Phuket
Thailand
Backpacking Phuket
Information on Phuket, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
Phuket Island is situated in the southern province of Thailand and borders the west coast of the Andaman Sea. It is the second smallest province in all of Thailand and is the country’s biggest island with an area landmass of 576 square kilometers. Phuket formerly derived its wealth from tin and rubber and was a very popular stop along the major trading routes between India and China in the 17th century. It was frequently mentioned in foreign ships logs of the Portuguese, French, Dutch, and English traders. Walking through Old Town Phuket you can see this history reflected in the present with beautiful Sino-Portuguese shophouses which line the streets. Locals have lovingly restored these buildings with coffee shops, art galleries and restaurants. Yearly festivals attract locals and tourists alike, such as the Vegetarian Festival, Ghost Festival, Sea Gypsy Boat Festival and the Kings Cup Regatta. Phuket has a mean average temperature of 28 C or 90 F and the best times during the year are from November to April, although even in the rainy season the island is just as special and even less crowded. The beaches found here are some of the best in the world. From sprawling white-sand shorelines, shimmering blue waters, abundant aquatic life, and a hot sun which is sure to keep or get you tanned. There are dozens of beaches around Phuket, but each of the main resort areas has a very different character. If you choose the right one to match your needs and preferences, you should have a fantastic trip. Along with the stunning beaches, Phuket is made of 33 islands that each offer something unique! Dense rainforests, refreshing wild waterfalls, and indigenous vegetation that will make you succumb to the magic of this unforgettable island paradise.
Must See
Phuket by Bike - Getting a motorbike to explore the back roads and villages makes for a great day in Phuket – visiting off the beaten track sea gipsy fishing villages, getting out into the jungle in the center of the island and finding deserted beaches all to yourself.
Surrounding Islands - If you’ve had enough of Phuket’s crowds, take a boat trip for the day to explore the surrounding tropical islands. Tourist agencies in all parts of the island can arrange visits to ‘James Bond Island,’ the magical Phang Nga Bay or snorkelling trips any number of the deserted tropical islands surrounding Phuket such as Koh Ma or Koh Yai.
Muay Thai Fighting - To see something truly Thai, book yourself in to watch some Muay Thai. This is a form of combat that combines striking techniques using fists, elbows, knees, and shins. It requires extreme mental and physical discipline to train to be a Muay Thai fighter. The Saphan Hin Stadium is the destination to see regular matches or go to Patong Beach where you can watch these fighters in action.
Khao Phra Thaeo - Phuket’s largest national park, home to virgin rainforest and wildlife. Located in the northern part of the island, the park offers hiking trails, waterfalls and monkey-spotting. There’s an 8-kilometre trail here for those wanting a long hike.
Must Do
Hit The Beaches:
Patong - The main tourist area on the island of Phuket, and is the center of Phuket's nightlife and shopping. Its sandy, crescent beach is lined with cafes, restaurants and bars.
Karon and Kata - Renowned as being Phuket’s best beaches, Karon and Kata lie next to each other on the south-west coast of the island. Kata Beach is one of the only places in Thailand where you can surf. Kata Yai Beach is the beach that is most popular with the surfers while it’s less busy sister beach Kata Noi provides white sands and peace and quiet. Karon Beach is the second most developed beach after Patong, so prices here are more inflated.
Bang Tao and Kamala Beach - A bit further up the west coast, you’ll find the quieter beaches of Bang Tao and Kamala. Bang Tao Beach is a 6-km stretch of sand and more modest guesthouses and hostels are dotted around the edges, Kamala Beach, just north of Patong is a much quieter place to stay, popular with expats and retirees.
Freedom Beach - Rumored to be the most beautiful beach in all of Thailand, Freedom Beach is a scenic oasis. A 300-meter expanse of white sand beach sits between the jungle-covered hills and the bright blue, clear-as-can-be water of the Andaman Sea. Because it is a well-hidden wonder, there are no overnight accommodations
Nightlife
Renowned for its 24-hour nightlife, Patong is the spot to hit if you’re looking for a high energy, unforgettable party in Phuket. Bangla Road is the main drag with its neon lights and Thai women coaxing you in to drink cheap beers and shots. There are go-go bars, night-clubs, lady-boy cabaret shows – you name it! As well as plenty of beach parties, rooftop bars, there are also Full Moon Parties taking place on the tiny stretch of sand known as Paradise Beach.
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