Phuket
Often referred to as the Pearl of the Andaman, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island. It’s a popular spot for visitors to southeast Asia and for good reason too. With an impressive coastline featuring long stretches of sandy beach strung together by dramatic rock formations, it’s been attracting people to its shores for decades. While this means that some parts of this large island can be busy, there is still a traditional and authentic side of Phuket to discover plus it means there is always something to see and do.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Phuket
1. Patong Beach:
Patong is Phuket’s most popular and famous beach for holiday destination with its long white sandy beach lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars. Patong has a well-earned reputation as a party town with notorious nightlife. Here you will find hundreds of beer bars, go-go bars, strip- and dance clubs, massage places, discotheques, nightclubs, and cabaret shows.
2. Soi Bangla Road:
Based in the heart of Patong Beach, Soi Bangla or the Bangla road is considered as the prime attraction of Phuket Nightlife. As the sun sets on the beautiful Andaman Sea, the beach with its exuberant nightlife comes alive. The happening Bangla Road closes to traffic but welcome guests to visit the line up restaurants and bars on both side of the road and enjoy a lavishly entertaining evening. Soi is usually referred to the narrow lanes that connect the main Bangla Road. A larger number of bar and nightclubs are available in Soi Bangla.
3. Karon Viewpoint:
The most famous observation point of the 3 Beaches, Kata Not, Kata and Karon, is located on the road half-way between Nai Harn Beach and Kata Noi Beach. From this spot, an intriguing view of the 3 beaches and Ko Pu has constantly impresses visitors.Also known as Three-Beach viewpoint as once you reach its peak perched in the south of Kata Beach, in front of you is the breathtaking view of beautiful Kata Noi, Kata and Karon beaches as well as the deep-blue Andaman sea.
4. Phi Phi Island:
One of the most attractive groups of islands in Southeast Asia, the Phi Phi Islands are a tropical paradise with classic beaches, lying between the large island of Phuket and the coasts of the Strait of Malacca.
5. Old Phuket Town:
The Old Phuket Town is often neglected by tourists who flock to Thailand’s largest island of Phuket in search of the three “S”: sand, sun and sea. And that is a shame, for this heritage rich area is easily explored on foot and it is filled with enough cafes to save you from the heat. A perfect spot if you only have 1 day in Phuket and love heritage and culture.
6. Big Buddha:
Phuket’s Big Buddha is one of the most important and revered landmarks on the island. The huge image sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata and, at 45 meters tall, can be seen from as far away as Phuket Town and Karon Beach.
7. Similan Island:
The Similan Islands is one of the best-known island groups in the Andaman Sea, largely because of the wonders that await beneath the clear-blue waters surrounding it. They’re around 84 km northwest of Phuket. This little archipelago is one of the most interesting diving areas in the world, as well as a favourite destination for yachties and boat tours.
8. Wat Chalong:
If you are the kind of person who travels just to enjoy the history and culture of various places, then you will love the Wat Chalong temple when in Phuket. The temple’s official name is Wat Chaitararam. The temple was built early 19th century, as some sources say, it was built in 1837 precisely.
9. Simon Cabaret Show:
As one of the most glamorous cabaret shows in southern Thailand, the Simon Cabaret is a must for fans of glitz and drama. Shows are a flamboyant combination of costumed transgender performers, traditional Thai dance and music, and comedy routines. After the show, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the stars and take photos.
10. Phuket Fantasea:
Inspired by Thailand’s rich and exotic heritage, Phuket Fantasea not only showcases the charm and beauty of Thailand but also enriches ancient Thai traditions with the wonder of cutting edge technology and special effects. The result is a stunning 140-acre themed complex packed with a multitude of activities and entertainments: a carnival village with games, handicrafts and shopping, a 4,000-seat themed restaurant offering a grand buffet of Thai and international cuisines, a breathtaking Las Vegas-style theatrical show, displaying Thailand’s myths, mysteries, grace and beauty, not to mention the troupe of elephants, fire-eaters, graceful dancers and even a tiger! This wondrous extravaganza is certain to delight the whole family.