The island of Phuket in Thailand is one of the most famous holiday destinations in Asia. For many travellers, it represents the first point of contact with the exotic continent. Its easy accessibility, paradisiacal beaches and countless attractions make it a perfect destination that promises cultural, sporting and scenic highlights.
Phuket: An Overview
Phuket Island is located in the middle of the Andamenen Sea and is the largest island in Thailand . Only a narrow waterway separates it from the mainland. On 48km long and around 21km wide there are a total of 36 beaches, which inspire with sweeping palm trees, gently sloping shores and crystal clear turquoise water. Dense tropical forests spread out in the interior of the island, which have an impressive biodiversity, especially in the national park in the north of Phuket.
A trip to Phuket can be made all year round thanks to the warm temperatures. However, during the rainy season between April and November, short but heavy rain showers can fall. The comfortable journey is via Phuket International Airport, which takes about 13 hours.
The most beautiful regions on Phuket
Tourism plays a major role in Phuket. As a result, travelers will find numerous accommodations in all price ranges all over the Thai dream island. Depending on the region, you can decide whether you want to enjoy an exuberant nightlife or prefer to enjoy the silence of paradise.
The west of Phuket is particularly exciting, with most attractions, pubs and clubs concentrated around the infamous Patong Beach. Countless food stalls, bars and shopping opportunities make the region particularly popular for a varied holiday full of new impressions.
To the north, travelers will find Bang Tao Beach, which offers an excellent blend of paradisiacal tranquility and western comfort. Right next to it are Kata Beach and Karon Beach, which travelers will have all to themselves with a little luck. The northern region is therefore ideal for relaxing days without the hustle and bustle. In addition, you can immerse yourself in authentic Thailand and find, for example, regional delicacies that are not seasoned on the Western palate.
The most beautiful beaches in Phuket
Snow-white beaches, turquoise water, colourful fish and shady palm trees with hammocks stretched between them – that’s exactly how most travellers imagine paradise. This is exactly what you will find on Phuket – and if you are flexible and don’t shy away from short travel times with a moped or tuk-tuk, you sometimes have them all to yourself.
Peace, silence and a real Robinson Crusoe feeling arise on the west coast of Phuket. Here you will find Nai Han Beach and Nai Thon Beach, which are located away from tourist strongholds and exclusive resorts and are therefore hardly considered by other travelers.
The longest beach on the Thai island, Mai Khao Beach, stretches for about 5km along the north coast. Except for a few luxurious resorts with private beaches, you hardly meet other people here, so that only from time to time cheeky monkeys are the only companions on the beach.
Cool beach bars, a boisterous atmosphere and refreshing sundowners await travellers at Surin Beach, which is best known for its spectacular sunsets.
Cultural sites
Sometimes you just need a change from the relaxing days on the beach. Above all, immersing yourself in a foreign culture is a very special part of a trip: the food, the markets and of course the sacred sites are places where you get the chance to broaden your horizons.
The old town of Phuket Town, which is well worth seeing, can be explored on a walk: Chinese temples, Buddhist temples and Hindu shrines meet harmoniously here. Not far from there is the famous Big Buddha, which is one of the most famous sights on the island. The 45m high statue, which is covered with snow-white marble, looks gigantic up close. Also worth seeing is the temple complex Wat Chalong, which is a real masterpiece of southern Thai architecture with its detailed chedis.
Nightlife
The nightlife of Phuket is one of the reasons to spend your holidays on the Thai island. Here, travelers are spoilt for choice between countless clubs, cozy bars, colorful night markets and much more.
Most people can be found in Patong, who turn night into day here along the party mile Bangla Road. Stimulating music blasts from the loudspeakers and one club follows the next – a real paradise for sociable night owls. Fans of rock music can be found in the “Tai Pan” or the “New Tiger Disco”, while house lovers are more likely to be found in the “Seduction Nightclub”.
