Thailand’s largest island, Phuket packs a punch with golden beaches, leafy rainforests and a lively atmosphere in the hotspots.
Destination highlights
Winter sun
Hidden beaches to explore
World-famous parties
LGBTQ+-friendly
What are the best beaches in Phuket?
From busy party beaches to mysterious pockets of wild beauty, Phuket has it all. We’re big fans of both, so here are a few of our faves:
Patong Beach – the longest and most popular beach on the island, with water sports by day and parties by night - who says a beach can't do both?
Kata Beach – a slightly calmer corner of coast, where sunbathers and surfers enjoy chilled-out days - a little birdie told us if you head here during monsoon season the waves are perfect for ripping.
Karon Beach – a lovely spot for family holidays to Phuket, with squeaky sand (no literally, keep your ears open), plenty of open space and water sports to keep the kids busy.
Paradise Beach – snorkel the lively coral reef by day, get down at a Full Moon Party by night - the ideal blend of chill vibes and party central, we know where we'll be going.
Freedom Beach – you reach the wild beauty of this beach by longboat ride or jungle trek - we recommend the longboat, rest those legs - adding an air of mystery as you approach the quiet, white-sand shore.
Surin Beach - if you're chasing a more boujee beach feel then this is the one, surrounded by luxury resorts and fine dining you can live your celeb fantasies for the day - or just take advantage of the crystal waters and spend the day snorkelling.
What are the top hotels in Phuket?
While some head to the island for world-class partying, Phuket's hotels are famous for being pockets of calm away from the noise. Whether your hotel is the main event on your Phuket holiday or just a place to crash, we think you’ll love these:
Vjitt Resort Phuket - the ultimate boutique getaway, with lush five-star suites, private pools surrounded by greenery, and authentic Thai fine dining
Amari Phuket - a great base for friends enjoying the buzzing Patong nights, with its own secluded beach for rest days
The Charm Resort Phuket - a place to wind down from lively Patong Beach by watching the sunset from the stunning infinity pool
The Yama Hotel Phuket - modern rooms, amazing views, and loads of fun for kids - a top pick for family holidays to Phuket
Ayara Hilltops - take in the ocean views from your private suite or relax with a cocktail at the poolside bar
Barcelo Coconut Island- the name is a massive clue about this one, hop on a water taxi to reach this beachfront resort with gorge villas, delish dining and boujee bars - a no brainer when you're looking for your holidays to Phuket.
Popular Phuket hotels
Weather in Phuket
JAN
26°C
FEB
27°C
MAR
28°C
APR
29°C
MAY
28°C
JUN
28°C
JUL
27°C
AUG
27°C
SEP
26°C
OCT
26°C
NOV
26°C
DEC
26°C
Phuket’s tropical climate makes it a great destination for some far-flung winter sun - and we aren't mincing our words either - 30°C in December?? Yes please!
Seems fitting to kick things off in Winter where you can expect temps to range from 23°C - 32°C - the dry season perfect for beaching it all day long, sticking to the pool, or finding your nearest bar for an ice cold cocktail.
When Spring rolls around the celsius reaches its peak with a temp range of 25°C - 34°C, the dry season goes out with a bang in April when temps reach there hottest, if you're a sun seeker who loves a sizzler then this is deffo the time you should look to book your holiday to Phuket.
Wet season starts in Summer but that doesn't mean the celsius drops with temps still sitting pretty between 25°C and 31°C. It might not be everyones cuppa, but this is when the waves are ripe for ripping and the bars are best for setting up shop.
During Autumn the wet season reaches its peak, brollies at the ready, however if you're travelling in November the dry season transition starts all over again - temps range from 24°C - 31°C so still plenty of heat, aim for a November jolly and we're sure the excursions and beach days are back on the cards for ya.
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Phuket?
It takes about 14 hours to fly to Phuket from the UK/Ireland - long haul means one thing, in flight entertainment! Sprinkle in some prime reading time and a couple naps and you'll be there.
What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Phuket?
Phuket is 7 hours ahead of the time in the UK/Ireland - we reckon if you plan it right you can maximise those vacay days.
Known as the birthplace of medicine and dating back to around 400 BC, Asklepieion is a legendary medical centre to visit near the main town of Phuket. There’s plenty to see including temples, a museum, and Roman baths.
Monkey around
Take a walk up Monkey Hill and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the curious creatures, who are more than happy to appear in photos (just keep your camera close!). It’s a nice walk too, with fab views across the island from the top, perfect for sunset photoshoots.
Muay Thai suggest boxing?
If you like to try things off the beaten track, then the Patong Boxing Stadium puts on a night you’re going to love. Enjoy snacks and drinks on ringside seating as Muay Thai boxers show off their best moves — not for the faint-hearted!
Not your average photoshoot
If you’re always looking for your next family photo opportunity, head to the Phuket Trickeye Museum. This great little place has loads of mind-bending art and chances to take one-of-a-kind pics to remember your holiday.
Go island hopping
On beach holidays in Phuket, you don’t have to stick to one place - there are loads magical islands waiting to be explored by boat from the mainland. You’ll paddle through caves and bays so beautiful they’ve made it into the movies, like James Bond Island and The Beach’s Koh Phi Phi.
Easy like a Sunday market
Shopaholics and bargain hunters all head to the Sunday Walking Street Market in Phuket Town, where the traffic gets swapped for stalls packed with locally-made crafts and fashion. Unique souvenir shopping just levelled up to the max!
What events can I go to in Phuket?
While the high season is typically November to February, the whole year is full of opportunities to enjoy the island’s colourful culture. Why not book your 2024 holiday to Phuket around one of these events?
Chinese New Year (February) - a traditional celebration ringing in the new year with fireworks, festivities and traditional lion dances - not one to miss!
Thao Thepkasattri-Thao Sri Suntorn Festival (March) - a two-week long historical festival celebrating women being iconic - historical reenactments and cultural performances are all to play for at this one.
Oceanman Phuket (March) - one of the world’s biggest open water swimming events, with races for all ages and skill levels
Songkran (April) - the Thai New Year, celebrated with a huge water fight in the streets
Phuket Bike Week (April) - six days of motorbike appreciation, with races, rallies, and live music
Phuket Gay Pride Festival (May) - the local LGBTQ+ community throws the biggest Pride parade in Thailand
Vegetarian Festival (September) - a nine-day celebration of veggie life - the island’s most famous event - where you can grab a bite and watch some truly unusual cultural performances
Patong Carnival (November) - parties and parades mark the start of the high season, along with traditional Thai dance and music
Loi Krathong (November) - hundreds of lit candles and offerings are sent over the sea on small boats woven from banana leaves, to thank Mother Water
Phuket Kings Cup Regatta (December) - your chance to see fancy ships of all shapes and sizes as they compete in Asia’s premier yacht race
Where's the best nightlife in Phuket?
Patong has the biggest party scene on the island. You’ll find superclubs on Bangla Road, with the LGBTQ+ scene around the corner at the Paradise Complex. There are also the iconic beach parties to look out for, and if cocktails are more your speed there’s plenty of chilled-out spots.
Illuzion Phuket, Patong - this superclub has amazing light and sound rigs, luring loads of international DJs to take the stage.
Sugar Club, Patong - hip-hop is on the bill at this nightclub, where you can catch the biggest names in rap perform live.
ZAG, Patong - Phuket’s biggest gay bar, with nightly live dancers and drag shows.
Paradise Beach Club, Paradise Beach - this secluded bay is where you’ll find the huge moon phase parties, where beach BBQs turn into raves as the sun goes down.
Z1mplex Mixology Laboratory, Phuket Town - a weird and wonderful cocktail experience, where the bartender gives you an art show.
Lana Live Music, Kata Beach - a place to kick back with a cocktail and enjoy the sunset while the band plays.
Timber Hut, Phuket Town - a rustic bar that has a long standing among locals as being a top nightlife spot with live music and plenty of delish tipples to grab.
What is the Food & Drink like in Phuket?
The food is just one of the reasons to visit Phuket, with its riot of colour, flavour, and international influences. While you can expect the Thai dishes you know and love, the island’s own recipes draw inspiration from Chinese, Malay, and even Portuguese cooking. Don’t miss these dishes:
Khanom jeen - spicy coconut soup with delicate rice noodles and crab, often eaten at breakfast
Mee hokkien - flash-fried noodles in a tasty broth with fresh seafood, pork, and greens
Oh tao - a favourite street food snack which consists of eggs, taro root, pork rinds and oysters in a spicy batter
Oh eaw - a refreshing and colourful shaved ice dessert that you’ll only find in Phuket
Look choop - mung bean and coconut sweets in the shape of veggies - weirdly wonderful!
Dining out won’t cost you a fortune on holidays to Phuket, as the restaurants are famously great value for the quality and portions. Here’s a taste of our faves:
Patong Corner Restaurant, Patong - if you want it all, go to this cheap and cheerful restaurant where the menu is huge and the food’s to die for.
One Chun Cafe, Phuket Old Town - the best place to try khanom jeen over a laidback lunch with friends.
Nong Jay, Phuket Town - a hidden gem for vegans, this cosy family-run restaurant serves all the best Thai dishes with a plant-based twist.
Kwong Seafood Shop, Kata Beach - an affordable diner where you can enjoy huge seafood feasts, even on a budget holiday to Phuket.
Black Ginger, Nai Yang Beach - for a unique dining experience in an Insta-worthy setting, this restaurant is accessible by raft and is lit by twinkling lanterns - bag yourself some bangin' Thai cuisine on the water.
Places to visit
Green Elephant Sanctuary Park
We were so excited by this one we simply had to include. A true sanctuary for these gentle giants - no rides on their back, no tight enclosures - where you can watch em roam around, marvel at their size and beauty and wonder over and over, 'god they really are massive aren't they?' It doesn't stop at marvelling though, you can get hands-on too, we're talking feeding them, cleaning them and even swimming with them - you won't find happier elephants than the ones who've been lucky to set-up shop here, and it deffo shows, but don't take our word for it, head over and see for yourself.
Big Buddha
A 45-meter statue that can be seen from just about anywhere on the south of the island. This is one of the main pulls for a holiday to Phuket and it's easy to see why, a towering religious figure tucked away in the hills above Karon. Strap on your walking boots, stock up on water and start the climb, when you've reached the top, not only do you get to see the towering icon, but you've also got uninterrupted views of the mountains and Andaman sea and if the climbs got you feeling peckish then you can stop off at the cafe before you begin your descent.
Khao Phra Thaeo National Park
This ones best experienced during the wet season, so stock up on mozzy spray and get your sensible shoes on for a jungle trek through this stunning national park home to Phuket's largest waterfall. You can take a dip in the rock pools, soak up the lush fauna of the jungle and even stop off for food at some local restaurants nearby. There's really no better way to see Phuket than from boots on the ground exploring, and for all my silly little weekend walkers out there, this is a true upgrade on your usual mountain hikes, better yet, the chance to see some natural beauty across the world can feel like a once in a lifetime experience - we know we'd be straight there come rain or shine.
Key facts about Phuket
Flight Time
14 hrs
Time Difference
+7hrs
Currence
Thai Baht
Language
Thai
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Phuket?
Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.
Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Phuket ?
You currently do not need to pay tourist tax in Phuket.
