Phuket hotels

The pearl of the Andaman Sea, Thailand's largest island is a challenger for beach capital of the world. The Phuket sands bring together people from beach huts and exclusive spa resorts, but look beyond the sunloungers for a surprisingly cultural stay.

Coastal connoisseurs are in their element on Phuket. Shaded by pines and framed by mangrove forest, Nai Yang Beach in the north-west and Kamala Beach in the west shelter snorkellers in picturesque pools. As bright and brash as a tropical cocktail, Patong Beach spills over with bars and restaurants. Rest under dancing palm trees in the south at Naiharn Beach and Rawai Beach.

Discover that Phuket has a history, too. The Sino-Portuguese architecture of Old Phuket Town is one surprising legacy. Just outside town is the island's most ornate and colourful Buddhist temple, Wat Chalong. Find giant clams and fossils in Rawai's Phuket Seashell Museum. Kids will come out of their shells at the Thai-themed adventure park Phuket FantaSea.

Go light jungle trekking in the north for waterfalls and wildlife, or take a trail in Khao Phra Thaeo National Park. Nature stretches from the park to the mangroves and reefs around Sirinat National Park. Hightail it on a longtail boat to Coral Island, Ko Racha or Buddha Island, or an even more remote spot out in the irresistible Phang Nga Bay, to really escape the crowds.

Sailing and diving are omnipresent, and a shot at scuba is practically mandatory. Patong and Kata beaches buzz to jumping jet skis. Slip in and around the limestone cliffs for some of the world's best ocean kayaking. Four-wheel ATVs reach the terrains other vehicles cannot, and some off-road driving tours end up at secret beaches.

The street stalls and noodle carts around Phuket Town and Patong spell authentic Thai cuisine. The glorious, gloopy curries of the region are Malay-influenced, and what is an island without the obligatory fresh seafood? Shrimp, crab and fish of the highest quality go into favourites like Tom Yum soup, green curry and stir-fries smacking of ginger and tamarind.

Throw yourself into the heady mix at Patong, where Thai-style clubs, western discos and live shows compete noisily. Vegas comes to town in the ladyboy show at Simon Cabaret. Kata and Karon seaside bars turn it down a notch, and if you prefer lapping waves to loud techno, Rawai Beach is your laidback drinking option.

Buy jewellery, handicrafts and silks at Chatuchak Phuket market, or go bespoke with an affordable suit or dress from a local tailor.