30°C throughout the year. It takes between eleven and twelve hours to reach Bangkok from UK airports, with connecting flights or direct seasonal charters available to Phuket.
| with it's tall cliffs, white sands, lush forests and delightful waterfalls, Phuket has some thing for every taste... |
Best for...
Whether you're a backpacker or a honeymooning couple, Phuket's diversity will lure you in...
The sheer diversity of Phuket means it has something for every holidaymaker. It regularly caters for backpackers on limited budgets as well as honeymooning couples who are more willing to splash the cash. Though tourists heavily populate large parts of the island, it shouldn't be hard to find a secluded, romantic spot. This is also a good area for families as the beaches are generally clean and there are plenty of watersports opportunities. Away from the beaches the leisure, recreation and shopping opportunities should keep the active visitor happy.
What to do...
The beaches are stunning throughout Phuket and each one has its own character and vibe. Whichever beach you choose to relax on it is important to consider the local culture and ladies should not sunbathe or swim topless, as this is deemed offensive. Also watch out for wild animals that often make their way on to the beach - they should not be played with.
Despite these rules you will be spoilt for choice and some of the most beautiful beaches in the area include Freedom Beach, which is a fantastic location for snorkelling and diving though it can only be accessed by the sea. Bang Tao Beach is one of Phuket's longest beaches and is very popular with windsurfers; Le Phang Beach shares a boundary with Bang Tao and is home to a number of birds and animals; Pansea Beach offers an alternative, as it is secluded and quiet; while Yanoi Beach is another sleepy hideaway that is good for snorkelling. There are around thirty beaches on Phuket in total, so there are plenty of options to satisfy every preference.
The most popular beach however, is Patong Beach. This area has some of the most beautiful waters to swim in and has a beautiful setting between two green mountains. You'll find many restaurants and hotels throughout Patong and along the beachfront, as well as the island's most thriving nightlife scene and lots of small stalls where you can buy everything from spicy salads to barbecue chicken! Indeed Patong Beach is most famous for its night scene with everything from discos to go-go bars, cabaret shows and massage parlours - this is a busy resort 24/7.
Phuket is considered a gateway to the beautiful Phi Phi Islands and also to James Bond Island. James Bond Island is actually made up of two islands - Koh Khao Phing Kan in Phang-Nga Bay and Koh Tapu, both of which were used in the 1974 classic The Man with the Golden Gun.
One of the most intriguing elements of Phuket is that there is so much to do away from the sands. The buildings are typically nineteenth century and full of Mediterranean character and there are a couple of museums that are worth visiting including the Phuket Sea Shell Museum, which houses the world's most valuable collection of seashells. If you want to get closer to Phuket's wildlife then head to one of the national parks - Khao Pra Taew is packed with deer, wild boar, monkeys and gibbons while the Sirinat National Park is full of rare plants and fauna. Indeed Phuket is even the home of two luxurious golf courses, and there are numerous luxury-cruises available throughout the area.
Shopping in Phuket is varied with lots of modern shopping centres as well as bargain hunting markets. The main tourist area in Phuket is Patong, and it is here that you will find most of the leading shops that sell varied items including Thai fabrics, handicrafts and antiques.
The nightlife in Phuket has earned a sterling reputation and it all begins in the island's many pubs and clubs including the beachside bars such as The Pirates Club, which features a lot of live music and is a great place to dance to some club classics. Though Phuket is famous as a clubbing destination its appeal has expanded in more recent times and with lots of art and culture, though families should be aware that the Thai sex industry still thrives in Phuket with many massage parlours and strip clubs.
Related Links:
Phuket flights
Phuket hotels
