Curator’s statement
I have spent the last 15 years traveling to Phuket, so this is a very special place for my family and certainly stands out against other destinations like Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, or Bangkok. Phuket is special because it blends dramatic island scenery (think the Maldives of Southeast Asia but far more accessible), rich Thai culture, and relaxed tropical luxury into one destination that feels both exciting and deeply restorative. You can spend the morning exploring temples or towering limestone islands, the afternoon on soft sandy beaches, and the evening enjoying world-class food and sunset views over the Andaman Sea. It has a vibrant energy, yet still offers quiet corners for slow travel, wellness, and meaningful experiences.
The Fora Difference
Book with Ben Cubbage to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Phuket
Unlock perks by contacting Ben Cubbage to book your trip.
Things to do in Phuket
Longtail boats are a great way to explore Phuket
Explore the Phi Phi Islands
Take a boat trip to the iconic Phi Phi Islands to swim in turquoise waters, snorkel among vibrant marine life, and admire some of Thailand’s most breathtaking limestone cliffs. If possible, you should stay at least three or four days on the Phi Phi Islands, because this is some of the the most beautiful water and best snorkeling in all of Thailand.
Visit the Big Buddha & Wat Chalong
Experience Phuket’s cultural side by visiting the towering Big Buddha for panoramic island views and the beautifully ornate Wat Chalong temple complex.
Wander through Phuket Old Town
Stroll colorful Sino-Portuguese streets filled with cafés, night markets, street art, and charming local shops that showcase the island’s heritage. The Phuket Old Town night market is open every Sunday from 4 to 10 pm and is located along Thalang Road, featuring local food, handicrafts, and live performances.
Relax on Patong, Kata, or Karon Beach
Spend a laid-back day enjoying soft sand, warm sea breezes, and stunning sunsets on some of Phuket’s most famous beaches. None of these beaches are super private, but they are still beautiful and worth a day trip.
Experience an ethical elephant sanctuary
Visit a responsible elephant sanctuary where you can observe rescued elephants in a natural setting and learn about conservation in a meaningful, respectful way. This is a great way to get to know the animals without riding them.
Visit the “secret beaches” like Ao Sane or Freedom Beach
Escape the crowds and discover quiet, crystal-clear coves where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy a more peaceful side of Phuket. These beaches can only be reached by boat or a short trek, so that helps limit the crowds of more popular beaches like those in Patong.
Hike to Black Rock Viewpoint
Take a short jungle hike to one of Phuket’s most stunning hidden viewpoints overlooking Nai Harn Beach and the Andaman Sea.
Take a Thai cooking class in a local home
Learn to cook authentic Thai dishes with fresh market ingredients in a hands-on class that gives insight into local culture and cuisine. We did this with our family and it was some of the best Thai food we had during our whole trip.
Places to eat & drink in Phuket
Casa Boho at the Hyatt Regency
Casa Boho
Located in the Hyatt Regency, Casa Boho Koh Samui is a chic hilltop beach club and restaurant known for its bohemian design, panoramic ocean views, and vibrant sunset atmosphere paired with Latin-inspired cuisine and cocktails. You can swim in the infinity pool while listening to Cuban bongoes and taking in the excellent views of a brilliant sunset.
Tambu
Tambu Phuket is a unique rooftop dining experience set in a luxurious Mughal-inspired tent, offering elevated Indian cuisine, sunset views, and a stylish, romantic atmosphere overlooking the Phuket coastline. The drinks are to die for and the presentation and plating are both memorable and creative.
L'Arôme by the Sea
L'Arôme by the Sea is an elegant oceanfront fine dining restaurant in Phuket known for its modern French cuisine, refined tasting menus, and breathtaking sunset views over the Andaman Sea. Many reviewers say this is the finest restaurant in all of Phuket.
Marush Kamala
Marush Arabic Food Patong is a casual and popular spot in Patong serving authentic Middle Eastern dishes like shawarma, grilled meats, and fresh hummus in a relaxed, welcoming setting overlooking the rocky Kamala shore.
Chillva Night Market
Set right in the heart of Old Town Phuket, Chillva Night Market is a trendy outdoor night market filled with street food stalls, local fashion, live music, and a youthful, creative vibe. It’s a great place to experience local culture, try Thai snacks, and enjoy a relaxed evening away from the more tourist-heavy areas.
Salsa Rosa
Salsa Rosa Phuket is a colorful and lively Italian/Mexican fusion restaurant known for its authentic tacos, fresh themed margaritas, and fun, upbeat atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a casual, flavorful meal in Patong with friendly service and a festive Latin vibe.
Sea Salt Lounge & Grill
Located right off the busy highway leading into central Patong, Sea Salt Lounge & Grill Phuket is a stylish beachfront restaurant offering fresh seafood, international cuisine, and stunning sunset views over the Andaman Sea. Its relaxed yet upscale atmosphere makes it perfect for sunset dinners, cocktails by the ocean, and a memorable evening by the rolling waves of the beach.
Hern Coffee
Serving what is arguably the best coffee in all of Phuket, this hip café offers open-faced sandwiches, smoothie bowls, a diverse selection of baked goods, and an iced coffee that will keep you coming back every afternoon.
HEH Restaurant
HEH Restaurant Phuket is a modern, chef-driven dining spot known for its creative tasting menus and artistic presentation that blend global techniques with bold, contemporary flavors. The intimate setting and focus on culinary storytelling make it a unique fine dining experience for food lovers in old town Phuket.
Need to know
Choose your beach area carefully.
Patong is the lively and busy hub for parties and crowds, while Kata, Karon, and Nai Harn offer a more relaxed, quiet, and scenic experience that many travelers end up preferring.
Stay away from shady massage places.
Stick to reputable spas, hotel spas, or well-reviewed massage shops, as the cheapest street-side options can sometimes be misleading or unprofessional. If the ladies are wearing tight shirts with their chests hanging out, that is a telltale sign that you do not want to go to that place.
Plan island tours early in the trip.
Boat tours to Phi Phi or nearby islands are weather-dependent and can be canceled due to high winds or storms, so booking them early gives you flexibility in case of schedule changes.
Expect traffic and allow extra travel time.
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and is larger than it looks on a map. Getting from beaches to Phuket Old Town or viewpoints can take longer than expected, especially in high season. Many resorts in southern Thailand are 1.5 hours to 2 hours from the Phuket HKT airport, and traffic can be a real bummer along the narrow mountain roads.
Carry cash for markets and small vendors.
While hotels and malls accept cards, night markets, local restaurants, night market stalls, and taxis often prefer cash. Having a few thousand baht on you makes everyday purchases much easier.
Travel Advisor
Ben Cubbage
Get in touch with Ben Cubbage
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Ben Cubbage within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Thailand page.