Best Things To Do In Phuket 2023
There’s just something different about vacations. Perhaps it’s the temporary break from never-ending work or just you trying to justify the price of your airplane ticket. Regardless of your prologue, the experience of dipping our feet into the clear beach waters, trying to bargain in a foreign language at a bustling night market and seeking new outdoor adventures, will create core memories.
For a getaway filled with sun, sea, sand, shopping and sports, Phuket could use an enthusiast like you. Here are some of the best things to do in Phuket, from cultural immersions and island hopping adventures to vibrant nightlife!
1. Island Hopping in Phuket
📍 Phi Phi Island | Image credit: @inspiringxdiary (Instagram)
True enough to geography, we all look up to the same sky wherever we are in the world. But staring into the sky as you snorkel in the Andaman Sea? Matchless. Island hopping remains one of the top tourist experiences in Phuket, for a trip there is simply incomplete without getting a shot in the waters.
Slot Phi Phi Island Snorkeling Day Trip in your itinerary for an unrivalled underwater adventure. You even get to conquer Maya Area, Khai and Bamboo Island!
📍 James Bond Island
For the hunters of picturesque and pristine beaches, the James Bond Island Day Tour is the activity for you. Locally known as Khao Ping Kan, kayak into hidden lagoons and caves of Panak Island and Hong Island. Or, take it up a notch with Coral Island and Sunset Catamaran Yacht Tour and sail across the sea for a scenic sail with friends and family.
2. ANDAMANDA Phuket Waterpark
Image credit: @timmolander_77 (Instagram)
If you’re still iffy about open waters, fret not. ANDAMANDA Phuket Waterpark makes for a great alternative, especially if you’re travelling with a big group of friends and family. With 17 rides, 32 slides, 8 attractions and 5 Thai-themed zones, there’s simply no time to waste on a decision.
For adrenaline seekers, the rides Fight for the Kinnarees, Dragon’s Drop, Cobra Curls, Garuda Soars, Angels’ Slides and Flow Rider, have a thrill factor of 5 out of 5! Make sure to mark it down on your list.
Be sure to add this brand new attraction to your itinerary - especially if you are planning a trip in Phuket for family (kids and waterparks are a sure win!). Here’s a tip: check out Klook Phuket Fun Pass and enjoy savings when you bundle this experience with other attractions.
- Address: 333 Kathu, Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand
3. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
Image credit: @denz_borromeo (Instagram)
We’ve read about them in books, seen them in documentaries and visited them at the zoo. But have you gotten up close with elephants before? The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket Experience is your window of opportunity to interact with these royal creatures and grow your visual diary with many pictures!
You may also tailor your experience to a ticket that best fits your itinerary - options available range from visiting in the morning or afternoon, getting a scrub in with a mud spa or simply joining a feeding session.
- Address: 100, Moo 2, Paklok, Thalang, 83110, Thailand
4. Phuket Old Town
Image credit: @misterlou.photography (Instagram)
Easing into evening activities, a relaxing Old Town Cultural Heritage Afternoon Tour with Dinner settles you right into the heart of Phuket. Holiday planning can be hard to juggle with work, so opting for an all-in-one half-day tour might just be a smart choice.
The journey will start with a visit to Wat Koh Siray, followed by a cultural heritage tour as the sun sets. Explore fresh markets downtown and try a variety of exotic fruits too! End the night with a remarkable Thai dinner at a well-known restaurant overlooking the city. 'Laidback' would be the word to describe this experience.
- Address: 42 Krabi Road, Phuket Town, Phuket, 83000, 42, Phuket 83000, Thailand
5. Zipline Adventure at Hanuman World
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Thrill seekers, here’s a jaw-dropping activity for you. Phuket’s Zipline Adventure at Hanuman World is just the activity to fuel your adrenaline levels. Yes, I meant literally jaw-dropping.
Strap on and fly through some of the longest and fastest zip lines in Phuket for the memory of a lifetime. Or, head up the skywalk and enjoy over 30 activity platforms while taking in the natural beauty of the rainforest!
Rest assured Hanuman’s crew are highly trained and professional to ensure your safety. With Klook’s best price guarantee, enjoy up to 20% off your packages!
- Address: 105 Moo 4, Chaofa Road, T.Wichit, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand
6. Wat Chalong Temple
Image credit: @travelsandvibes (Instagram)
I’ve got to admit: sometimes there's just no time to plan a smooth itinerary for our vacation. Especially when you’ve got a list of things to do and places to visit in Phuket that’s just impossible to complete.
Instead of referencing it as the easy way out, consider the Phuket Discovery Half Day Tour your smart way in. Leave it to the experts to plan a day to Wat Chalong Temple and more essentials to experience the best of Phuket.
With hotel round trip transportation and a friendly tour guide to chaperone the day, this stress-free activity is just one click away. Did I mention there’ll be sightseeing spots like Khao Rang Hill to get spectacular views? What a win!
- Address: 70/6 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Road, Tambon Chalong, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000, Thailand
7. Phuket Big Buddha
Image credit: @petekaur (Instagram)
If you’re wanting to get some cultural and historical facts out of your Phuket getaway, the Big Buddha Jungle Trekking Tour is one to consider. Known as the biggest Buddhist temple on the island, it’s one I’d definitely prioritise on my list of places to visit in Phuket.
Plus, you get to embark on an eco-friendly trek through the jungle while learning more about wildlife, historical facts and more. Fret not, a gastronomic lunch experience will be provided too.
- Address: Soi Yot Sane 1, Tambon Karon, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83100, Thailand
8. Phuket Night Market Shopping
Image credit: @phuketnightmarket (Instagram)
Now, what’s a trip without some Night Market Shopping? Not forgetting that Phuket is part of Thailand, which is known to have some of the best night market experiences across the globe. Needless to say, your Phuket trip is simply incomplete without a night of shopping, eating and drinking.
Image credit: @jessmpascoe (Instagram)
For starters, the Sunday Walking Street Market along Thalang Road is the most popular night market in Phuket, and runs from 4pm to 10pm. If you’re looking for a market with more availability, Chillva Market is open everyday except Sunday, from 5pm to 9pm. It also caters more to the young and trendy crowd with its stylish shipping container shopfronts.
9. Patong Walking Street
For a night of music, drinks and shopping, Patong Walking Street leads the race. Located in Patong and otherwise known as Bangla Night Market, this is the place to bask in loud tunes and flashing neon nights.
The walking street is also known for good grilled meat and fresh seafood spots. I’d definitely recommend organising an early evening here for dinner, that’ll run through the night with a dance or two, ha!
- Address: Soi Bangla, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
110. NARA Massage & Spa
I mean it’s already hard balancing work, a social life, and sleep, let alone a short getaway! Take this travel tip from me and make time for NARA Massage & Spa. Not only do they offer a huge variety of aromatherapy, massage and spa treatments, each booking comes with complimentary Thai herbal drink and cookies.
From aromatic oil massages to herbal hot compress and facials, it's truly the ultimate pampering session. There’s no better time and place to untie the knots in your back and let go of the lingering thoughts in your mind.
- Address:75/159-160 Patak Rd., Chalong, Mueang, Phuket 83130
11. Simon Cabaret Show
Image credit: @xeniaavdonova (Instagram)
Here’s the bestselling cabaret extravaganza you simply have got to know about: the Simon Cabaret Show. Since 1991, they have been established as one of the top things to do in Phuket.
From immaculate set designs, vibrant costumes and showstopping performers, get ready for the performance of a lifetime with Thailand’s famed kathoey (‘ladyboy’) dancers.
- Address:8 Sirirat Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
12. Enjoy Water Sports
Image credit: @lynnaree (Instagram)
Ask anyone for suggestions on what to do in Phuket and I’ll bet you 9 out of 10 will tell you Water Sports. It’s second to none just taking in breathtaking views through snorkelling, river rafting, diving and more.
Like most Phuket trips, you’re probably planning an itinerary under 5 days. Well, dive right into the Phuket Diving Day Trip for a stress-free vacation. Swim and snorkel through blue waters and explore three distinct locations filled with beautiful coral reefs and native fishes. Learn a thing or two from the English-speaking diving instructors too!
Sandy beaches, turquoise waters and underwater activities? Count me in. This ranks top on my list of best things to do in Phuket.
