Amazing Experiences to have on The Party Paradise of Phuket
Phuket (pronounced Poo-ket) is Thailand’s largest and most iconic island, just over an hour flight south of Bangkok. It is notorious for its beautiful beaches, island hopping, and one of the most unhinged nightlife scenes in the world. Day or night, the vibrant energy is unparalleled. The island is deceptively huge, so we recommend spending at least 4 to 5 days here if you want to experience the highlights. Here’s the top 8 best experiences to enjoy while traveling to Phuket!
8. Watch the Sun Set from Promthep Cape
Promthep Cape viewpoint is located on the southern tip of the island and offers the best sunset in Phuket. Grab a drink, sit on the edge, and let the sun do the rest. Although it’s a 40min taxi ride from Patong Beach, it remains one of the most scenic spots in Phuket and is totally worth it.
7. Find Your Zen at Wat Chalong Temple, the Best Temple in Phuket
If Chiang Mai didn’t satisfy your lust for temples then nothing probably will. But for the most significant cultural attraction in Phuket, head to Wat Chalong. This sacred sanctuary is one of the best temples in Phuket and showcases the spirit of Buddhist culture. Check out our Thailand travel guide for exactly how to dress before visiting temples!
6. Marvel at the Towering Big Buddha
I couldn’t make a list of top things to see in Phuket and not include the Big Buddha. Out of all the seemingly infinite amount of statues across Thailand, this is the most massive by far. Unfortunately it remains closed due to a landslide with no plans on reopening yet. However, a portion of it is still visible from the parking lot.
5. Wander Through the Vintage Streets of Phuket Old Town
For a cultural contrast from the wild beach party vibes in Patong, check out the Old Town for some of the best cafes, markets, and restaurants in Phuket. The colonial styled buildings give off some serious Spain or Viejo San Juan Vibes. Aside from souvenir shopping, you can also check out the One Chun Cafe & Restaurant which has a Michelin Star with actual affordable prices. Check out our Thailand food tour for even more of the insanely delicious Thai dishes you need to try!
4. Soak up the Sun at Phuket’s Iconic Patong Beach
No trip to Phuket is complete without visiting its most iconic beach. The golden sands at Patong Beach stretch out 3kms and is only a block away from the chaotic party scene of Bangala Road. By day, it’s a sun-soaked playground with parasailing, jet skis and other water sports. By night the atmosphere pulses with music from every direction and rivals the legendary beach clubs in Mykonos. The waters aren’t as clear as some of the off shore islands and there was some trash floating around, but it’s still worth it for the easy access.
3. Bar Hop on the Notorious Bangala Road
A night out in Phuket (whether You remember or not) is a quintessential part of the experience. Bangala Road marks the epicenter of all craziness where you’ll find the best bars in Phuket and the essence of its party vibe. Its a mix between New Orlean’s Bourbon Street and the Vegas Strip where you’ll find go-go bars, strip clubs, and an endless option of open air bars. For a night of wild, weird, unforgettable debauchery, Bangala Road is the spot.
2. Explore the Natural Scenery of Phang Nga Bay
For a journey into an otherworldly lagoon of green-topped limestone cliffs, sign up for a day trip to Phang Nga Bay. This excursion will transport you from Phuket by speed boat to a seascape of emerald waters and secret caves that resemble a real life Pandora. The experience includes stops at multiple islands, where you can kayak, swim, and relax on beautiful beaches. It’s home to the famous James Bond Island (Ko Tapu), featured in The Man with the Golden Gun plus scenic caves on Hong Island and the pristine coast of Palm Island. This is the best kayak tour from Phuket and perfect for adventurers who want to explore the natural wonders of Thailand.
1. Island Hop on the Gorgeous Phi Phi Islands
Okay this might be one of the overhyped and overcrowded places in Thailand, but it’s for a reason. For a glimpse at some of the most beautiful beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters in the world, the Phi Phi Islands will not disappoint. Sign up for this Phi Phi Islands day trip from Phuket to ride a 45minute speed boat to the magnificent string of islands with vertical limestone cliffs soaring out of the emerald blue waves. The stops include the notorious Maya Bay, the secluded Bamboo Island beach, snorkeling at Ko Phi Phi Le, a scenic long tail boat ride and lunch. Here’s a few tips we have from our trip:
- The speed boats can get bumpy at times, so anyone who gets seasickness should take pills or use the inhaler the tour operators provide to mitigate any motion sickness.
- You have to pay extra to rent the long tail boat, but it’s worth it.
- If you have to choose between the options of Bamboo Island or Khai Island, choose Bamboo if you want more secluded and pristine beach, and Khai if you want to snorkel and have more beach amenities.
- If you snorkel, put on the life vest to easily float and enjoy the sights.
- Unfortunately swimming is not allowed on May Bay, you can only take pictures from the shore line.
- Don’t feed or touch the monkeys!
Phuket is a must visit destination for those trying to experience the entirety of Thailand’s vibrant culture. The beautiful beaches and insane party vibes are some of the best in the world and the atmosphere differs so much from Bangkok or Chiang Mai. If it’s your first time in Thailand, check out our Ultimate Thailand travel guide. Stay tuned for even more epic adventures through the Land of Smiles. Thanks for reading and keep leveling up!
Join our adventures to the Phi Phi Islands for all the best tips on visiting!
Come with us as we explore secret caves, kayak thru sea caverns, and visit the legendary James Bong Island in Phang Nga Bay!
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