Thailand’s largest island, Phuket packs a punch with golden beaches, leafy rainforests and a lively atmosphere in the hotspots.
Destination highlights
🎉 3 Fun Facts About Phuket
Phuket wasn't always an island – Yup, it was once connected to the mainland before sea levels rose. How’s that for a plot twist?
James Bond’s holiday spot – Part of the famous Phang Nga Bay starred in The Man with the Golden Gun. You’re practically 007 by association.
a pint typically costs around 80-120 Thai Baht, which is about €2 to €3. You won’t find that over here!
🗣️ Local Lingo
Make a good impression with some key Thai phrases:
“Sawadee krap/ka” – Hello! (Male: krap, Female: ka)
“Khob khun krap/ka” – Thank you! Always a winner.
“Tao rai?” – How much? Essential for haggling over beachside bargains.
“Mai pen rai” – No worries! Phuket in a phrase.
🚗 Getting Around Phuket
🚌 Songthaews
These colourful, open-air buses are a cheap and cheerful way to get around Phuket. With no fixed schedule, you can hop on and off whenever it suits you. They’re a great option for short trips between towns or beaches, and they offer a bit of local flavour while you travel. Just remember, it’s all about going with the flow - don’t expect them to run like clockwork!
🚖 Taxis & Tuk-tuks
Tuk-tuks are the most iconic way to get around Phuket, and they’re as much an experience as they are transport! Just be sure to haggle for a fair price before starting your journey, as meters aren't always used. Taxis are more comfortable and usually metered, but always confirm the fare.
🏍️ Motorbike Rentals
For the more adventurous, renting a motorbike is a fun way to explore Phuket’s hidden spots. Just make sure you’re confident on two wheels, as the roads can be busy (and sometimes chaotic). Always wear a helmet and check local driving laws!
Where to Stay in Phuket: Couples, Families & Groups 💑👨👩👧👦👯♂️
💑 For Couples
Kata Beach – Perfect for a romantic getaway, with dreamy sunsets, beachfront restaurants, and a quiet, chilled vibe. Absolute couples' holiday goals. Cue the couples' massage.
👨👩👧👦 For Families
Karon Beach – Safe, spacious, and jam-packed with family-friendly holiday fun. Think banana boats, water sports, and plenty of sandy playtime.
👯♂️ For Groups
Patong Beach – This is the spot for squad goals. Daytime water sports, nighttime beach parties, and Bangla Road for non-stop fun. Get your dance shoes ready for group holidays to remember!
🏖️ What are the best beaches in Phuket?
From busy party beaches to mysterious pockets of wild beauty, Phuket has it all. We’re big fans of both, so here are a few of our faves to check out on your beach holidays:
Patong Beach – the longest and most popular beach on the island, with water sports by day and parties by night - who says a beach can't do both?
Kata Beach – a slightly calmer corner of coast, where sunbathers and surfers enjoy chilled-out days - a little birdie told us if you head here during monsoon season the waves are perfect for ripping.
Karon Beach – a lovely spot for family holidays to Phuket, with squeaky sand (no literally, keep your ears open), plenty of open space and water sports to keep the kids busy.
Paradise Beach – snorkel the lively coral reef by day, get down at a Full Moon Party by night - the ideal blend of chill vibes and party central, we know where we'll be going.
Freedom Beach – you reach the wild beauty of this beach by longboat ride or jungle trek - we recommend the longboat, rest those legs - adding an air of mystery as you approach the quiet, white-sand shore.
Surin Beach - if you're chasing a more boujee beach feel then this is the one, surrounded by luxury resorts and fine dining you can live your celeb fantasies for the day - or just take advantage of the crystal waters and spend the day snorkelling.
🏨 What are the top hotels in Phuket?
While some head to the island for world-class partying, Phuket's hotels are famous for being pockets of calm away from the noise. Whether your hotel is the main event on your Phuket holiday or just a place to crash on a cheap holiday away, we think you’ll love these:
Vjitt Resort Phuket - the ultimate boutique getaway, with lush five-star suites, private pools surrounded by greenery, and authentic Thai fine dining
Amari Phuket - a great base for friends enjoying the buzzing Patong nights, with its own secluded beach for rest days
The Charm Resort Phuket - a place to wind down from lively Patong Beach by watching the sunset from the stunning infinity pool
The Yama Hotel Phuket - modern rooms, amazing views, and loads of fun for kids - a top pick for family holidays to Phuket
Ayara Hilltops - take in the ocean views from your private suite or relax with a cocktail at the poolside bar
Titanic Palace and Aquapark Resort - a swimaholic’s paradise with easy access to the sea, 19(!) pools and an impressive waterpark
Best Western Premier Bangtao Beach Resort and Spa - a deluxe hotel set right along the exclusive Bangtao Beach, famed for its gorgeous white sands
Barcelo Coconut Island - the name is a massive clue about this one, hop on a water taxi to reach this beachfront resort with gorge villas, delish dining and boujee bars - a no brainer when you're looking for your holidays to Phuket.
Phuket holidays 2025 travel guide
👨👩👧👦 Things to Do for Families
Hit up Splash Jungle Water Park for wave pools and slides galore, or get up close with the gentle giants at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. Need more? The Trickeye Museum will have the whole family in giggles with its interactive 3D art.
❤️ Things to Do for Couples
Book a sunset cruise around Phang Nga Bay (yep, you get to sail past James Bond Island), or pamper yourselves with a traditional Thai massage at a luxury spa. Then, head to Surin Beach for a romantic candlelit dinner by the sea.
🥳 Things to Do for Groups
For ultimate squad goals, head to Bangla Road on Patong Beach – it’s party central with bars, clubs, and beach parties galore. Or go all-in on a group kayaking trip around Phang Nga Bay. Adventure + fun = winning holiday.
🍽️ Things to Do for Foodies
Phuket’s street food is legendary. Start with a Thai cooking class to master your own green curry or hit up Phuket Old Town Night Market for the freshest seafood and grilled snacks. Don’t miss a seafood BBQ on the beach – it’s next level.
