Sun-soaked beaches and turquoise waters are just the beginning of Phuket’s charms. There’s so much more to this brilliant Thai island, which you’ll be delighted to discover with your family.
Phuket
It’s the largest island in Thailand and happens to be one of the most iconic travel destinations. Sitting in the Andaman Sea, it’s home to turquoise waters lapping at white-sand beaches, forested hills perfect for scenic drives, bustling night markets, and a rich cultural heritage that reveals itself in everything from ornate temples to colourful festivals. Of course, you can’t forget about the delicious local food – there’s plenty of it!
One of the many reasons for Phuket’s popularity as a travel destination is that it doesn’t leave anyone out. No matter what your interests are, the island offers something to keep you happily occupied throughout your stay.
Essential Information
Flying from Bangkok or arriving from overseas? Whatever the case, getting to Phuket is easy. The island has an international airport that welcomes flights from all over Asia and beyond. Once you land, it’s just a matter of driving to your resort. Taxis and airport transfers are readily available, but if you’d prefer to set your own pace, you might like to rent a car or hire a driver. Did you know that some resorts offer luxury helicopter rides for their guests? Something to look forward to!
When it comes to timing your trip, the best weather is usually from November to April, with sunny skies, calm seas, and that perfect beach holiday feel. This is also high season, so expect more visitors and slightly higher prices. May to October brings the monsoon season, but don’t let that put you off completely – showers are often brief, and the island takes on a lush, peaceful charm with fewer crowds.
As for where to stay, it really depends on the kind of holiday you’re after. If you want easy access to the beach in a calm atmosphere, a resort near Layan Beach is ideal. Your choices include Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, one of the popular five-star Phuket family resorts.
Festivals and Events
Phuket knows how to celebrate, and when it does, expect the unexpected.
The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is the liveliest of them all. Held over nine days in the ninth lunar month, this spiritual event is anything but tame. You can see god mediums in trance-like states, walking in street processions. They perform extreme acts of self-mortification – not something your kids should see, however.
Events like the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, where yachts race across the Andaman Sea, and Phuket Bike Week, a celebration of motorbikes and rock music, are fun for both adults and children. Other festivals Phuket is known for include Loy Krathong and Songkran.
Festival days can be busy, so if your trip coincides with one of these big events, be sure to book your stay well in advance.
Hit the Beach
With over 30 to choose from, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches. Kamala, Nai Harn, and Kata are top picks for families. These beaches are spacious enough for splashing around and building sandcastles, with a good mix of restaurants and beachside cafés nearby.
Boat Trips
One of the most popular day trips is to the famous Phi Phi Islands. They’re less developed than Phuket, which is part of their charm. With limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves, these islands offer the perfect setting for snorkelling.
Another must-visit is James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay, made famous by The Man with the Golden Gun. The scenery here feels quite unreal. Jungle-clad rock formations jutting out of the sea aren’t something you see every day. Kayaking and swimming are popular activities here.
For something a little less hurried, set out on a cruise as the sun begins to set.
Old Town Sunday Market
If you’re here over the weekend, don’t miss the Sunday Market in Phuket Old Town. Every Sunday from around 4 PM until late, Thalang Road becomes a lively, pedestrian-only street buzzing with stalls, music, and mouthwatering aromas.
What can you find here? Anything and everything, from crafts and souvenirs to clothes and artwork. Street food, however, is the biggest crowd-puller.
The whole place feels like a celebration, with live music, street performers, and a crowd of locals and travellers alike.
Golfing
Didn’t imagine you could play golf in Phuket? That’s the thing about Phuket – there’s always something unexpected waiting around the corner. The island is home to several world-class golf courses.
Blue Canyon Country Club, for example, features two championship courses that have hosted the likes of Tiger Woods! Some resorts even offer trips to these golf courses for golf enthusiasts staying with them.
