Things to do & places to visit in Phuket, Thailand

Thailand’s largest island is an international magnet for beach lovers and serious divers, who enthusiastically submerge themselves in the Andaman Sea. Blue lagoons and salmon sunsets make for a dream-like atmosphere, and indeed, a vacation here can feel a bit surreal. Watersports are the most popular activities, though once you’ve had enough sun there’s still plenty to explore at the island’s aquariums, gardens, and Buddhist temples.

Phuket #2 destination in Thailand 2023. The average rating score is 4.16 based on 161.6k traveler reviews, of 170 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Bangkok, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 23:44.

Top things to do (21)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Green Elephant Sanctuary Park (2.053 reviews)
- Fun, educational and an experience that is truly memorable
Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

In the Elephant Sanctuary Park you can experience elephants in the most natural way. In their natural environment, where they are free and simply wonderful! It is important to us that you can experience the daily life of the animals. And that you can approach them when feeding or bathing. Briefly: it is a wonderful experience that you will remember for a long time. How much do you want to bet? See more..
5.0 Banana Beach (1.936 reviews)
- Gorgeous island with good snorkelling a short boat ride from Phuket
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

Trips to Banana Beach are either via the tour company that has exclusive tour access, or via a private speed boat / long tail boat. We visited using the tour company, who also included some snorkelling at a nearby bay, banquet lunch at the Hornbill restaurant, tea/coffee with biscuits for afternoon tea, masks and snorkels, and free water/soft-drink during the day. They also ensured that a gluten-free lunch was available. It was a great day, and the swimming and snorkelling was fantastic. Most of the visitors didn't seem to do this, and instead sat on chairs on the beach, so missed out. The best snorkelling on Banana Beach was on the far side of the pontoon jetty, away from the boats, and there was plenty of coral and fish to see. One of our snorkels was broken, but it was easily swapped over at the hire place, although I suspect it was immediately hired out again, so I suggest checking any masks/snorkels as soon as you hire them. See more..
5.0 Phuket Thai Cooking Class by Chef VJ (1.878 reviews)
- Highly recommend - Great Food
Monday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Cooking Classes

Whether Thai food is your favorite or cooking is your hobby, there is no better way to learn Thai cooking when you are in Thailand. Phuket Thai Cooking Class by VJ is an ideal home-style learning environment which is different from other cooking classes and hotels which offer the courses. Come and join us to make your next vacation a culinary adventure and learn essential skills and techniques you can use everyday! See more..
5.0 Amorns Tailors (1.504 reviews)
- Excellent tailor in Phuket Katathani Beach
Monday: 10:30 AM - 9:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops

Amorn's Tailors was established in 1997 and redefined in 2002 as a state of art fashion house with modern and chic custom tailoring for both ladies and gentlemen. Ranging from tuxedos, suits, coats and dresses we design all types of clothing items of your choice with expert recommendation from Amorn & Renu. From the smallest to the most intricate details, not a wish of our client goes unattended. That's a promise! Our shop is located in Kata Noi, Phuket & the second branch is located in 'The Sands hotel' in Khaolak. See more..
5.0 Kata Thai Cooking Class (1.475 reviews)
- Tantalizing tasty food
Monday: 8:30 AM - 7:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Cooking Classes

Phuket Kata Thai Cooking Class. We offer Authentic Thai Cooking Class with homemade style recipe by Thai people. Each student will have their own stations to cook. We have 2 sessions a day. 10.30 am-1.00 pm, and 3.30 pm-7.30 pm. only 3-3.30 hours you can cook Thai Food. Beside 4 menus on schedule, we also have more variety which you can look up on our website. We can accommodate to you limitation. We speak English, don’t hesitate to contact us. See more..
5.0 Soi Dog Foundation (1.426 reviews)
- Amazing organisation doing vital work to give dogs and cats better lives
Monday: 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Soi Dog Foundation is S.E. Asia’s largest rescue organisation for vulnerable street dogs and stray cats. For 19 years, supported by generous donations and global volunteers, SDF has worked tirelessly to reduce animal suffering through CNVR (Catch; Neuter; Vaccinate; Return) programmes. For animals unable to be returned safely to the streets, SDF provides sanctuary, as well as local and international adoption services. SDF is a haven where sick and vulnerable dogs and cats receive world-class medical care, and love. SDF is working in several countries to help end the inhumane and barbaric dog meat trade. Guided tours available Monday-Friday at 10:00am and 1:30pm. Following the 40-minute tour, visitors are encouraged to socialise with our lovely cats and dogs. Impromtu tours are not available between 11:30am and 1:00pm, although between these times, visitors are invited to socialise in the cattery or spend time in the visitor centre. Volunteers are welcome Monday to Friday from 9am. See more..
5.0 Art Space Gallery and Music Bar (971 reviews)
- Great place
Monday: 8:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Bars & Clubs

Art Space Gallery and Music Bar(Cafe') -The only one original T-Shirts and Bags Bracelets & rings everything about art -Unique Art Works and Designed by famous Arti -No.1 Artist Quality Tattoo and head of tattoo in Kata Beach Phuket -Best Drink Recipes Cocktails shooter and more!!! -The best local sfood and fresh meats cooked to perfection -Art Dinner : Food & Drink Table Talk With Family Dinner. >>> We are open breakfast in the morning See more..
5.0 Tailor Pro (871 reviews)
- Best Tailor in Phuket
Monday: 10:15 AM - 10:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops

Ladies and Gents Professional Custom Tailor Since 1987. We specialize in Both men's and women's clothing with outstanding service and guaranteed quality. See more..
5.0 Sam Boutique Tailors Phuket (552 reviews)
- Excellent Tailor
Monday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality & Gift Shops

WELCOME TO SAM BOUTIQUE TAILORS. Sam Boutique Tailors, is a premium bespoke tailor for Men & Women, Located in Karon Beach Phuket Thailand, Providing the highest quality custom tailoring products. Services For Men: Business suits, Casual suits, Tuxedos, Blazers, Business shirts, Casual shirts, Designing shirts, Sports jackets, Overcoats, Leather jackets, Safari, Shorts, Casual Pants, Jeans pants, Business Pants Etc. Exclusively tailored by Sam Boutique. Services For Women: Business suits, Casual suits, Blazers, Blouses, Tops, Overcoats, Skirts, Pants, Business shirts, Business Dresses, Party Dresses, Casual dresses, Sports jackets, Leather jackets Etc. Exclusively tailored by Sam Boutique. We are pioneers at everything we do, and we work hard to keep our quality and services to first priority for our clients. Our pioneering spirit generates a contagious energy, which is what enables us to keep putting our best effort to keep our customers satisfied. See more..
5.0 Harry's Fashion House (527 reviews)
- Great quality suits
Monday: 10:00 AM - 10:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops

We are tailoring for more than 10 years, we have many different kinds of materials, cashmere wool, 100 percent Thai silk, pure linin, cotton, winter coat materials & act. You all are welcome to visit our shop. We are looking for long time business & customers satisfaction is our moto. In our business we guaranty for our clothes.we do take overseas orders & mail orders. See more..
4.5 Big Buddha Phuket (16.6k reviews)
- A must see
Monday: 8:00 AM - 7:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites

What a beautiful experience, we feel very grateful to be able to see the big Buddha up close and to have the blessing and bracelet from the monks. When we arrived it was pouring rain, thunder, lightning and then 30min later it was sunny and clear! Be sure to take covering for your shoulder and legs, but if you forget you can buy a wrap at 150 bhat each. Amazing site, you can't go to phukewithout visiting the Big Buddha See more..
4.5 Nai Harn Beach (4.419 reviews)
- A nice beach for swimming and lounging
Beaches • Lookouts

Naiharn beach is a gorgeous beach for swimming and hanging out in lounge chairs. For 200 baht you can rent a pair of loungers and an umbrella but you have to get there early for the good spots, preferably before 9:30 am during peak season. You can buy fruit and snacks nearby for what is probably an inflated price but it's convenient for sure. Remember to pack your sunscreen and plenty of water. The water can be calm but also remember to look at the colour of the flag on the beach to make sure you're a skilled enough swimmer to manage it. There is a nice lagoon area for children on the left side of the beach. See more..
4.5 Freedom Beach (3.727 reviews)
- Gorgeous Beach - but go early
Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

I arrived about 10 yesterday Not many people there. Water was crystal clear and very inviting. Beach vendors were just setting up and only a few people on the beach It is a great beach, fun for families and perfect place to relax. Umbrella and matt were free as long as you bought your drinks and snacks from the vendors and prices are cheaper than patong beach. Does get a bit hectic after lunch and by 1 pm, it resembled patong beach, counting 10 plus boats docked against the beach , meaning you have to swim between the boats. My preference is take the boat at 1500 baht and get there early with the aim of departing after lunch. I would go as soon as you can as I feel that this spot may be ruined as it's popularity increases See more..
4.5 Chaithararam Temple (Wat Chalong) (3.458 reviews)
- Magnificent Temples
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Religious Sites

Absolutely beautiful temples and artwork. There are multiple temples and the half hour allowed on the 6 hour city tour is not adequate to see everything. A separate longer visit (60-120 minutes) is recommended to fully appreciate the splendour of the temples . See more..
4.5 Karon Viewpoint (2.868 reviews)
- Awesome views
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Lookouts

Generally as observed back here, view points are tourist spots with word of mouth publicity and known among the travel community. But never saw them with official recognition as is Karon view point with proper identification and basic facility for public use available. And its rightly fan fared with really beautiful astonishing views and all 3 beach archs visible in sequence Kata, Karon and Kata-Noi. I liked it and would really recommend visiting it before you go and relax on any of these beaches, the uber level beauty observed stays in your mind adding to the enjoyment factor while at beach :) See more..
4.5 Kata Noi Beach (2.820 reviews)
- Possibly the best beach in Thailand
Beaches

If there's a better beach in Thailand, I have yet to see it (in some 12 visits). The white sand has the perfect texture, and the seawater is very clear. For those not staying in the Katathani Hotel, an umbrella and two padded loungers are available for 250 baht. Occasional yellow signs warn against 'stingers in the sea during summer time'. By this, they mean jelly fish. We never saw any, and the notices may have been advised by lawyers to absolve anyone of blame if a swimmer did get stung seriously. Because the beach is West facing, there are beautiful sunsets most nights. See more..
4.5 Promthep Cape (1.982 reviews)
- Must visit
Lookouts

This is probably best view pint in Phuket with a full view of the sea. seems the sea everywhere around you. Some tip for visiting: 1. If you drive the car by your own, have to be there not later than 4.30 pm, others vise will be very difficult find place for parking. Parking area not much big and at 5pm totally full. 2. If you would like to go down to the rock untill end, set the time to be back becore dark. The way down (untill end point) takes around 30 minuts (plus stop for take a pict). The sunset time is very fast to be dark, and the narrow is very path with a lot of high grass and rock. Not much save for night time. But for day time is save. But it is worth going down, when you are sitting in the rock of the end poin, felling look like you are in the end of the wolrd. Strong recomend!!! See more..
4.5 Surf House Phuket - Kata Beach (1.757 reviews)
- Worth chilling out here for an afternoon
This location was reported permanently closed Spent 2-3 hours Water Parks

Aloha! Surf House Kata Beach is a family oriented, beach front surf club which has its own bistro and bar, as well as retail outlet. The centrepiece of the venue is the 'Double FlowRider' which allows one to seemingly 'surf', all day... everyday! Signature cocktails and cuisines prepared by international and award winning team of chef are equally appealing as you sit back and enjoy the rustic and beautiful Kata Beach.So pack up for an adventure and see you at Surf House Kata Beach! See more..
4.5 Phuket 3D Museum (1.336 reviews) from $14.47
- Definitely worth checking out
Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Children's Museums

The first Trickeye 3D Museum of Sounthern Thailand (Formerly Phuket Trickeye Museum), is located in Phuket Town, Trickeye museum is an interactive museum with a concept that stimulates your creativity and imagination. Be a part of 3D paintings and join the impressive memories together. Much..More than meets the eye.. See more..
4.5 Monkey Hill (1.145 reviews)
- Incredible night experience
Monday: 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas

I live in Phuket, and my go-to-spot for some relaxation is the Monkey Hill. The view, the nature and the calmness puts my mind at ease every single time. Altough you won't see any monkeys during the night, the view is in my opinion totally worth the travel! During a clear night, you can see the mountain tops over the horizon, the moving traffic in the far distance and the wonderfull colors of the city. I strongly recommend to go with either car or motorbike to the viewpoint if you go during night as there are A LOT of stray dogs on the road and it is not well lighted. At some points of the road to the view point, you will have to drive with no lighting at all, except from your vehicle. See more..
4.5 Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (1.139 reviews)
- Wonderful Work
Monday: 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Please book your visitation in advance via our website. We're a unique animal welfare and conservation project working to rehabilitate unwanted or confiscated gibbons from the pet trade and tourist industry. Come visitor our centre at Bang Pae waterfall and learn about the fascinating lives of gibbons and how you can help these highly endangered animals! Please note: GRP is an active conservation project and the majority of our animals are part of an ongoing reintroduction program. A select number of gibbons can be seen from our public viewing area but visitors are not able to feed them or otherwise interact with them. See more..
4.5 Bang Tao Beach (951 reviews)
- Brilliant beach - lots of bars and restaurants!
Beaches

Fab beach, lots of bars and restaurants, some fancier (more expensive) beach clubs too day and night if that's your thing. A few locals walk up and down the beach selling various local crafts, kaftans, beach towels, sarrongs, all very cheap, and the people do not hassle you if you do not want to buy like in some other countries! Live music, fire shows of a night at some places, fire works at beach clubs, happy hours (even though things are really cheap anyway), great food, something for everyone. Lack of toilets was a downside for me, but then that's what happens if you're enjoying beach life at little 'shack' bars, very authentic. Something for everyone! See more..
4.5 Yanui Beach (592 reviews)
- Great Beach for Snorkeling and Relaxing
Spent 2-3 hours Beaches

Great beach for snorkeling and relaxing. There are corals very close to the beach and there is almost no current so it never. Kayaks can be rented cheaply in case one wants to row over to the next tiny island or watch some fish a little further from the beach. Plenty of good restaurants with delicious food (especially One More Restaurant) and fair prices nearby. See more..
4.5 Khao Rang Hill View Point (548 reviews)
- nice panorama view of phuket town
Mountains • Lookouts

Excellent lookout in Phuket See more..
4.5 Mai Khao Beach (514 reviews)
- went for plane spotting
Beaches

went here for plane spotting. I didn’t realize planes don’t land there all the time - it is seasonal so this time of year they only take off from the beach which is cool but the planes don’t get as close. quite a lot of people waiting to get a good photo with the plane over the top. got a bolt there but you can’t get dropped right at the plane watching area as the roads are restricted due to it being behind at the airport - so you have to walk quite a bit and getting a bolt back is difficult as all the cars are on the other side of the airport so it’s a 15min drive to fetch you from the north side so i def recommend getting dropped off/parking and getting picked up at the south side of the airport along the beach at sirinat national park playground area - recommend for plane enthusiasts!! See more..
4.5 Sunday Walking Street Market (Lard Yai) (500 reviews)
- Taste bud adventure
Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Flea & Street Markets

Sundays are lively affair along Phuket Town's Thalang Road, where the island's famous Walking Street (locally called Lard Yai) hosts 30 stalls selling local fare and handicraft products. See more..
4.5 Malin Plaza Patong (498 reviews)
- My favourite place for local food.
Monday: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM Flea & Street Markets

Market shopping in Patong is best done in the busy and air-conditioned lanes of Malin Plaza. Here, vendors sell everything from everyday items like clothing to mobile accessories and souvenirs. See more..
4.0 Bangla Road (20.9k reviews)
- Soi Bangla
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

Adjacent to Patong Beach, this buzzing and vibrant strip is a great place to start your Phuket pub crawl. Enter past the iconic Patong Beach sign and prepare your senses for the neon lights, throngs of tourists and touts, street vendors selling snacks, and dance anthems pumping from the plethora of go-go bars and clubs. Those planning to partake in the evening festivities can purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance for entry to various nightclubs. Bangla Road sees dense crowds, especially during the peak holiday season in December. Park yourself at a bar, grab a beer and watch the night unfold. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.0 Kata Beach (8.233 reviews)
- A beautiful beach
Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

This cozy, secluded beach features calm waters and is a favorite for families and couples to relax, snorkel and body surf. See more..
4.0 Jungceylon (7.191 reviews)
- Go for the Big C Extra and Wok-In
Monday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Shopping Malls

Jungceylon may not have many of the international brands you're familiar with, but it's considered one of Phuket's best malls with a plethora of fashion, beauty, wellness, and electronic stores. See more..