Phuket is well known worldwide as Thailand’s leading tourist destination, and it certainly has a fantastic range of options when it comes to world class tourist attractions. From cultural to historical, natural to manmade, from land-based to water based, there's always something for everyone to see and do on the ‘Pearl of the Andaman’. And the best thing about all of Phuket’s amazing attractions is that all of them are within easy reach of each other.
Beaches
Phuket beaches are stunning and are rated as some of the best in the world. Throughout the Island of there are plenty of beautiful beaches to choose from, including a few secret ones for you explore. Most of the popular tourist beaches can be found along the west coast of the island, where you will find a number of long beaches, with warm, calm crystal clear water. Some of Phuket’s best beaches are also the busiest and most developed. The Eastern shore is rocky and covered in thick mangroves.
Phuket Beaches are all open to the public, but the only way you can get to the more secluded and hidden ones is by longtail boat.
Sightseeing
Anyone who thinks Phuket consists of just beach, beach, beach is going to be pleasantly surprised. The island has a rich heritage that is shown through its numerous temples and its unique and ancient Sino-colonial architecture in the old town, all which are well worth a visit. Nature abounds in Phuket and there are still some beautiful spots to visit and admire the views and flora. Surrounded by the Andaman Sea, you can observe some of the creatures that live in it at the renovated Phuket Aquarium at Cape Panwa. There are also a wide variety of museums, parks, waterfalls viewpoint and shows for you to enjoy.
Boat & yacht charters
A marine and land playground of spectacular beauty, the Phuket area lends itself to being experienced by boat. Is there a better way to discover the beaches, limestone cliffs, islands and underwater life than by chartering a sail or power yacht? Cruising the Andaman Sea and the region with its unsurpassed beauty and things to do is an experience not to be missed. Sunset cruises on Phuket's west coast, sportsfishing in the Similan Islands, sailing in Phang Nga Bay or a luxurious power yacht trip to regions south offer rewarding and memorable experiences.
Diving
Many visit the Island simply to come diving in Phuket and to explore the magical underwater world of Phuket’s diving sites. The reefs around the area are in a healthy condition with both solid and colourfully soft corals. There is also an abundance of marine life. Most of the dive locations are suitable for all abilities of divers but there are also some that are quite deep.
Golf
The golf courses of Phuket are of international standard. Each is superbly maintained, features manicured courses and has its own particular challenges and scenic splendour that only Phuket can offer. Golf in Phuket is becoming more popular and with its range of courses and impressive clubhouses it's not hard to see why.
Fishing
Not many people realise that Phuket is one of the best sea fishing in Asia. Anglers from all over the world visit Phuket to test their skills, patience and stamina against some of the world's most formidable gamefish. The fish-rich waters of the Andaman Sea are home to numerous species of desirable sportfish, including the mighty Black Marlin and the ever-popular Pacific Sailfish.
Elephant trekking
Elephant trekking is one of the most famous tourists’ activities in Phuket. In former times wild elephants roamed Phuket Island but as tin mining and rubber plantations, Thai people also believe the elephant is the animal of luck, so if you ride on an elephant back you will become lucky and far away from the suffers of life. The elephant was one of the Thai symbols about 100 years ago and the Thai nation flag originally featured a picture of an elephant in the middle of the flag. If you do not try to enjoy an activity with a Thai elephant you really haven’t been to Phuket.
Horse riding
The comfort and grace of horse riding is a fun and romantic way to explore Phuket's natural scenery. You can ride along excellent guided tour trails - marshland fields, groves of conifer trees, sandy beaches and in the vicinity of lagoons. All of Phuket’s riding clubs have well trained horses, with gentle horses available for children and beginners. Programmes are usually between 30 minutes to 2 hours. For experienced riders, there are more varied trails. Professional instructors, guides and escorts are provided.
Muay Thai
Phuket is a top destination for foreigners wishing to learn Muay Thai, with numerous new gyms continuing to appear across the island, in addition to the longstanding ones. The quality of instruction offered by the different camps varies, but fierce competition ensures all are of a generally high standard. The benefit of learning Muay Thai in Phuket is that tourists get to spend time with some top trainers while living in a tropical paradise. Spending time learning Muay Thai is a great option for anyone visiting Phuket, and there is no need to be in top physical shape in the beginning. Even those who are middle aged or older can benefit from this martial art.
Spas
Phuket is now known as one of the best spa destinations in the world with its high quality of treatments and massages together with some wonderful facilities and services on offer. Spoil yourself with a rose petal Jacuzzi, Swedish oil rub, rejuvenating facial treatment, firm Thai massage and much more. Many spas have double bed treatment rooms making it a romantic experience for couples to enjoy.
Adventure activities
Grab hold of your sense of adventure and join in on some thrilling activities in rural Phuket. There are many opportunities to engage in some fun and take part in out of the ordinary things. For some four wheel action, go off road with an ATV tour or test out a circuit go-karting. Brave a daring bungy jump or reach for the skies on a zip-line high up in the trees. Phuket sports fans can take aim at one of the island's shooting ranges and for those who don’t mind getting dizzy try out zorbing.
