Island guide
Things to do in Phuket
Beyond the beaches: temples and viewpoints, boat trips to Phi Phi and the Similans, ethical elephant sanctuaries, water parks and night markets. Real prices, timing and tips on beating the crowds.
Sights & temples
The Big Buddha
A 45-metre white marble statue on Nakkerd Hill — Phuket's icon and the best panorama of the south.
Free (donation optional)1–1.5 hours
Wat Chalong Temple
Phuket's most revered Buddhist temple: golden chedi, frescoes and genuine, non-touristy temple life.
Free40–60 minutes
Phuket Old Town
Sino-Portuguese shophouses, street art, cafes and the Sunday Lard Yai market — the least touristy side of the island.
Free (museums 50–200 THB)Half a day
Island day trips
Phi Phi Islands
The most famous boat trip from Phuket: Maya Bay from 'The Beach', lagoons, snorkelling and turquoise water.
From 1,200–2,500 THB per personFull day
Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island
Limestone karsts rising straight from the water, mangrove caves and sea-cave kayaking — the region's most scenic trip.
From 1,500–3,000 THB per personFull day
Similan Islands
The best snorkelling and diving in the Andaman: whitest sand and water you can see 20 metres through.
From 2,500–4,000 THB per personFull day (6 a.m. departure)
Coral Island & Racha
The closest islands to Phuket with clear water — leave in the morning, back by lunch.
From 800–2,000 THB per personHalf or full day
Nature & viewpoints
Activities
Elephant Sanctuaries
Ethical sanctuaries where you feed and bathe elephants instead of riding them — the top family activity on Phuket.
1,500–3,500 THB per person2–4 hours
Water Parks
Two modern parks — Andamanda and Blue Tree: heat relief and the top reason to bring kids.
1,000–2,500 THB per personHalf a day
Night Markets
Street food from 50 THB, fruit, clothes and real Thai crowds: Naka, Chillva, Malin Plaza and Sunday Lard Yai.
Free entry, dinner 100–250 THB2–3 hours