Beachgoers and surf at Kata Beach, Phuket, framed by seaside trees

Phuket Guide

Things to Do in Phuket

Island trips, culture, viewpoints and adventure — pick a category or browse everything below.

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All Things to Do

Every activity on this page in one filterable list.

Good to know

What's the difference?

Phi Phi Islands & Maya Bay

Best forThe beach-and-swim stop — Maya Bay itself, plus turquoise bays.

VibeIconic scenery, limestone cliffs — the busier, more famous route.

Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island

Best forSea caves and karst scenery, usually with a canoe stop.

VibeMore exploration-focused — caves and canoeing over beach time.

Similan Islands

Best forClear-water snorkeling around granite islands — the pick for reef and marine life over sightseeing.

VibeQuieter and more remote than Phi Phi or Phang Nga Bay. Seasonal — closed mid-May to mid-October.

Racha Island

Best forClear turquoise water close to the mainland — a shorter trip than Similan or Phi Phi.

VibeCalmer and less crowded than Phi Phi, without Similan's long boat ride or seasonal closure.

Coral Island

Best forThe easiest, shortest island trip from Phuket's south coast — a good half-day option.

VibeFamily-friendly and low-effort — the pick if a full-day boat trip is more than you want.

Know before you go

Dress code: shoulders and knees covered at Big Buddha and Wat Chalong — no swimwear, vests or short shorts. Sarongs/wraps are usually available on-site for visitors who arrive underdressed.
Footwear: remove shoes before entering ordination halls and other main temple buildings.
Etiquette: Buddha images are sacred — never climb on statues or platforms for photos, and keep your feet pointed away from any Buddha image when seated.
Big Buddha: it's a working viewpoint and active temple, so it can get busy around midday — early morning or late afternoon is quieter.

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FAQ

Things to Do — FAQ

What are the best things to do in Phuket?

Island day trips to Phi Phi or Phang Nga Bay, Old Town's historic streets, Big Buddha, and the beaches themselves are what most first-time visitors prioritize.

Phi Phi or Phang Nga Bay — which should I choose?

Phi Phi is the beach-and-swim trip, built around Maya Bay's turquoise water. Phang Nga Bay is more exploration-focused, with sea caves, karst islands and usually a canoe stop, including James Bond Island. See the comparison in the All Things to Do section above.

What should I wear to visit a temple?

Shoulders and knees covered, no swimwear. Big Buddha and Wat Chalong both usually have sarongs available on-site if you arrive underdressed. See "Know before you go" in the All Things to Do section above.

Is there a night market every day in Phuket?

Most days, somewhere on the island — Kata's runs daily, Karon Temple Market is Tuesday and Friday, Fun Friday Avenue Market is weekly on Friday, and Old Town's Sunday Walking Street and Naka Weekend Market cover the weekend. Filter the catalogue above by "Markets" to see all of them.