Thailand's jewel of the Andaman — a tropical island where powder-white beaches meet turquoise waters, world-class diving, and a nightlife scene that never sleeps.
Avg Temperature
27–33°C
Airport
HKT International
Daily Budget
฿1,500 – ฿12,000+
Best Months
Nov – Feb
Ideal Stay
5 – 14 Days
The Pearl of the Andaman
Phuket is Thailand's largest island and its most famous beach destination. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, it offers a dizzying range of experiences — from the party-fueled chaos of Patong Beach to the serene, jungle-backed shores of the north.
Beyond the beaches, Phuket has depth. Phuket Old Town's Sino-Portuguese architecture tells the story of a tin-mining heritage. World-class diving in the Similan Islands is a short boat ride away. And the food — particularly fresh seafood and southern Thai curries — ranks among Thailand's best.
Phuket rewards those who explore beyond the obvious. The quieter west coast at sunset, the local fishing villages, the hilltop viewpoints — that's where the real magic lives.
Must-See Highlights
Stunning coastlines, vibrant Old Town heritage, and underwater worlds — the experiences that define Phuket.
Beach
Kata & Karon Beach
Diving
Similan Islands
Heritage
Phuket Old Town
Landmark
Big Buddha
Beaches & Areas
Phuket's beaches and towns each have a completely different personality — from party hubs to secluded bays.
Patong Beach
ป่าตอง
The epicenter of Phuket nightlife and tourism. Bangla Road's neon chaos, beach clubs, shopping malls, and the widest range of dining on the island.
NightlifeBeachShopping
Kata & Karon
กะตะ / กะรน
The sweet spot — gorgeous beaches without Patong's intensity. Perfect for families, surfers (in monsoon season), and travelers who want nightlife within reach but not in their face.
FamiliesSurfingBalanced
Phuket Old Town
ย่านเมืองเก่าภูเก็ต
Pastel Sino-Portuguese shophouses, street art, local coffee shops, and Phuket's best food scene. Sunday walking street market is unmissable.
CultureFoodArchitecture
Rawai & Nai Harn
ราไวย์ / หาดในหาน
The local's Phuket. Seafood markets on the pier, Muay Thai gyms, expat communities, and Nai Harn — consistently voted the island's most beautiful beach.
Local LifeSeafoodExpats
What to Eat
Southern Thai food is fiercer, fishier, and more fragrant than anywhere else in the kingdom. Phuket's culinary identity is unique — shaped by Chinese, Malay, and Peranakan influences.
Mee Hokkien
หมี่ฮกเกี้ยน
Phuket's signature stir-fried noodles — Hokkien Chinese heritage in every bite, with thick rice noodles, pork, and a rich gravy.
Oh Tao
โอ้เต้า
Crispy oyster or mussel omelet — a Phuket Old Town classic best eaten from a street vendor with chili sauce on the side.
Gaeng Luang
แกงเหลือง
Southern yellow curry — fiery turmeric-based curry packed with fish and vegetables. Authentic southern Thai heat.
Where to Stay
From clifftop infinity pools to beachfront bungalows — Phuket has Thailand's widest range of luxury accommodation.
Luxury
Trisara
Nai Thon · Northwest coast
Private pool villas perched above a secluded bay. Michelin-quality dining, a world-class spa, and the kind of privacy that attracts royalty and A-listers.
Perched above Phuket's most beautiful beach with panoramic Andaman views. Contemporary rooms, rooftop bar, and direct beach access — exceptional value for the location.
Thailand's best hostel chain delivers again. Pod-style dorms, a pool, social events, and walking distance to everything Patong offers. Budget without sacrifice.
