Introduction
Phuket is Thailand’s most famous island destination. It offers beaches, tropical scenery, nightlife, markets, temples, island tours, and a wide range of hotels.
This guide covers the best areas to stay, top attractions, transport, food, prices, safety, and the best time to visit.
1. Quick Overview
- Country: Thailand
- Language: Thai (English in tourist areas)
- Currency: THB
- Style: beaches, nature, nightlife, relaxation
- Suitable for: couples, families, solo travelers, beach holidays
2. Best Areas to Stay
Patong
The busiest area with nightlife, restaurants, and shopping. Suitable for active travelers.
Karon
Wide beach, quieter than Patong. Good for families and couples.
Kata
Popular surfing beach with cafes and shops. Relaxed atmosphere.
Kamala
Calm and family-friendly, with beachfront hotels.
Bang Tao
Luxurious area with resorts, beach clubs, and the Laguna complex.
Phuket Old Town
Historic center with boutique hotels and cultural sights.
3. Transport in Phuket
- Taxis: widely used but more expensive than in Bangkok
- Grab: reliable and safe
- Local buses (songthaews): cheap, slow, limited routes
- Motorbike rental: common, but requires experience
- Private drivers: good for island-wide trips
There is no metro or BTS, so transport relies on roads.
4. Top Things To Do
Big Buddha
Iconic hilltop statue with panoramic views.
Wat Chalong
Main Buddhist temple on the island.
Old Phuket Town
Colorful streets, architecture, cafes, markets.
Patong Beach
Bars, restaurants, nightlife, shopping.
Karon and Kata Beaches
Relaxed, clean beaches ideal for swimming and surfing.
Island Tours
Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, Similan Islands.
Viewpoints
Karon Viewpoint, Promthep Cape.
5. Food and Dining
Phuket offers a mix of Thai, seafood, and international cuisine.
- Tom Yum
- Green curry
- Fresh seafood
- Pad Thai
- Roti and street snacks
Night markets such as Chillva Market offer a wide food variety.
6. Prices (Approx.)
- Transport: moderate
- Food: cheap to midrange
- Hotels: budget to luxury
- Excursions: moderate to high depending on island tour
7. Safety
- Roads can be dangerous for motorbikes
- Avoid swimming during monsoon season (strong waves)
- Watch belongings at crowded beaches
- Beware of common tourist scams
8. Best Time to Visit
- November–March: best weather
- April–May: hot season
- June–October: rainy season, lower prices
Conclusion
Phuket is ideal for beach holidays, island tours, nature activities, and relaxing trips. It offers a balanced mix of lively areas and quiet beaches.