Phuket is often called the Pearl of the Andaman, and with good reason as there are plenty of interesting and varied things to see and do all over this amazing island. As well as the obvious natural charms such as sublime beaches, dazzling islands, dense jungles and watery mangrove forests, Phuket also has a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, zoos and farms, impressive viewpoints, national parks, temples and shrines; all this can easily occupy more than a few days and make a welcome diversion from the usual beach activities. Even the most dedicated sun worshippers will surely agree there is much more to Phuket than just its fine beaches and raucous night time entertainment.
1 Phang Nga Bay Phang Nga Bay Phang Nga – North east of Phuket
Phang Nga Bay is unique. A day out here is an unforgettable experience that will definitely get you thinking. A distinctive feature of the bay is the sheer limestone cliffs that jut vertically out of the emerald-green waters. These islands are home to sheltered fauna that are possible to observe on certain tours. James Bond Island and Koh Panyee are just two of the more famous spots in this bay.
2 Old Phuket Town Old Phuket Town Phuket Town
Sino-Portuguese splendours and funky shops in the most unlikely places will surprise and delight you in the heart of Phuket’s sleepy provincial capital. Phuket town offers much more than you think with some excellent restaurants and local sights. The unique blend of colonial and Chinese architecture along with a tangible quaintness makes for a fascinating and unforgettable afternoon spent sauntering around Phuket’s Old Town. Expect the unexpected and don’t forget your camera.
3 Bangla Road in Patong Beach Bangla Road Nightlife Patong Beach
There are few things in this world to prepare you for an after-dark stroll down Patong’s Bangla Road. However, a sense of humour and an open mind are prerequisites if you’re looking to have some fun. In fact, there’s only one undeniable and obvious fact about Bangla – it’s nothing like home. With its ladyboys, exotic girls, enchanted westerners (mostly male) and enough extraverts to fill a Disney cast of thousands, shopping or sipping on a beer at Bangla Road at night is a definite ‘Dear Diary’ moment.
4 Simon Cabaret Show Simon Cabaret Show Patong Beach
Simon Cabaret – probably the biggest transvestite cabaret show to be found locally. This show features a spectacular musical floor show performed by the world famous ladyboys of Simon Cabaret. See for yourself – guys, can you tell the difference? And ladies – wouldn’t you just die for a figure like that? Fabulous costumes, glitzy and fun.
5 Wat Chalong Wat Chalong and Phuket Temples Chalong
Wat Chalong is one of Phuket’s most important temples and visited by thousands each year. It’s beautifully decorated with infinite reflections from hundreds of tiny glass pieces and several pagodas. On special holidays Wat Chalong hosts ‘country fairs’ with a real local flavour where you can buy just about anything and snack on Thai food to your heart’s content. Wat Chalong has an interesting history and is Phuket Island’s spiritual centre. You haven’t seen Phuket if you’ve never visited there .
6 Phuket Big Buddha Big Buddha Chalong
Visible from most of the south of Phuket, the Big Buddha is a recent arrival to the island. The image stands on the top of the Nakkerd Hills and looks down over Chalong, Kata and Rawai. It cost 30 million baht to construct and is 45 metres high. Next to it stands a smaller, golden image that is actually made of brass and there is a shrine near the site’s car park. The drive up to the Big Buddha takes you through the ‘real’ Thailand and the view from the top is enhanced if you take a map to identify the sights.
7 Phi Phi Island Spend a Day (or two) on Phi Phi Island Phi Phi Islands
Phi Phi Island is Thailand’s island-superstar. It’s been in the movies. It’s the topic of conversation for travelers all over Thailand. For some, it’s the only reason to touchdown in Phuket. Even with all the hype, it doesn’t disappoint. Phi Phi’s beauty is a large chunk of the allure. The islands, when approached by boat, rise from the sea like a fortress. Sheer cliffs tower overhead, then give way to beach-fronted jungle. It’s love at first sight.
8 Phuket Fantasea Show Phuket FantaSea Show Kamala Beach
It’s wacky but fun and very professionally done. Trapeze artists, elephants on stage and pyrotechnics combine in a Las Vegas-style show. You’ll see nothing else like it anywhere on the planet. Combining Thai traditional myths with humour, fantasy and a loose plotline that keeps getting more and more amusing, FantaSea’s extravaganza is a highly entertaining and riveting show that deserves to be top of our Top Ten Must See and Do in Phuket list.
9 Thai Boxing (Muay Thai) Thai Boxing (Muay Thai) Patong Beach – Rawai
Rapidly gaining popularity all over the world, Muay Thai is an electrifying spectacle to watch. Visit Saphan Hin Stadium in Phuket City to see regular matches with well-trained martial arts experts. Or try Patong Beach, where you can also see the skill and dexterity of these super-fit fighters. Tradition and courtesy are at the heart of this dangerous contact sport and a good Muay Thai participant is ultra-disciplined in spirit as well as body. Join the spectators and feel the rush. to see regular matches with well-trained martial arts experts.
10 Phuket Viewpoints Phuket Viewpoints Kata – Nai Harn – Panwa
There are many viewpoints looking out over east and west Phuket affording sunrise as well as sunset views. Ok, so everyone goes to Promthep but it doesn’t make it any less spectacular. There, you’ll get fabulous views over the ocean stretching as far as Phi Phi Island on a good day. Check out Phuket’s other viewpoints such as the ‘Three Beaches’ hilltop venue on the road between Nai Harn and Kata or sip a cocktail at the After Beach Bar (also on the same road) while the golden ball slips into the western horizon.
