Attractions · Phuket
Things to do in Phuket.
The island divides into the old town's Sino-Portuguese streets and the west coast beaches, with the day boats out to the islands the main event.
Phuket Old Town
Thalang Road and its side streets: shophouses in sherbet colours, shrines, Peranakan food, and the Sunday walking street market that takes the town over weekly.
How to book: Free to wander. The Sunday market runs late afternoon into the evening.
The Big Buddha on Nakkerd Hill
The 45 metre white marble Buddha visible from half the island, with views over both coasts. A short, steep detour on any south island loop.
How to book: Free entry; donations welcome. Taxis and tours include it on island loops; cover shoulders and knees.
Wat Chalong
Phuket's most important temple, busy with devotees at all hours, and the island's spiritual centre since the 19th century.
How to book: Free entry. Combine with the Big Buddha on the same half day.
Phi Phi Islands by speedboat
Maya Bay (swimming is banned to protect the recovering bay; the beach visit is the point), the lagoon, monkey beach and snorkelling stops: the standard big day out from Phuket.
How to book: Speedboat tours run daily in season; the bay closes for recovery in the low season weeks, usually August and September, check before booking.
Search tickets and toursvia KlookPhang Nga Bay and James Bond Island
Limestone karsts rising from green water, sea canoeing into the hong lagoons, and the needle rock made famous by Bond. The calmest water day trip from Phuket or Krabi.
How to book: Tours run daily, big boat or speedboat; sea canoeing is usually included.
Search tickets and toursvia KlookSimilan Islands day trip
The archipelago divers rate among the world's best: white sand, granite boulders and snorkelling over coral with turtles. A long day, and worth it in season.
How to book: The park is open mid October to mid May only. Tours book out in peak weeks; national park fees are paid on top.
Search tickets and toursvia KlookPlanning the stay itself: the city guides cover what is on, and the hotels page covers where to sleep near it.