Thailand is the top tourist destination in South Asia. And it is easy to see why. With stunning beaches, breathtaking natural beauty, exciting nightlife and the luxuries that an urban landscape could offer, it is just impossible to get bored in Thailand. And when it comes to the country’s largest island, Phuket, there are just too many things to explore and experience.
Phuket has a garland of serene beaches surrounding it. It is a place where you can soak in the best sunset views, found nowhere else in the country. But there are many other things that Phuket is also known for. It boasts of beautiful temples, white-sand beaches, wellness & spa facilities and fabulous local restaurants. You can be travelling solo or with friends and family, and Phuket will still offer you something that you would love!
So, that's why we are listing down 5 reasons why Phuket is loved by all kinds of travellers!
Beaches & Islands
Whether you are looking for happening beaches or calm islands, Phuket is blessed with both. Most of the beaches here offer activities for water sports like diving, snorkelling, and sailing. Or you can simply swim and spend time in leisure at an island of your choice.
Freedom Beach
Catch a long tail boat to enjoy a 10-minute ride to a much quieter beach in Phuket. Freedom Beach is a good pick if you want to relax in an untouched area, away from the crowd. Here you can admire the tropical beauty that Thailand is known for!
Suited for: Couples
Kata Beach
Dreaming of a sun-soaked holiday? Are you fond of swimming? If you answered yes, then visit Kata Beach. Though this site is always busy with people, it is never crowded. And you can come here at any time of the year!
Suited for: Couples, groups and families
Karon Beach
Long stretches of white sands and the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea make this a sought-after beach for travellers looking for something offbeat. Karon Beach is somewhat deserted at its northern end and is ideal for those who want to be away from the crowds.
Suited for: Couples and solo travellers
Koh Racha
Twenty kilometres away from Phuket lies a pair of islands – Koh Racha Yai & Koh Racha Noi. The crystal clear waters along with white sand beaches make it an Instagram worthy destination. The diving and snorkelling sites here are ideal for adventure-seeking tourists.
Suited for: Couples
Sightseeing
Phuket is home to several attractions, including natural marvels, cultural sites and some of the most revered Buddhist holy sites in the world. Also, being a budget destination, Phuket has many places that you can go sightseeing for free!
Big Buddha
You will find Big Buddha on almost all the itineraries for Phuket! Standing at a height of 45m, this tall white marble statue is one of the most sacred and important landmarks of the island. From here, you can enjoy beautiful views of the island. No wonder, it’s regarded as one of the best viewpoints in Phuket!
Suited for: Everyone
Laem Phromthep
Known as Laem Chao among locals, Laem Phromthep viewpoint lies at the southernmost part of Phuket. This is where you can click countless photos, watch a splendid sunset and take in the breathtaking views of the surroundings.
Suited for: Groups and couples
Phuket Old Town
Phuket Old Town is the historic centre of Phuket city. A cultural hub, it is also full of eateries, cafés, shops, and bars! In the evening, it offers tourists a lively atmosphere for chilling with loved ones. You will love the bright townhouses that were built in Portuguese style more than 100 years ago!
Suited for: Families
Wellness and Spa
Thailand is known for its hospitality. It is also known for providing one of the best wellness and holistic care in the world. So, it is not surprising that Phuket would have some of the most unique spa and wellness retreats in the country. Whether you are a couple or a solo traveller, the island of Phuket has many options in spas and wellness centres. The best part is that these are suitable for all kinds of budgets, from a cheap beachside rub down to a therapeutic spa session in a luxurious hotel.
Sanctuary Spa at Banyan Tree Phuket
If you're looking for a way to rejuvenate yourself, then there is no better place in Phuket than Sanctuary Spa at Banyan Tree Phuket.
Visit Asia’s foremost luxury spa and let the healing touch with natural ingredients cure your body. The three best experiences in the spa are Chevit, Cheva and Royal Banyan.
Suited for: Everyone
Let’s Relax Spa at Phuket Boat Lagoon
A trip to Phuket calls for some well-deserved time for self-love! Pamper yourself with a foot massage, warm oil massage or a Thai massage, among the other services at Let's Relax Spa at Phuket Boat Lagoon. The spa packages like a private spa for couples are perfect for the body and spirit.
Suited for: Couples
Turquoise Cove Spa by the Oasis Spa
Situated at the waterfront, the personal spa villas of Turquoise Cove Spa are equipped with terrazzo bathtubs. Soothe your senses with the award-winning treatment, bathe in open rain showers and forget about worries in a cave that produces steam with Thai herbs. The spa provides a complimentary transfer service to and from Patong, Surin and Kamala too.
Suited for: Everyone
Shopping
Be it souvenir shopping or budget hauls, Phuket is a dream come true for shopaholics. Grab things from street markets, spend time at night markets or treat yourself at an international shopping mall – you can do whatever your heart desires in Phuket!
Jungceylon Shopping Mall
Visit this modern mall near Bangla Road to explore upscale supermarkets like Big C Extra Supermarket. There are over 200 outlets that will be enough for your shopping trip! This is a must for those who are looking for brands!
Suited for: Groups, families and solo travellers
Weekend Market
Are you travelling on a budget? The weekend market at Chaofa West Road is where you will buy second copies of all the popular brands. If you just want to browse, don’t worry! This is one of those markets where you can just take a walk to soak in the lively atmosphere of the city – and all for free!
Suited for: Groups, solo travellers and couples
Central Phuket
This is a world-class mall where you can find some of the best luxury brands and international restaurants in one place. Indulge in a good shopping experience and have a thrilling day at the adventure theme park in the venue.
Suited for: Everyone
King Power Phuket
Shop duty-free at the beautiful Sino-Portuguese premises of King Power Phuket. Go for high-end watches, electronics, Thai souvenirs and more from the wide range of options available at the outlet.
Suited for: Everyone
Restaurants
Phuket has a lively dining scene with a wide variety of cuisines that’ll delight any foodie. There are restaurants for every cuisine. Whether it’s a noodle stall or a fine dining restaurant, dining in Phuket is a fun-to-do activity for everyone. Don’t forget to try the Thai food, especially the seafood which is unique to the island and, of course, the hospitality will warm up your soul.
PRU
The sophisticated and innovative restaurant near the sea is known for its romantic ambience. Try dishes created from the ingredients that are an inherent part of the Thai ecosystem, served according to the season.
Suited for: Everyone
The Charm Dining Gallery
A good choice for southern Thai food, The Charm uses traditional methods for keeping the real flavours of the food intact. Try the Penang fish curry and the shrimp paste with poached shrimp meat. A private dining room is also available in the restaurant.
Suited for: Families
Kruvit Raft (Ban Laem Hin)
Kruvit Raft is unlike any other restaurant in Phuket. It is the 'only floating live seafood restaurant' in Phuket and has been mentioned in the 2021 MICHELIN Guide Thailand. Located between the east coast of Phuket and Maphrao Island, it takes a 5-minute boat ride to reach the restaurant. It's a haven for seafood lovers! And yes, you would be interested in sitting outdoors due to the dramatic views!
Suited for: Groups and couples
So, now you know why Phuket is home to all kinds of travellers. Whether you are looking for a beach shack to plop yourself down to relax or a remote village to rejuvenate yourself – Phuket will take care of you.
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