While Phuket can offer everything the tourists might need, from all kinds of activities to wonderful restaurants and bars, many people opt to take short breaks on one or more of the many islands near Phuket.

The primary advantage of visiting one of these islands is that the small size of the islands means they are not crowded with swarms of people. In fact, they make the perfect location for quiet and relaxing breaks where you really can get away from it all.

Not all of the islands around Phuket have accommodation and to visit most of them you will have to organize your own transport, as there are no regular ferry services. You can stay in a hotel in Phuket and get your trip to the nearby islands arranged at your hotel.

Coral Island

Just about 2 miles or 3 kilometers off the southeast corner of Phuket is the delightful Coral Island, which lives up to its name. Coral Island is outlined by two long, sandy beaches and is very popular with snorkelers. The reef is quite close to shore and is a spectacular underwater paradise teeming with multicolored tropical fish.

There is just one resort offering accommodation on the island, so it is ideal as a venue for people looking for complete relaxation, although each day brings many boatloads of trippers.

Most visitors to Coral Island come on organized day trips. These trips include hotel transfers, speedboat to the island, set menu lunch and use of snorkel and mask. All trips are accompanied by guides who can advise on the best places to snorkel.

It takes only 15 minutes to get to Coral Island from Phuket, and the cost of these full day trips is very reasonable at less than $35 for the whole day.

Phi Phi Islands

A day trip to Phi Phi and its neighbors is another very popular tourist option. Phi Phi itself is a beautiful, secluded island about 45 minutes from Phuket by speedboat. There are several beautiful beaches and coves around the island.

Most trips include a visit to Monkey Beach. The beach is so called because the native wild macaque monkeys come down to the beach to scrounge treats from the visitors. Many visitors are surprised when they realize that they recognize Maya Bay. Maya Bay was the location for the Leonardo DiCaprio movie “The Beach”.

Your trip will include a visit to the Viking Cave. The cave is home to millions of swifts that build nests high up on the roof and walls. The locals use a precarious system of natural fiber ladders and ropes to climb up to and steal these nests, which are then used to make bird’s nest soup.

Phi Phi island trips usually allocate the entire morning to Phi Phi itself and then, after lunch, visit some of the smaller, surrounding.

These full day trips, which last about 10 hours in total, are priced around $100. The charge includes transfers to and from hotels in Phuket, speedboat to Phi Phi and the other islands, a professional guide, lunch and snorkeling gear.

The trips to Coral Island and the Phi Phi Islands are among the most popular day trips available from Phuket, but there are lots more small islands scattered around the region that are well worth exploring as well

Whether you’ve been there or not, a holiday in Phuket is always a trip to look forward to. A paradise in the real sense of the word, Phuket is the perfect place where you can relax, have fun and simply enjoy your holiday. Here are some of the best things and sights to visit in the stunning island of Phuket.

If you’re looking for a nice place to stay in Phuket, visit Accommodation in Phuket

Have Fun doing Water Activities

Since Phuket is surrounded by water, it is surely the best destination when you want to have the best of water activities. There surely are a lot of things that you can do here which involve water. Once you get here, the inviting waves, the cool and sparkling water will surely entice you to get into your swimming attire as soon as you can and take a plunge.

Snorkeling is a favorite among visitors in Phuket and you can do it in almost every beach found in the island. However, the crystal clear and warm waters of Phi Phi Island and Coral Island are the most recommended for snorkeling. Scuba divers will surely love Phuket for it is one of the top scuba diving spots in the whole world. If you want to give it a try, one of the best sites is Andaman Sea near the Similan Islands.  If you are up for an adventure where you will need to work your muscles, sea canoeing is definitely recommended for you. Meanwhile, if you simply want to relax and enjoy the view of the sea, take one of the cruises or yacht charters, which are available in all the beaches around Phuket. These cruises offer tours to the best destinations around the island which you will surely enjoy.

Attractions that Cannot be Missed

A holiday in Phuket should of course include a visit to the island’s top attractions. You can visit the famed Butterfly Farm and the Phuket Aquarium where you can see various species that you can only find in Phuket. There is also the Phuket Zoo which is found between Chalong Bay and Phuket Town. Spend time at the Phang Nga Bay where you can see the translucent limestone cliffs and the waters in emerald green, the Koh Panyee and the famous James Bond Island. You can also visit the Wat Chalong which is one of Thailand’s most vital temples. You should also not miss the Sea Gypsy Village and the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project where gibbons, the smallest apes are rehabilitated. In the south of the island, you can take a look at the Big Buddha which stands on the pinnacle of Nakkerd Hills overlooking Rawai, Chalong and Kata. If you want to start your day with a beautiful view of the sunrise, you can do it at the Promthep, the Three Beaches’ Hill, Radar Hill, Khao Rang and other viewpoints. These are just a few of the attractions in Phuket for there are surely a lot more that you can visit when you are there for your holiday.

Shopping and Dining

Thai cuisine is famous world-wide for its fresh ingredients and distinctive flavors and since you are in one of the country’s islands, you might as well enjoy this opportunity to sample various Thai dishes. Dining in Phuket does not mean you have to empty your pockets for there are various restaurants where the food is very much affordable. Some of the award-winning restaurants include Baan Rim Pa, JOESDownstairs, Da Maurizio and a lot more. You can also find small diners everywhere where the food is just as delicious but are offered in much cheaper prices.

Meanwhile, shopping is also one of the most enjoyable activities in Phuket. You can find various things at bargain prices such as souvenirs that you can bring home for your loved ones. You can try shopping at the Ocean Plaza, The Lotus, Big C, Robinson Department Store and other department stores within the island. And of course, you should not miss the Central Festival which is a one-stop spot for shopping and entertainment complex where you can find world-class and native products.

These are but a few of the activities that you can do during your holiday in Phuket. There are a lot more to keep you occupied. In fact, there will not be a day that goes by without you finding something new to do. Surely, a holiday in Phuket is a trip that you will look forward to.

Thailand is a country that is well known for its holiday destinations. Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and Ayutthaya are some of them. In addition to being Thailand’s largest island, Phuket is one of its most popular as well. This island is visited by thousands of people each year. Eco tourism, attractive beaches, historical wonders, shopping spots, refreshing spas and water sports are some major attractions of this island. Tourism forms a major part of the economy of this island. There are hotels to suit a variety of budgets.

A year round pleasant climate ensures that Phuket gets visitors throughout the year. While many come here for relaxation and spa treatments, others are attracted by parties and night life. Several factors have to be considered while looking for a spa in Phuket. The spa should be convenient and comfortable. The level of comfort chosen should be based on personal preferences.

A lot of people prefer to stay in beachside resorts as it enables them to enjoy the sand and sea whenever they want. There are around 40 beaches in Phuket and each has several resorts and spas. Hence finding a good resort is very easy. The various spa treatments offered should also be considered. Most spas have a serene and calm atmosphere so that tourists can relax and rejuvenate their mind and body. Transportation facilities should be considered by those who wish to explore the island.

Budget is perhaps the most important factor for a lot of tourists. Hence there are several resorts that offer packages at cheap rates. However, some resorts compromise on quality in order to bring down the rates. Such resorts should be avoided. Among the various beaches in Phuket, Kata beach is quite popular. Nodding palms, cool breezes and milky white sand are the hallmarks of this beach. The beach is a popular hotspot for sunbathers and surfers. Snorkeling, fishing, parachuting, jet skiing, parasailing and boating are some major attractions at this beach. Despite the huge popularity of Kata beach, there are only limited resorts within walking distance of the beach. Hence a lot of people come here looking for a tranquil and quiet getaway.

Among the various resorts at Kata Beach, Avista Phuket Resort and Spa is very popular. Big, comfortable and beautifully designed rooms make it the preferred choice for a lot of tourists. The restaurant, bar, wine cellar, kids club, library, recreational room, gym, spa and swimming pool are some of the facilities offered at this resort. While honeymooning couples and families make up a majority of the occupants of this resort, it is equally suited for singles. There are other resorts as well. Regardless of the resort chosen, one can be assured of high quality service. In today’s digital world, most resorts have an online presence. Hence they can be contacted over the internet for any and all queries. One can also book rooms and make payments online.

Kata beach in Phuket is well known for its romantic beauty. This white sand beach is a favorite vacation spot for families and couples. The nightlife and parties in Kata are quieter than in Patong. The beach in Kata is so enchanting that most people like to spent time just lying on its cool sand.

The beautiful land of Thailand is known for its spas and resorts offering delightful traditional conveniences and modern luxuries. Visit to Kata in Phuket cannot be completed in a day. The charm and beauty of this place compels you to be there for at least a few days.

Most resorts and spas at Kata will pamper you and give you the much needed relaxation. Choices for stay offered by these resorts are splendid. There are options for staying very close to the sea, so that
you can walk straight to it when you wake up. Being able to live this close to nature will be a whole new experience in your life.

Most Phuket resorts offer unique massage facilities for its guests. These massages are done based on the traditional Thai methods. They are capable of rejuvenating your body and mind. Most living quarters in Kata resorts make you feel as close to the nature as possible. This leaves you fresh and revitalized throughout your whole stay.

The views offered by this island are impressive and you are not going to forget them any time soon. The beaches of Kata are some of the top diving locations in the world. There are trekking facilities into the enchanting jungles of Kata. Phuket is well known for its beaches.

Along with the services from resorts and spas there are many other places to visit in Phuket. The most cherished places by most tourists are the traditional Buddhist temples. There are 29 big temples in this city to be visited. The Grand Pagoda which houses a part of Lord Buddha’s bone is the most visited temple.

The town area of Kata is worth exploring as its architecture is fashioned with Portuguese classiness. The streets are always filled with a festive atmosphere. There are options to shop for souvenirs all around the place. Then, there is Chinese and Colonial architectural beauty to be explored. Phuket is also known for its museums and zoos which host a wide variety of flora and fauna from all parts of the
world. The history of the country through ages is elucidated through a grand collection of artifacts and relics in these museums.

Hospitality shown by the people is the foremost attraction of this place. There are resorts like Avista Phuket Resort and Spa which makes you feel just like you own the place. This hotel is put together in
perfect harmony with the nature. Most people go to a place and look for a hotel to stay, but here they offer you all the facilities to dive and explore all the magnificent beaches and jungles in a single
package.

A trip to Thailand will definitely be one of the most refreshing experiences in your life. Not only would it be enlivening to your body and mind, it will also be a nice way to spend the money which you saved for a vacation. Phuket, in Thailand is perhaps one of the most visited places on earth. Situated on the southern side of Thailand, it is a leaf shaped island, well known for its exotic beaches and palm lined resorts. Phuket is connected to the mainland through bridges on the northern part of the island.

Planning a trip to Phuket needs more consideration regarding Phuket accommodation and food. The kind of accommodation you need will depend on where you decide to stay in Phuket. Also, it is equally important to consider you budget. Thailand is considered to be a place where the cost of living is comparatively low. When compared with other Asian countries, Thailand offers maximum entertainment at lower cost. However, it would be wise to learn more about the types of hotels, resorts and other accommodation facilities available in Phuket.

Moderately priced accommodation facilities can be found at the northern regions of Phuket. But don’t go too far north, since it will take you close to the Phuket International Airport. Hotels here are quite exclusive in nature and you may have to pay well above $100 for a single night. Near Patong Beach, one that lies north of Phuket, you can find some affordable hotels and restaurants.

The areas closer to prominent beaches like Patong, Kata and Karon also have affordable accommodation facilities. As mentioned earlier, you might find good hotels and drive-ins near the north of Phuket. Take your time and consider the kind of accommodation you require.
There are several four star hotels in Phuket. If you are looking for affordable accommodation, then definitely these are the types of hotels you need to be looking for. There are four star hotels that charge less than $100 for a night. Most of these hotels lie closer to the beaches and you will have easy access to them. Experiencing the nightlife and the quintessential country life of Phuket can’t get better, if you can check into one of these hotels.

If you can’t find any, then hostels will be the best option. However, save them for the last, lest you should find a good economical accommodation facility in the last minute. There are hostel services that provide diving pools and other recreations. This does not mean that you should go for everything that is cheap in Thailand. Since Thailand being one of the most cost effective places on earth, very good hotels and restaurants will be within your reach. One such a hotel is the Avista Phuket Resort and Spa at Kata Beach, which offers exclusive accommodation for its inhabitants.

Phuket in Thailand is one of the most happening places of the world. The place is located at the southern side of Thailand and is known all over the world for its exotic beaches. People visit Phuket for many reasons. While some come here for the beaches, others are here for the eco-adventures which the place offers them. There are several small islands in Phuket, which could offer you the best in trekking, diving and other forms of adventure sports.

People don’t arrive in Phuket, for a one day trip or for a casual visit. They would like stay there and experience what the place has to offer by staying there for a couple of days. They would like to visit the Commercial Center, where they could shop around and take back a few souvenirs from the land. Vendors around Phuket offer amazing bargains, which you won’t find anywhere else in the world. But, in order to do all this, you need to find a place to stay.

A lot depends on how well you plan your trip to a place like Phuket. You have to decide what all things you want to do in Phuket beforehand. Sometimes travel agencies provide accommodation for people. This might not be a good idea if you plan to do things on your own. Sometimes the hotel you stay might be miles away from where you really want to be. So, it would be worthwhile to get a comprehensive knowledge about the hotels and accommodation facilities in this place before visiting.
If you plan to spend some time in Phuket, enjoying the beaches, there, then there are ample accommodation options for you to spend the night. Some of these luxurious hotels provide attractive sea-view and mini bars. So, you have enough options to kill your time inside these hotels. Spend some time in the lush pools inside these hotels and you will be rejuvenated for more action the next day.

Beaches are not the only attraction in Phuket. The hillside view is equally as breathtaking and enchanting as the ocean. If the hillside is in your mind, then, you don’t have to look for too many options for accommodation. A resort like the Avista Phuket Resort and Spa will offer you the perfect food and accommodation facilities. The resort’s proximity to jungles enables for good trekking and adventure possibilities. Visitors consider this resort as the best in terms of enjoying your nightlife in Phuket.

Thailand has brought about global standards in terms of tourism in the recent past. Phuket is perhaps the most admired place in Thailand for global tourists. An island, connected to the main land by a bridge, this place is one of the pristine, serene and exotic places on earth. Staying here might cost you a little extra cash as most of the hotels here are quite expensive.  No, wonder it is one of the most revenue spinning places on earth. Nevertheless, cheap hotels that provide impressive accommodation, good amenities are not that hard to find.

The warm, sunny climate of Phuket is one the biggest attractions that draw people all around the world, especially who are in colder climates flock to this beach destination. Who wouldn’t love to lie on the white sandy beaches soaking up the sun and enjoying a cool beverage? But, before packing up your bag, take some time to understand the weather in Phuket so that you don’t end up sitting in the lounge of a resort watching the rain instead of wandering around in the sun.

Are you looking for a hotel in Phuket? If yes, visit Kata Resort Phuket

Phuket falls into the weather pattern of tropical regions. As it is common in the tropical countries, Phuket has only two distinct seasons to speak of, rainy and dry. The climate remains warm throughout the year with humid conditions prevailing. The climatic conditions of Phuket are hugely influenced by the monsoon winds that blow through the island all year round.

The temperature peaks during March with highest average temperature being at 33.4 ‘C and the coolest temperature occur in January with lowest average temperature of 22 ‘C.

The rainy season in Phuket begins in May and continues to till October.  It is the time when the Southwest monsoon is active in the region. During the dry season which runs from November to April, the Northwest Monsoon winds sweeps through, giving the atmosphere a warm, dry feeling.

Best time to visit Phuket

Phuket enjoys heavy tourist flow during the season, from November to March.  The moderate temperature and the swift cool winds from the North East bring down the humidity considerably leaving warm but comfortable weather. The temperature at this time ranges between a comfortable 24 ‘C to 32 ‘C. The best time to visit Phuket is in December and January but since it is the peak of the season, finding accommodation could be hard if you do not have advanced booking.

Hottest time

Though Phuket is warm throughout the year, high temperature occurs only during the months of April and May. The temperature in this period can be expected to range between 27 ‘C and 36 ‘C. Sometimes the hot spell is broken by the bouts of thunder showers which is a welcome relief to many. Interestingly and yet very aptly, the Thai people welcome the Thai New Year on April 13 by spilling and throwing cool water on each other!

The wet season

The rainy season that begins in late May makes the air wet and moist. The climate remains wet until October and is not an enjoyable time in Phuket. The beaches and resorts remain mostly empty with tourists not preferring to come down in unsuitable weather conditions. This is also the time when most locals in Phuket choose to visit other places leaving the island uncluttered and free.

In the wet season, heavy, short downpours with intervals of sunshine are a common pattern. During the wet season itself, Phuket receives long spells of sunshine undisturbed by the rain. It is the time the local people enjoy the most with several land and water based activities for entertaining themselves.

Phuket does not have extreme weather conditions which makes it an ideal tourist destination in any season.

Phuket is widely recognized as Asia’s most popular and vibrant vacation destination. This is a reputation it fully deserves and has earned with its glorious white sand beaches, exotic tropical sunsets and unique nightlife.

Phuket is excellent for both a relaxing vacation or a nonstop party with young people from Asia, Europe, America and every other corner of the globe all enjoying the nightlife on the Island. This versatility is partly as a result of Phuket’s natural beauty but also as a result of Thailand’s outstanding culture, both modern and historic. Phuket Island is a place full of activities to cater for every taste.

If you’re looking for a hotel in Phuket, visit Phuket Accommodation

If you enjoy nature then you should pay a visit to Phang Nga Bay which is famous for its emerald green waters and the limestone cliffs which rise from them vertically, there is nowhere else in the world like Phang Nga Bay and if you have the chance to explore it by boat you should. Cruises leave regularly from Phuket and the unique perspective as you pass thru the giant limestone cliffs which tower over you from the water is breathtaking.

Phuket is also famous for its diving. You can explore the Andaman Sea from below the surface and see exotic tropical fish and other marine life in their natural habitat. If you are an animal lover or adventurer this is an experience which you will never forget.

You will also be able to enjoy endless days spend relaxing on the glorious beaches of Phuket Island. The white sand and exotic Asian sunsets are simply amazing. If Phuket was simply a beach resort, without all the other diverse experiences it offers, it would still be worth visiting as the beaches are second to none, every holiday photo you take will look like a professional picture postcard.

If you are more interested in man-made culture and experience then there is also plenty for you to do on a Phuket island vacation. You can visit the Old Town of Phuket, this sleepy and relaxed capital is a real gem of the Island, and the architecture is Chinese with Portuguese influences. You can spend hours exploring the town and shopping, eating or just relaxing.

There are many temples to visit on Phuket; the most famous and impressive is Wat Chalong. This temple is outstandingly beautiful; thousands of tiny pieces of glass are used to create mosaics of outstanding beauty and real historical significance. The light reflects from them creating amazing patterns of light.

Another great, man-made sight which is an important part of Phuket’s culture is the Big Buddha statue which was recently constructed and stands at over 45 meters high. It is an impressive sight and the journey to it will allow you to see more of Thailand rather than just the well-trodden tourist spots.

There is also a unique night life on Phuket. Whilst this part of Phuket will not be for everyone, those who are curious will find that it is not as seedy as you might expect and feels safe and fun. With an open mind and low inhibitions you can have great fun. There are also other parts of the Island where you can enjoy a more sedate and relaxing night out with a few drinks and a meal at some excellent bars and restaurants.

Phuket Island located to the south of the Andaman Sea is clad in celestial beauty. The untainted beauty of its mountains, valleys and beaches are a real fest for our eyes. To relish this splendor you just have to visit the Phuket Province of Thailand.
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. It is at a distance of 540 miles from Bangkok. In a total area of 590 square miles 70% of the island is covered with mountains and the remaining areas are plains. Island of Phuket is the most beautiful, most visited and the most popular vacation destination in the eastern part of the world. Being an island offers a variety of beaches around the area. Most of these white-sand beaches are easily accessible. Gigantic white limestone cliffs, tropical inland forest, and white sand beaches give it the name – “pearl of the Andaman.”

Several years ago Phuket acclaimed its position as one of the best tourist destination in the world. Many packages of Phuket Island tours are available online which allow us to enjoy the beauty of this place. A notable feature of Phuket is the availability of distinctive Phuket accommodation for all kinds of guests. There are backpacker’s hostels, five star resorts, and Phuket villas with private beaches.

If you are planning to make Phuket island tours there are certain attractions which are not to be missed.
The first and the foremost reason for visiting Phuket Island is the scenic beauty of the place. The snow white beaches create a lasting memory on our mind. Certain high areas on cliff tops offer some of the spectacular sunset views from the island.
The memorial statue of the two historical heroines of the Phuket Island is a place one must visit on a Phuket Island tour. This famous monument is in Amphoe Thalang. The Thalang national museum near to the Two Heroines Monument offers historical background of the Island of Phuket. It contains permanent exhibitions of wildlife from old Phuket and many cultural and historical artifacts from the past.

There are more than 10 beaches around the island of Phuket. The day time activities in beaches include watersports activities. The night life in theses beaches is exquisite. Hat Patong beach is well known for its night life around the Bangla Street.

The martial art form, Muay Thai was originated in Thailand. Muay Thai fights are organized for entertainment in Patong and Phuket. This boxing style involves the use of legs and hands together. The newest addition to the attractions of Phuket is the 45 meter high statue of Buddha located on top of a hill. The statue overlooks the island into the Andaman Sea. It was built at a cost of 1 million dollars.

Another “never to miss” item in the list of Phuket Island tours would be the world famous Simon Cabaret Show which provides entertainment for all members of the family. Then there is the Phuket Fantasia show which portrays wild animals with amazing visual effects and spectacular entertainers; and the island offers world class diving destination. The Andaman Sea has crystal clear water and coral life which makes your diving experience a memorable one.

Phuket Island is home to as many as three dozen notable beaches, with most of the beautiful beaches on the western coast of the island and some of the top beaches in the south too. With so many beaches, everyone has their own favorite list, depending on the amenities, features and location.

On one side you have high-voltage party mood beaches like Patong, and on the other you have quiet, peaceful and remote beaches such as Kamala Beach in the north of the island.

Few islands in the world can boast of so many famous & fantastic beaches and clear blue waters as in Phuket. The interiors of the island are covered with lush green forests and mountains, where as the major activity is on the coast dotted with white sandy beaches.

Visitors to Phuket soak up in any kind of activity on the beach like strolling around, sun bathing, diving, partying, snorkeling, or just plain lazing around the beach sands. The winding roads on the western coast of the island offer stunning views and quick access to each of these world famous beaches.

Below is the short list of major beaches from south to north:

* Rawai Beach – famous with locals
* Ao Chalong – popular for setting off on yacht & anchorage
* Kata Noi Beach – quiet neighbor of Kata Yai, popular with surfers and snorkelers
* Kata Yai Beach – good for surfing, always busy & clean (If you want to stay close to Kata beach visit Kata Resort)
* Karon Beach – quieter beach adjacent Patong, powdery sand slopes, gentle dunes, lots of cheap water activities.
* Patong Beach – largest beach resort in Phuket renowned for the nightlife, wide variety of activities and shopping
* Kamala Beach – north of Patong, prettiest but peaceful though
* Laem Singh Beach – with a small bay, stunning view
* Surin Beach – casuarina-lined beachfront, newly found tourist destination, famous for seafood
* Bang Tao – eight-kilometer long and quiet beach golden sand to the northwest

Other notable Beaches in Phuket are Ao Sane (Jungle Beach), Rawai Beach, Paradise Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Nai Yang Beach, Pansea Beach, Nai Thon Beach, Panwa Beach, Mai Khao Beach, Laem Sing Beach, Ya Nui Beach., Nai Harn Beach, Kata Noi Beach, Emerald Beach, Banana Rock Beach, Chalong Bay, Laem Ka Beach, Cape Panwa in South Phuket, Bangtao Beach and Ao Yon Beach.

Beach warnings in Phuket:

The monsoon rains in the months of May-October bring in unpredictable swimming & surfing conditions, so always heed to the posted flag warnings and play it safe if off the beaten track. There are strong currents on most of the beaches and drowning in a tourist location is a depressing but common occurrence.

Most of the tourists in Phuket happen to be Europeans, but this part of Asia is still conservative and has not yet evolved to accept nudity. Though Thai people are non-confrontational, do respect their customs and avoid topless or nude sun bathing.

Beaches should be the integral part of any Phuket travel plan. All the beaches of this island seem to be something distinct from each other. Beaches within the reach of tourists afford great rendezvous in adventure, sports, water activities, shopping and a great night life.