15 Things to Do in Phuket: Beaches, Temples, & Local Spots

Fayre Maxine Flores

Last updated 5 Sep 2025

If you’re into tropical weather, pretty beaches, local culture, and the great outdoors, you’ll love Phuket. 🏝️It’s best to stay for around a week or more to really see all the great places. But if you’re crunched for time, 4 days will be perfectly fine. Here’s a thoughtfully curated list of things to do in Phuket and packaged tours that include islands, temples, and local spots. Add these to your itinerary for the ultimate Phuket experience!

Beach and Island Fun 🐚⛱️

Phuket is mostly known for sand, seas, and so much fun! Island hopping is one of the top things to do in Phuket. Here are some must-see beaches and islands you can look forward to. Do note that prices may vary depending on the tour you choose!

1. Kata Beach and Kata Noi Beach

Kata Beach and Kata Noi Beach are two amazing alternatives to the busy Patong Beach in Phuket. Since they’re close by, it’s best to go on a Kata beach tour.

Kata Beach, with its 1.5-kilometre stretch of soft white sand, is a favourite among families to visit. Whereas just a little further south from Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach boasts clearer waters and a more secluded ambience for a more tranquil experience.

These two beaches are accessible by land travel, so you can just take a taxi, Grab, or rent a private car.

Address: Karon, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Price: Free

2. Phi Phi, Maya Island, and Bamboo Beach Tour

Maya Bay, with its clear blue waters and pristine white sand, is the tropical paradise made famous by the film ‘The Beach.’ On the other hand, Monkey Island adds playful encounters with roaming monkeys. Though watch out for your belongings! Snorkel through colorful reefs with marine life, then enjoy a beachside lunch before relaxing at Khai Island or Bamboo Beach (this tour is yours to customize).

Hop these islands using a catamaran or speedboat. There’s no time to waste! 🚤

Address: Pick up from your hotel in Phuket
Price: 81.80 AUD

3. James Bond and Phang Nga Bay

James Bond Island is popularly known for its association with the movie ‘The Man with the Golden Gun,’ and hence the name of the island. With its signature limestone karst towers jutting out of the emerald green waters, the island continues to be a major tourist spot in Phuket.

Beyond the cinematically famed island, Phang Nga Bay’s picturesque landscapes and hidden caves have also made it a popular destination for kayaking, boat tours, and exploring the captivating scenery in southern Thailand.

Choose between a big boat and a speedboat when exploring these islands. Going on a James Bond Island tour is definitely one of the Phuket top things to do! 👌🏼

Address: Pick up from your hotel in Phuket
Price: 78.55 AUD

4. Racha and Coral Islands Day Tour

See two gorgeous islands with crystal clear waters in Phuket, with Racha and Coral Islands. 🐠

Racha Island, also known as Raya Island, is known for its colourful coral reefs and turquoise waters. Meanwhile, Coral Island is better known for its underwater marine life as well as its watersports activities. Snorkel or relax, then head to the shore for a delicious buffet lunch at a beachside restaurant. You could do all these when you take a Racha and Coral Islands tour!

Address: Pick up from your hotel in Phuket
Price: 53.09 AUD

5. Horseback Riding at Layan Beach

Want to experience something unforgettable and totally unique? Take a Phuket horseback ride tour along the beaches of the Andaman Sea! It should be one of the most unique activities on your list of things to do in Phuket.

Choose from schedules as early as 8:00 am or as late as 5:00 pm to catch the sunset, and if you’re experienced riders, try swimming with the horses in the ocean. You can even feed the horses some carrots after the ride. 🥕

Address: 45/6 Moo 6 Cherngtalay Subdistrict, Thalang District, Phuket 83110
Price: 64.10 AUD

Local Hotspots 🔥

There are lots of great places that locals love and frequent. From great views to extraordinary entertainment, you’re in for some good stuff to do in Phuket.

6. Bangla Road

As the sun sets, Phuket comes alive with Bangla Road bustling with night activities and crowds. With a myriad of entertainment and drinking options, it is the nightlife hub of Phuket.

From listening to live music performances at New York Live Music Bar to dancing the night away at the famous nightclub of Phuket, Illuzion - there’s definitely something for you in Bangla Road!

Address: Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand
Price: Free

7. Simon Cabaret Show

How about taking in a dazzling experience at the Simon Cabaret Show?

Known for its extravagant costumes and incredible performances by glamorous performers, the performances range from traditional Thai acts to modern international acts - it's definitely not to be missed when you're in Phuket!

Address: 8 Sirirat Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Price: AUD 37.99

8. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary offers an ethical and unforgettable encounter with Thailand’s gentle giants. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Phuket!

Your experience begins with a briefing and light snacks before changing into traditional Karen clothing, then preparing natural supplements for the rescued elephants. After feeding them, join them for a playful mud spa and bath. 🐘

Address: 2/12 Kathu, Kathu District, 83120 Phuket
Price: 35.09 AUD

9. Phuket Black Rock and Karon View Point Hiking Tour

Start your day with a hike to sunrise through a Phuket Hiking tour. 🌅

After a warm-up led by your local host, trek through a tropical trail to the hilltop in about 30–40 minutes. At the summit, enjoy breathtaking views, stretch, relax, and take lots of photos before enjoying fresh coffee or tea, local fruits, and delicacies.

The experience continues with a visit to Karon View Point, where you can take in panoramic beach views before heading back to your hotel.

Address: Pick up from your hotel in Phuket
Price: 83.10 AUD

10. Have Dinner in the Sky

Have you ever thought of having dinner while flying?

It’s somewhat possible in Phuket, because here, you can have a 3-course dinner while suspended in the air! Enjoy a one-of-a-kind view in Phuket, an experience that is both exhilarating and delicious at the same time. 😋

Address: 487 Patak Rd, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100
Price: 166.20 AUD

11. An Afternoon Tour of Phuket Old Town

Explore the cultural charm of Phuket Old Town on an afternoon heritage tour.

Begin at Wat Koh Siray, home to a reclining Buddha and sweeping harbor views. Afterwards, get to see Phang Nga Road lined with art galleries, shops, and cafes. Visit the historic On On Hotel, browse the fresh market for tropical fruits and local snacks, then step inside the Chinpracha House, a Sino-Portuguese mansion turned museum.

The tour ends with a scenic viewpoint stop and a traditional Thai dinner overlooking the city.

If you’d like to know more things to do at Phuket Old Town, check this out.

Things To Do

A Guide to Phuket Old Town: Markets, Art, and Culture

Discover the best sights to see and things to do at Phuket Old Town.

Address: CC’s Hideaway, 36 Patak Soi 10, PO Box 18, Karon Post Office, Karon, Phuket
Price: 87.25 AUD

12. Carnival Magic

Carnival Magic is the first Thai Cultural Carnival Park.

Spanning 16 hectares, it brings to life the colors and energy of Thailand’s festivals, carnivals, and market fairs. Inspired by global celebrations, the park offers a dazzling evening of grand performances and unmatched entertainment. There’s so much exciting stuff to see, you’re sure to be wowed! 🎆

Address: 999 Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Price: 85.49 AUD

Captivating Temples 🪷

You can’t visit Phuket without immersing yourself in local culture. Here, you can find some of the prettiest temples that are usually complemented by stunning views. If you’re still wondering Phuket Thailand what to do beyond the beaches and local spots, check out some temples.

13. Wat Chalong and Big Buddha Tour

Wat Chalong is the largest and most visited temple in Phuket. Its highlight is the 60-meter-tall Chedi, which houses a sacred bone relic of the Buddha. Inside, you’ll find walls adorned with paintings of his life and countless golden statues. Don’t forget to climb up the top floor for a view of the temple grounds.

Afterwards, head to the iconic Big Buddha that towers 45 meters high over the island. Beyond admiring its intricate design, you’ll also be rewarded with panoramic views of Phuket.

These two cultural gemstones are best explored through a Phuket city day tour.

Address: Pick up from your hotel in Phuket
Price: 61.75

14. Wat Khao Rang

This temple is famous for its giant golden Buddha.

Perched on Khao Rang Hill, the temple offers panoramic views of Phuket Town and the Andaman Sea, making it a perfect photo spot. The grounds also feature peaceful gardens, a park for leisurely strolls, and food stalls serving authentic Thai snacks.

Address: 87 7, Ratsada, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Price: Free

15. Wat Bang Thong

Wat Bang Thong, otherwise known as Wat Maha That Wachiramongkol, is one of the most striking temples in Southern Thailand. Surrounded by walkways lined with Buddha images and statues of revered monks, the temple offers visitors a serene atmosphere and gorgeous architecture.

Address: 46 Moo 3, Na Nuea Subdistrict, Ao Luek District, Krabi 81110, Thailand
Price: 2.38 AUD

FAQs

What not to miss in Phuket?

Phuket is rich in natural beauty and local culture. Don’t miss out on Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, Phuket Old Town, Big Buddha, and Bangla Road. Take a trip to an elephant sanctuary to make your experience even more unforgettable!

What is Phuket best known for?

Phuket is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant local culture, and majestic temples. Here, you can also enjoy street food, great views, and exciting nightlife entertainment.