Temples, Beaches and the James Bond Island: Places to Visit in Phuket

Phuket had 4.3 million visitors in the first half of 2024, including 2.6 million foreign visitors, demonstrating its worldwide appeal.

This guide covers Phuket’s main attractions, hidden treasures, and thrilling activities to help you plan a vacation to remember.

1. Big Buddha

Literally and figuratively, the Big Buddha is difficult to overlook from Nakkerd Hill. Rising 45 meters, this famous monument provides broad views of the island. It’s peaceful, humble, and the ideal place for a reflective moment—or simply a fantastic picture opportunity. Don’t overlook the tiny bells you can ring for luck; this simple action enhances the whole experience.

2. Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is not any temple; it is the center of Phuket’s spiritual life. Both residents and visitors like it mostly for its elegant architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Plus, hearing the stories of Luang Pho Cham, a revered monk, gives the visit a deeper meaning. Pro tip: dress modestly out of respect for this sacred space.

3. Phuket Old Town

Walking through Phuket’s Old Town makes it seem as if one is entering another age. A riot of sensations is introduced by colorful Sino-Portuguese houses, a busy market, and several quirky cafes. If you are visiting on a Sunday, then it is the icing on the cake at a night market with street food, live music, and local handicrafts.

4. Promthep Cape

Popular among photographers and romantics, Promthep Cape is well-known for its amazing sunsets. From this vantage point, the Andaman Sea seems absolutely enchanted. Though it’s a bit touristic, seeing the sun set beyond the horizon with people from all across the globe has a unique appeal.

5. Karon Viewpoint

Also referred to as the «Three Beaches Hill,» Karon Viewpoint presents—you got it—three breathtaking beaches: Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon. Especially if you want that postcard-worthy view of Phuket’s shore, this is a brief visit but well worth it.

6. Patong Beach

Patong is where the action is. Day-to-day activities center on water sports and tanning on the beach. By night, it becomes a hive of activity. Patong has you covered, whether your tastes are for jet skiing or exploring vibrant night markets.

7. Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn Beach is a small piece of paradise for anyone looking for a more peaceful retreat. With gentle beaches and crystal clear waves, it’s less crowded yet as beautiful. Local residents also love it, which speaks much about its appeal.

8. Phi Phi Islands

Without a day excursion to the Phi Phi Islands, no vacation to Phuket is complete. Renowned for their blue seas and steep cliffs, these islands are a snorkeler’s paradise. To avoid crowds and enjoy Maya Bay almost by yourself, you must visit it in the early morning.

9. Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay is the venue if you have ever desired to kayak over limestone caves and float past breathtaking rock formations. Although the main attraction is James Bond Island, the whole area seems to be a movie set. It’s truly as cinematic as it gets.

10. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Unlike some other locations, the sanctuary is very ethical. Here, you will discover rescued elephants enjoying their best lives rather than any elephant rides. It is rather heartwarming to spend an early morning feeding and strolling along these gentle giants. Your appreciation for these gorgeous creatures will grow.

The beaches of Phuket are alive with adventure, not just pictures-perfect. There is a beach and activities for you, whether you are interested in swimming headfirst or tanning. Start the day by hopping between Surin, Kata, and Patong beaches. Each offers its own vibe, from Patong’s lively buzz to the serene beauty of Surin.

Ready for some aquatic fun? At Coral Island or Racha Yai, try snorkelling to view incredible water life and vibrant fish up close. Go scuba diving in Phuket if you’re feeling courageous; undersea caves and even shipwrecks are available to explore!

Must-Try Water Activities:

•  Snorkeling at Coral Island and Ao Sane

• Scuba diving at King Cruiser Wreck and Shark Point

• Island hopping to Phi Phi Islands and Similan Islands

• Paddleboarding or kayaking at Kata Beach

Phuket is ideal for adventure seekers as much as for leisure on beaches! Seeking some thrills? For breathtaking views of the island, ziplining over the forest at Hanuman World is advised. Alternatively, travel over Phuket’s rough trails and secret locations on an ATV. Just don’t forget your first aid kit!

For a short vacation, Railay Beach is fantastic for rock climbing, with breathtaking limestone cliffs to challenge. Would you much rather remain on the ground? See some animals and appreciate the natural beauty of the island by strolling through Sirinat National Park. Kayak exploration of the Phang Nga Bay caverns will allow you to enter a whole other universe!

Outdoor Adventures to Check Out:

• Ziplining at Hanuman World

• ATV tours through Phuket’s jungles

•  Rock climbing at Railay Beach

• Nature treks in Sirinat National Park

• Kayaking through the caves of Phang Nga Bay

Phuket is a place where nightlife and culture coexist. Visit the Phuket Thai Hua Museum first thing in the morning to learn about the past and special Sino-Portuguese legacy of the island. Love cuisine? Try a Thai cooking course; you will learn how to create those mouthwatering stir-fries and curries on your own!

The vibe changes as night falls. Look at a night market if you would like a relaxed evening. It’s a terrific way to finish the day with mouthwatering street food, vibrant stalls, and handcrafted souvenirs.

Cultural Highlights:

• Visit the Phuket Thai Hua Museum

• Take a traditional Thai cooking class

• Wander through Chillva or Sunday Walking Street Market

Phuket’s tropical charm is best enjoyed during the dry season, which runs from November to April. These months offer sunny skies, calm seas, and warm temperatures—perfect for beach lounging, water sports, and sightseeing. If you prefer quieter beaches and don’t mind a bit of rain, the green season (from May to October) offers lower prices and fewer crowds.

Each season has its perks, so it really depends on your travel style and what you’re looking for in your Phuket adventure.

Weather Breakdown by Season:

• November to February: Cool and dry; ideal for beach lovers and outdoor activities.

• March to April: Hot and dry; perfect for water sports and festivals like Songkran.

• May to October: Rainy with occasional storms; great for budget travelers and lush green landscapes.

Although visiting a foreign country is exciting, it’s wise to be prepared for surprises. From medical issues to flight delays, travel insurance provides peace of mind so you may enjoy your vacation free from worry. Having decent coverage is really essential in a city like Phuket, where ziplining and scuba diving are somewhat common hobbies.

Medical treatment abroad may be costly. Hence, managing it by yourself might be challenging. On top of that, problems like lost bags or canceled travel plans may quickly spoil your vacation. Travel insurance lets you handle these issues so you can concentrate on having a fantastic trip.

Not just for major crises—insurance can be helpful for little problems, too. Missed a connecting flight? Luggage delayed? The right insurance helps you to recover and keep enjoying your journey.

This is where QIC steps in. We offer reliable Thailand travel insurance tailored to meet your needs. Whether it’s a single trip or multiple adventures throughout the year, QIC has you covered. Our plans include medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and even lost luggage. Need COVID-19 coverage? That’s an option too. Plus, the whole process is seamless and online, so you can get insured in just a few clicks.