Other names: Ko Phuket, Phuket Island
Distance from Bangkok: ~850 km
How to get there: airplane or locally by car, tour bus
To do's: snorkeling, fishing, swimming, explore, diving, relaxing, vacation, clubbing, nighlife, food
Phuket is an island located in the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand. It is Thailand's largest island, and a very popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life.
Phuket History – Good to Know
Phuket Island’s history dates back to the early 13th century, when it was a hub for the tin mining industry. The island was named “Phuket” after the Malay word “bukit,” which means “hill,” due to the hilly terrain of the island. In the late 19th century, Phuket became a popular destination for Western tourists, and it has since become a major player in Thailand’s tourism industry.
Things to Do
One of the top things to do in Phuket is to visit the island’s many beautiful beaches. The most famous beach in Phuket Island is Patong Beach, which is known for its nightlife and shopping. Other popular beaches include Kata Beach, Karon Beach, and Bang Tao Beach. Each beach has its own unique atmosphere and activities, so there is something for everyone.
In addition to its beaches, Phuket is also home to many temples and cultural attractions. Wat Chalong is the most famous temple in Phuket, and it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Other notable temples include Wat Phra Thong, Wat Khao Rang, and Wat Srisoonthorn.
Nature lovers will enjoy visiting the Phuket Butterfly Farm, which is home to hundreds of species of butterflies, as well as the Phuket Aquarium, which features a variety of marine animals. The island is also home to many national parks and nature reserves, including the Sirinat National Park and the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park.
Phuket Island is also a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of local and international cuisine available. Popular dishes include tom yum goong, a spicy shrimp soup, and pad thai, a stir-fried noodle dish. The island is also home to many seafood markets and restaurants, which serve fresh and delicious seafood.
There are also many activities and attractions for families in Phuket. The Phuket FantaSea show is a popular entertainment complex that features live performances, cultural exhibits, and carnival games. Other family-friendly attractions include the Phuket Trickeye Museum, the Phuket Zoo, and the Phuket Mining Museum.
Vibrant Island
Overall, Phuket is a vibrant and exciting destination that has something for everyone. Its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and delicious food make it a must-visit destination in Thailand.
Islands Surrounding Phuket
Being Thailand’s largest Island, Phuket, is also surrounded by a number of smaller islands that offer a variety of activities and attractions for travelers. These islands can be easily accessed from Phuket and perfect for a Phuket fishing tour, great day tour or weekend getaway.
Phi Phi Island
One of the closest islands to Phuket is Koh Phi Phi, which is known for its beautiful beaches and turquoise waters. This island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, as it is home to a number of colorful coral reefs and an array of marine life. Koh Phi Phi is also home to several small villages and a number of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the laid-back island lifestyle.
Koh Yao Island
Another nearby island is Koh Yao Noi, which is located just a short boat ride from Phuket. This island is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, and is a great place to escape the crowds and relax. Koh Yao Noi is home to a number of small villages and traditional Thai communities, and visitors can take part in activities such as rice farming and coconut harvesting.
Even Smaller Islands
In addition to these islands, there are a number of other small islands located near Phuket, including Koh Racha, Koh Lone, and Koh He. Each of these islands offers its own unique attractions and activities, making them a great addition to any tour to Phuket.
In summary, the close islands around Phuket offer a variety of activities and attractions for travelers, and are a great way to experience the beauty and culture of the region. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure like big game fishing, there’s something for everyone on these beautiful and diverse islands.