phuket travel june

Phuket in June: Weather, Events & What to Expect

June is a wonderful time to visit Phuket, Thailand’s largest island located in the Andaman Sea. While it is technically considered the start of the rainy season, the weather in June is still very pleasant, with plenty of sunny patches thrown in and occasional rainfall.

As the island enters the low season, visitors can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds, making it the perfect time to experience Phuket’s natural beauty and unique culture. Whether you’re looking to relax on the pristine beaches or explore the island’s vibrant nightlife and local markets , there’s something for everyone in Phuket in June.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at why June can still be a great time to visit Phuket and highlight some of the top activities and attractions to check out while you’re there.

Jump back to the best of Phuket in May | Jump forward to see Phuket in July

Table of Contents

Average Climate in Phuket in June

By June, you’ll be experiencing rainy season in Phuket , which runs from May to October. The average temperature during this month is around 28°C (82°F), with highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F) and lows around 25°C (77°F).

The humidity is quite high , hovering around 80%, making it feel much hotter than it actually is. The sea temperature is warm and pleasant, averaging around 29°C (84°F), making it ideal for water activities, though the waters may be too rough for swimming some days.

June is also one of the wettest months in Phuket, with an average of 220mm (8.7 inches) of rainfall throughout the month. However, the rain typically comes in short, heavy bursts rather than prolonged downpours, so it’s still possible to enjoy outdoor activities in between showers.

Although the summer equinox falls in June, and you have the most hours of daylight, it’s the month with the least sunshine hours in Phuket, where overcast skies are the norm.

If your aim in coming to Thailand is to sunbathe, June isn’t the month for you. However, the island’s lush greenery is at its peak during this time, and it’s a great time to visit if you’re looking for a quieter and more relaxed experience, as it’s considered the low season for tourism.

Phuket Festivals and Events in June

Here are some interesting festivals and events that happen in Phuket in June:

• Laguna Phuket International Marathon: This popular marathon attracts runners from around the world. The event features multiple race distances, including a full marathon, a half marathon, and a fun run (10-11 June 2023)
• Phuket Baba Wedding : This unique event celebrates the island’s traditional Peranakan Chinese culture and features a mock wedding ceremony where couples dress in traditional attire and participate in various customs and rituals. Hosted by the Thai Peranakan Association in Phuket Old Town, the event sees Thalang Road colourfully decorated. (2023 date TBC)
• H.M. the Queen’s Birthday : Marked annually on 10 June
• Por Tor Festival: Also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival, this Taoist event takes place in late June and honours the ancestors. It involves food, flowers, and incense offerings at shrines and temples and a colourful street procession. (2023 date TBC)
• Phuket Surf Contest: Whilst June might not be ideal for swimming in Phuket, it’s perfect for catching the waves in this annual international events (23-25 June 2023) .
• Full Moon Festival: Celebrated on the full moon day of the sixth lunar month (usually in June or July), this festival involves lighting lanterns, releasing paper boats into the sea, and other traditional customs. It is especially popular in the beach areas of Phuket , where visitors can enjoy a range of entertainment and activities. (2023, this will fall 1 July)

Things To Do With Kids In Phuket In June

As we see Phuket reach full swing of rainy season, it’s highly likely you’re going to need to organise a few back-up plans for those rainy days. Why no try:

• Make a visit to Aquaria Phuket for a fabulous adventure under the sea while staying completely dry! Central Phuket Floresta 
• Take some silly selfies at Upside Down House 
• Froggys Fun Park has everything from arcade games to giant trampolines for an active day out indoors, at Jungceylon Shopping Centre, Patong.

We have a complete guide to Phuket rainy day activities over here.

A Note On Swimming At The Beach In Phuket During Wet Season

Swimming at Phuket’s beaches during the wet season (May-October) is generally not recommended due to the strong waves and currents and occasional rough weather. It is important to pay attention to the red warning flags posted at beaches and follow lifeguards’ instructions.

Some beaches may be closed to swimming during certain times due to safety concerns. However, some beaches in Phuket are still protected from rougher waters and may be safe to swim in during the wet season, such as Kata Noi Beach and Kamala Beach.

It is always best to exercise caution and stay informed about the local conditions when swimming at the beach in Phuket in June.

What To Wear In Phuket In June

Being prepared for the likelihood of frequent rain showers and occasional thunderstorms, you will want to think about adding these items to your packing list for June travel to Phuket:

• Waterproof footwear : Choose waterproof shoes that can handle wet and slippery surfaces. Flip-flops and sandals can be slippery and uncomfortable during heavy rain.
• Light layers : Wear light layers that can be easily removed or added depending on the weather. Consider packing a lightweight rain jacket or poncho to keep you dry during unexpected downpours.
• Quick-drying clothing: Choose clothing made from quick-drying fabrics, such as polyester or nylon. This will allow you to stay comfortable even if you get caught in the rain.
• Mosquito-repellent clothing : During the rainy season, mosquito activity is higher, and it’s important to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Consider wearing clothing treated with mosquito repellent, such as permethrin, or spray mosquito repellent on your clothing and skin.
• Umbrella : Carry a compact and lightweight umbrella with you at all times to protect yourself from the rain.
• Waterproof bag: Use a waterproof bag or backpack to protect your belongings from the rain.

Remember that the humidity level can be high during the rainy season, and temperatures can still be warm. Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that keeps you cool and comfortable in the heat and humidity.

We still wouldn’t scrimp on packing your beach vacation essentials too, including sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and sun-protective swimwear. Although it’s rainy season and there’s a lot of cloud cover, the UV index is still considered very high in June in Phuket.

If you will be visiting temples or other religious sites in Phuket, remember it is essential to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees in these places – we talk more about dress code here .

If you’ve forgotten any of your packing essentials , rest assured there are plenty of places you can go shopping in Phuket to pick up supplies.

Please note that we are not a travel agency. We cannot book your Phuket trip for you, but we do link on our website to our preferred suppliers. Clicking one of these links may earn us a commission on qualifying bookings or purchases. You can find our full privacy policy and website terms of use here.

© Mama Loves Phuket 2024

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Phuket Travel Info

The Best Of Phuket In One Place

Phuket in June: Weather, Sea, Things to Do & Wear 2024

Embark on a journey to Phuket in June, where the tropical charm of Thailand’s beloved island awaits you. While June may not be the traditional peak season, it offers a unique blend of vibrant experiences, fewer crowds, and a chance to explore Phuket’s beauty in a more tranquil setting. This comprehensive guide delves into the weather patterns, activities, and unique experiences Phuket has to offer during this intriguing month.

Table of Contents

Weather in Phuket in June

Climate in phuket in june.

June marks the onset of the monsoon season in Phuket. However, this doesn’t mean your travel plans should be dampened. Here’s what you can expect weather-wise:

• Average Temperature : The mercury fluctuates between 25°C (77°F) and 32°C (89°F), offering warm days and comfortable nights.
• Rainfall and Sunshine : June sees about 213 mm of rain, primarily in short, intense bursts, often at night, leaving most of the day sunny and clear. The average humidity hovers around 85%, adding a balmy touch to the air.
• Beach Conditions : The sea can be rough, with occasional red flags warning against swimming. It’s prudent to choose a beachside hotel with a pool for safer swimming options.
• Clothing Tips : Light and airy clothing is ideal. Pack T-shirts, shorts, and summer dresses, along with sunglasses and hats for beach outings. Don’t forget light waterproofs or umbrellas for those sudden showers.

What This Means for Your Visit

• Expect short, intense showers, often in the afternoon or evening, leaving plenty of time for sunshine and exploration.
• The sea can be rough, so heed local warnings and red flags for safe swimming.
• The weather patterns make June an ideal time for enjoying the island’s lush greenery and vibrant indoor activities.

What to Wear in Phuket in June

• Daytime:  Lightweight T-shirts, skirts, shorts, and summer dresses.
• Beach Gear:  Don’t forget sunglasses, hats, and sandals for those sunny beach days.
• Rain Gear:  Light waterproofs or umbrellas are essential for unexpected showers.

Events and Celebrations in Phuket in June

• Seafood Festival (June 1-3) : A feast for seafood lovers, held at Sanam Beach in Phuket Town.
• Phuket Vegetarian Festival (June 20-22) : A culinary delight featuring vegetarian dishes, at Patong Beach in Phuket Town.
• Maha Na Sakorn Open Golf Tournament (June 28-30) : This tournament at Jomtien Beach is not just for golf aficionados but also includes various activities like fishing tournaments and cooking demonstrations.

Prices and Costs in Phuket in June

June is the low tourist season in Phuket, which means you can enjoy luxury accommodations at much lower prices. The island offers a wide range of options, from beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses, catering to all budgets and preferences.

Read also: 24 Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Phuket: Cheap Resorts by Area 2024

What to Do in Phuket in June

Despite being the rainy season, June in Phuket is bustling with activities:

• Beach Time : Early mornings or post-rainfall periods are best for beach visits. The sea temperature is around 30°C, perfect for a dip.
• Surfing : For surf enthusiasts, June is a promising month with good waves.
• Indoor Activities : On rainy days, explore indoor attractions like museums, shopping centers, and cultural shows.
• Festivals : June hosts vibrant festivals like the Seafood Festival and the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, offering a glimpse into the local culture and cuisine.

Top Things to Do in Phuket in June

Take a thai cooking class.

When the heat rises or the monsoon showers begin, retreat indoors for a Thai cooking class. It’s a delightful way to immerse yourself in Thai culture and learn the art of crafting its exotic flavors. This activity is perfect for those seeking an enriching indoor experience. Plus, you’ll return home with a unique skill to share with family and friends. For more information on booking a cooking class as part of your Phuket tour, feel free to contact us.

The Best Cooking Classes in Phuket We Found For You:

• Phuket Thai Cooking Academy
• Phuket Easy Thai Cooking Class
• Blue Elephant Thai Cooking Class
• Pum Thai Cooking Class in Patong Beach
• Phuket: Half Day Easy Thai Cooking Class & Local Market Tour
• Phuket Thai Cooking Class
• Thai Cooking School Phuket with Thai People

Feed Elephants in Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

In Thai culture, elephants hold significant historical and religious importance. Visiting the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to interact with these majestic creatures. Ideal for families, especially those with children, this sanctuary allows you to feed and bathe the elephants, providing an unforgettable experience.

Explore Phuket’s Night Markets

To escape the daytime heat, consider exploring Phuket’s vibrant night markets. These bustling hubs are not just shopping destinations but cultural experiences. You’ll find everything from local crafts to delicious Thai street food. Plus, night markets offer a glimpse into the authentic local lifestyle. For more insights into Phuket’s nightlife, read our detailed guide.

Visit the Phuket Big Buddha

The Big Buddha is a must-visit for those interested in Buddhist culture. Perched atop the Nakkerd Hills, this iconic statue provides a panoramic view of Phuket Island. The journey to the summit is as rewarding as the destination, offering a spiritual and scenic experience.

Visit Phuket’s Coffee Shops

Phuket’s cafe culture is vibrant and diverse, offering much more than just a caffeine fix. Visiting local coffee shops is a delightful way to spend your time, especially during the warm afternoons of June. Here are a few recommendations:

• Bookhemian  – A unique blend of a cafe and bookstore, perfect for those looking to enjoy a good read with their coffee.
• Feelsion Cafe Phuket  – Known for its cozy ambiance and excellent brews.
• Coffee Talk Old Phuket Town  – A popular spot offering a unique coffee experience amidst the historic charm of Old Phuket Town.
• The Tree House Restaurant & Beach Club  – Not only offers great coffee but also boasts an Instagram-worthy setting.

Don’t Miss The Best Tours in Phuket

Closing thoughts: phuket in june.

Visiting Phuket in June offers a blend of sunny days and refreshing rains, fewer crowds, and the chance to experience local festivals. With careful planning and an open mind, you can enjoy all that this beautiful island has to offer during this unique month.

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• Weather in Phuket: Full Month-by-Month Guide 2024
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• Phuket in November: Weather, Sea, Things to Do & Prices 2024
• Phuket in October: Weather, Sea, Things to Do & Prices 2024
• Phuket in September: Weather, Things to Do & Prices 2024
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The Best & Worst Times to Visit Phuket in 2024 (Expert Opinion)

Written by: Author Andrew Helling  |  Reviewed by: Sandy Mitchell

Andrew Helling is a licensed pilot, travel enthusiast, and the founder of Travellers Worldwide whose travel expertise has been quoted in countless publications across the web. Armed with a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection, he loves exploring the world with his wife and son and is always on the hunt for cheap flights and new adventures... Learn More

Sandy Mitchell is a travel expert and the content reviewer/fact checker at Travellers Worldwide. Using the experience she gained working in the travel industry for more than 20 years, as a travel agent, travel marketing executive, and cruise school administrator, Sandy fact-checks and reviews each of our guides to ensure they're as accurate and helpful as possible... Learn More

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What's the best time to visit Phuket?

The best time to visit Phuket is between November and February, offering warm and dry weather ideal for beach activities and boating. This period marks the peak season in Phuket, attracting the most visitors due to its favorable climate.

Phuket, the biggest island in Thailand, is an ideal getaway for anyone searching for a tropical island vacation. It has all the essentials to make your visit amazing: beautiful hotels, deserted beaches, an international airport, delicious cuisine, stunning scenery, a rich cultural scene, and lively nightlife.

Phuket also has fascinating local traditions and some fantastic food experiences. Phuket caters to visitors of all ages, backgrounds, financial means, and areas of interest.

Tourists may enjoy the benefits of the varied opportunities offered by the three distinct seasons . We’ll help you find the best time to visit Phuket to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time there.

The Overall Best Time to Visit Phuket

PHUKET, THAILAND – April 24, 2023: Tourists are walking on the Phuket Walking Street is a night market that takes over the beautiful Thalang Road in Phuket Old Town every Sunday evening/Kitzcorner/Shutterstock

The overall best time to visit Phuket is from November through February, otherwise known as the peak season. The climate at this time is dry and chilly. Phuket’s tropical position ensures that the island is warm throughout the year.

Phuket often experiences temperatures between 23 to 31 degrees Fahrenheit. After the monsoons have ended, this is the coolest time of year in Phuket.

Almost the year has mild temperatures, with the warmest months being April – May and September – October. However, there is a noticeable variance in rainfall between each month. The southwestern monsoon causes September and October to be the wettest months.

There will still be plenty of time in the sun, even during the monsoon, since rain comes in brief, with scattered showers. Because of the favorable weather between November and February, this is when the greatest number of visitors come to Phuket.

This is the best time of year to enjoy water activities in the calm sea and unwind on one of Phuket’s stunning beaches. Afterward, go to one of the numerous nightclubs and dance till dawn.

The sights and sounds of the island’s sun-kissed beaches, lush jungles, and green mountains will transport you to a world unlike any other. The most admirable aspect about Phuket, especially during peak season, is that it’s suitable for every vacation.

Whether you’re a group of friends on a trip, a honeymooning couple, a solitary traveler searching for excitement and new experiences, or a family just trying to get away from it all, you will surely enjoy the place.

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Cheapest Time to Visit Phuket

February 20, 2015, Phuket town, Thailand: Soi Rommanee street. Phuket old town with old buildings in Sino Portuguese style is a very famous tourist destination of Phuket/Efimova Anna/Shutterstock

The cheapest time to visit Phuket is during the low season, which falls between July and October. As a result of the severe rains in September and October, there are fewer visitors, but this might be a fantastic opportunity to find deals and find some space to call your own.

This is the wet season, often known as the off-season or low season, and it’s not widely considered the best time to visit Phuket.

But throughout much of July and August, the heavy rains are joined by sunlight and a cool wind, making the weather much more comfortable. Nevertheless, September is often the wettest month and is not recommended for travel.

Residents of Phuket often partake in a wide variety of festivities and parties. An international-level yacht race, Phuket Raceweek , takes place in the middle of July on the east coast of Phuket when the weather is quite favorable.

Many events and four parties celebrating the regatta are part of the package. Food offering rituals are held at home during the Hungry Ghost Festival in August to create merit and provide food and other essentials to people in need.

In addition to the sights and sounds, tourists may also enjoy shopping. Phuket has fantastic shopping opportunities throughout the year.

Between June and August, the nation has its “ Amazing Grand Sale ,” during which an estimated 15,000 retailers and service providers give discounts of up to 80 percent to shoppers.

Least Busy Time to Visit Phuket

Igor Bukhlin/Shutterstock

The least busy time to visit Phuket is after the peak season, when most visitors have left. It’s constantly hot, even in the monsoon season, with an average temperature of roughly 30 degrees Celsius.

Rainfall is heavier but short-lived during these months, leaving plenty of time to take in the sights, relax by the hotel pool, and experience the dazzling sunsets that this time of year is known for.

If you end up with some rainy days, you won’t be bored since there are many enjoyable options. If you’re expecting European-style precipitation, you’ll be sorely disappointed.

When it finally does rain in Phuket, everyone is relieved since the showers provide a welcome reprieve from the scorching heat. Since the weather seldom fluctuates much, you can get by with only shorts and a t-shirt all year round.

This allows for greater purchases on vacations and less packing hassle at home. One drawback of swimming in the ocean during the off-season is the risk of rip currents. Please pay close attention to the warning signs at beaches and do not enter the water if they are there.

However, there is good news: the pools are still entirely useable and do not include dangerous currents. Hotels, apartments, villas, and resorts often have shared pools where guests may cool down throughout the day.

Worst Time to Visit Phuket

rain showers in thailand, Phuket Island, April 2015/Igor Chus/Shutterstock

The worst time to visit Phuket is in the summer months (March through mid-May) due to the high temperatures that may be experienced during this period. This becomes even more important if you plan on exploring or beachgoing.

Between March and May , Phuket has its highest average daily temperature of 40 degrees. This time of year, known as the hot season, is not ideal for a relaxing vacation. All season long, the average temperature hovers around the mid-30s.

However, a few rain showers fell in May and June, providing welcome relief from the sweltering heat. Many agree that the first half of May is among the greatest times to visit Phuket due to the improved weather.

Songkran, the Thai New Year , is celebrated around this time with three days of amicable water fights throughout the country.

There is also the Miss Phuket Bike Week pageant, a custom bike and tattoo contest, live music and entertainment, and a bike show during the middle of April during Phuket Bike Week, the largest motorbike festival in Asia.

In April, the Phuket Gay Pride & Festival kicks out with a week of parties.

When the temperature is so high, staying indoors for a good portion of the day is the wisest course of action. Temples and large entertainment complexes are two places you should consider visiting if you are interested in sightseeing.

Phuket by Month: Climate & Activities

THAILAND, PHUKET, FEBRUARY, 2023: Swimming pool among a beautiful garden with tall palm trees on the territory of Baan Laimai Hotel/Tanya Keisha/Shutterstock

Still unsure about the best time to visit Phuket? Take a look at our summary of the weather and climate by month below:

Winter temperatures in Phuket range from 73-89°F. It’s the dry season, making it an ideal time for beachgoers to enjoy the crystal-clear waters, explore nearby islands, and partake in water activities.

Similar to January, February maintains pleasant temperatures between 73-90°F. It’s an excellent month for diving, snorkeling, and exploring Phuket’s cultural attractions, such as temples and markets.

As spring begins in Phuket, temperatures range from 74-91°F. March is perfect for outdoor adventures, from jungle trekking to exploring the vibrant nightlife in popular areas like Patong Beach.

Spring continues with temperatures between 75-91°F. While it’s the hottest month, April is fantastic for Songkran, the Thai New Year celebration , and enjoying the festivities across the island.

May sees temperatures ranging from 75-90°F. It’s the start of the rainy season, but showers are usually short-lived. Visitors can still enjoy the beaches and partake in indoor activities.

Summer arrives in Phuket with temperatures between 75-89°F. June marks the beginning of the southwest monsoon, bringing occasional rain. It’s a quieter time for tourists, offering a more serene island experience.

July maintains warm temperatures from 75-89°F, with intermittent rain showers. Despite the rain, July is excellent for spa retreats, cultural experiences, and enjoying Phuket’s lush landscapes.

Temperatures in August range from 75-89°F. While it’s the wet season, outdoor activities are still possible between rain showers. August is perfect for exploring Phuket’s cultural heritage and cuisine.

In September, Phuket sees temperatures between 75-88°F, with occasional rain. It’s a more tranquil month for tourists, offering opportunities to explore Phuket’s natural beauty and visit lesser-known attractions.

Rainy season persists in October, with temperatures ranging from 74-87°F. It’s an off-peak month, providing budget-friendly options for accommodation and a chance to experience local life.

In Phuket, November marks the end of the rainy season, with temperatures between 73-87°F. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities, from island hopping to enjoying water sports in the Andaman Sea.

Winter returns with temperatures between 73-88°F. December is a popular month for holiday travelers, offering a festive atmosphere, beachside celebrations, and a chance to explore Phuket’s cultural and natural wonders.

So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Phuket?

Visiting this paradise at any time of year is possible, but picking the best time to visit Phuket depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. Between November and February, when the weather is warm and dry, most tourists visit Phuket.

This is when they can enjoy swimming and boating without worrying about getting wet. Ready to dig in? Pack your bags and find out for yourself what Phuket has to offer. Happy travels!

When to Go: Is Phuket Safe to Visit in 2024? | Safety Concerns Where to Stay: Where to Stay in Phuket in 2024 | Best Areas & Hotels

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Phuket in June (2024) - Beaches, Fun Things to do in June in Phuket

Phuket in june may not be appealing to many however even though the region receives rainfall for half the month, the showers are quick with lots of sunshine in between. perfect for a good deal as phuket in june is quite uncrowded. read what to do when travelling to phuket in june.

Phuket is a traveller’s paradise, with its white sands, crystal clear waters, and lively neighbourhoods. Imagine a tropical wonderland where lush greenery meets pristine beaches, and the scent of exotic spices fills the air.

June in Phuket means a captivating island that beckons you with its natural beauty and uncrowded tourist spots.

Visiting Phuket in June may not be an ideal time, but the Phuket June weather will charm you as the island comes alive with a symphony of colours with the advent of monsoon.

So, Phuket in June is not a bad idea if you want to skip the crowds yet have a good time.

Thailand itself has a more or less similar climate in June. So, if you are planning a trip to Thailand in June, check out my  7 days in Thailand itinerary.  Planning to stay on longer? Then this  1 month in Thailand  itinerary should help!

For now, read on to find out more about what to do in Phuket in June!

Popular tours in Phuket:

Old Town, Chalong Temple, and Great Buddha Van Tour  

Authentic Thai cooking class

Maya, Phi Phi, and Bamboo Island with Buffet Lunch

Best hotels in Phuket:

Boutique Hotel & Serviced Apartments – Patong Beach

Trisara – SHA Plus – Nai Thon Beach

Amari Phuket – Patong Beach

Travelling to Phuket in June

Phuket weather in june – is june a good time to visit phuket.

June in Phuket heralds the advent of the monsoon season!

Typically a low season, Thailand weather in June is marked by the beginning of the monsoon season. June is also the wettest month in Phuket with lots of rainfall and occasional thunderstorms.

Note that this does not mean that it will rain all the time; you can also expect plenty of sunshine between downpours as it tends to rain in the evenings.

The  average temperature is around 32 °C / 25 °C  with high humidity and sea conditions can be a little rough, meaning it may not be an ideal time for water activities, though other attractions continue to remain open.

If you plan on hitting the beaches of Phuket June,  make sure to keep an eye on the red flags, which indicate rough seas.

What to wear in Phuket in June?

Since rainfall is going to be a constant companion in June in Phuket, a durable raincoat and umbrella are the most basic necessities if you are visiting Phuket in June.

Apart from this, carry a set of light breathable clothes and trousers and, if you are lucky, beachwear for that occasional leisurely stroll along with the beach.

Additionally,  carry mosquito repellent since dengue is a common disease in June in Thailand, so it’s best to prepare. It is not a bad idea to get the necessary vaccinations if needed before travelling to Phuket in June.

Things to do in Phuket in June

Places to visit in phuket in june.

In spite of the monsoon season, there are lots of things to do in Phuket in June.

In the midst of glistening raindrops in June in Phuket, you can learn more about the history and culture of the island, enjoy some indoor activities, relish delectable Thai cuisine, or simply relax on some of its pristine beaches.

Keep reading to find out what you can do when travelling to Phuket in June.

Explore the Old Town of Phuket

Phuket’s Old Town is known for its well-preserved  Sino-Portuguese architecture , colorful streets, and vibrant arts scene.

Take a stroll through the narrow alleys, visit the local museums, art galleries, and cafes, and immerse yourself in the town’s rich history and culture.

While walking through Thalang Street and Phang Nga Street, you will be greeted by some old architectural marvels lined on both sides, which is sure to leave you mesmerized

Visit the Thai Hua Museum to get a history lesson on the immigration of Chinese people to Phuket and the Chinpracha House, a vintage mansion featuring exotic personal collectables.

You can book this Old Town, Chalong Temple, and Great Buddha Van Tour where everything from transport to a local guide will be included.

Enjoy the exquisite Phuket Baba Wedding

June in Phuket also witnesses the annual Phuket Baba Wedding, a celebration that exudes charm, tradition, and cultural richness!

Baba (male) and Nyonya (female) are the terms that are used to describe the descendants of mixed marriages between Chinese immigrants and locals of Phuket.

The Baba people assimilated local customs and created their own unique heritage. Baba weddings are an elegant affair that spans over two days!

The setting for this wedding is often a grand mansion or a historic Sino-Portuguese shophouse in Old Town, adorned with ornate decorations, auspicious symbols, and auspicious colours.

The wedding ceremony is a captivating display of customs passed down through generations, with the bride and groom dressed in elaborate Baba and Nyonya attire, adorned with exquisite jewellery and accessories.

The highlight of a Phuket Baba wedding is the vibrant and colourful procession known as the ‘Sai Mon Goh’ or ‘Romantic Road.’ in which the bride and groom, accompanied by their entourage, parade through the Thalang street of the Old Town in ornate palanquins or ‘sia’ adorned with flowers, lanterns, and auspicious symbols.

The best part of these weddings? The food! You will be greeted by a sumptuous feast of flavours and delicacies, from mouth-watering dim sum to traditional Nyonya kuih to spicy Thai curries and aromatic soups, the banquet is a true gastronomic delight!

Chasing waterfalls!

June in Phuket brings the waterfalls life with a roaring cascade of crystal-clear water. Trek through the rainforest, breathe in the petrichor-scented air, and be mesmerized by the natural beauty of waterfalls like Bang Pae, Ton Sai, and Kathu.

Dive into Phuket’s history and culture

Rainy days provide the perfect opportunity to delve into Phuket’s rich history and culture. Visit the Phuket Thai Hua Museum, and Thalang National Museum, to learn about the island’s heritage, customs, and traditions.

Head to the  Wat Chalong temple , the largest temple in Phuket and a captivating sanctuary that embodies the spirit of Thai Buddhism in a mesmerizing blend of architecture, spirituality, and culture.

The temple complex is a sprawling masterpiece of Thai design, with gilded roofs, intricate carvings, and graceful statues.

Admire the holy relic of the temple, a bone fragment of Buddha in a glass case!

Next head to the  Big Buddha  nearby, a monumental marble statue perched atop Nakkerd Hill that exudes an air of tranquillity and spirituality that captivates the soul.

You will also be treated to mesmerizing views of the entire city below, along with the backdrop of glistening rain, a beautiful sight of Phuket in June!

Stroll along sandy beaches

The beaches of Phuket are one of its main attractions, which have their own charm during June and are one of the best things to do in Phuket Thailand in June.

Phuket has many beaches but there are some which are better than others when travelling to Phuket in June.

The best beach in Phuket in June would be Paradise Beach as it has decent swimming conditions and is close to the more famous Patong Beach.

You can also try the Tri Trang Beach or the Ao Yon Beach, which are a little off-beat but are nevertheless beautiful. Subject to conditions, you can also take a dip in the water.

Experience surfing on the waves

You can also try your hand at surfing when visiting Phuket in June since the waves are pretty good due to the monsoon season.

For this thrilling ride, you can head to Kata Beach and Nai Harn Beach where seasoned surfers are sure to enjoy. Beginners can head to Patong and Kamala beaches where you can get guides to help you with this riveting experience!

Indulge in a world-renowned Thai Spa

Let the pitter-patter of raindrops be your soundtrack as you indulge in a luxurious spa treatment.

Unwind with a soothing massage, feel your senses come alive with aromatic oils, and let the rain add an extra layer of relaxation to your pampering session.

Experience the ancient art of Muay Thai or join a Cooking Class

Embrace the spirit of Thailand by immersing yourself in the ancient art of Muay Thai. Join a Muay Thai training camp and learn the techniques of this traditional martial art form.

Feel the adrenaline rush as you train in the covered training rings, embracing the intensity of the rainy season in Phuket June.

Alternatively, learn the art of Thai cuisine at this  Authentic Thai Cooking Class  and create flavourful dishes with local ingredients guided by expert chefs.

A ferry ride to scenic islands and bays around Phuket

Phuket is surrounded by many islands and bays that offer beautiful natural beauty, stunning beaches, and incredible marine life.

Exploring these islands and bays is a must for anyone visiting Phuket in June. Phi Phi Islands are a group of six islands known for their crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush greenery.

These islands, including Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, offer excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities and are a must-visit for their breath-taking scenery.

Near Phi Phi Leh, Maya Bay is a picturesque bay surrounded by towering limestone cliffs covered in lush greenery.

Known for its distinctive limestone karst formations rising dramatically from the emerald-green waters, Phang Nga Bay is a natural wonder.

One of the most famous spots in the bay is James Bond Island, named after its appearance in the James Bond movie ‘The Man with the Golden Gun.’

You can explore the islands on a  traditional long-tail boat  or  speedboat  and witness its unique beauty up close.

I recommend this  Maya, Phi Phi and Bamboo Island with Buffet Lunch tour  for a complete experience!

A note here: make sure that you check in advance before booking these tours due to rough seas which may prevail owing to Phuket weather in June.

Catch cultural shows around Phuket

Are you still thinking is June a good time to visit Phuket? The city has so much to do and see, that you will never feel gloomy even during the rain!

One of the more off-beat things you can do is watch a cultural show. Phuket is rich in cultural heritage and a rainy June in Phuket does not dampen this culture!

You can catch traditional Thai cultural shows that showcase dance, music, and theatre performances.

Phuket FantaSea , a popular cultural theme park, offers a spectacular show with elaborate costumes, live animals, and special effects!

Another famous show is the  Simon Cabaret  which showcases dazzling performances by talented performers in glamorous costumes and features a variety of performances.

The show is known for its stunning costumes, elaborate makeup, and impressive choreography. The performers are talented transgender artists who put on a mesmerizing performance that is both glamorous and entertaining.

Pamper your tastebuds with relishing Thai cuisine

Exploring in June in Phuket still gives you lots of chances to try out some of Phuket’s legendary cuisine!

Indulge in the delicious local Thai cuisine that Phuket has to offer.

Explore the local markets and street food stalls to savour authentic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice, sure to leave you licking your fingers.

Exploring Phuket’s nightlife and pub scene

No matter how rainy Phuket weather in June may be, there is nothing that can you stop you from enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Phuket, which is replete with a wide range of entertainment options.

Bangla Road  is the epicentre of Phuket’s nightlife scene! It’s a bustling and energetic street lined with bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues and comes alive after sunset, with bright lights, booming music, and a lively atmosphere.

Phuket is home to numerous nightclubs and bars that cater to different tastes and preferences. You can find a variety of venues, from high-energy dance clubs to relaxed rooftop bars, beach clubs, and sports bars.

The beaches of Phuket are also wildly popular nightlife spots with the many beach clubs offering a unique party experience, with a relaxed vibe, music, cocktails, and comfortable beachside seating.

You can also check out some of Phuket’s night markets which offer an energetic atmosphere in the evenings. Markets like Phuket Weekend Market and Chillva Market are known for their trendy stalls, live music, and socializing opportunities.

Reconnect with nature at Phuket’s many national parks and sanctuaries

Phuket has several national parks, such as Sirinat National Park, Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, and Ao Phang-Nga National Park, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the natural beauty.

Also on your list of things to do in Phuket in June should be a visit to the  Phuket Elephant Sanctuary  which is Phuket’s first and most ethical elephant sanctuary, providing old elephants with a final home where they can freely roam, bathe, and forage.

You will get a chance to see these elephants up close in their natural habitats.

Activities in June in Phuket

Famous festivals in phuket in june, laguna phuket marathon.

One of the highlights of Phuket in June, the  Laguna Phuket Marathon  is one of the largest marathon events in Southeast Asia, attracting over 5000 runners from all over the world!

You can either participate in the marathon itself which takes you through the beautiful scenery of Phuket’s west coast, passing by lush greenery, sandy beaches, and turquoise waters, or simply join the festive atmosphere which involves many celebrations, live music, and entertainment.

Phuket in June stay options

Where to stay in  phuket in june.

Phuket has many accommodation options catering to different budgets and preferences. I have provided some accommodations which you can choose based on your preference.

Luxury :  Trisara Phuket

Trisara is a luxurious boutique resort set on a private bay with a stunning beachfront in the north-western part of Phuket.

It features private pool villas and suites, a spa, multiple dining options, a private yacht, and other top-notch amenities.

Mid-range :  Amari Phuket

Amari Phuket is a 4-star beachfront resort located at Patong Beach, offering a range of rooms and suites with modern amenities, multiple swimming pools, a spa, a fitness centre, and dining options.

Budget :  BYD Lofts – Boutique Hotel & Serviced Apartments

BYD Lofts – Boutique Hotel & Serviced Apartments is a popular accommodation located in the heart of Patong Beach, offering stylish and spacious rooms and apartments with modern amenities, including a kitchenette, living area, and private balcony.

If you’re looking for more options on where to stay in Phuket, this post should help!

Phuket in June offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and a festive atmosphere.

While it is the rainy season, there are still plenty of things to do and see in Phuket during this time of the year. Despite the occasional rain showers, June in Phuket can still be an enjoyable and memorable experience for travellers who are prepared for the weather conditions.

So pack your rain gear, embrace the tropical ambience, and get ready for an adventure in Phuket in June!

Phuket in June FAQs

Is june good time to visit phuket.

While visiting Phuket in June may not be ideal due to the monsoon season, nevertheless Phuket in June has its own charm! The only thing you may lose out on if you are travelling to Phuket in June is some beach time; rest all attractions continue to remain open and you can explore the beauty of the city.

Is June good time to visit Thailand?

June in Thailand is generally part of the rainy season and you can expect frequent showers and high humidity levels. Seas can get rough so may not enjoy Thailand’s exquisite beaches.

However, June can be a good time to visit Thailand as it falls during the low season, so you can expect fewer crowds. Hotels and flight prices are also comparatively lesser, making it a budget-friendly time to visit Thailand.

Check out my 7 days in Thailand itinerary to help you in planning your ideal vacation to Thailand in June!

Is June a rainy month in Thailand?

Yes, June is the wettest month in Thailand with plenty of rain and occasional thunderstorms. Humidity levels are also pretty high.

How hot is Phuket in June?

Phuket in June is not so much hot as it is humid. High humidity levels due to rains would make you feel as if it is exceedingly hot. Apart from the humidity and rainfall, the weather is generally pleasant enough and the main attractions of the island remain undisturbed by the crowds.

Is Phuket rainy in June?

Yes, you can expect occasional rainfall in Phuket in June. But this does not mean that it rains the entire day. It tends to rain in the late afternoon in Phuket, so during the day you can expect a good amount of sunshine

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.

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The best time to visit phuket: month-by-month guide.

Located on Thailand’s breathtaking Andaman Coast, Phuket is the country’s largest and most popular island. Every year, it welcomes millions of visitors from all over the world, with over 30,000 visitors per day.

Phuket is also considered an ideal honeymoon destination. With countless things to see and do, many say it is Thailand’s best island.

Whether you desire to sunbathe on one of its white-sand beaches, go scuba diving or snorkeling, or simply eat some of the delicious food, Phuket is every traveler’s dream as it has everything you need for an enjoyable trip.

With so much to offer, it is tough to decide when to visit Phuket. While it is possible to visit the island all year round, heavy rainfall sometimes restricts access to certain areas.

Similarly, strong winds occasionally make some beaches too dangerous to access. But don’t you worry, we are here to tell you about the best time to visit Phuket.

The best island tour from Phuket, perfect for all seasons, is still the James Bond island tour

James Bond Island Tour by Speedboat from Phuket [with Island relax and National Park included]

Premium James Bond and Khai islands Speedboat from Phuket

Premium James Bond island tour by Speed boat – Phuket [with Naka island – from Royal Phuket Marina]

Below you will find our month-by-month guide to this incredible destination which will help you plan your much-awaited trip:

Phuket lies close to the equator so average temperatures don’t vary much, but rainfall varies significantly every month, so this is the main factor to consider when planning your trip.

In terms of rainfall, January is one of the best months to visit the island, as the average expected rainfall is around 35 mm over a just a short five-day period. Also, temperatures do not exceed 32 °C, making the atmosphere dry and warm and therefore suitable for venturing out in Phuket.

January and February have similar average maximum temperatures, with expected highs of 33 °C. However, at 30 mm, the rainfall is considerably lower than the previous month, making February the driest month of the year.

With calm seas, and mostly blue skies, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy their stay without being interrupted by bad weather conditions.

The average maximum temperature increases to 34 °C in March. However, spiking humidity levels mean the weather gets quite hot, which some visitors find uncomfortable and need to rely on air conditioning to survive the heat.

Although March does not see rain often, any rain comes in the form of short bursts, and the humidity is still high. The days are sunny and somewhat suffocating, so not ideal for tourists. 

While April’s temperatures don’t reach more than 34 °C, it is still regarded as one of the hottest and most humid months of the year, and humidity levels continue to increase as the month goes by.

The only difference between March and April is that it rains a lot in April. The average amount of precipitation is 160 mm, which means rain showers are frequent.

But don’t worry, the rain doesn’t last very long, so it is unlikely to ruin your plans. Just remember to carry a light umbrella with you in case of heavy rainfall. 

May’s average daytime temperature remains around the same as that of April, but nighttime temperatures drop to 29 °C.

The rainfall level stays at 350 mm, making the days very hot and the nights very wet and uncomfortable. As the month enters its latter half, the island is hit with the prime of the monsoon season and things seem to get stickier and damper. If you are not a big fan of mosquitoes, then possibly avoid visiting in July. 

The average temperature in June stays at a high of 32 °C, with lows of around 24 °C. Like May, June also sees many days of rainfall.

What differentiates June from the previous months, however, is the fact that visitors must expect short bursts of heavy rainstorms and thunderstorms instead of light frequent showers.

Between the storms, expect nice sunny skies and cool breezes. However, if stormy rain is not your thing, visiting Phuket during June is not advisable. 

July brings increasingly cool winds, making the outside atmosphere rather pleasant and much more comfortable.

Even though both the expected rainfall and the number of rainy days are higher than the previous month, the weather seems to be more bearable because of the winds.

The average maximum temperature lies around 31 °C. Popular activities for this month include swimming and scuba diving. 

The average maximum temperature in August remains at around 31 °C, and the precipitation amount is the same as in July.

However, in August, rainy days are limited to ten days only, making it considerably easier for visitors to plan activities.

The rain falls in short bursts like before and is followed by cooling breezes which make both the inside and outside temperatures very pleasant and enjoyable.

The wettest month of the year brings heavy downpour, thunderstorms, and long periods of rain, stretching up to a whopping 19 days. The average temperature in September stays at 30 °C.

The rain is usually followed by intense periods of humidity, where the air moisture level peaks at approximately 90%, making it very uncomfortable to be in Phuket.

The weather seems suffocating and very difficult for the tourists to bear. Visiting the beach is also not the best idea as September’s strong winds make the waves go higher and higher, claiming a few lives each year.

The island starts to see the departure of the monsoons in October. Nevertheless, expect still to see 310 mm of rainfall in this month.

But since the rain stretches over 23 days, thunderstorms and heavy downpours are not expected. In October, you’re more likely to see light showers followed by sunny and humid conditions.

Beaches remain closed as conditions are still too dangerous; however, it is still possible to go fishing. The average maximum temperature remains at 31 °C. 

Temperatures still do not reach above 31 °C in this month, but the weather is much more pleasant in terms of humidity levels and rainfall.

The monsoons are redirected and there are only cool breezes, making the overall atmosphere very pleasant.

Whatever remains of the monsoon falls over a duration of 16 days and rainfall does not exceed 190 mm. The oceans are open for tourists to sit by and relax. 

The monsoon officially comes to an end in December, allowing those who are not so fond of the rain to come and relax comfortably on the island.

The humidity levels also decrease to about 70- 75%, further improving the climatic conditions, meaning less reliance on air conditioning, and more time strolling around markets and on beaches.

The average daily temperature falls as the month passes by, hitting at a low of 27 °C as December ends. Otherwise, the average is approximately 31 °C. 

Conclusion – the best time to visit Phuket:

Deciding which time to go to Phuket honestly depends on what you want to do there. If you are after good beach weather, then December to March is the best time to visit as you’ll experience less rainfall and plenty of sunshine.

Expect blue skies, calm water, sunshine, and rare, yet bearable, rainfall during these months. However, for activities such as diving, visiting Phuket between November and April is recommended.

If you’re looking for more information about Thailand or any other country you’d like to visit, check out  Backpackertrail . The German start-up knows all about backpacking and will help you to plan your adventure, have the best trip possible, and experience the world in all its glory.

Find information about climates, the best beaches, activities, and so much more. Enjoy your trip! 

To follow up on a wonderful itinerary idea, here are the best tips to visit Phi Phi Don in the low season.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Phuket

The BEST PHUKET ITINERARY in Existence (2024 • UPDATED)

It is a mark of impressive self-control to resist the urge to make a bad Phuket pun. They’re not even half as funny as you initially think, and probably about a tenth as clever.

But Phuket, life is short, and it does wonders for publicity…

Beautiful beaches, night markets, big buddhas and questionable (or seriously legit) Thai cooking classes are all up for grabs. But how to fit in all this wondrousness in such a short time?

The answer is in hand with my top-tier Phuket Itinerary , written for the purposes of indulging your island hopping, street food chopping, Bang Tao Beach loving appetites. These three days may well be some of the most enjoyable of the year, decade, century… etc.

Let’s see what we can do in Phuket!

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A Little Bit About this 3-Day Phuket Itinerary

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Are you an edgy cool person intent on backpacking through Thailand ? Do you feel existential dread from the prospect of an unscripted day?

Then come on through! I am about to uncover some of the best things to do in Phuket , from delicious local dishes and beautiful Islands to authentic Thai culture…

This 3-day Phuket itinerary is set up to be busy, so don’t worry if you feel you can fit everything in! There’s an unreasonable amount to do here, and just taking part in some of it will give you a real feel for the place.

Your Phuket trip is (as always) up to you, so take what you fancy, drop what you don’t, and hopefully, you’ll have a baseline for your perfect personalised itinerary. Taking the time to visit Phuket and its top attractions will be an unreal addition to your Thai adventure!

3-day Phuket Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Phuket Old Town | Wat Chalong Temple | The Big Buddha | Kata Noi Beach | Prompthep Cape | Laem Hin Pier
• Day 2: Bang Pae Waterfall | Sirinat National Park | Bang Tao Beach | The Banzaan Market | Paradise Beach | Bangla Road
• Day 3: Patong Beach | Phang Nga Bay | Koh Panyi | James Bond Island

Before you head off on your travels, it’s worth getting to grips with where to stay in Phuket . Not only will this drastically improve the odds of your SO liking you, but it will also give you a good idea of what is up in this awesome Thai playground.

Phuket City (or Phuket Town) is Phuket’s capital and is the largest city for miles. If you enjoy learning about history and culture, Phuket City is the place to be. It has ok parties too.

Patong is the most popular tourist destination in the province of Phuket. With picture-perfect coastal views, stunning white sand beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, and beautiful scenic surroundings, I can see why! If you’re searching for Phuket nightlife, Patong is where you want to be.

Karon beach is found on the west coast of Phuket island and is the second-largest tourist beach. Karon is just the place if you’re looking for out-of-this-world views, inviting turquoise waters and long stretches of white sand shores!

Staying with locals in Phuket  through a homestay is another awesome (and cheap) accommodation option, and it comes with a much more authentic feeling.

Best Hostel in Phuket- Lub D Phuket Patong

This magnificent Phuket Hostel was Voted in 2017 as the “Best New Hostel” in the world, and it must be seen to be believed. Take a dip in the see-through outdoor swimming pool, sunbathe on the huge terrace and treat yourself to a few delicious cocktails or beers. This is a place with vibe and friendliness oozing from the walls! Meet other travelers and enjoy the fun and relaxation of the space. If you’re looking for the beach, then it’s only 2 minutes away! If you want to hit the nightclubs & bars on Bangla road then you only have 5 minutes to walk.

Best Airbnb in Phuket: Luxury Room & Rooftop Pool with Phuket City Views

Enjoy amazing views and modern amenities in this luxury condo in Phuket Town. Located on the 11th floor, this contemporary condo offers guests a king-sized bed, colourful décor, and comfortable living space.

With free wifi, two swimming pools and a fitness centre, you won’t find a better Airbnb in Phuket.

Best Budget Hotel in Phuket – U Sabai Living Hotel

This Budget pick is constantly surprising punters with its spacious rooms, cleanliness, and great location. Phuket international airport is 40 minutes away by car, whilst the famous Patong beach is just a 15-minute walk. Traditional Thai massages are on offer, and each room has a private bathroom. Snorkelling and sightseeing tours can be arranged from the front desk, and the on-site restaurant offers a mix of great Thai and western dishes.

Best Luxury Hotel in Phuket – Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa

One of the best luxury resorts going, this family-friendly resort offers guests access to 3 swimming pools, 8 dining options and a private beach. There is a fitness centre, two whirlpool pools, and of course, a great massage centre. One of the bars even offers guests the opportunity to swim up to it. There are loads of activities for kids on offer too, which makes it super great for family vacations, as well as romantic getaways. If you’re looking to be pampered, look no further.

Ever thought about doing a retreat whilst travelling?

We recommend BookRetreats as your one stop-shop to finding specialised retreats focussed on everything from Yoga to fitness, plant medicine and how to be a better writer. Unplug, de-stress, and recharge.

Ok, without further ado, I present to you my epic, super fun, mostly well-thought-out Phuket Itinerary…

…Enjoy!

Phuket Old Town | Wat Chalong Temple | The Big Buddha | Kata Noi Beach | Prompthep Cape | Laem Hin Pier

In and around Phuket, day 1 is all about getting to know your immediate surroundings. Then, we move down to southern Phuket, before returning to the city for a seaside dinner. Phuket city accommodation is preferred here!

8:00 am – Phuket Old Town

Phuket Old Town is a must-see place in Phuket and provides you with different shapes and sizes of old Sino-Portuguese splendors, plenty of funky shops, and boutique cafes! Explore and find some of the most unlikely places that will surprise and delight at the same time.

Phuket Old Town is the heart of Phuket’s island and also happens to be the capital. This town is far from ordinary, and offers so much more than you might think! Grab breakfast, and get ready for an awesome day.

Phuket Town displays attractive and aesthetic buildings that date back to the 1800s. There is a unique blend of colonial and Chinese architecture, joint with a tangible quaintness. This makes for a fascinating and eye-opening morning spent sauntering around Phuket’s Old Town. Expect the unexpected and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures !

• Cost – Free
• How long should I stay here? 1.5 hours
• Getting there – Either you’re staying nearby, or you can taxi or bus. Phuket city is the centre so it’s not hard to get to!

11:00 am – Wat Chalong Temple

This gorgeous temple showcases the brilliance of Phuket’s architectural creativity as well as the rich cultural history of religion on this island. Wat Chalong Temple is formally known as Wat Chaiyathararam and is a huge part of Phuket’s heritage!

Wat Chalong is the largest, most revered and most visited Buddhist temple in the whole of Phuket island. This temple was built at the beginning of the 19th century and is definitely at the top of our must-see places in Phuket.

You will see that the tallest building on the grounds of this stunning temple is the 60-meter tall stupa that shelters a magnificent bone fragment of the Lord Buddha. The walls and ceilings of the temple are adorned with beautiful and spiritually significant paintings that retrace the story of Buddha’s legendary life. Each of the three floors and also full of large donated golden statues.

• Cost – Free, but donations are appreciated
• How long should I stay here? 1 hour or less
• Getting there – Grabbing a taxi or bus from Phuket is relatively easy. It’s well-known so you shouldn’t have problems getting there!

12:30 pm – Phuket Big Buddha

The Phuket Big Buddha , otherwise known as The Great Buddha of Phuket, is a nobly seated Maravijaya Buddha statue in the south of Phuket island. The formal and official name is Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Akenakiri, shortened to Ming Mongkol Buddha. Find this marvelous statue sitting atop Nakkerd Hill.

The Big Buddha is a 45-meter-tall white statue made entirely out of marble and is visible from anywhere in the southern part of Phuket as it protrudes the skies. Visiting this outstanding landmark is at the top of most must-do-in-Phuket lists and we can easily understand why! This is a monument that pays homage to the spiritual history of Phuket and it is a sobering experience to go and see it! The views from this mountain also happen to be breathtaking.

Mostly built on people’s donation in 2004, The Big Buddha Phuket is actually still under construction. If you feel like doing something to help to finish the broad base of the Buddha, you can sponsor a piece of white marble!

Make sure that you get there before it closes at 7pm!

• How long should I stay here? 1.5 to 2 hours (with lunch!)
• Getting there – Taxi, it’s about a 20-minute drive from Wat Chalong. It’s a 6km walk, but up a hill and in the day might not be the best idea.

2:30 pm – Kata Noi Beach

Kata Noi is without a doubt one of the best beaches in Phuket. The white sands, gorgeous watercolour, and rising cliffs make this a top place to relax for the afternoon! The area gets waves good enough for surfers between May and October and is both pet and nudist-friendly. Kata Noi Beach is perched on the West Coast of Phuket, not too far from the Big Buddha.

Kata Noi is about 700 metres long, which means that if you’re looking for a bit of space, there is certainly that. There are also a load of activities to take part in; banana boating jet skiing and snorkelling are all possible past times here.

Hiking up to the nearby Karon viewpoint is a great way to put the beach into perspective. Enjoy some top-class views, and get familiar with some Thai jungle scenery!

• Cost – Free (it’s a beach!)
• How long should I stay here? around 3 hours. Get comfy!
• Getting there – It’s half an hour’s drive again from the Phuket Big Buddha. Grab a taxi if you can!

6 pm – Prompthep Cape

If you’re looking for a gorgeous sunset to finish the day off, then I have properly nailed this itinerary. The sunsets at Prompthep Cape are spectacular, but sadly this draws a pretty formidable tourist crowd. You can get a people-free shot by walking to the end of the Cape, but this isn’t an easy walk!

It’s at this point in the day when I start recommending alcohol. Bukito by Promthep Restaurant can offer dinner and drinks, but I’d recommend just going for a beverage or two – I’ve got a great dinner spot lined up for later. The Promthep lighthouse (also a small museum) is worth taking a look at, but it’s not worth staying much longer. Grab a photo, enjoy the sun setting, and get out of there!

People-watching here is excellent, since everyone is just waiting for a sunset photo.

• Getting there – Sorry to say it’s another Taxi or drive from kata Noi beach. Takes about 20 minutes.

8 pm – Laem Hin Pier

This is our evening endpoint. Located just north of Phuket City, you jump on a free shuttle boat which will take you out to a pier filled with some of the best local seafood places on the island.

Laem Hin is a vast wooden construction, but can still get reasonably busy. The seafood here is just amazing, so it’s understandable. It’s also cheap! So if you’re here with a family you can really go for the banquet experience.

After a long day, you’ll be ready to relax, so grab a beer or two, then head back to your Phuket Town accommodation for a good night’s rest. You’re going to need it!

• Cost – Pay for what you buy (<$10)
• How long should I stay here? around 2 hours
• Getting there – Long drive back to Phuket town (just under an hour). Then take the ferry shuttle over to the restaurant.

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Bang Pae Waterfall | Sirinat National Park | Bang Tao Beach | The Banzaan Market | Paradise Beach | Bangla Road

Day 2 is all about tripping, specifically day tripping, and getting out into the furthest reaches of North and Eastern Phuket. Staying near Patong beach will allow you to make the most of this day.

8:30 am – Bang Pae Waterfall

Bang Pae waterfall is one of the top three best-known waterfalls in Phuket, perhaps four if you include a tiny one in Layan Bay, but only three are significant: Bang Pae, Kathu Waterfall and Tonsai Waterfall.

This is a must-see waterfall and getting there is an absolute adventure! Travel through the dense rainforests of Phuket, and see indigenous birds in their natural habitat. The waterfall is on part of a National Park which means you will also see some of the most spectacular jungle fauna!

Bang Pae waterfall is breathtaking and remarkably easy to reach. Take a stroll and see Thai teens and families playing in the stream as you walk up the hill. Visiting a waterfall is a wonderful way to spend a day during your weekend in Phuket, as this is when it is most busy and attracts the locals.

Grab a quick hotel/ hostel breakfast before embarking on this early-morning adventure!

• Cost – The entrance fee is THB 200 ($6,34) for the national park, and then you will pay either a THB 20 (63c) parking fee for a motorbike or THB 30 (95c) for a car.
• How long should I stay here? 2 to 3 hours
• Getting there – Worth hiring a taxi man for the day if I’m honest, but you can bike it too! It’s a 40-minute journey from Phuket Town

11:30 am – Sirinat National Park

The picturesque Sirinat National Park is found on the northwestern coast of Phuket Island.

There is such an atmosphere of peacefulness and so many new types of vegetation and wildlife for you to stumble across! Sirinat National Park stretches over a large amount of pine-fringed beaches, including Nai Thon, Nai Yang, and Mai Khao Beach.

Mai Khao Beach is famous for being the exotic home of nesting sea turtles, such as the leatherbacks and hawksbills! You can also explore tropical coral reefs that are clustered in the clear waters offshore and escape into massive mangrove forests in Sai Kaew Beach.

This is a truly amazing place to be, but it is rural. Pack some snacks for your day before you arrive. Lunch isn’t until later!

• Cost – The entrance fee is THB 200 ($6,34) per adult and THB 100 ($3,17) per child.
• Getting there – Sirinat National Park isn’t far from the Bang Pae Waterfall. Hop in your car, you’ll be there in 20 minutes!

Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for the birdlife, many famous and rare birds can be sighted within the canopies of Sirinat National Park! One of the most popular is the Kingfisher.

2 pm – Bang Tao Beach

If you fancy a slice of the untouched, then Bang Tao beach is for you! An amazingly quiet, pristine beach, it is a great place to doze away the hours of the early afternoon. You’ll need to – things heat up later.

Bang Tao beach is one of the longest beaches on Phuket island. It is relatively uncluttered, and much more peaceful than many of the other beaches in Phuket. There are great fancy restaurants at hotels, but there are some midrange and cheaper places too. Stop off for a relaxing lunch to rejuvenate. Since the beach is so long, I’d recommend heading for the Southern section. There are more places to eat, and it makes the next section of your journey shorter.

Sit back, relax, grab some lunch, and then spread out the beach towel for a little early afternoon sunbathing.

• Cost – Free!
• How long should I stay here? About 2 hours
• Getting there – Just head due south down the coast, it’s on the way to Patong beach. Takes around half an hour.

4:30 pm – The Banzaan Market

Get swept into the energetic and vibrant mass energy here and explore a new way of shopping. The Banzaan Market is a modern-looking Thai fresh market found on Sai Kor Road, behind the Jungceylon.

Take the time to check into your Patong beach accommodation, and then head back out to the Banzaan market!

You will basically come across all kinds of produce and crafts that you could expect at any other street market, but the Banzaan Market is hosted in a much more pleasant envious mentioned and is famous for being so well organized.

The locals go all out to showcase their best products, and you will be amazed at the bargains you can hunt for! This is a cultural way to end the last of your 2 days in Phuket!

• Cost – Entrance is free
• How long should I stay here? About 1 hour
• Getting there – Short taxi (or walk), after a half-hour drive from Bang Tao beach.

6 pm – Paradise Beach

The drinks are delicious, but the food is even better. Choose from their vast range of both Indian and Thai cuisine! We suggest going wild here and trying as many different dishes as you can!

Welcome to paradise! This magnificent and rather private beach is less than 200m in length and hosts a little rocky headland that kind of makes it two beaches if you want to get technical. Paradise Beach is a cosy and tiny cove near Patong and is famous for having lush and calm waters that feature a soft seabed mostly throughout the year.

Sunbathe or stroll the pristine white sand and be shaded by nodding palm trees, you will feel as if you are part of a photo shoot for a holiday brochure! Laze and allow yourself to emerge into the peaceful, picturesque environment that Paradise Beach provides.

Being the home of Paradise Beach Club, this magical cove even has a great choice of facilities, including upbeat restaurants, bars, sea kayaks, beach chairs and so much more. You can even get your party on and join one of Phuket’s only Koh Phangan-style beach parties !

I’d recommend grabbing dinner here, before heading back to Patong to experience the night life.

• Cost – The entrance fee is THB 200 ($6,34) per person.
• How long should I stay here? Around 2 hours
• Getting there – Paradise beach is about 20 minutes from the Banzaan Market, on the West coast.

10 pm – Bangla Road

Bangla Road in Patong is notoriously named for its highly energetic and lively nightlife! Bangla Road is a  must-visit while you’re in Phuket and you will find the experience to be unforgettable. The nightlife is at the top of its game and offers more clubs than anywhere else in Phuket! Bangla Road is also packed with a ridiculous amount of vibrantly lit bars, go-go bars, girly bars, and relaxed ex-pat bars – think lots of drinks, bizarre spectacles and music!

As the sun goes down, Bangla road becomes closed off to traffic, making it a wonderful space for easy pub-hopping! The neon lights and bars start to come alive and the music from all the bars starts to intertwine with each other.

Have a noisy, fun and energetic night out in this famous street and have a night that will open your eyes to a whole new world! This road in itself is an experience to be had and it can feel like you’re headed into a fantasy land. There are many side roads (called Soi’s in Thai) that lead off from Bangla Road. Here you will find even more bars, as well as mini clubs.

• How long should I stay here? All night, all day who knows? Tomorrow does happen at some point though so try and get a little sleep xx
• Getting there – Back to the hotel from Paradise beach (car/taxi 20 minutes), then walk out to the town from your hotel!

Insider Tip: When partying the night away, expect to be hit on by a few ‘women of the night’ and even ‘men of the night’ as Bangala Road is also the sex capital of Phuket. I would strongly recommend that you turn them down, as not all of it is hugely ethical.

Lub D Phuket Patong

Lub D Phuket Patong Is one of the most EPIC hostels in Phuket! This magnificent Hostel was Voted in 2017 as the “Best New Hostel” in the world, and it must be seen to be believed.

• Large see-through swimming pool

Patong Beach | Phang Nga Bay | Koh Panyi | James Bond Island

Day 3 is when we ditch the land and look seawards. Think island hopping, but better because I’m in charge…

Accommodation is up to you here, but staying near Phang Nga Bay might be easiest!

9 am – Patong Beach

A lazy morning is probably not just desired but needed after the previous evening’s revelry. Take an easy stroll down to the beach for a morning swim to wake you up. Grab some street food or breakfast too!

An army marches on its stomach, and there is still lots to do today! Rent a beach chair, drool on the sand a little, but ready yourself! If you’re feeling refreshed already, there is paragliding, jet skiing, and other beachy activities to get you pumped.

Take advantage of a beach massage if you really want to get the ball rolling, and there are always people who will sell you a smoothie by the side of the road. Try one! Patong beach is very much a love-or-hate thing. It is busy but super beautiful. If you don’t mind other people, then you should have a great time.

• Getting there – Short taxi, or walk from your Patong Beach accommodation.

12:00 am – Phang Nga Bay

Okay, this is where a visit to Phuket (although already brilliant) becomes truly legendary. Phang Nga Bay itself is made up of hundreds of different points of interest, and choosing which ones to do is entirely up to you!

I’ve included Koh Panyi and James Bond Island on the itinerary list because they are must-haves, but get exploring and you’ll have an awesome time here!

The cave of the reclining Buddha is a great place to start before heading over to Koh Panyi for some lunch. After James Bond Island, think about heading to Laem Haad Beach, Koh Panak, Koh Hong, Kudu Yai or the Koh Yao Islands. Since Phang Nga Bay has so much to do, and it’s relatively spaced apart, it’s worth getting either a private tour boat or joining one with others. There’s so much to see, and it’s not worth missing out on!

• Cost – 200 Baht ($6) for entrance, plus boat costs
• How long should I stay here? All day, but try the reclining Buddha first (around 1 hour)
• Getting there – Sadly, transfer over to Phang Nga from Patong takes around 2 hours. It is super worth it though! Hotels will often offer tours of Phang Nga bay, or you can join a private one!

1:30 pm – Koh Panyi

This fishing village is almost entirely built on stilts. There is brilliant seafood, which makes it a great lunchtime stop, but people know about it (so it can get crowded too). It’s up to you if you want to luncheon here, but sitting down and taking an easy lunch can be a great way to ease the effects of the two-hour drive in the morning.

It’s a pretty crazy village, and the natural scenery surrounding it is absolutely stunning. There is even a mosque on the island, which is worth having a look at. However, aside from walking the town and trying the seafood, there is not much else to do. Enjoy the environment and prepare for bigger and better things!

• Cost – To hire a private boat to the island it’s 1500 Baht (around $40). There are regular ferries which are much cheaper.
• How long should I stay here? under 2 hours
• Getting there – You can catch a longtail boat from Surakul pier, which takes around 20 minutes.

3:00 pm – James Bond Island

The famous James Bond Island (or Khao Phing Kan) gathered a lot of international interest, and now gets swarmed with tourists…

But that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth it! It is a stunning place to be, and the cute coves and beaches make a visit very enjoyable. There are some interesting things to buy too, as vendors inevitably follow the tourist crowd.

James Bond island gets mixed reviews since many people go there. Like the Colosseum or Eiffel tower, people just want a money shot before clearing off. However, it is super pretty, and it’s worth going if you’re in the area anyway.

After you’ve enjoyed this tourist trap, I’d recommend chilling at a more relaxed beach until the bay closes at six, or going back to your hotel. If you fancy something active, there is a great range of outdoorsy ways you can explore the magical environment of Phang Nga Bay!

• Cost – Boats can range between 400 and 2000 Baht (for a private)
• How long should I stay here? an hour or less
• Getting there – Boat from Koh Panyi

If you have the time, here are some things that you might want to squeeze in. Alternatively, substitute (or add in) some of these amazing gems to give your trip a distinctly “you” factor…

Koh Racha, AKA Raya Island, is an island about 20 km south of Phuket. There aren’t any roads or cars, which makes this a haven for naturists. Lots of swimming, snorkelling and beaching is clearly on the cards.

Whilst you can certainly cover most of Raya Island in a single-day trip, if you really want to get a handle on this island, then I’d suggest staying over. There are some really really nice resorts, hotels and hostels that will have everything you need for a great stay.

The amazing Patok beach is a great place to sunbathe, and there are plenty of other things to take part in on the island. Fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling, and jet skiing could form part of a top-class day.

• How long should I stay here? All day?
• Getting there – 30 minute speedboat from Phuket

Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands were popularised by Leonardo Dicaprio and his pretty face. After he had been there, suddenly everyone else wanted to be there too, and it quickly became a tourist hotspot.

There are several islands in the Phi Phi archipelago, including the main island of Phi Phi Don. Bamboo Island is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, pristine natural state, and amazing snorkelling and diving. Ko Yung (Mosquito Island) is similar but slightly larger. Both these islands are uninhabited.

If you’re looking for some truly unbelievable beaches and marine life, then the Phi Phi Islands are a top destination for you.

• How long should I stay here? Worth spending a night here. Lots to do!
• Getting there – Boat from Phuket City

Phuket Simon Cabaret

Experience something that you have never seen before with this intimate theater extravaganza! The show is a must-see attraction during your travels in Phuket! Witness an extravagant cabaret show with dancers in sparkly attire and even sparklier headdresses.

One of the oddest aspects that makes this show unusual is that it is probably the biggest “transvestite” cabaret show to be found in Phuket. This show features a spectacular musical floor show being performed by the world-famous “ladyboys” of Simon Cabaret.

See for yourself! You will be surprised how elaborate the costumes and makeup are, and how hard it becomes to tell the difference! Stunning costumes, bright lights, an excellent sound system, and expensive decorative sets are all part of this theatrical event that is not to be missed!

One of the coolest things to do in Phuket is to have a glamorous night out at the Simon Cabaret Show. See a variety of acts by dazzling men dressed as beautiful women complete with eye-catching costumes!

• Cost – Tickets are THB 600 ($18,83).
• How long should I stay here? 2 hours
• Getting there – Taxi, or walk in Phuket City

Phuket Sunday Night Market

The Phuket Sunday Market is known for having a hugely varied selection of curios and secondhand items on sale in a bustling market atmosphere! This is very different from the usual local markets where you can find copied T-shirts and cheap jeans. Hosted from the starting point at Thepkasattri Road and stretching all along the streets to Phuket Road.

All of the old Sino-Portuguese houses along Thalang road are brightly lit with ever-changing colours that add an extra spark to the festive mood created by this one-of-a-kind market! This beautiful historical street is very proud to be the first road on the entire island that is completely free of any large and ugly electric cables hanging around looking like a gigantic mess.

The market is an opportunity for you to try one of the Phuket specialities and explore your boundaries with cuisine! You can find a good mix of sweets and snacks to nibble as you walk. One of the most strange things is the horseshoe crab salad, which is not for the light-hearted!

• How long should I stay here? No more than an hour or two. The market is open from 4 pm til 9 pm
• Getting there – Taxi or walk

Phuket has a welcoming, warm and tropical climate. The beautiful temperatures are wayyy hotter than they are cold, and even when it’s cold, it’s really still quite humid.

The extremely rainy Monsoon season begins mid-May and goes on till October, but don’t let this deter you. This is when Phuket is quiet, so you can experience a more authentic cultural side of the places you visit. It’s the perfect time to visit Phuket’s museums too.

Phuket’s high tourist season is from November to February. During this time, the days are sunny and you won’t have a drop of rain! Making it perfect for lazy afternoons, sightseeing, hiking and water sports.

When getting from place to place in Phuket, there are several options to consider. Tuk-tuks are found everywhere in Thailand, so you will easily be able to hire one at any given time to get you from A  to B. Be sure your driver understands where you want to go and check for an authentic license before you accept your ride!

Hiring out a bike is an excellent option when travelling in Phuket, and is ideal for couples or solo travellers. There are many businesses that hire out bikes, and most hotels offer this service or will know a company.

Taxis are found easily, so hiring one is a good option and the prices are usually very reasonable! The locals are very used to tourists visiting Phuket, and can share some knowledge with you on the coolest places.

Walking in Phuket is beautiful, each place is pumping with vibrancy and culture! Meet the locals, find new spots and enjoy the street food. A lot of places in Phuket are easy to walk to, and it is well worth taking a stroll in some of the more culturally rich and scenic areas.

Packing for a tropical climate is the easiest packing you can do – couple of shorts and a t-shirt, and you’re good to go. Packing for thailand is usually straightforward.

The vast majority of the time, Phuket is a very safe place to visit, but it is good to know a few safety tips too. Be sure to keep your wits about you when dealing with locals after a few drinks, as things can get ugly if you lose your cool and start shouting or behaving like an ass. For the ladies, don’t drink alone or walk the streets at night by yourself, and watch out for drink spiking.

There are also some safety precautions to heed when swimming in the famous ocean waters of Phuket. Although Phuket’s main beaches are now well-staffed with lifeguards, there are still a number of drownings that occur each year. When the beaches are lined with red flags, these are a warning of strong waves and undertow.

Other safety measures would be simple things like, wearing a helmet if you rent a motorbike in Phuket, driving cautiously and never driving drunk as Phuket has the highest rate of car accidents in Thailand.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Phuket

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what people usually ask us when they plan their Phuket itinerary.

Is a Trip to Phuket a Good Idea?

Probably one of the best you’ve had I’d say. Phuket is magical in every capacity, and taking the time to visit Phuket will boost your Thailand trip into the stratosphere. Not only is it relatively cheap, but it’s super beautiful too!

How long should I spend in Thailand, Phuket Island?

Ideally, you should spend around a week getting to know Phuket, but anything 3 days or above is great too. There is so much to do here, and it’s easiest to get fully comfortable here if you spend a little longer.

What are some awesome free things to do in Phuket?

There are heaps to do for free. Explore the fascinating streets of Phuket Old Town before hitting up one of the many beaches.

What are the best Phuket things to do at night?

Bangla Road is the epicentre of the nightlife scene in Phuket. Alternatively, try the Phuket Sunday Night Market if you want a different vibe.

Phuket is not only a beautiful paradise of long-stretching beaches but also a hub of cultural experiences and friendly locals just waiting to share their stories with you! Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and enjoy moments that take your breath away.

It doesn’t matter how many days in Phuket you spend, you are bound to take something back from the experience. Laze around and allow these lifelong memories to soak in, as you will fall in love with everything about the astounding and magical island!

With our Phuket travel guide, you will have the most amazing time of your life in this mesmerizing part of Thailand as each moment will be full of new experiences and wonderment!

Clair Cathryn

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It’s my second time in Phuket, and I love it! I haven’t visited the Elephant Sanctuary and the Big Buddha yet. Thanks for the tips!

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Phuket in june, weather in phuket in june.

• The average rainfall is about 233.4mm dropped over in 16 to 19 days, falling mostly in the evenings and towards the end of the month.
• The average temperature of the month is 29 degrees celsius that falls between the average high and low of 25 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees celsius. You may feel much hotter and stickier because of the humidity which is 85% on average.

Places to visit in Phuket in June

This museum is an interactive 3D painting exhibition that offers its visitors stunning photo opportunities and a great time for families. It has a gallery of over 100 painted scenes using deceiving eye techniques, giving you plenty of moments to be in hilarious unreal world-like situations. The genius 3D art that creates perspectival illusionism is sure to fool you and leave you spellbound.

Phuket Best Sellers

04 Nights / 05 Days

Phuket beach lover, price on request.

Love for Phuket

03 Nights / 04 Days

Phuket value pack.

Fusion of Phuket

Exotic Phuket

Extraordinary Phuket

Ao Yon Beach is among those precious hidden beaches that are untouched by tourists but are equally stunning as the other beaches. Visitors to this beach can be lucky to see the local dragon boats practicing their rowing techniques in person. This beach is located between Cape Panwa and Panwa Beach and has the most stunning backdrop of palm trees. It has a few small eateries that you can choose from. As one walks along the length of the beach you will observe the luxury villas and holiday resorts that are present seaside.

This beach is surrounded by beautiful Casuarina trees and palms. This is a quieter beach as opposed to the more popular beaches of Phuket. On days of low tide, you can walk to the island that is just off the beach. One will not be able to snorkel here as the water is too shallow but you can definitely visit this beach to relax in it’s the balming atmosphere and serene views.

If you are a nature lover, Khao Phrae Thaeo Wildlife Park is a must-visit for you. One should not only visit the park for its beauty, flora, and fauna but also because it is the only remnant rainforest left on the island. There are several trails that you can take but there is especially one that takes you to a waterfall called Ton Sai which is absolutely mesmerizing! The park is home to many species including bears, langurs, porcupines, deer, gibbons, and civets. There is an 8-kilometer trek that you can take to Bang Pae waterfall which is the tallest waterfall in Phuket at 15 meters height.

Things to do in Phuket in June

When in Thailand, experience authentic Thai massage and spa! Most traditional Thai massage parlors are simple and devoid of fancy décor. You can find them in shophouses near beaches or in many of the three-star hotels in the city. A typical massage session lasts about two hours and costs 300-500 Baht. A foot massage session lasts for about 40 to 50 minutes and costs 300 to 400 Baht. On the beach, a massage and foot massage will cost you around 300 Baht an hour.

This class is conducted by the well known Blue Elephant Restaurant in Phuket and is a must-visit if you feel like learning how to cook a traditional Thai meal with the expertise of seasoned instructors. Classes run at two different slots- the first one is at 8.45 AM and the second one is at 1.30 PM. The duration of a typical class is usually from 3 to 5 hours depending on the type of class you choose. Only one slot runs on a particular day. If you take the morning class, you will be able to take a short trip to the nearby local market, where you will get the opportunity to learn all about local ingredients and how they are used in Thai cuisine. Similarly, if you select the afternoon class, you will get to learn all about Thai flavors and cooking techniques.

When it’s raining outside, head to the Jungceylon Shopping Complex that stands diagonally opposite the Bangla Road. The two main stores in the shopping mall are Robinson and Big C; both well lit and upper shops. Visitors have 200-plus stores to enjoy their shopping spree that sells branded clothes, sunglasses, cosmetics and perfumes, shoes, electronics, and accessories. It is also a great entertainment zone with a five-room SF Cinema and a 16-lane bowling alley where you can enjoy yourself with your friends and family.

Festivals in Phuket in June

• Baba (Peranakan) Wedding Festival in Phuket

The Peranakan, or Straits Chinese people, are also as Baba in Phuket. They are the descendants of Chinese immigrants who came to the island in the 19th century. The annual Wedding Festival makes you experience all the nitty-gritty of the elaborate preparations of well to do Chinese immigrants in the most elegant Sino-Portuguese mansions located in the old town quarter. The festival includes colorful street celebrations on Thalang Road decorated with red lanterns including a lively parade, a lion dance and more. It’s a great photo opportunity!

Location: Phuket Old town

• Run Paradise Marathon

An annual marathon, Run Paradise is the latest edition of the Laguna Phuket International Marathon at Asia’s most popular family-friendly destination marathon. There are different levels of the race such as the full 42km marathon, 21 km half marathon so on and so forth. It is a colorful and friendly run among beautiful green locations with plenty of refreshments, lots of parking and best of all – it’s for a good cause.

• Chao Le Boat Floating Festival (Sea Gypsy)

This festival falls in the month of June and November yearly. The fest is held at the Chao Le, or Sea Gipsy, villages in Phuket. Ceremonies center around setting small boats adrift at night. This is done with the intention and hopes to drive away evil and to bring good luck. Tradition requires people to put fingernail clippings and strands of hair in the little boats before they are released, along with little dolls made of wood. Afterward, the villagers perform a famous local dance around their own boats, called the Ram Rong Ngong.

Location: Rawai Beach and Sapam village

What to Pack and Carry

While you gear up to paint the island all sorts of colors, we recommend you carry these items with you to have the most seamless trip possible.

1. Sunblock is a must! Be it a day out on the beaches of Phuket or simply traveling to tourist attractions, do not forget to pack your sunblock and protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun

2. Given that June is the monsoon season of the island, packing an Umbrella and Raincoat will help you meander through rainy days

Clothing and Accessories

1. Given that June is the monsoon season of the island, packing an Umbrella and Raincoat will help you meander through rainy days

2. Last but not the least, do not let the monsoon scare you! Pack your beachwear to enjoy the quintessential attractions in Phuket- its beaches!

3. Hats and Bandanas! Roaming Phuket during the sunny days shouldn’t mean you have to compromise on your style. These stylish accessories will allow you to enjoy your time in Phuket looking trendy!

How to Reach Phuket

Phuket is a very well-connected island with the rest of the world. The quickest means of commuting to the white pearl island is by taking a flight. While Phuket can be reached from other parts of Thailand by road, there are no direct trains that connect it to other cities yet.

By Air: Phuket International Airport connects both international and domestic flights from and to Phuket. Many countries like India, Germany, Australia, Singapore as well as Malaysia are directly connected to Phuket by air. Since this is not the peak season for Phuket, you can grab cheap deals for air tickets.

By Road: There are A/C and Non-A/C buses that are easily available and one can avail of a bus from Bangkok, Surat Thani, Krabi, Phang Na and other similar areas of Thailand. Thailand also has a well-linked road network for localities and travelers alike that makes intra-city travel convenient and pocket-friendly.

Destinations

Best Time To Visit Phuket: Weather By Month & Season

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Not sure what is the best time to visit Phuket? Generally, the best time to visit Phuket is the between January and March , as these months have the driest, warmest weather.

However, these months are also within peak tourist season, which may not be the right time to visit for those who want a quieter vacation.

After spending time in Phuket during different seasons, have figured out when is the best time to visit Phuket for different types of travelers.

In this guide, we explain what each month brings, so you can make an informed decision about when to visit Thailand’s largest island.

Climate and Weather in Phuket

Phuket has a tropical climate and doesn’t vary in temperature much throughout the year. It’s also consistently humid, with an average humidity rating of 77%.

August is the most humid month at 82% humidity, whereas January is the least humid at 70% humidity.

During the monsoon season from June to September, you can also expect wind speed to increase to highs of 3 meters per second, whereas November is the least windy month with averages at 1 meter per second.

While most of Thailand has a rainy season from June until September, Phuket experiences a longer rainy season because of its coastal position. The rain is likely to begin in May and continue into October and November. In fact, September and October are the wettest months of the year in Phuket.

During the rainy season in Phuket, you can experience dark and gloomy days with lots of cloud cover.

The driest months in Phuket are January and February which receives very little rainfall throughout the months.

Phuket in Summer (June to August)

The summer months in Phuket are from June until August, which is the wettest time of the year and is well into the rainy Monsoon Season. You can expect a lot of wet weather, strong winds, and even flooding on an almost daily basis.

Those visiting Phuket this time of year should prepare for wet weather and flooding at all times. In fact, flash flooding occurs almost every September, causing widespread devastation throughout the region.

It can also impact flights landing and leaving from Phuket International Airport.

The flooding not only disrupts tourism but also causes problems for the locals, since the rain can bring down power lines, cut off roads and make them impossible to use, and cause power outages.

It’s unsurprising then that this is the quiet season in terms of tourism, and you’ll also find that tours and hotels will close during this time of year, especially when the weather is bad.

Phuket in Fall (September to November)

While September and October continue to see wet weather, it will start to ease off into November. It’s possible to have sunny days come late October and into November, but rain showers may happen sporadically.

From our experience, the rain showers in the Autumn season are far less intense than the summer, and usually only occur in short bursts, allowing you time to get out and enjoy the periods of dry weather. We also noticed rain storms happen more at night.

November is a popular time to visit Thailand, so you will find that from late October and early November, more hotels and tours who closed during the rainy season will open again – often at reduced rates.

That makes November a good time to visit Phuket, since it’s the shoulder season and when you can find cheaper deals after the Monsoon Season. That being said, you do still have to put up with some rainy days.

Autumn is also a good time of year to visit Phuket for the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, which happens on the 9th lunar month of the Chinese calendar.

During this time of year, you’ll find many parades, festivities, and of course, street food markets pop up in Phuket Old Town.

Phuket in Winter (December to March)

Winter is peak tourist season in Thailand, and is so it’s one of the most popular times of year to visit Phuket. You can expect Phuket to be busy with tourists during the months of December until February.

While the weather is hot, it’s not unbearably hot, and these months have very little chance of rain.

It’s also when Chinese New Year happens, which is quite a big deal in Phuket. While Thai people don’t celebrate Chinese New Year , Phuket has a large population of Chinese immigrants and they love to celebrate this annual event.

Phuket in Spring (March to May)

Spring is not a great time to visit Phuket because it starts to get rainy again, and it’s also incredibly busy.

This is because March until May is when the Burning Season in Chiang Mai happens, causing the locals and expats to flock to Southern Thailand to escape the pollution – and you can guess where they go!

Phuket is packed with people this time of year and hotels get booked up in advance, not to mention at higher rates.

While March and April are drier months compared to the rest of the year, May brings with it the Monsoon Season.

Read More: Bangkok vs Phuket: Which Is Better?

Best Time to Visit Phuket For Festivals

If you are visiting Phuket to join in with the local festivities, then you’re going to want to visit in September or October when the annual Phuket Vegetarian Festival takes place.

It’s the most famous thing Phuket is known for besides its beaches, and is the most vibrant event of the year.

Some other popular festivals that take place in Phuket are Songkran, otherwise known as Thai New Year, which happens all over the country, but the water fights on Bangla Road in Patong Beach are somewhat of a legend.

Another iconic festival is the Lantern Festival, which is usually more famous in Chiang Mai, but is also celebrated all over the country. Sapan Hin Lake in Phuket Old Town, as well as any of the beaches, are a good place to see the releasing of Loy Krathongs.

There are also lantern releases on the main beaches, such as Patong Beach and Karon Beach .

Best Time To Visit Phuket TO Escape The Crowds, Thailand

If you want to avoid the crowds, then you may want to visit Phuket in late October or November. This is when the rainy season has come to an end but it hasn’t fully opened up for the busy tourist season.

Though these are the quieter months in terms of tourism, it’s worth noting that Phuket is one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand for first timers , which is estimated to receive 14 million visitors by the end of 2023.

Needless to say, there isn’t really a quiet period in Phuket, but you will find it considerably less packed in October and November than in January and February.

Best Month to Visit Phuket, Thailand

Now you know what to expect from visiting Phuket in each season, below is a month-by-month analysis of what you can expect from the weather in Phuket!

Phuket in January

• Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) Lows, 30°C (85°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 56 mm in 6 Days
• Sunlight hours: 235 hours

January is in the peak tourist season in Phuket because it receives the best weather of the year. It remains hot throughout the days and nights, and has little chance of rain, with an average of just 6 days of rain throughout the month.

It also has cloudless skies, gracing the island with 235 hours of sunshine throughout the month. This is perfect weather for island hopping, snorkeling, swimming, or just exploring the island’s numerous outdoor attractions.

However, do be sure to wear sun protection and drink plenty of water to remain

Phuket in February

• Rainfall: 34 mm in 4 Days
• Sunlight hours: 220 hours

The weather in Phuket in February is much like the weather in January, and receives very little chance of rain, cloudless skies and warm temperatures.

February is still peak tourist season, which sees thousands of visitors across the island throughout the month.

If you plan to visit Phuket in February, although it’s a great time of year in terms of weather, note that hotels often get booked up in advance, and prices for tours and accommodation may also be higher than during the winter months.

February is also when you may start to see locals and expats from Chiang Mai flock to the island to escape the burning season, and is when Chinese New Year takes place.

Phuket in March

• Average Temperature: 27°C (80°F) Lows, 31°C (87°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 94 mm in 5 Days
• Sunlight hours: 210 hours

March continues to see warm, sunny days with cloudless skies and little rain. However, it’s also one of the busiest months in terms of visitors.

Those visiting this time of year may want to book well in advance as it’s likely a lot of places will already be booked by those escaping the burning season in Chiang Mai.

Phuket in April

• Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F) Lows, 31°C (87°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 143 mm in 12 Days
• Sunlight hours: 183 hours

As the Chiang Mai residents start to make their way home, April gets a little quieter, but still maintaining decent weather throughout the month.

It’s possible to see more rainy days towards the end of the month, but these showers tend to be in bursts throughout the day, rather than torrential down pour.

During April, you get to witness the festive Songkran celebrations, with water splashing and events taking place across the island.

Phuket in May

• Rainfall: 263 mm in 22 Days
• Sunlight hours: 151 hours

Phuket in May sees the start of the rainy season and it comes in with full force. Witness the clouds roll in, plunging the island into darkness, as it experiences only 151 hours of daylight throughout the month.

With 22 days of rain, you can be sure that it will rain at least a couple of times during your visit.

May is also considered the off season, which means many hotels and tour companies (particularly island tours) will close during this time of year.

If you are visiting Phuket in May, it’s a good idea to check if these tours are still operating before booking.

Phuket in June

• Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F) Lows, 30°C (85°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 255 mm in 20 Days
• Sunlight hours: 150 hours

June is another wet month in the monsoon season and is when you will see temperatures start to drop (although only slightly), and rainy days continue.

In terms of weather, it’s pretty much the same as May, with dark, cloudy days and lots of precipitation on the forecast.

Like May, it’s likely that some hotels will remain closed for the duration of the monsoon season, so do check in advance before visiting.

Phuket in July

• Rainfall: 243 mm in 20 Days
• Sunlight hours: 152 hours

July is another wet and miserable month in Phuket, with dark clouds, lots of rain, and is also when the wind speed increases.

Since it’s peak monsoon season with some of the wettest weather, you can expect the island to be quiet in terms of tourism, with many hotels and tour companies closing.

Phuket in August

• Average Temperature: 26°C (80°F) Lows, 30°C (85°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 265 mm in 20 Days

August and July are very similar in terms weather. It’s a dark month with only 150 hours of sunlight.

August is the most humid month, with humidity reaching 82% on average. It’s also one of the windiest months, which can make the weather feel cooler than it is.

Those visiting in August may find the weather to be miserable, and the chances of getting out to do some island exploration very slim.

Phuket in September

• Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) Lows, 29°C (85°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 318 mm in 23 Days
• Sunlight hours: 100 hours

September is the wettest month of the year and flooding is to be expected, since it’s the fifth month of the monsoon season.

September is also the darkest month with only 100 hours of sunlight throughout the month. Temperatures will remain cool, although the strong winds can make it feel cooler still.

Like August, September is also a relatively humid month.

Phuket in October

• Average Temperature: 26°C (78°F) Lows, 29°C (85°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 316 mm in 23 Days
• Sunlight hours: 140 hours

October is also very rainy and can also see flooding continue, especially at the start of the month.

However, from mid-October, you will start to see more hotels and tour companies operating again, as they prepare for the busy tourist season ahead.

From mid-October, it’s possible to have some dry days with sunshine, though squally showers may still happen throughout the days and nights.

The temperatures are warm but not too hot, and is also when the Phuket Vegetarian Festival often takes place.

Compared to September, there will be more tourists in Phuket in October.

Phuket in November

• Rainfall: 202 mm in 16 Days
• Sunlight hours: 175 hours

As November rolls in, you can start to kiss goodbye to the rain and the dark days are officially over, with 175 hours of sunlight throughout the month.

While there is still plenty of rain expected, you will find that the showers will be more in bursts than continuous downpours which happen in June to September.

November is when more tourists come to Thailand to escape the cold weather in Europe. It’s the time when all hotels and tours are fully running again and the island gets busy.

Phuket in December

• Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) Lows, 30°C (86°F) Highs
• Rainfall: 92 mm in 9 Days
• Sunlight hours: 200 hours

December is one of the busiest months in Phuket for tourism as people flock to Thailand to experience a tropical Christmas.

The weather is often warm with very little chance of rain, and there is also minimal cloud cover which means 200 hours of bright and sunny days.

December is one of the best months to visit Phuket, though you will need to plan your visit early as hotels often get booked up, especially if your planning to spend Christmas in Thailand !

Best Time to Visit Phuket FAQs

What is the best month to visit phuket.

We would recommend January as the best month to visit Phuket as the weather is warm, dry, and less humid.

What is the rainy season in Phuket?

The official rainy season in Phuket starts in June and ends in September, though you can expect the rain to begin in May and continue well into October.

What month is the hottest in Phuket?

The temperatures remain consistently warm throughout the year, but March – May is slightly warmer than other months by 1°C.

Final Verdict

Without a doubt, January and February is the best time to visit Phuket if you’re looking for good weather.

However, if you want to escape the crowds and find better deals on hotels and tours, October and November are good times to visit, as long as you are ok with some rainy days.

March until May is a bad time to visit Phuket since it’s busy with all the Chiang Mai locals and expats escaping the burning season.

May until October is the rainy season, which sees hotel and tour closures, flooding, and power outages, and so are not the best times to visit Phuket.

We hope this guide has helped plan when to visit Phuket and given you a good idea of what to expect in each season.

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Your Trip to Phuket: the Complete Guide

If you can only visit one place in Thailand, zero in on the island of Phuket. Set some 400 miles south of Bangkok, Phuket crams a near-excess of sights and activities within its coastline: gorgeous beaches, delicious food, amazing natural parks, and access to some of the Andaman Sea’s most breathtakingly beautiful islands.

Backpackers introduced Phuket to the tourism world. The first backpacker-friendly accommodations sprung up in Patong in the 1970s, presaging a steady rise in visitors that peaked at 14 million in 2018. Phuket’s present-day attractions have evolved with tourist tastes; beyond the beaches, visitors can now check out Phuket’s Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class theme parks, and luxury hotels fringing the sands.

For the first-time visitor to Phuket, the island can be a lot to unpack at first glance. Read on to make sense of Thailand’s most popular tourist destination, and how you can have the time of your life when you visit.

Planning Your Trip

• Best time to visit : Plan your trip between mid-October to mid-February; the “winter” months coincide with a cool, dry climate caused by northeast monsoon winds blowing in from Siberia.
• Language: Central (standard) Thai is widely spoken throughout Phuket, though southern Thai is the local mother tongue. A fair number of Phuket locals can manage basic English, but don’t expect them to manage sustained conversation. These are a few useful phrases to learn when traveling in Phuket.
• Currency : The Thai Baht (THB) is standard currency across the island.
• Getting Around: You can ride buses (songthaew), tuk-tuks, or motorbike taxis to get around Phuket. Songthaew commute between Phuket Town and resort areas like Surin, Karon, and Patong. Tuk-tuks and motorbikes can take you on a point-to-point basis for short distances.
• Travel tip: Phuket’s beaches are lovely to visit and swim in—but during the monsoon months between May and October, riptides and unpredictable swells make them positively dangerous for casual swimmers. Watch for red flags on the beaches, which warn against swimming when the conditions are too risky.

Things to Do

For an island just over 200 square miles in area, Phuket offers a surprising number of things to see and do. To be sure, its beaches are Phuket’s spotlight attraction, but there’s more to discover once you move beyond the coastline.

• Enjoy Phuket’s beaches . Each beach in Phuket offers a distinct appeal that caters to different folks—partygoers go to Patong Beach, couples to Karon, and nature lovers and plane-spotters prefer Mai Khao.
• Visit Phuket Town. In its heyday, Phuket Town was a key trading post for Thai, Chinese, and British colonial entrepreneurs. While the tin trade that drove local business has long since faded, the old town has retained its old-timey charm, its townhouses having been converted into museums, restaurants, and shops.
• Take in the nightlife. All nightlife adventures in Phuket begin at Bangla Road in Patong—a neon-lit thoroughfare with attached soi (alleyways) brimming with bars, live music venues, and street performers.
• Go island-hopping: The seas of southern Thailand offer some of the most breathtaking views, both above and underwater. Tours to Koh Phi Phi, Phang Nga, and Koh Similan can be easily booked from your Phuket hotel.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best things to do in Phuket , the best day trips from Phuket , and scuba diving excursions from Phuket .

What to Eat and Drink

Thanks to Phuket’s long history as a trade entrepot, the local culinary scene bears influences from all over—European fine dining, Southern Chinese home cooking, and Thai royal cuisine, among others. Foodies in particular swear by Phuket’s fusion of Thai and Chinese cuisines, the natural result of the island’s Chinese/Peranakan community centered around Phuket Town.

The local food scene has earned Phuket recognition as a "Creative City of Gastronomy" by UNESCO, owing to the variety of dishes and dining styles. High-end diners can take in a meal at one of the island’s Michelin-starred restaurants, while budget eaters can count on Phuket Town's hawker-style premises that resemble similar setups in Singapore and Malaysia . The street food scene in Patong helps balance out the town’s raucous nightlife, and many resorts offer in-house dining experiences overlooking the sea.

Learn more with our guides to foods to try in Phuket , Phuket's best restaurants , and Phuket's nightlife scene .

Where to Stay

The vast majority of hotels and resorts in Phuket are located around the west coast, as Phuket’s top beaches can be found there. One exception is Phuket Town, whose affordable hotels are offset by its considerable distance from the beaches.

The graceful Sino-Portuguese buildings, cheap food, and activities around Phuket Town make it an excellent choice for history nerds and foodies. Meanwhile, budget travelers and partygoers should look for accommodations around Patong, home to the island’s hottest nightlife scene and most affordable budget hotels. Hotels around Karon Beach offer a happy medium for tourists who like staying close to the beach, but abhor Patong’s congestion and party-happy atmosphere. The relaxed energy around Karon appeals to families, couples, and seniors.

For a selection of Phuket accommodation options, check out this list of Phuket’s top hotels.

Getting There

Some 16 million people fly into Phuket International Airport from all over Asia and Europe. Located at the northern end of Phuket, the airport sits over 20 miles from the island’s main tourist stretches. If you’re flying in during Phuket’s peak season, be aware that it will take over an hour to get to or from your Phuket resort, so plan accordingly.

Phuket is connected by bridge to the Thai mainland, allowing domestic travelers to take the bus from cities around Thailand to the island. Most cross-country buses arrive and depart to/from Phuket Bus Terminal 2 on Thepkasattri Road in Ratsada.

Despite Phuket’s relatively low crime rate, some risks remain for visitors to the island. The beaches hide dangerous riptides and jellyfish, whereas locals might also take offense to fighting words or undue talk about politics or religion.

When hanging around the beaches, keep the following threats in view.

• Beware of riptides. During monsoon season, Phuket’s beaches hide a nasty secret: deadly riptides that can pull you out to the open sea, or pull you under to drown. Patong, Karon, and Kamala beaches are notorious for these. If you see red flags flying on any Phuket beach, do not go into the water.
• Listen for tsunami warnings. The 2004 Boxing Day tsunami hit Phuket hard, killing over 5,000 people. Today, an advanced tsunami warning system watches over Phuket; warnings will be sent via broadcast media and SMS on local cellphones, giving you plenty of time to head to higher ground.

Thai locals are some of the most easygoing people on earth, but remember that their patience can be severely tested, too. Here’s how to stay on locals’ good side—and how to stay out of trouble otherwise:

• Never get angry or aggressive . Avoid conflict wherever possible. Thais do not go for pranks or humiliating jokes at their expense, and they also look down on Westerners picking fights. You should also avoid political talk—Thailand has a lese majeste law that penalizes insulting talk about their royal family, so steer clear of that topic in polite conversation.
• Don’t do drugs. Thailand has extremely punitive laws against drug trafficking and use. You can spend years in prison if caught with even a small amount of prohibited drugs, or get the death penalty at worst.
• Keep your eyes open for scams . Tourist locations tend to attract a fair number of scammers, and Phuket is no exception.

Money Saving Tips

Even as luxe hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants have taken over, they haven’t crowded the backpackers out yet—budget travelers can still find plenty of ways to stretch their dollar. Follow these simple rules to get the most value out of your Phuket trip:

• Eat the way locals do. Get a meal at a Patong food hall, or hunker down to street food in Phuket Town. The cheapest meals can be found at wet markets in your vicinity, where you can get rice, meat, and a drink for no more than 100 baht ($3.30).
• Use local transportation. Look up the songthaew routes around your hotel and your preferred destinations, and ride them whenever possible. Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis will also let you haggle the price down to a certain extent.
• Visit Phuket in the low season. Between May and October, Phuket gets the brunt of the monsoon season. Prices are at their lowest for both accommodations and transportation, though, which can save you money in what is arguably Thailand’s priciest town.
• Get a local SIM card for your phone. Assuming your phone is compatible with the local networks, buying a prepaid SIM card will let you surf the web and call home without breaking the bank. You have your choice of three brands: AIS , DTAC , and TrueMove . All are available at the airport, or at any convenience store on the island.
• Drink Thai-made beers. Chang, Leo, and Singha beers are much cheaper than Australian or European beers around Phuket—and they’re arguably just as good.

Phuket.net. "History of Phuket." 2021.

Channel News Asia. "Phuket already bursting at the seams but more tourists on the way." December 8, 2019.

The Phuket News. "History: Cultural History of Phuket Town." May 6, 2016.

UNESCO. "Creative Cities Network: Phuket." 2015. 

Michelin Guide Global. "Phuket Restaurants." 2020.

The Nation Thailand. "Tsunami warning system finally ready, after 8 years." December 25, 2012.

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• Phuket In June 2024: Festivals, Weather, Places To Visit & More

Phuket in June 2024: Festivals, Weather, Places to Visit & More

June is a great time to visit Phuket! Weather-wise, it’s mostly rainy and cloudy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the beautiful weather. You will have a great time in Phuket as there are plenty of activities and places to visit during this time of the year. So, book your Thailand tour package to have at most fun.

Phuket Weather in June

June is the beginning of the rainy season in Phuket, with occasional showers and thunderstorms. However, the weather is still warm, with temperatures around 32°C (90°F) during the day and 24°C (75°F) at night. It’s a great time to explore the island and enjoy the lush greenery and waterfalls.

Enjoy Phuket Vacation in June

If you’re planning to visit Phuket in June , there are plenty of activities you can enjoy despite the rainy season. 

• One option is to indulge in some indoor activities such as visiting museums, art galleries, and shopping centers. 
• Another great activity is to take a cooking class and learn how to cook some delicious Thai dishes. 
• If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
•  It’s also a good idea to visit the famous Phuket Old Town and explore its rich history and culture. 
• Don’t forget to bring an umbrella and waterproof clothing as it tends to rain a lot during this time of the year. 

With these tips, you’re sure to have a fun and memorable vacation in Phuket despite the rainy season.

Phuket Events and Celebration in June

• The Seafood Festival, June 1-3: The Seafood Festival is an annual event that features fresh seafood from around the world. There are lots of vendors selling delicious food, as well as games and activities for kids. It’s held at Sanam Beach in Phuket Town.  
• The Phuket Vegetarian Festival, June 20-22: The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is another annual event where people can sample delicious vegetarian dishes prepared by chefs from all over Thailand. There are also many vendors selling other kinds of foods as well as games and activities for kids in the pleasant weather. It’s held at Patong Beach in Phuket Town.  
• The Maha Na Sakorn Open Golf Tournament (Klang), June 28-30: This tournament features the best courses in Thailand. In addition to golfing games, you’ll find lots of other activities like fishing tournaments and cooking demonstrations throughout this weekend-long event on Jomtien Beach.  

Places to visit in Phuket in June

There are several must-visit places in Phuket that you should add to your Thailand vacation itinerary. 

• Firstly, there are several beautiful beaches, such as Patong Beach, Karon Beach, and Kata Beach that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. 
• You can’t miss the Big Buddha statue, which offers stunning panoramic views of the island. 
• If you’re interested in exploring the local culture, Phuket Old Town is a great spot to visit. It’s filled with charming Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful shophouses, and trendy cafes. 
• Lastly, don’t forget to include a trip to the Phi Phi Islands in your plans and   enjoy the best.  

The islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters in the world. Enjoy your trip!

There is something for everyone in Phuket . All of the following activities and festivals are thrilling. They are not only exciting, but they also help you re-energize for the rest of the year. So, begin arranging your trip to Phuket while keeping the adventurous activities listed above in mind. Customize your Thailand itinerary with Pickyourtrail and book your Phuket holiday package on your own!

Check out our Top Selling Phuket Packages

Bangkok and Phuket Packages | Bangkok Phuket Krabi Packages | Phuket Krabi Packages | Bangkok Pattaya Phuket Tour Packages

Experience Phuket Every Month Of The Year

Phuket in January | Phuket in February | Phuket in March |  Phuket in April | Phuket in May |  Phuket in July |  Phuket in August |  Phuket in September |  Phuket in October |  Phuket in November |  Phuket in December

Phuket is the most expensive place in Thailand. Not only are adventure active tours expensive, but hotels are also quite expensive.

Phuket has several beaches that offer adventurous activities such as scuba diving, paragliding, parasailing and kitesurfing. They include Remusin Beach, Rachanoi Island, Similan Islands and Phi Phi Island.

 It costs about 3000 baht to do a bungee jump in Phuket.

One of the most popular festivals among Thais is Songkrang, or, as it is sometimes called, the Water Festival.

The weather at Phuket in June is warm, with  Phuket temperature in June being around 32°C (90°F) during the day and 24°C (75°F) at night. It’s a great time to explore the island and enjoy the lush greenery and waterfalls.

Yes, in spite of the start of rainy season, the island is all set to offer stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of activities to enjoy in June in Thailand.

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Global Gallivanting

The ultimate 7 day phuket itinerary + koh phi phi & krabi (2024).

No Thailand trip is complete without visiting the country’s biggest, most diverse and most popular island – Phuket!

Located in the south of Thailand, in the gorgeous Andaman Sea, Phuket is known for its beautiful beaches, buzzing night markets, breath taking natural scenery and world-class resorts.

But being such a big and vibrant island, which beaches, attractions and other islands should you visit and how do you fit all the highlights into one epic Thailand adventure!? Well, this post contains all you need to know…

I’m an expat who has been living in Phuket for over 3 years and has explored the island from top to bottom. So I’ve created what I think is the best Phuket itinerary with my insider tips.

This fun-filled 7 day itinerary for Phuket, Thailand includes the must-see’s, hidden gems, and island hopping to Koh Phi Phi and Krabi while skipping the over-rated places to make the most of your time here.

No time to read now? Pin this for later!

The Ultimate 7 Day Phuket Itinerary – How to Spend 7 Days in Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Krabi.

The first part of planning your Phuket itinerary is setting your dates and booking in your flights and accommodation – then you can start deciding all the fun things you’re going to do!

Phuket’s international airport makes getting to the island easy. The best time to visit Phuket weatherwise is between December and March. This is also the peak season so book your flights, accommodation and activities like island hopping trips in advance. I’ll include plenty more Phuket travel tips at the end of this article.

Where To Stay in Phuket, Thailand

As Thailand’s largest island, there’s a huge range of different areas and places to stay in Phuket to suit all budgets and types of traveller.

From luxury hotels and family friendly resorts, to budget hotels and backpacker hostels, there’s no shortage of choice so the best place for you will really depend on what you are looking for.

Each place has a very different vibe so you can find out more about Phuket’s best hotels, resorts, and areas in my comprehensive guide on where to stay in Phuket .

The best beaches in Phuket are located on the West Coast. Lively Patong Beach is best for nightlife and budget travelers, while Kata beach, Karon beach and Kamala beach are popular with families and couples as they offer a more balanced experience.

Further north, Bang Tao beach and Mai Khao beach offer unspoiled beaches, luxury resorts and a peaceful atmosphere. Old Phuket Town is the historical and cultural heart of the island and offers cafes, markets and colourful, heritage and boutique hotels .

To follow this itinerary I’d recommend staying near Nai Harn and Rawai  in the south as these are the most stunning and trendy areas to stay right now.

Here are my top accommodation picks for Nai Harn and Rawai that provide a convenient base for this Phuket itinerary:

• Best Luxury Hotel: The Nai Harn – Perched on a hill overlooking Nai Harn beach this stunning 5 star hotel offers a beach-club style pool and bar area and an amazing breakfast buffet!
• Best Mid-Range Hotel:  Selina   – Stylish “all-in-one resort” with a beachfront restaurant and pool, wellness deck, and co-working space perfect for digital nomads.
• Best Budget Hote l: Roost Glamping – Unique and glamourous camping experience with a pool and proper beds in stylish bells tents surrounded by nature.

Be aware that it is a 1-hour (or more) drive from Phuket International Airport which is located in the north of the island to Rawai in the South.

Staying at Kata Beach is also a good option as there’s a bit more choice and it’s more centrally located but the beaches are busier here.

How Long To Spend In Phuket

There’s so many beautiful places to visit and things to do in Phuket that a weekend or 3 days in Phuket is not enough time to see it all.

Along with exploring different beaches and attractions on Phuket island itself, you’ll also want to visit a few nearby islands. And maybe you want to see the nearby provinces of Phang Nga or Krabi , too?

If so, I highly recommend staying at least 7 days in Phuket (or more). Seven days is just enough time to enjoy all the top offerings of Phuket, plus check out the famous Phi Phi islands and some parts of Phang Nga Bay and Krabi too.

While the following itinerary can easily fit into seven days, if you have more time and want to take it slower I recommend staying in Phuket for 10 days or 2 weeks. You could extend your stay in Krabi, add a couple more island day trips or stay a few nights on Phuket’s other beautiful islands like Koh Yao Yai.

For more inspiration check out my Phuket Island Hopping And Day Trips guide – I guarantee you won’t get bored!

But how can you fit it all into seven days? The following 7 days in Phuket itinerary will show you how!

The Best 7 Day Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi Itinerary

Day 1 – arrive, settle in and relax.

Ease into your 7 day Phuket itinerary by spending the first day settling into your hotel and enjoying the beaches and local attractions. Make your arrival smooth and stress free by prebooking an airport transfer to avoid getting ripped off by taxis.

Once you’ve checked into your accommodation and unpacked, head to the beautiful Nai Harn beach  to refresh in the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea and soak up the sun.

Just before sunset, drive or  hike up the hill to The Windmill  for an epic sunset. Alternatively, head to the nearby  Yanui beach  for a sunset kayaking session!

Go for dinner at one of the incredible seafood restaurants along Rawai Beach. I recommend  Nikita’s  (book ahead to get a waterside table!). After dinner, head across the road to Freedom Bar or Rawai Reggae Bar for live music and drinks.

Or, if you are feeling jet lagged and want to get an early night for a big day of beach hopping tomorrow, treat yourself to one of the spa treatments at your hotel.

Day 2 – Explore Phuket’s Famous West Coast Beaches

Phuket is home to some of the best beaches in Thailand, so it only makes sense to begin your Phuket itinerary with a beach day!

Start the day by  hiking up to Promthep Cape  in Rawai – the most southern point in Phuket. This stunning peninsula gets crowded every evening for sunset, but in the morning, it’s peaceful and beautiful. You can enjoy the view from the top or hike down to the end of the cape.

From here, head to  Kata Beach for a morning surf session but make sure to stop at the viewpoint where you can get a stunning view of three beaches.

I f you prefer to sunbathe, check out Kata’s smaller sister – Kata Noi Beach . This tiny cove is home to numerous luxury resorts, giving it an almost private beach vibe.

Enjoy lunch in Kata town before taking a short drive to Karon Beach , one of the longest and most stunning white sand beaches in Phuket. 

Along the way, stop at the trendy ‘ A Blanket & A Pillow Cafe ‘ for an iced coffee with an epic view overlooking the south of Karon beach.

Conclude your afternoon with a long walk or relaxing beach massage on Karon Beach before heading to Patong for the evening.

Hail one of the many tuk tuks for a fun ride to the famous Bangla Road at Patong beach , a bustling strip of bars and nightclubs.

Tuck into some delicious and affordable Thai cuisine at Patong Night Market . Here, you can get some of the cheapest and tastiest Pad Thai, delicious fresh fruit, and Thai desserts.

Patong is undoubtedly the hub of Phuket nightlife, but Bangla Road can be pretty noisy and seedy so isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but it’s worth checking it out at least once.

If you prefer a more chilled and elegant evening, head to one of the rooftop bars for spectacular sunset views or back to Karon Beach for cocktails and fire shows at  Tann Terrace .

Day 3 – Enjoy Unspoilt Beaches and Elephant Sanctuaries

For day 3 in Phuket, explore the island’s north, where you will find many more stunning beaches and fabulous attractions.

Bang Tao Beach  is 6 km of white sand with crystal clear waters ideal for swimming. The nearby  Surin Beach is much smaller but has a wild, untouched vibe. Parts of it are also shaded by palm trees, helping you escape the heat!

I recommend enjoying a leisurely lunch complete with an ice-cold beer at one of the beach clubs, such as Hugo Hug, Carpe Diem, or Catch.

After lunch, if you want more beach time, head to Banana Beach or Mai Khao Beach , two peaceful and beautiful beaches in the far north of the island.

If you’re all beached out, head to  Phuket Elephant Sanctuary in Thalang. Unlike many of Phuket’s ‘elephant camps, ‘ this ethical elephant sanctuary does not harm elephants by offering rides or bathing sessions. Instead, you can admire the beautiful mammals from above on a 1.5-hour canopy walkway tour .

Looking for an epic dining experience? Then, on the way back to your hotel, stop at  Three Monkeys , one of Phuket’s most famous restaurants. Three Monkeys boasts a breath taking hilltop location built amidst a lush rainforest. The food and drink are a bit more expensive than other places, but it’s worth it because the views and experience are priceless!

Day 4 – Discover Temples, Thai Culture and Phuket Old Town

Now you’ve seen some of Phuket’s beaches it’s time for some Thai culture! On day 4, visit Phuket town to see Phuket’s cultural hub and explore some nearby temples.

Start the day with a  Thai cooking class where you visit a local market to buy the ingredients before making some famous Thai food such as pad thai, vegetable spring rolls and green curry. At the end of the cooking class, you can taste your creations, filling your belly for an afternoon of sightseeing.

Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to  Wat Chalong , one of Phuket’s most significant historical landmarks. This temple is just as popular with locals as it is with tourists. So you can learn first hand about the Thai culture of merit-making, a Buddhist practice for clearing bad karma and bringing good luck.

For sunset head up to the famous  Big Buddha nearby. This is not your standard temple; it is a 45-meter (148 feet) tall and 25.45-meter (83.5 feet) wide white Buddha statue sitting atop one of the highest mountains on Phuket island.

The concrete statue is covered with Burmese white marble, and you can spot it from various points on the island. Still, it’s well worth seeing it up close, where you will also get an incredible view over the south of the island. It’s a popular sunset spot.

In the evening, head to  Phuket Old Town  to check out the colourful historic shophouses, boutiques and cafes. For dinner try some top-quality Thai food or international cuisine.

The best and easiest way to see all of these cultural attractions is with a tour like this half day Phuket City Tour which takes you to the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, Phuket Town and an amazing viewpoint.

If you’re visiting Phuket Old Town on the weekend, check out the night markets for cheap but delicious street food. Try to visit on a Sunday to experience the Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market , when the streets really come to life and a great place to pick up some cool and unique souvenirs and gifts!

If you’re there on a weekday, don’t worry, as there are plenty of incredible restaurants in Phuket Town.  Go Benz  is extremely popular among locals, with long queues leading down the street every night.

Then, for dessert, grab some French toast from Phuketique before enjoying a cocktail or two at one of Phuket Town’s MANY cute bars.

Day 5 – Visit Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island

For day 5, it’s time to get out of Phuket and explore the stunning Phang Nga Bay, located in the next province north of Phuket.

Morning & Afternoon

One of the most popular ways to explore Phang Nga Bay is with a boat trip to James Bond Island . This island became famous after being used as a filming location for the 1974 James Bond movie “ The Man with the Golden Gun.”

There are many different types of boat trips available to James Bond Island, including via speed boat, luxury yacht, and traditional long-tail boat.

I recommend choosing a day trip that includes kayaking, such as this  James Bond Island Day Trip With Lunch . This trip includes  kayaking through the caves of Panak Island and sea canoeing around Koh Hong Island’s emerald lagoons – the highlights of the Phang Nga Bay.

As most James Bond Island hopping trips last 8 to 9 hours, expect to return to your hotel around 6 p.m.

As tomorrow involves another big day trip, I recommend a quiet dinner near your hotel before an early night. If you want something unique, check out Rock Salt at The Nai Harn or Rustic And Blue overlooking Rawai Beach.

Day 6 – Visit The Phi Phi Islands And Maya Bay

No itinerary for Phuket is complete without a day trip to Phi Phi islands and the famous Maya Bay. So set an early alarm to make the most of this incredible part of Phuket and Krabi!

The best way to get to Phi Phi islands from Phuket is via speedboat. There are MANY tours available, which you can book online or in person, or you can take the public ferry  directly from Rassada Pier in Phuket Town.

Most tours will pick you up from your hotel and include multiple stops in the Phi Phi islands. For example, this top rated  Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Trip includes three snorkeling stops, along with sightseeing stops in Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach (where you can see wild monkeys) and lunch.

Maya Bay  is the most popular tourist destination in the Phi Phi islands, famed for being the filming destination for the 2000 film “ The Beach. ” While you can no longer swim at Maya Bay it’s still a spectacular sight to witness. Bamboo Island  is another highlight on Phi Phi island hopping tours due to its serene location for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving.

If you want to enjoy the island’s party vibe spend the night on Phi Phi Don  (the archipelago’s only inhabited island). While the island is considerably more expensive than mainland Phuket or Krabi, there are plenty of budget accommodations alongside the luxury hotels.

If you want to experience the island’s nightlife stay somewhere like Phi Phi Villa Resort . This beachfront resort is close enough to Ton Sai Village to enjoy the parties but far away enough to get a peaceful nights sleep!

Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Ton Sai pier in Phi Phi Don to Krabi and enjoy an evening in Krabi Town or at Ao Nang night market  before the final day of your Krabi Phuket itinerary. There are many hotels in Ao Nang but my favourite place to stay in Krabi is the stunning Railay Bay Resort . 

Be aware that the last ferry to Krabi is at 5 p.m. and takes 2 hours. You can also get a private speedboat transfer at a time that suits you which only takes 1 hour and includes a transfer to your hotel or the airport.

Day 7 – Explore Krabi And Railay Beach

On the final day of your Phuket and Krabi itinerary, spend some time exploring the sights, attractions, and beaches in Krabi.

If you stayed in Krabi last night, you can start the final day of your Phuket Krabi Phi Phi itinerary bright and early. You could even join a jam-packed  4 Islands Krabi Day Tour ,  which visits the beautiful Phra Nang Cave Beach at Railay, along with stops at Koh Poda, Chicken Island, Koh Tub, and Koh Mor.

However, if you stayed in Phi Phi the night before, take the first ferry to Krabi at 9 a.m. or the 10 a.m. speedboat, arriving by 11 a.m.

One must-visit in Krabi is  Railay Beach . You can take a long tail boat here to explore the incredible limestone cliffs, kayak through the hidden lagoons, and hike the impressive bat cave.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, eat lunch at one of the restaurants along  Ao Nang beach  before a spot of sunbathing. Or escape the crowds by driving 30 minutes north to the peaceful  Klong Muang Beach .

If you’re up for more of a jungle adventure you could explore the Tiger Cave Temple , and bathe in the hot springs and emerald pool. This Krabi Jungle Tour will take you there.

If you’re leaving Krabi today, head to the airport to catch your flight. To avoid traveling back on yourself to Phuket you might want to consider flying out from Krabi airport. Otherwise, enjoy a final night in Krabi Town before your onward journey tomorrow!

More Tips For Planning Your Itinerary For Phuket

Before you book in your Phuket itinerary, here’s a few important tips to help you plan your trip to Phuket.

Best Time to Visit Phuket

As a tropical island, Phuket is warm all year round, but has different seasons that you should be aware of.

The best time to visit Phuket is between December to March when you can expect consistently good weather – blue skies and plenty of sunshine but it’s not too hot and humid.

This is also the peak tourist season and the busiest, and most expensive, time to visit Phuket, so you should decide on your itinerary in advance and book in your accommodation, activities and day trips before arriving to avoid disappointment. I use Booking.com and Agoda to book hotels as they have the biggest selection at the best prices.

April and May are a good time to visit Phuket if you don’t mind the heat. The island is not too crowded by this time, but it can be very hot, ranging from 27°C to 36°C, which makes sightseeing a little uncomfortable.

Also consider November , it can be a lovely month to visit as Phuket is relatively quiet but the weather can unpredictable as it’s the end of the rainy season.

June to October is the rainy season which sees short but frequent tropical downpours, cloudy and overcast skies. You’ll still get some sunny, dry days but the weather can be quite unpredictable and rough seas mean that it is sometimes not safe to swim during this time.

How to Get to Phuket and Get Around

Traveling to Phuket is easy as the island is home to Phuket International Airport (HKT) It’s Thailand’s second busiest airport and receives many direct flights from all over the world. I find the best connections and cheapest flight deals with WayAway and even get cashback.

For this Phuket – Krabi itinerary you might want to consider flying into Phuket airport and then flying out from Krabi Airport to avoid traveling back on yourself.

There are also buses from all over the country, the best place to book buses, trains and even ferries in Thailand is on 12Go Asia . But as Phuket is approximately a 12-hours from Bangkok, flying might be the quickest and easiest option, even if you’re visiting Phuket as part of a larger trip around Thailand. (P.S If your visiting the capital first check out my Bangkok itinerary too!

Most nationalities can either get a visa exemption for 30 days, or a visa on arrival, which makes entering Thailand easy and convenient.

Once you arrive there are several options for getting from the airport to your accommodation. The easiest way is to book an airport transfer through your Viator, your hotel or a reputable company. There are also taxi and bus services on offer at the airport but taxis often overcharge.

Taxis in Phuket can be expensive, by Thai standards, so agree the rate first before hopping in. I recommend using online apps like Grab or Bolt for a cheaper and more convenient option.

The best place to book activities, tours and day trips in advance is on Viator   or  Get Your Guide , because there’s a lot of choice and you can read reviews so you know what to expect and can ensure your trip is a memorable experience for all the right reasons! If you’re visiting multiple places in one day a tour can be better value than taking lots of taxis.

If you’re on a budget then you can travel around Phuket by using the Smart Bus , which runs between the airport and Rawai stopping at all the major beach towns. A single ride is 100 THB, and you can also buy day or multi-day passes. 

Riding in a tuk-tuk can be a fun experience that you should definitely try at least once when you’re in Thailand, but they are more expensive than taxis and most suitable for short distances.

For the most freedom you can rent a scooter or motorbike to explore Phuket. However, the roads can be busy and windy so I’d only recommend this if you already have experience driving in Thailand or Asia before. Make sure you have an international driving license (the police do check) and insurance that covers this too.

Ready To Start Planning Your Own Phuket and Krabi itinerary?

I hope this 7-day Phuket itinerary has given you lots of inspiration for what to do in Phuket. Koh Phi Phi and Krabi.  This itinerary features all the top sights of this magnificent Thai island as well as the surrounding area and, as one of the most diverse Phuket itineraries, there is something for everyone.

Whether you find temples fascinating, seek serene snorkeling spots or the perfect mango sticky rice, or simply want to relax on picture-perfect beaches, following this itinerary for Phuket and Krabi will show you some of the most stunning places in Thailand and is sure to be an amazing adventure!

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to this amazing part of Thailand. If you’re thinking of traveling to other parts of the country check out other blogs and guides for more tips. My comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide and list of the best places to visit in Thailand will give you plenty more inspiration and handy tips. 

Read More Thailand and Phuket Blog Posts:

• All My Thailand Blog Posts
• The Perfect 2 Week Thailand Itinerary: Best of North and South
• Things to do in Phuket
• Where to Stay in Phuket
• Best Island Hopping Tours and Day Trips from Phuket
• 3 – 4 Days Bangkok Itinerary
• 4 – 5 Days Chiang Mai Itinerary

10 Best Island Hopping Tours and Day Trips From Phuket for 2024

21 best places to visit in thailand for first-timers (2024).

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Best Time to Visit Phuket, When Is the Rainy Season?

The weather in Phuket basically varies between warm and dry (November to February), hot (March to April), and rainy (May to October). The peak season in Phuket is from October to March.

• The best season to visit Phuket (weatherwise) is from November to February — the warm/dry season.
• The absolute best times for comfortable weather are in December/January.
• The best times for diving in Phuket are from November to April.
• The best times for surfing in Phuket are from May to November.
• The best times for enjoying the sun and beaches are from December to March.

Phuket Weather Facts

• Phuket is a tropical island with year-round summery weather and no winter.
• The temperature typically varies from 24°C (75°F) to 33°C (92°F).
• April is the hottest month, and December the coolest, but there is not much difference.
• The wettest month is September, with 12 times the rainfall of the driest month — February.
• It rains almost every day in the rainy season, but it doesn't last all day — just half an hour to 2 hours.

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Phuket Average Temperatures by Month

Dry season in phuket (november to february).

• November to February is the high season in Phuket, which sees the best weather of the year. Temperatures are at their most comfortable.
• December is the coolest month of the year, and humidity drops to its lowest in February.
• You'll get 7–9 hours of sun per day, and that means you can do more activities.
• The busiest period in Phuket is from December to January as these months have the very best weather of all.
• The most expensive time is the fortnight that covers the Christmas and New Year holidays, so make sure you book your hotel well in advance then.

The sea is calm and its temperature is warm, so this season is ideal for swimming, or for diving and ocean sports.

If you prefer not to participate in sports, and like lounging on the sand or attending a cooking class or a spa treatment, there are always plenty of alternative options. You could also join in the sand-sculpting festival that takes place on Karon Beach in December.

Apart from enjoying sports or relaxing on the beach, you could explore and experience the Patong Carnival and Seafood Festival. This annual week-long festival in December is one of the most celebrated in Phuket.

Increasing Crowds

Crowds start to increase steadily from December, as Christmas and New Year's Eve approach, but are still lower than the peak months to come. January is the peak of the high season.

The month of November, just after the rainy season and before the peak season, is a good time to enjoy good weather with smaller crowds.

Bang Tao Beach, Karon Beach, and Kata Beach are less-crowded beaches that are recommended for stays during the peak season.

Rainy Season in Phuket (May to October)

• In the rainiest months (August, September, and October), it rains for 1–2 hours in the afternoon.
• In May, June, July, and October, there are mostly shorter downpours, usually lasting for half an hour.
• After a brief shower, the rest of the day remains mostly clear. Your trip won't be affected too much by rain.
• Rain has its advantages, as it will bring the temperature down a bit, and it means the rainy season has quieter beaches and better prices.
• It won't rain every day in the rainy season. It's still possible to have some calm sunny days, and even the rainy days are mostly dry, though cloudy.

The monsoon winds make the sea turbulent and wavy. It is not a good season for scuba diving. However, it is a good season for surfing! The waves whipped up by the wind are necessary for surfing. But the thing to keep in mind is not surfing in stormy weather. The best beaches for surfing include Naiharn, Kata, Patong, Kalim, Kamala, Surin, and Naiyang.

You may be able to experience Visakha Bucha in May/June, a day for celebrating the Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and passing. You'll find worshippers forming candle-lit processions at dusk in the temples. Visitors are more than welcome to participate.

You can also find grand sales in this season, taking place across the country starting in mid-June. It's an ideal time for shoppers to take advantage of amazing deals on a variety of goods and services.

Hot Season in Phuket (March to April)

Though the dry season technically ends in March, days are generally still sunny with blue skies, and rainfall doesn't reach moderate levels until April.

April is the hottest month in Phuket. It could be scorching. April begins to be gradually affected by the monsoon and humidity rises.

It is still a good time for water activities such as diving and swimming.

There's also Thai New Year ( Songkran Festival ) from April 13 to 15, when you could celebrate with the locals and enjoy being splashed with water.

Recommended Phuket Tours

• 10-Day Classic Thailand Tour : Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Phuket (recommended for first-timers)
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17 Best Things to do in Phuket, Thailand

Discover Phuket, a huge island connected by a small bridge to the mainland of Thailand . While it might be a ‘love it or hate it’ type of place, it offers something for every kind of traveler, from partying in the towns to natural excursions among jungle-covered temples and idyllic beaches. Spend some time exploring its hidden corners, or use it as a jumping-off point to discover the paradise islands that lay just off the shore. We’re showing you our favorite spots with this guide to all the best things to do in Phuket!

Things to do in Phuket, Thailand

Phuket may be an island, but it feels more like a peninsula of Thailand, mainly because of its vast size. However, it has buildings and culture which feel distinctly different from the mainland—home to a melting pot of Chinese, European , and Thai architecture, and its own regional dialect called Baba Malay.

Many people know Phuket as a party destination. However, if you look in the right places, there is so much more on offer. Discover its lush greenery, colonial-style old town, and buzzing markets with all the top things to do in Phuket.

Here are all your hotel options in Phuket.

1. Phuket Old Town 

Explore the beautiful streets of Phuket Old Town, home to a unique mix of Chinese and European architecture, due to its location on ancient trading routes. In the 19th century, merchants came to Phuket and began building pretty homes, some of which look straight off a Portugal postcard. In fact, at times, it’s hard to believe you’re in Thailand! 

Also read: Best Places to Visit in Thailand

Get lost among the streets and colorful buildings, many of which have now been transformed into cute shops, trendy cafes, or interesting galleries and museums. The area is also very artistic and has become famous in its own right for street art. As such, you’ll find huge murals that plaster the walls and regular art workshops on offer.

Tip: You can find the oldest buildings on Thaland Road, Dibuk Road ( see the exact location here ), and Soi Romanee. On Soi Romanee you’ll also find a great ice cream spot called Torry’s Ice Cream, located here .

Weekend Night Market

Don’t miss out on the bustling weekend market in Phuket! On Sunday nights the Old Town comes to life with stalls and vendors selling traditional and local products.

As the sun sets, weave your way down the lively street lit up by fairy lights and try all sorts of authentic Thai dishes at the many street food stalls. It’s also the perfect place to shop for handcrafted souvenirs and be entertained by street performers. 

Tip: Get there early to avoid the bigger crowds, as it’s a popular market for both tourists and locals.

Book this fantastic food tour in Phuket Old Town

Cafes in the Old Town

There’s nothing better than grabbing a delicious cup of coffee in one of the many great cafes in Phuket Old Town. Some of our favorites are:

• Campus Coffee Roasters
• GRAPH Phuket
• MŌMUS coffee
• Shan coffee

2. Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is one of the island’s most important and beautiful temples and one of the best things to do in Phuket! Discover the expansive temple complex, home to five temples, each one unique and different from the others.

Crafted from white and pink marble, gold detailing, and beautiful tilework, these temples are as stunning on the outside as they are in. Best of all, visiting Wat Chalong is free! 

Come at the end of the day when it’s less busy. During this time, you’ll have more space to take in the sacredness of this important site. You may even get the chance to witness some of the rituals taking place. For example, candle lighting or offerings to the gods.

Alongside this, there is the unique practice of lighting firecrackers in the temple complex. This ritual is believed to ward off bad energy and evil spirits and bring positivity and good fortune to temple visitors—a must-see! 

Note: Wat Chalong is an incredibly sacred monument for the people of Phuket. Always be respectful, cover your shoulders and legs, and remove shoes before entering any of the temples. Although it’s free to enter, we recommend leaving a donation to the temple as a token of appreciation.

How to get to Wat Chalong 

The temple is located just 25 minutes from Phuket Old Town and is easily accessible by car, motorbike, or taxi. Remember, you’ll need about an hour to see the entire complex, and it closes at 5 PM, so leave plenty of time. The easiest option is to join a tour that includes many of the main sites in Phuket, including Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha.

3. White Big Buddha

Seeing the big Buddha up close is one of the most extraordinary experiences in Phuket. Standing 45 meters high, the enormous buddha overlooks Phuket, offering 360-degree views across the entire island.

Although you’ll find big buddhas like this one in places like Chiang Rai and Pai , this has to be one of the most beautiful as it’s extremely detailed with beautiful white and grey tiles and ornaments. Even the staircase to the top is exceptionally intricate, crafted with the traditional naga (snake) sculptures up the side. It’s nearly 100 steps to the top, but well worth it to experience this sacred environment.

The temple is free to visit (although donations are appreciated) and open from 6 AM until 7.30 PM. We visited around 8.30 AM, and it was relatively quiet and peaceful. Make sure to leave enough time, usually 1 hour, to stroll around the complex and visit the multiple viewpoints.

The Journey to the Big Buddha in Phuket

The drive to the Big Buddha is all part of the experience; it’s a stunning drive through lush green forest, which is doable with a motorcycle or car. In total, the journey from Phuket Town is 40 minutes. However, from the highway, it’s only about a 10-15 minute drive to the top.

Make a stop halfway at a lovely restaurant named Mountain Breeze, where you can order some food and enjoy incredible views over Phuket.

Note: Unfortunately, halfway to the Big Buddha, there are a lot of wildlife tourist traps offering travelers the option to take selfies with tigers or ride elephants. This is something Thailand is working hard to try and crack down on. Please support their efforts by being sustainable and ethical travelers and avoiding this type of wildlife tourism .

4. Pottery Class

Sitao Ceramic Studio is a popular spot for pottery classes, located in a cheerful bright yellow building in the middle of Phuket Old Town. Perfect for a rainy afternoon, you can spend a few hours crafting your own unique souvenir to take home, made with local clay and paint. You can even make magnets! 

Phuket has a long history of ceramics production, with influences from China and Europe blending together to make unique and intricate designs. Learn about this fascinating history, while you create something special of your own. Alternatively, browse the collection of handmade pottery on offer in their shop.

Open every day except Wednesday, 10 AM – 7 PM. It’s recommended to book in advance, as it’s a popular activity. 

Good to know: Sitao Ceramic can ship what you make to your home address. This saves you from carrying around fragile ceramics for the rest of your holiday!

5. Samet Nangshe Viewpoint

Motorbike through green jungles and small villages to Samet Nangshe Viewpoint – easily one of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural views! Beautiful at any time of day, but especially spectacular at sunrise, the viewpoint is perched atop a (very!) steep hill. Once you’re at the top, you’ll be rewarded by a view over Phang Nga Bay, a stunning body of turquoise blue water dotted with hundreds of limestone islands and framed by a luscious mangrove forests. 

Entrance fee: 50 THB (1.44 USD)

We recommend staying a night somewhere close by, so you can enjoy the sunrise and some fantastic stargazing. It’s worth noting that it’s not on the Phuket peninsula, so you might want to book a night close to the viewpoint. We stayed at the lovely Baan Kamana , about 30 minutes away, but you can also stay at this resort . There are a few different spots to take in the view. The main ones are Samet Nangshe Viewpoint and Bay View Cafe . 

Book a stay at Santhiya Phuket Natai  or Baan Kamana

6. Thai Cooking Class

Phuket has incredible food; the wide variety of fresh, local ingredients available including fantastic seafood, are used to create a fusion of Thai, Chinese, and Malay cuisine, which has grown from their international trading past.

Have a go at making Hokkien-style noodles, spicy soups, and traditional Pad Thai at a local cooking class. There are all the delicious secrets of these dishes are revealed, and you can learn more about Phuket’s unique culinary culture. 

Most classes will include a tour around the local market to pick out fresh ingredients first. Delicious!

7. A Night Out on Bangla Road in Patong

Bangla Road in the Patong Beach district of Phuket is notorious for its wild night out, where you can party until the early hours. Grab a drink, enjoy the music, and watch the crowds of people embracing the party atmosphere at one of Thailand’s top nightlife spots.

Good to know: The street opens for pedestrians at 6 PM. During the day, there’s not much going on here.

8. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Thailand has faced a lot of controversy for its animal tourism over the years. This is paticularly the case with elephants, who are forced to perform or give rides to tourists and are often abused in the process. To have the chance to see these beautiful creatures in an ethical environment, visit the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary . This retirement home (for older and injured elephants) works to rescue these incredible creatures from the logging and tourism industries.

Tip: If you are planning to visit Chiang Mai during your holiday, we’d recommend visiting the Elephant Nature Park there instead, as it is the most ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand. However, Phuket’s Elephant Sanctuary is the next best thing.

Visiting the Elephant Sanctuary

Take a guided tour of the sanctuary, through their 30-acre forest, and observe the herd bathing from a respectful distance. As you learn about their heartbreaking stories, you can also watch them roaming freely from the 600-meter-long canopy walkway in the treetops. Human contact is limited to keep the elephants calm and happy.

See tickets and availability for a guided tour of the Elephant Sanctuary

9. Soi Dog Foundation

Soi Dog Foundation is a non-profit organization and shelter for street dogs and cats. They currently have over 1800 animals in their care. You can take a free 40-minute guided tour of the shelter, where you learn about their programs and also play with the animals!

What’s more, if you are planning to stay in Phuket for a while and would like to help, there are several volunteer programs you can get involved with.

Open Monday – Friday, tours run at 10 AM and 1:30 PM. No entry fee, but donations are welcomed.

Getting there: The shelter is in Mai Khao village, close to the airport, which is around a 50-minute taxi drive from Phuket’s Old Town. However, it’s definitely worth a visit, so we suggest combing it with another trip.

10. Banana Beach

This quiet and somewhat secluded beach on the north-west side of Phuket is surrounded by lush green forest, with soft white sand and gorgeous clear blue water.

From the main road, it’s a short trek down through the trees to reach the beach and enjoy an undisturbed afternoon of swimming and snorkeling in stunning natural surroundings. There is a small beach bar, but no sunbeds or umbrellas, so bring towels.

Good to know: Please respect the natural beauty, take your trash away, and wear reef-safe sunscreen .

11. Hanuman World

Hanuman World is an incredible zipline in the hills of Kathu, a 15-minute drive from Phuket Old Town. You can do activities like ziplining, waterfall abseiling, and sky bridge walks. See the beautiful natural scenery of Phuket as you fly through the rainforest—one of the most exhilarating things to do in Phuket, Thailand!

Opening Times & Entrance Fee: Open 8 AM – 6 PM daily. The price depends on the package of activities. There is also a shuttle service for visitors who book a tour in advance (300 THB / 8.50 USD).

Book your tickets in advance for Hanuman World

12. Kamala Beach & Laem Sing Viewpoint

Kamala Beach, once a quiet fishing village, is now a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. However, it’s still kept its laidback and peaceful atmosphere, with its beautiful palm trees and untouched blue bay. Spend a day here, sipping from a coconut at one of the beachside bars or taking a walk along the clean white sand.

Laem Sing Viewpoint overlooks the beaches of Kamala and Surin and offers incredible panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding coastline covered in tropical forests. Come here at sunset when the whole bay turns breathtaking shades of pink and orange. 

Here are all your hotel options in Kamala Beach.

13. Nai Thon Beach Staircase 

To reach Nai Thon Beach you’ll need to make the steep climb down 200 steps. However, this tucked-away staircase is actually the most picturesque thing to do in Phuket! The wooden stairs, lined on either side by thick green jungle and palm trees, lead down to a tropical paradise of white sand and turquoise water.

Although the stairs are now a popular photo spot, the beach itself is a beautiful place to relax and spend a few hours watching the sun go down. Because it’s difficult to reach, it’s also relatively quiet.

Unfortunately, the beach was highly polluted during our visit, with a lot of plastic washed up on the shore and by the stairs. 

Read: Learn more about how to travel plastic-free!

14. Karon Beach

Another tiny fishing village turned tourist hotspot, this long stretch of sand in Karon is stunning, with soft white sand and an inviting clear blue sea just waiting to be dived into! The popular area can get busy, but it is big enough that you should be able to find a quiet spot for yourself.

There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops here. We’d recommend Soul I Vegan Cafe & Restaurant for a delicious and nourishing meal to keep your energy up in between swims in the sea.

Tip: If it’s super busy, try Kata Beach or Kata Noi Beach, which are quieter.

Here are all your hotel options in Karon Beach.

15. Bang Pae Waterfall

Bang Pae Waterfall is a stunning natural feature In Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, the only remaining rainforest in Phuket. The falls cascade down a rocky cliff into a natural pool below, surrounded by tropical plants, and it’s a great place to cool off in the hot and humid weather! 

The park is a natural sanctuary for rare and endangered wildlife, so keep a close eye out for flying squirrels and macaques as you walk. You are also closeby to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project if you want to learn more about these amazing animals.

Entrance Fee: 200 THB (5 USD) to enter the national park.

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16. Go Island Hopping

Phuket is the perfect jumping-off point for island hopping. Because of its location in the stunning blue Andaman Sea, there is easy access to hundreds of beautiful limestone islands with white sandy beaches and dramatic green cliffs. Spend a few days exploring pristine beaches, snorkeling and diving in coral reefs, and visiting floating villages. 

Many of these islands are only a short boat ride away, so you can base yourself in Phuket and make day trips. Alternatively, pick your favorite and spend a few nights away in a tropical island paradise.

Getting there: Book a tour from the many operators in Phuket, or there are plenty of flexible transport options, including speedboats and ferries, which can take you to most islands in under an hour. Prices: 1000-4000 THB (30-120 USD)

One of the most famous places in Thailand, Phi Phi is, in fact, a group of six islands, all with beautiful beaches and crystal clear water. Come here for out-of-this-world snorkeling and diving spots, stunning scenery that you may recognize from movies like ‘The Beach’, and vibrant nightlife.

See availability for a tour to the Phi Phi Islands

Racha Islands  

Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi are two beautiful islands, only one of which is inhabited. Both have snowy white beaches, clear azure water, and world-class snorkeling and diving. These quiet islands are also great for stargazing.

Book tickets for a catamaran tour to the Racha Islands

K ai Islands

These stunning islands are what you see on the posters—home to untouched sandy beaches, bright blue water dotted with small wooden boats, and palm trees waving in the breeze. The island has a relaxed and authentic vibe, making it the perfect place to unwind and snorkel in the shallow waters.

See availability and tickets for a day tour to the Kai Islands

Coral Island 

Coral Island, also known as Koh Hae, is home to the beautiful Banana Beach and breathtaking coral reefs, great for snorkeling and diving. It is also only 15 minutes by speedboat from Phuket, so it’s an excellent option for a day trip.

Book your speedboat ticket in advance to Banana Beach

17. Visit the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project

The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project aims to rescue, protect and rehabilitate gibbons that have been illegally captured for the tourism and pet trades. The team works to repopulate the endangered species and reintroduce them back into their natural habitat, which is also sadly Phuket’s last remaining rainforest. 

The visit includes a visit to the nearby Bang Pae waterfall, a beautiful natural oasis where you can cool off.

See the official website for tour prices and times

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Phuket

Phuket has countless restaurants and cafes offering everything from international cuisine to delicious local dishes and incredible seafood, of course! There are loads of great vegan and vegetarian options as well, and you can cafe-hop for days. 

There are so many amazing places to choose from, but here are some of our absolute favorites:

• Beach Coconuts Bowls
• Laem Sai Cup Cafe
• Soul Vegan Cafe
• Three Monkeys Restaurant
• The Neighbors Cafe
• Origami Cafe
• Maimorn Seafood & Karaoke
• Pizzeria Da Moreno
• The Vegan Table
• Amore Mexican Tapas & Bar

Where to Stay

We recommend splitting your time between the beach and the old town, spending at least 2-3 days in each. There are plenty of accommodation options, from cheap and cheerful hostels in Phuket to upmarket hotels and luxury villas. Here are some of the most popular areas for your stay:

Phuket Old Town

The best time to stay here is during the weekend when the Sunday night market is on, and there is a lively atmosphere. Although small, it’s the cultural and historical heart of the island, with beautiful colonial architecture, museums, and many cute cafes. 

Hotels in Phuket Old Town 😴

Patong Beach

Patong is the most popular area for visitors as there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops to explore. There are also lots of backpacker hostels here, and if partying is your thing, this is where you should be based. 

Hotels in Patong 😴

Kata Beach or Karon Beach

Come here for relaxed beach vibes, stunning natural scenery, and more peace than busy Patong. Laid-back Kata is a bit quieter than Karon. 

Hotels in Kata Beach 😴

Bang Tao is a huge stretch of beach (one of the longest in Phuket), where many resorts are based. It’s much quieter, a little fancier, and has beautiful sunsets.

Hotels in Bang Tao 😴

How Many Days in Phuket? 

There are so many things to do in Phuket that it would be a shame to pack it all into a few short days. We recommend staying at least a week to fully explore and experience everything that this huge island has to offer. There are loads of different towns and beaches to visit, great shopping, fantastic cafes and plenty of parties! You should also definitely spend a day or two island hopping if you have the time. 

How to Visit Phuket

There are international and domestic flights to Phuket , with daily flights from Bangkok taking just under two hours. If you’re lucky enough to have a window seat, keep an eye out for Mai Khao Beach while landing, which is right by the airport, where you’ll see people plane-spotting on the sand! 

From the airport, it is a 40-minute drive to Phuket Old Town; you can take a shared van (120 THB / 3.50 USD) or a public bus, and there are always plenty of taxis waiting if you have a slightly bigger budget (550 THB / 16 USD). Please note that Grab, Indrive, and other apps are not allowed inside the airport. 

Book your airport transfer in advance here

If traveling from Bangkok, you can take a night bus or train (both take around 12-14 hours), which is a more affordable and sustainable option. The train stops at Surat Thani, so you must take an onward bus from there to Phuket.

See availability and tickets for a train to Surat Thani

Getting Around

You can rent a motorbike for around 5-10 USD per day. However, remember that traffic in Phuket can be heavy, and road safety is not always a top priority. Tuk-tuks are the easiest way to get around and generally the cheapest, as taxis are a little more expensive. Grab taxi is another handy option. Alternatively, you can rent a car to have complete freedom.

We recommend to rent a car in Thailand through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

How Much Does Phuket Cost?

Phuket is a popular holiday destination for all kinds of budgets, whether you’re looking to treat yourself or you’re on a budget. There are plenty of great hostel options, and choosing local restaurants or street food is also great for saving money.

Tip: During the high season, from November to February, prices will be higher.

Costs of Traveling in Phuket

Travel on a budget in Phuket, from $110 − $240 USD weekly per person, mid-range $490 − $590 USD, and high-end from $590 − $750 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $80 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $5 − $25 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $2 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Food: $3 − $8 USD
• Activities: $2 − $10 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

Phuket can get very busy during the high season (November to February), which means higher prices, but the weather is cooler, and there is less chance of heavy rain. The shoulder season of March to May is an excellent time to come if you want to avoid the bigger crowds and enjoy lower prices while still having good weather.  

Tip: If you’re here in September/October, don’t miss out on the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, a colorful and lively event with different ceremonies over 10 days and lots of firecrackers!

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Phuket Weather in June: Climate & Places to Visit

In June, the Phuket weather is coming to the monsoon season with more frequent short showers and strong winds. If you are planning to visit Phuket in June, do not forget to check out this guide.

Characteristics of Phuket weather in June

Brunch & coffee shops, travel tips for phuket in june.

Generally, Phuket is warm all year round. From April to May and September to October, the average temperature is high. Let us give you further details of Phuket weather in June and must-do activities during this time.

Phuket weather in June is mild, with an  average temperature  of around  29°C . Throughout the month, the highest being 32°C, and the lowest is 25°C. Meanwhile, the average  sea temperature is 30°C .

Due to the humidity level, the Phuket temperature may feel hotter than it is. The average humidity of Phuket in the middle of June is 85% and can peak at 90% in September. For this reason, it is advised to pick a good time to go outside.

You can expect an  average rainfall of 240mm  over 16 to 18 days, whereas you can expect more rain at the end of the month as the monsoon is getting into full swing. At this time, foggy days are very rare, but you can expect one or two days around June and July. Even though it rains, it is rarely cold due to its proximity to the equator.

What to expect in Phuket in June

Some day tours might be cancelled due to the unexpected thunderstorms, but there is more to the charming Phuket than sand beaches. While it is raining outside, take the opportunity to visit a lovely cafe that contributes to Thailand's diverse food and beverage scene; or visit an indoor facility such as the Phuket aquarium or museums.

We have two suggestions that made the list of the top 5 cafes in Phuket. The first is The Neighbors Cafe , a trendy spot that offers breakfast and brunch dishes as well as drinks throughout the day. Try out its crepes, pancakes, French toasts, or desserts here, and you will be surprised! A plus point is that both the restaurant's decoration and dishes are easy on the eye, which makes the best Instagram pictures!

The food attracts a lot of foreign customers. Source: The Neighbors Hostel & Cafe / Facebook

There is also Rose Espresso , located in Phuket Town. Rose Espresso's style of decoration is vintage. This coffee shop is worth a visit if you are in the area, looking for a freshly-made cup of tea or a tasty English-style breakfast. Expect to find good customer service and quality food here if you happen to come across Rose Espresso on a rainy day.

Enjoy mouth-watering desserts in a pretty, cozy shop — what more could you ask for? Source: TripAdvisor

Check out: The Ultimate Guide to visit Phuket in rainy season  

• Water activities like scuba diving and snorkelling are not recommended on some days in June. On days with a good chance of sunshine, we suggest sunbathing by the beach.
• The atmosphere is much more quiet and peaceful as June is the low season in Phuket. It is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the tourist crowds.

To sum up, the weather of Phuket in June offers an ideal time to visit this lovely island. Follow our travel guide on weather overview and suitable activities to enjoy your summer trip. Let's book Phuket tours to enjoy your wonderful beach vacation.

BestPrice Travel

Image source: Internet 

Questions & Answers

When is the Best Time to Visit Phuket? – 2024 Guide

Joy Intisuk

March 30, 2023

Table of Contents

Coming straight to the point, the best time to visit Phuket is between November and April. During this time, the beach is calm, and weather conditions are ideal for all kinds of beach activities.

The worst time to visit Phuket is during the monsoon season, from May to October. The sea rages during this season and can be unsafe for water sports.

However, accommodation prices are much lower during this season.

Although we have given you the exact best time to visit Phuket, the term ‘best time’ is subjective and may differ for people.

Therefore, we are discussing the weather of Phuket and other important details in this blog so that you can better plan your visit and not rely on the majority votes.

Find out the best time to visit Phuket , when the island’s idyllic weather and pristine beaches come together to create a truly unforgettable tropical paradise experience.

Phuket Climate

Phuket, as its location close to the sea suggests, has a tropical climate pattern as it is close to the sea. It varies between warm, cool, and rainy and never gets too cold.

Cool Season

People usually prefer visiting here during the cool season that lasts from November through February. The temperature during these months ranges between 23°C to 30°C and is drier.

Since monsoons precede this season, the overall atmosphere is very cool, fresh, and breezy. This season is ideal for relaxing by the beach and trying adventure water sports.

Warm Season

On the other hand, summers are scorching and extend from March to mid-May.

During this time, the whole of Thailand experiences the ‘burning season,’ characterized by poor air quality and scorching heat.

Monsoon Season

The monsoon season in Phuket extends from May to October. It is an excellent time to visit if you like rainfall.

The best part about visiting Phuket this season is that the crowd is comparatively scared here, and you can have the space to yourself.

To give you an even better understanding of the best time to visit Phuket, we are listing down the month-wise weather conditions.  

Phuket During March – June

Phuket island is the hottest between March and May. The temperatures go as high as 40 degrees during the day.

This period is deemed to be the ‘Hot season.’ Tourists usually avoid visiting Phuket during the Hot Season.

It is not the best time for a pleasant holiday. The average temperature during the Hot season is around 30 degrees.

Towards the end of May and starting of June, the island gets a few refreshing showers that offer some respite from the scorching heat.

The first half of May gets quite pleasant because of the rain. This is also the time during which the Thai locals celebrate their New Year. Songkran, or Thai New Year, is celebrated through water fights and lasts three days.

If you visit Phuket during this time, you can also witness Phuket Bike Week, the biggest motorcycle event in Asia. It happens around mid-April.

It includes an extensive bike exhibition, a “Ride for Peace” bike parade, custom bike and tattoo contests, live music, and Miss Phuket Bike Week pageant.

The Phuket Gay Pride & Festival is also held during this time for seven days. Hence, we see it is quite an eventful time in Phuket.

The famous “Amazing Grand Sale” also begins in June and witnesses great footfall. If you love shopping, you can consider visiting Phuket during this time.

Pro Tips For Visiting Phuket During This Time

• It would be best to consider staying indoors to avoid getting sick in such extreme heat.
• For sightseeing, you can consider visiting temples, entertainment complexes, and cinemas or trying the unique Thai wellness retreats.
• If you plan to move out, try stepping out in the early mornings or late evenings. During this time, the weather is much more bearable.
• For long distances, consider taking a car on rent. There are some really good car rentals in Phuket that you can consider.
• Always carry ample water and sunscreen whenever you move out.
• Pack lightweight clothing with natural fabrics like cotton. They will keep you cool.
• Take enough fluids to stay hydrated.

Phuket During July – October

This is the monsoon season in Phuket, also known as the low season.

During this period, Phuket receives torrential rains along with cool breezes. September is the wettest month, and it tends to rain the most.

In July, the Phuket Race Week, an international-standard yacht race, is held over four days in the middle of July. It is situated on the east coast of Phuket. It includes a variety of activities and four regatta parties.

You can also witness the Hungry Ghost Festival, which takes place in August.

During this time, food offering ceremonies are organized at home to make merit and distribute food and other necessities to those in need. These events can be experienced at any of the Chinese Shrines.

During September and October, due to heavy rains. So it could be a great time to get some good discounts and space. However, you should avoid visiting waterfalls during this time.

During this time, you might be restricted in terms of movement. Many beaches do not allow visitors during the monsoons. You might also not be able to partake in various water sports.

• Avoid going to waterfalls, violent beaches, and swimming pools during this time.
• Try staying indoors when it rains heavily.
• Carry sturdy footwear to avoid slipping and skidding.
• Always carry an umbrella or raincoat whenever stepping out.

Phuket During December – March

Phuket between December and March when the weather is pleasant, with little or no rain and plenty of sunlight.. It the best season, perfect for a beach holiday.

This is also the coolest time of the year. There is a lot of festivity during this season, with Christmas and New Year celebrated with a great deal of pomp and gusto.

Besides the festivals, there is a very happening nightlife where you can have a great time. The International Boat Show is also held in January from the 5th to the 8th. It is a well-attended annual affair.

During this event, there is a display of fantastic collections that include internationally renowned yachts from prestigious shipyards, watercraft, marine equipment, and a wide range of nautical gadgets.

During this time, the beaches are welcoming, and there is revelry in the air. Also, this is the best time to visit Bangla Road and Phang Nga Phuket’s top attractions.

There are also several other exciting activities you could partake in.

If you are visiting between December to March, don’t forget to experience the crazy nightlife at Bangla Road. It might appear very basic during the day, but as the sun sets, the street transforms into a party zone.

Few tourists visit here, and it is usually closed to traffic after sunset. The side roads turn into entertainment complexes.

Phang Nga Bay, with its sheer limestone karsts that jut vertically out of the emerald-green water, is also definitely worth visiting.

The best way to enjoy this spectacular scenery would be to take a long boat trip which passes by all the sites and stops at some of the beaches.

The Thao Thepkasattri-Thao Sri Suntorn Festival is also held in March. It is one of the most important festivals in Phuket and is held for over two weeks.

The festival features many cultural and sports events, including bicycle racing, tug of war, a mini-marathon, and takraw, besides a Buddhist ordination ceremony.

Phuket also celebrates National Thai Elephant day in March. During this time, the zoos in Phuket treat their elephants to huge bouquets of fruit and sugar cane.

This season, particularly from the second half of December onwards, gets extremely crowded in Phuket. You’d do well to get a seat at a restaurant or pub in time.

• This is perhaps the busiest season in Phuket, so you will most likely see crowds everywhere.
• The hotels get mad expensive during this season, so book in advance.
• If possible, try to get a good Airbnb since they are cheaper and offer good quality service. – Here is a list of the best Airbnbs in Phuket that you can consider.

Final Words

Now that you have all the essential information about the Phuket weather condition, you are in a better position to take care of things on your Thailand vacation.

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Thailand in June 2024

As June rolls in with its warm breeze and a promise of adventure, Thailand emerges as a paradise for travelers seeking a blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and culinary delights. This Southeast Asian gem, known for its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities, offers a unique travel experience, especially in June when the tourist crowds thin out and the natural beauty is at its peak. This blog will take you on a journey through the 10 best places to visit in Thailand in June, each offering its unique allure.

Table of Contents

Thailand in June: Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations

1. bangkok: the heartbeat of thailand.

Bangkok , Thailand’s vibrant capital, is a thrilling blend of historic sites, bustling street markets, and a modern urban landscape. The city is home to iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and the bustling streets of Khao San Road.

Visitors can explore floating markets, indulge in street food, or shop in luxury malls. Bangkok’s rich cultural tapestry is evident in its ornate temples, lively festivals, and the famous Chao Phraya River that courses through the city, offering a unique perspective of urban life. Read Also: Best Time to Visit Bangkok

Key Attractions:

• The Grand Palace : A testament to Thai architecture and spirituality, this complex captivates with its intricate designs and historical significance.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market : A shopper’s paradise, offering everything from vintage clothing to traditional handicrafts and delicious street food.
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2. Chiang Mai: The Cultural Capital

Chiang Mai , nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, is a serene city known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It’s famous for its ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang.

Visitors can stroll through the historic old town, experience vibrant night markets, or embark on trekking adventures in nearby national parks. The city also serves as a gateway to hill tribe villages, offering a glimpse into the diverse ethnic cultures of Northern Thailand.

• Doi Suthep Temple : Perched on a mountain, this temple offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Lanna culture.
• Sunday Walking Street Market : A cultural extravaganza of crafts, music, and street food, perfect for an evening stroll.

Chiang Mai Package: 3 Nights 4 Day Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Trip Itinerary

3. Phuket: The Beach Paradise

Phuket , Thailand’s largest island, is synonymous with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a haven for beach lovers, with popular spots like Patong, Kata, and Karon.

Apart from sunbathing and water sports, Phuket offers cultural experiences like visiting the Big Buddha or exploring the historic Old Town. The island also serves as a base for island hopping to nearby gems like the Phi Phi Islands and James Bond Island.

• Patong Beach : Known for its vibrant nightlife and water sports.
• Phi Phi Islands : A short boat ride away, these islands offer stunning natural beauty and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
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4. Krabi: A Nature Lover’s Dream

Krabi Province, with its dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. Ao Nang is Krabi’s bustling beach town, offering easy access to famous spots like Railay Beach and the Phi Phi Islands.

The region is also known for its fantastic scuba diving and rock climbing opportunities. Krabi’s national parks, like Than Bok Khorani, offer scenic trails, waterfalls, and caves for exploration.

• Railay Beach : Accessible only by boat, it’s a haven for rock climbers and beach lovers.
• The Emerald Pool : A natural pool amid the jungle, known for its crystal-clear, emerald waters.

Krabi Package:  5 Nights 6 Days Krabi Phuket Travel Itinerary

5. Pai: The Serene Escape

Pai, a small town in Northern Thailand, is known for its idyllic landscape, with rolling hills and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a favorite among backpackers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Pai offers hot springs, waterfalls like Mo Paeng, and viewpoints such as Pai Canyon. The town’s walking street transforms into a lively market at night, offering local crafts and street food. Pai is also a hub for exploring the rural countryside and traditional villages.

• Pai Canyon : Offering stunning sunset views and adventurous walking trails.
• Tha Pai Hot Springs : A natural retreat perfect for relaxation.
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6. Hua Hin: The Royal Beach Retreat

Hua Hin , a seaside resort city, combines the charm of a beachside town with historical significance. Once a royal retreat, it offers long, tranquil beaches like Hua Hin Beach and Khao Takiab. The city’s attractions include the elegant Hua Hin Railway Station and Maruekhathaiyawan Palace.

Hua Hin is also known for its night markets, seafood restaurants, and family-friendly water parks, making it a perfect destination for a relaxed holiday.

• Hua Hin Beach : Known for its serene ambiance.
• Maruekhathaiyawan Palace : A beautiful teakwood palace, showcasing royal Thai architecture.

7. Ayutthaya: A Journey Through History

Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. This historic city is dotted with ruins of ancient temples and palaces, standing testament to its past grandeur.

Major sites include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat with its iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Visitors can explore these sites by bicycle, boat tours along the river, or tuk-tuk, immersing themselves in Thailand’s rich history.

• Ayutthaya Historical Park : Home to ancient temples and ruins.
• Wat Mahathat : Famous for the Buddha’s head entwined in tree roots.

8. Koh Samui: An Island of Luxury

Koh Samui , nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, is known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, and dense, mountainous rainforest. It’s a popular destination for its luxury resorts, posh spas, and vibrant nightlife.

The island’s attractions include the famous Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai and the natural beauty of the Ang Thong National Marine Park. Chaweng and Lamai beaches are hotspots for tourists seeking beachside entertainment and activities.

• Chaweng Beach : Known for its pristine sands and clear waters.
• Ang Thong Marine National Park : A pristine archipelago ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.

9. Sukhothai: The Birthplace of Thai Culture

Sukhothai, meaning “Dawn of Happiness”, is an ancient city and the first capital of Siam. The Sukhothai Historical Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, features well-preserved ruins of temples, palaces, and Buddha statues.

The park’s serene atmosphere is enhanced by its lotus-filled ponds and well-maintained gardens. A visit here offers insight into the origins of Thai art, architecture, and culture, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

• Sukhothai Historical Park : Explore the ruins of the first capital of Siam.
• Si Satchanalai Historical Park : Offers a quieter exploration of ancient ruins.

10. Kanchanaburi: A Blend of Nature and History

Kanchanaburi, located in western Thailand, is a town rich in history and natural beauty. It’s known for the Bridge over the River Kwai, associated with the historic Death Railway to Burma.

The surrounding area features several national parks like Erawan and Sai Yok, known for their stunning waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails. Kanchanaburi provides a mix of historical exploration and outdoor activities, set against a backdrop of rivers, forests, and mountains.

• Erawan National Park : Famous for its seven-tiered waterfall and scenic hiking trails.
• The Bridge over the River Kwai : A poignant reminder of WWII history.

Thailand in June is an enchanting blend of serene landscapes, rich culture, and historical grandeur. Each destination in this list promises a unique experience, from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of Koh Samui. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into Thai culture, Thailand’s diverse landscapes and warm hospitality ensure an unforgettable journey.

1. Is June a good time to visit Thailand?

Yes, June is a good time to visit Thailand as it is less crowded, and you can find great deals on accommodations and flights.

2. What is the weather like in Thailand in June?

The weather in June is warm and humid, with occasional rain showers. Temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C.

3. Where are the best places to visit in Thailand in June?

• Bangkok : Great for shopping, temples, and nightlife.
• Chiang Mai : Ideal for cultural experiences and nature.
• Phuket : Perfect for beaches and water activities.

4. What are some things to do in Bangkok in June?

• Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
• Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market.
• Enjoy a river cruise on the Chao Phraya River.

5. Can I visit Chiang Mai in June?

Yes, Chiang Mai is a great place to visit in June for its cooler temperatures and cultural festivals.

6. Are the beaches in Thailand good to visit in June?

Yes, beaches like those in Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi are beautiful in June. However, be prepared for occasional rain.

7. What is the best place in Thailand to visit in June for nature lovers?

Khao Sok National Park : Known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities like trekking and kayaking.

8. Is it a good idea to visit Phuket in June?

Yes, Phuket is good to visit in June as it offers a mix of sunny days and rain, which keeps the landscape lush and green.

9. What should I pack for a trip to Thailand in June?

Light, breathable clothing, an umbrella or raincoat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.

10. Are there any festivals in Thailand in June?

Yes, the Phi Ta Khon Festival in Loei Province is a famous event where locals wear ghost masks and celebrate with music and dance.

11. How is the food scene in Thailand in June?

The food scene is vibrant with street food markets, restaurants, and food festivals offering delicious Thai cuisine like pad thai, tom yum, and mango sticky rice.

12. Can I visit the islands in Thailand in June?

Yes, you can visit islands like Koh Samui and Koh Tao, which have milder weather and less rain compared to the Andaman Coast.

13. Is it safe to travel to Thailand in June?

Yes, Thailand is safe to travel to in June. Just be mindful of weather updates and local advisories.

14. How is the nightlife in Thailand in June?

Nightlife in cities like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya is lively with bars, clubs, and beach parties in full swing.

15. What is the best way to travel around Thailand in June?

The best way to travel around Thailand is by using a mix of domestic flights, trains, and buses, depending on your destinations. Local taxis and tuk-tuks are also convenient for shorter distances.

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About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

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Phuket travel guide: everything you need to know as the Thai island reopens

Thailand's largest island is reopening to fully inoculated travellers in july.

Phuket, Thailand is reopening to vaccinated tourists from July 1. Courtesy Emirates

One of Thailand’s most-visited destinations is set to welcome tourists again.

From July 1, there will be no restrictions on fully vaccinated travellers arriving in Phuket. The region has new travel rules that are different from the remainder of Thailand, where international tourism remains closed.

Vaccinated travellers wishing to explore farther afield than Phuket have the option of spending 14 days in the island region, then they'll be cleared to visit other destinations across the country.

If a holiday in this Thai island paradise is tempting, here's what you need to know before you go.

Who can travel to Phuket?

Travellers who have received a full dose of a Covid-19 vaccination can fly to Phuket from Thursday, July 1, from most destinations around the world. The final dose of a vaccine must have been taken at least 14 days before arriving.

Travellers from countries deemed red by Thai authorities cannot fly to Phuket, even if they are fully vaccinated. At the moment, this includes India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal, but the list will be updated based on the coronavirus situation in each country.

Non-vaccinated travellers from non-red-zone countries can still travel to Phuket, but must stay in an alternative local quarantine hotel for 14 days upon arrival. A list of these hotels can be found here .

Is Thailand open to tourists?

Phuket has different travel requirements to the rest of Thailand and the majority of the country is not yet open to tourists from overseas.

A ban on international flights to the country has been extended until at least Saturday, July 31, and travel is restricted to specific groups, mostly Thai citizens, students or those seeking medical treatment. Only after spending 14 days in Phuket will international travellers be allowed to visit any other parts of the country for tourism purposes.

What vaccines are recognised for travel to Phuket?

Authorities are recognising all of the major Covid-19 vaccinations in line with the latest guidelines of the Thai government.

This includes Pfizer-BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca, Covishield (Serum Institute of India), Johnson & Johnson, Sinovac, SK Bioscience-AstraZeneca, Moderna and Sinopharm.

What do I need to do before I fly to Phuket?

Travellers must complete and submit a Certificate of Entry form. The process for this can be found here .

PCR tests are compulsory before travelling, and need to be taken no more than 72 hours before departing for Phuket. Children aged 6 to 17 can undergo a Rapid Antigen Test upon arriving at Phuket airport instead of taking a PCR test. This costs upwards of $40. Children under 6 do not need to undergo testing.

Tourists also need to download the ThailandPlus app from the Google Play or Apple Store, and register their details there.

Finally, Covid-19 travel insurance with coverage for at least $100,000 is required, with policies offered by airlines not accepted.

Which airlines are flying from the UAE to Phuket?

Etihad Airways and Emirates have announced they will resume flights to Phuket from next month.

The UAE's national airline will resume direct flights to one of Thailand’s most popular holiday destinations on Thursday, July 1. With a flight time of six-and-a-half hours, Etihad has fares from Dh1,795 ($488) return.

From Dubai, Emirates will restart a four-weekly flight service to the resort island from Friday, July 2, with fares starting from Dh1,995.

What restrictions are in place in Phuket?

Travellers arriving in Phuket will need to take another PCR test on days six and 12. During visits to the island, tourists must follow all the rules in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19, this includes social distancing and wearing masks in all public areas.

Thailand currently has more than 199,200 active cases of Covid-19 infections, according to data from John Hopkins University. Thailand has begun a mass vaccination drive with a target of inoculating 70 per cent of the population by 2022. So far, the John Hopkins University reports that 2.4 per cent of the population are fully vaccinated.

What to see and do on holiday in Phuket?

Thailand's largest island and arguably its most famous, Phuket has all the ingredients needed for a perfect holiday. Only an hour by plane from Bangkok, it is good to visit any time, thanks to year-round sunshine and not-too-heavy monsoons.

From the blue waters of the Andaman Sea to endless sandy beaches, excellent diving and fantastic Thai cuisine, it is easy to see why travellers flock to this island paradise from all over the world.

Visit Old Phuket Town to see shrines, temples and preserved mansions, tuck into tasty street food at the Sunday Walking Street Market and don't miss the Great Buddha of Phuket, one of the island's most recognised landmarks and a great spot for drinking in 360° views of the island.

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What to do in Phuket?

What are the best things to do in Phuket is one of the most important questions people ask us when planning a trip. We explored the island for 30 years to bring you the best of Phuket, sorted in what we saw and what people liked the most. There is an incredibly vast range of attractions, activities and tours, from fabulous beaches and natural wonders to glittering temples and human-made attractions for you to explore and experience.

Phang Nga Bay is an absolute must-do, with jaw-dropping limestone cliffs and flooded caves. Phi Phi islands are everyone’s second favourite thing to do in Phuket, even though they can be a little crowded. The 45-meter-high Big Buddha of Phuket is also on everyone’s list, and this attraction is not difficult to reach. Walking with the elephants to help them escape a life of hard labour is the next big thing in Phuket and is growing fast in popularity.

4 Important things to know when planning tours in Phuket

• We recommend planning just a few tours and daytrips before travelling, then once here you can adjust your plan according to your mood or the weather. However, if you plan to visit Phuket during the peak season (end of December and January) you should try to book the tours that relate to islands, cruises and Phang Nga Bay (especially the famous John Gray SeaCanoe )
• You can book those day trips once here; they are usually cheaper and can be booked directly from your hotel, in the street or one of the many travel agencies. We added information on each attraction.
• Tours always include transportation from and to your hotel, so that is not a worry!
• Some tours may look more expensive than others, but those usually offer a better experience: less crowded, better service and overall: a better experience.

With so much to choose from, it may be challenging to fit all the things to do in Phuket into one holiday. So to make your travel planning a lot easier, we listed here a long list of must-do in Phuket sorted by popularity. Some are on the island, and some are around the island but easily accessible in one day.

1. Explore the Beaches of Phuket

This seems to be so obvious thing to do in Phuket since this is the main reason why most travellers travel such long distances, but did you know that we counted more than 46 beaches? You probably know the famous ones, mostly located on the southwest coast: Patong, Kata, Karon, Kamala and Nai Harn. They are famous because they are truly beautiful, but they can also be too busy if you come to find peace and isolation.

Don’t limit yourself to one beach and explore Phuket: drive around and discover the north and east coast beaches as some are superb and still peaceful: Nai Yang, Naithon, and Mai Khao Beaches. Read more about Phuket beaches .

2. Explore Phang Nga Bay

The incredible scenery of Phang Nga has always been at the top of our list of places to visit. There are many ways to explore it. You can take a lazy sunset cruise on a Chinese Junk or explore Phang Nga by canoe through caves and enclosed lagoons. If you can afford it, a full day on a customised private cruise around Phang Nga is the most relaxing and enjoyable experience. Day trips to Phang Nga usually include a stop at the famous James Bond Island and Koh Panyi, the village built entirely on stilts. Similar to the famous Halong Bay in Vietnam, these landscapes will leave unforgettable memories. Read more about Phang Nga Bay

How to get there : Phang Nga can be booked even one day before, once in Phuket, at your hotel or street booth. However, everyone agrees that the best way to do it is with John Gray Seacanoe , which should be booked in advance online, especially during the high season (December to May) When to get there : Thanks to its sheltered geography, Phang Nga is accessible and beautiful all year round, even during the rainy season. The sea is never rough, so you won’t have to worry about seasickness.

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3. Climb to Big Buddha of Phuket

Number 3 on our list of best things to do in Phuket has always been the Big Buddha, an iconic 45-meter tall white marble statue sitting at the top of Nakkerd hill in the south of the island. The construction of this statue, entirely from donations, started in 2002. You can contribute too by sponsoring one small white marble tile and signing your name on it.

It’s a great thing to do; your name will be there forever. Remember that Big Buddha is more than just a landmark; it is a religious place. You should respect it by dressing appropriately: if you wear shorts or skirts above the knee , you will need to wear a sarong provided by security at the entrance. It would be best if you also tried to keep your voice down, which unfortunately is not very well understood by tourists.

The road to get up there is steep but well-paved, and the panoramic view from the top is worth the climb. To the north, you can see the whole of Chalong Bay to Phang Nga; in the south, you will see Kata Beach. On the way down, stop at one of the many little panoramic bars to get a bird’s view of Karon Beach. Read more about Phuket Big Buddha

How to get there : you can easily reach the Big Buddha with your motorbike or car. Tuk-tuks will happily take you there and wait for you. Keep in mind that most tours include a visit to the Big Buddha. When to get there : all year round Price : Entrance is free but donations are appreciated

4. Take a Trip to Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi is a beautiful archipelago made of fantastic beaches and immense cliffs over two bays you can admire from a famous viewpoint. Phi Phi is also renowned among young crowds for those legendary beach parties lasting all night long, reminding a bit of the Full Moon Parties on Koh Phangan. But this fame comes with a price, and Phi Phi may have become too popular. The crowds, greed and developments have severely affected the island, so don’t imagine yourself walking alone on the deserted Maya Beach like they do in the movie The Beach, unless you book a hotel in the north of the island. Read more about Phi Phi Islands

How to get there : Book it in advance if you plan to stay overnight. You can book a ferry or speedboat once in Phuket if you only want to go for the day, but day trips usually allow you such a short time on Phi Phi you won’t have much time for exploration. The price starts as cheap as 375 baht for a ferry ticket + hotel transfer.

When to go there : Phi Phi island is open all year round, but of course, it’s more beautiful with a blue sky during the high season (December to May). During the low season, the ride can be bumpy, so take some pills if you are prone to seasickness.

5. Maya Bay

We can’t talk about Phi Phi Islands without talking about Maya Bay. We listed it separately because it can be a day trip on its own. Maya Bay has reopened after being closed for a while but access is restricted. Read more about Maya Bay

6. Party on Bangla Road

Bangla Road might not be to everyone’s taste, but judging by the enormous crowd walking up and down Patong walking street every night, Bangla is on many people’s must-see list. Unlike what most people believe, Soi Bangla is not a Sin City for Single Men. It’s a colourful and vibrant street full of life, restaurants, shops, bars and dancing girls. If you want to know more, enter these famous Go-Go bars and see what a go-go bar is. You will often see couples tourists having a drink; Patong is a lot more easygoing than Bangkok or Pattaya. Read more about Bangla Road

When to go there : Bangla is lively all year round. Nothing happens during the day, and the street closes to traffic around 7 pm. However, the party atmosphere only kicks in after 9 or 10 pm.

7. Explore Phuket Old Town

It’s hard to resist those old Sino-Portuguese streets with beautiful shophouses and magnificent mansions. Phuket’s old town is perfect for a half-day, with many small cafes, bakeries, and eateries along the way. You can reach there by tuk-tuk or even with the local blue bus that stops at the city market, then walk to Thalang Road, the most popular of the old streets of Phuket Town.

Visit the local markets near the bus station and explore the little streets here and there to discover some incredible abandoned mansions. Don’t miss the Phuket Walking Street on Sunday, a chance to try a lot of local food you cannot find easily! Read more about Phuket Old Town

How to get there : Tuk-Tuk or Grab taxis are the standard options. Then the cheapest way apart from driving there yourself is to ride the local blue bus .

8. Visit Chalong Temple

Chalong Temple (locally called Wat Chalong), built at the beginning of the 19th century, is the largest and the most visited Buddhist temple in Phuket. The most iconic building on the temple grounds is a 60-meter-tall stupa sheltering a fragment of bone from Buddha. Inside the building, beautiful paintings and illustrations on the walls and ceilings narrate the life of Lord Buddha, and each floor is full of donated golden statues.

You can also climb stairs to reach a terrace and enjoy a panoramic view. Just like in any temple in Thailand, remember to dress appropriately: no shorts or skirts above the knee , and no sleeveless shirts. Remember to remove shoes and caps when entering the temple buildings. Read more about Wat Chalong

How to get there : easy to reach by car or motorbike. Most tours will include Wat Chalong, usually combined with a visit to the Big Buddha. When to get there : the temple is open from 7 am to 5 pm, but you can walk around the property anytime. Price : free entrance, but donations are appreciated

9. Explore the many Night Markets!

Phuket has a lot of night markets, but on any day of the week, the line between a night market and a night bazaar is relatively thin. Some markets only open during the weekend, and some during the weekdays. The Sunday Walking Street Market on the old Thalang Road of Phuket Town is the most creative. Read more about Phuket Night Markets

10. Relax or Party in a Beach Club

There is a growing list of superb beach clubs all around Phuket. Most are open all day for customers to enjoy food and drinks on comfortable sofas or beach beds, and some turn into party clubs at night. As you may expect, the prices are often on the high side in the most popular clubs such as Catch Beach Club or Carpe Diem on Bang Tao Beach, and Cafe Del Mar on Kamala Beach, but our list includes a lot of little hidden beach clubs at fair prices. Read more about Beach Clubs

11. Spa and Massages

Thailand is a massage and well-being destination famous around the world. Almost every hotel has a spa, and massages are available everywhere, even on the beach! The prices start around 300 baht for a simple Thai massage to extravagant half-day packages in luxury resorts. Everyone should try, especially to recover from jet lag, help with a sunburn, make use of a rainy day or treat themselves to a relaxing experience.

Keep in mind that a spa is one of the most popular things to do in Phuket when it rains, so book with your spa or hotel in the morning to beat the queue!

12. James Bond Island

James Bond Island is one of those bucket list items many people want to tick off their list of Things to Do in Phuket. There are many positive and negative opinions about James Bond Island, and most are justified. Before that old 1974 James Bond movie The Man With The Golden Gun with Roger Moore and Christopher Lee (remember Count Dracula? or Saruman in Lord of the Rings?), no one talked about this island. The movie wasn’t even good (45% on Rotten Tomatoes). Read more about James Bond Island

How to get there : Check with your hotel or a local agent. This tour can usually be booked the day before. When to get there : all year round

13. Koh Panyi

Koh Panyi is a surprisingly small fishermen’s village built entirely on stilts in the middle of Phang Nga Bay . What used to be a remote place is now more of a tourist attraction, but it is still a real village with a sizeable Muslim community, a mosque and a school. You can explore the narrow ‘streets’ and see the water through the crevices of the floor, do some local shopping and enjoy a tasty seafood lunch.

Take a longtail boat early to reach there before tourists arrive, and you get a completely different feel for the place. Continue to James Bond Island if you feel like seeing the shooting set of this old movie, The Man with the Golden Gun. Read more about Koh Panyi

How to get there : almost every tour agent offers this tour with James Bond Island. You could also drive to one of the many Phang Nga piers and ride a longtail boat.

When to get there : There are no waves all year round, as Phang Nga is a bay.

14. Enjoy Sunset Drinks and Dinner

When weather permits, Phuket sunsets can be pretty impressive, especially during the low season, because clouds reflect the red hues in remarkable ways. You will be able to enjoy sunsets from most of the beaches on the West Coast, but the best way is to share the moment with a cold drink in hand! Here is a list of sunset spots we love in Phuket.

15. Plane Spotting on Mai Khao Beach

Plane Spotting has become a viral phenomenon since the day it became forbidden. The more it’s forbidden, the more people go there, and this once-deserted beach has become a permanent Instagram playground. And why not? Seeing these enormous flying machines approaching from far away and getting closer to you in a roar is jaw-dropping. As they are about to land, they fly so low above the turquoise water; that you could almost touch their wheels! Read more about plane spotting in Phuket

How to get there : most people use their cars or bikes to get to Maikhao beach. It seems that some local agencies offer a ride there. Read how to go there by yourself.

When to go there : Please remember that planes land over the beach only during the high season (November to May) when the wind blows east to west! During the low season, planes will land from the other side, over the main road. This is just an indication; that wind can change according to the weather.

Can you go? : Technically, it is not allowed to be under the plane’s path, but no one seems to care.

16. Andamanda Phuket Water Park

Andamanda Phuket is an immense new water park near Phuket Town, passed Kathu when coming from Patong Beach. This massive park covers a staggering 100,000 sq.m. and 25 attractions, including many impressive waterslides, a 10,000 sq.m. swimming area with artificial waves and the longest lazy river in southeast Asia.

Location : Kathu

17. Go on an Instagram Photo Spree!

The island is an Instagrammer’s paradise! Between the many natural wonders, the beaches and islands, the beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture of Old Phuket Town and the Instagram-dedicated photo playgrounds, Instagrammers will find endless opportunities to shine. Several spots are on this list already, but we keep adding new ones on the dedicated page!

18. Try Real Local Food!

Trying local Thai food in Phuket is a must-do for any traveller visiting the island. Phuket is known for its delicious and authentic Thai cuisine, with a variety of dishes that are unique to the region and south Thailand. Trying local Thai food is also a chance to experience the local food culture by visiting night markets, street food vendors and local restaurants, but you need to know where to find these small restaurants!

19. See and feed the Elephants

At Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket, visitors are offered an opportunity to interact with elephants enjoyably. Unlike the old and controversial practice of elephant trekking, no one rides the animals here. Instead, guests can feed, play with, and bathe adult and baby elephants in a way that is unlike any other experience. The visitors also have the chance to prepare food for the animals and then join them in muddy waters for playtime.

20. Dinner in the Sky

Dinner in the Sky takes eating to new heights—literally. Suspended by a crane, guests sit at a table high above Karon Beach, taking in the beautiful views while enjoying a delicious dinner. The experience blends thrill and luxury, with guests safely secured into their seats. Chefs cook excellent dishes directly in front of your eyes, delivering an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Whether it’s a romantic date or an adventurous adventure, Dinner in the Sky promises an unforgettable dining experience above the clouds.

Location : Karon Beach

21. Carnival Magic

Carnival Magic is a brand new 40-acre nighttime Thai carnival theme park, known as the Magical Kingdom of Lights. It features numerous record-breaking attractions that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Situated on Kamala Beach, Carnival Magic stands as an iconic destination that no visitor to Phuket should miss.

Location: Kamala Beach

22. Snorkel in Koh Racha

Koh Racha Yai is a tiny island with amazingly clear blue water, easy to access as it is only a dozen kilometres from Phuket. It is very popular for day trips, snorkelling and scuba diving. The island is so small it can only accommodate a few resorts.

23. The Upside-Down House

The Upside Down House, also known as Baan Teelanka, is a fun place for kids and adults on any day, rain or shine! This unusual photo playground built on three floors is on the outskirts of Phuket town. Read more

Location : near Phuket Town

24. Karon Viewpoint

Next on our list of best things to do in Phuket is the famous Karon Viewpoint, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of three magnificent bays. The closest is Kata Noi Beach , further is the beautiful bay of Kata with its small iconic island, and the far is Karon Beach . The place is well-known and frequently busy, but people don’t stay long.

Apart from taking a couple of photos and maybe buying some drinks, snacks and ice creams, there is not much to do up there. You will often see a Thai guy on his motorbike with a big eagle offering to take a photo with the bird for a small fee. Remember that wildlife is protected, and you should not encourage this practice, no matter how cool the picture looks on your Instagram. Read more

Price : free

25. Watch a sunset at Prompthep Cape

Promthep Cape is not as grand as you might expect, but it still attracts busloads of tourists every evening at sunset. The elevated location at the very south of the island offers beautiful views of the bay and the few nearby islands. You can enjoy local shopping and even an excellent Thai dinner at the ‘ Promthep Restaurant ‘. Read more about Promthep Cape

How to get there : usually, people ride their cars or motorbikes.

When to go there : sunsets are much more impressive during the low season (June to November), but some days might be cloudy. Need to know when to arrive to see the sunset? Check the time on Google !

Price : Free

26. Cooking Classes

Cooking classes are an increasingly popular activity in Phuket because Thai food is so famous and good, and TV and social media feature it so frequently. There are many cooking schools all around the island and for all budgets. Several are in hotels around Phuket, usually more expensive than privately run schools. Some cooking classes include visiting a local market, which is a fun experience. Read more about Cooking Classes

27. Samet Nangshe Viewpoint

Samet Nangshe is quite a recent discovery, and the view from up there is jaw-dropping. As it is just outside Phuket island, it takes some driving to reach it, but the beauty of this natural wonder is well worth the effort! It used to be quite a challenge to climb the hill to one of the viewpoints, but a pickup truck takes you up there for a small fee. Read more about Samet Nangshee

28. Be Amazed by the Similan Islands

Similan Island is the most impressive set of Islands accessible from Phuket, blessed with incredible white sand and clear blue waters. But these are only open from November to May and are a bit far, 100 km northwest of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. If you get a chance, you should go. If you are not confident, go to Phi Phi Island, but it's crowded. More accessible and closer is Racha Island, or nearby is also Coral Island. Read more about the Similan Islands

How to get there : You can book this tour from your hotel or a local agent once in Phuket. A van will usually pick you up from your hotel and drive you to Tap Lamu Pier outside the island. From there, you will ride a speed boat. When to get there : Similans are only open between October to May. Price : starts around 2,350 baht. Just remember that cheap tickets may mean overcrowded boats.

29. Blue Tree Water Park

Blue Tree is a vast water park, and the lagoon is enormous, but it has fewer slides and features than Andamanda or Splash Jungle. It seems more dedicated to water and land activities with Slip' N' Fly, a zip line above the water, water fighting, a stand-up paddle, and even a trapeze school and a skate park.

Location : Cherngtalay (near Bang Tao Beach)

30. Yona Floating Beach Club

Yona is a floating beach club taking the Phuket Beach Club scene to a new level. The boat is 1,200 sqm on three floors with a central 22-metre-long swimming pool surrounded by trendy loungers and palm trees. At the back of the pool are the DJ station and a bar with a vast choice of fun cocktails to enjoy the party. The floating beach club anchors in the bay of Patong during the high season.

31. Koh Khai Islands

Koh Khai is a group of famous tiny islands just 15 15-minute speedboat ride from Phuket's east coast. There are three islands: Koh Khai Nai, Koh Khai Nui and Koh Khai Nok, but their names get a little confusing, especially once you know that 'Koh' means 'Island' in Thai.

32. Bamboo Rafting in Phang Nga

Bamboo rafting in Phang Nga is a fun and relaxing experience, a chance to discover an activity that has always been popular in Chiang and Chiang Rai. Glide gently in the green tropical jungle.

Komol's Corner Bamboo Rafting Location : Phang Nga Phone : 095 410 1988 Facebook : click here

33. Visit Phuket Aquaria

Phuket now has two aquariums: the original Phuket Aquarium in Cape Panwa, on the southeast coast, and the newly built Aquaria in Phuket Town. Cape Panwa Aquarium is a marine biological centre that often rescues dolphins, dugongs and turtles. Aquaria, the latest and largest aquarium in Phuket, is a tourist attraction built under the immense Central Floresta Shopping Mall, and it even includes a restaurant. Read more about Aquaria

Location : Central Floresta Shopping Mall, Phuket Town

34. Watch the Simon Cabaret Show

Simon Cabaret on Patong Beach is a performance with a Las Vegas atmosphere but with a twist. The stage is magnificent, and the sets and costumes are glittering and colourful, but what people come to see are the stunning ladyboys! Perfect bodies with cute faces, most of them would fool you! Read more about Simon Cabaret Show

Location : Patong Beach

35. Siam Niramit

Siam Niramit Phuket is a surprising show narrating 700 years of Thailand’s history. The stage is immense, and the choreography involving over a hundred people is spotless. The narration is simple and clear enough for everyone to understand each scene. The superb sound system immerses you in a fantastic world based on centuries of Thai myths and legends. It is seriously impressive.

Location : By Pass Road near Phuket Town

36. Phuket Fantasea

Phuket Fantasea is a dazzling cultural theme park in Thailand, blending magic, elephants, and vibrant performances. It's a mix of traditional Thai folklore and modern technology with dazzling shows, games, and an elephant village, offering a fun experience of Thailand's rich culture and entertainment.

Location : Kamala Beach

37. Scare yourself at Flying Hanuman

There are 3 or 4 Ziplines around the island, and we tried Flying Hanuman in the forest near Patong Beach. Zipline is a great way to do something fun and exciting with friends and family. You can do something active, fun and unforgettable in the dense forest in Kathu. It's enormous, impressive and safe; anyone can do it, even a four-year-old kid! Read more about ziplining in Phuket

38. Dino Park Mini Golf

Phuket Dino Park is an iconic mini golf with a fun prehistoric theme in Kata Beach. Play around the dinosaurs and inside a volcano. It's fun and quite easy, and the central location makes it an easy thing to do after dinner if you stay in Kata or Karon Beach.

Location : Kata Beach

39. Black Rock Viewpoint

Black Rock is not as hard to reach as Samet Nangshee, listed higher on this page, but it still requires a bit of climbing. It's not too difficult to find as the path is not well defined, as you can see on our page. The spectacular view from up there offers a superb bird's view of Nai Harn Beach and the islands. Read more about Black Rock Viewpoint

40. Monkey Hill

Monkey Hill in Phuket town used to be a popular attraction and would rank higher in the past, but the proliferation of monkeys and tourists started to affect the behaviour of the animals. The monkeys rely on humans to feed and sometimes get impatient and grab what they can. The big boss can also be territorial and may try to intimidate you. If you decide to go, put your small belongings in a bag and keep an eye on the monkey's behaviour.

41. Visit Fresh Markets

Visiting any of the fresh markets in Phuket is a chance to see amazing tropical fruit displays, and even experience some you may never have seen or heard about. Beyond this, if you are into cooking, this is also a chance to find the immense array of herbs and spices that make Thai food so delicious! There is a fresh market in almost every town and beach resort and visitors are always warmly welcome. Banzaan Fresh Market is the most impressive, located in Patong Beach, just behind the famous Jungceylon Shopping Center.

42. Froggy’s Fun Park and Adventure Village Phuket

Froggy’s Fun Park

Froggy’s Fun Park is the largest amusement park in Phuket, located on the 3rd floor of Jungceylon Shopping Mall in Patong Beach. It offers exciting activities and attractions for families, including Trampolines, a two-level and safe Rope Track with many obstacles, a Kids’ Playground, Attractions and VR games, Arcade games, and more.

Location: Patong Beach, Jungceylon Department Store - Address: 3rd floor, 175 Rat Uthit Song Roi Pi Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150 - Hours: 11 am – 10 pm - Phone: +66 65 348 5777

Adventure Village Phuket

Adventure Village, the largest amusement park in the north of Phuket is located in the Blue Tree complex in BangTao and offers a variety of activities and attractions suitable for all ages, including trampolines, playgrounds, rides, and engaging games.

Location: Cherngtalay, Blue Tree Complex - Address: 4, 2 Srisoonthorn Rd, Tambon Si Sunthon, Cherngtalay, Phuket 83110 - Hours: 10 am – 8 pm - Phone: +66 611 789 794

43. Chalong Bay Rum Distillery

Did you know that Phuket produced its own rum, made of pure sugar cane juice instead of molasses? You can visit the factory, do some rum tasting and even take a cocktail class in their beautiful setting in the Chalong area. It's a lot of fun (and great if it rains!) Read more about Chalong Bay Distillery

Location : Chalong, near Phuket Zoo

44. The Selfie Experience

The Selfie Experience is a fun photo playground near Phuket Town with more than 40 backgrounds to play with! This is a fun way for families, friends and selfie lovers to spend a fun day away from an occasional rainy day.

Location : Phuket Town (Bypass road)

45. Adventure Mini Golf

Adventure Mini Golf is an 18-hole miniature classic championship golf course surrounded by palm and bamboo trees and a large restaurant on Bangtao Beach.

Location : Bangtao Beach Address : 72/44 Moo 3, Bangtao Beach Road, Soi 2 Cherngtalay, Talang Phuket, Phuket 83110 Hours : 11 am - 11 pm Phone : 076 314 345 Facebook : click here

46. Get your Dream Dress or Suit Done!

Having a dress or suit custom-made in Phuket with local tailors offers a fantastic opportunity during your holiday. Not only will you receive a one-of-a-kind garment that fits you perfectly, but you'll also experience the long tradition of craftsmanship. Phuket's tailors are known for their skilful work, attention to detail, and use of high-quality fabrics and unbeatable prices. Moreover, the process is typically efficient, allowing you to have your custom outfit ready before your vacation ends. This is a chance to get a suit or a dress done for those special events once back home.

47. Get an Amazing Tattoo

Getting a tattoo done while on holiday in Phuket is an opportunity to consider if you have been wanting to do this but have always been worried about the quality of the artwork, and the price! Phuket boasts a vibrant tattoo scene with talented artists who can bring your vision to life for a reasonable cost. Whether you dream of traditional Thai designs or modern styles, skilled tattooists can create stunning and meaningful artwork on your skin. With a range of reputable studios offering top-notch hygiene standards, you can trust the process.

48. Have Dinner on Rang Hill

Rang Hill is a beautiful viewpoint above Phuket town, with city lights and a good view daily and at night. Enjoy the view from the panoramic platform and stay for lunch or dinner at the beautiful Tunk Ka Cafe. If you drive down the other side of the mountain, stop for a photo at the golden sitting Buddha of Wat Kao Rang. Read more about Rang Hill

How to get there : You will need your transportation or ride a tuk-tuk (or grab).

49. Volunteer at Soi Dog

Dog lovers who spend long enough on the island can dedicate a day or two to doing a good deed. Visit the surprisingly large and well-organised Soi Dog on Maikhao Beach, and you will make some dogs happy by walking them around and interacting with them; they love it! And for those who worry, all the animals are in good shape, and you will not have to see anything scary!

Location : Mai Khao Beach

50. Tiger Kingdom Phuket

The Tiger Phuket Kingdom is a captivating wildlife sanctuary in Phuket, Thailand, offering visitors an opportunity to interact with various tiger species. The facility combines conservation and tourism, housing well-cared-for tigers in naturalistic enclosures. Guests can observe, learn about, and even have limited supervised contact with the tigers. While it aims to educate and raise awareness about these magnificent creatures, concerns have been raised about the ethics of such interactions and the impact on tiger welfare.

Location : Between Patong Beach and Kathu

51. Watch a Muay Thai Fight at the Stadium

There are two Muay Thai stadiums in Patong Beach where travellers can pay to get a seat to watch a fight. The easiest to reach is Bangla Walking Stadium which is now located behind the famous Jungceylon Shopping Mall, and Patong Boxing Stadium Sainamyen which is on a back street. The fights consist of several confrontations, usually starting with the youngest and least experienced fighters, keeping the most experience for the end. The last fights can be quite impressive. Read more about Thai Boxing Stadiums

52. Learn About Phuket in a Museum

There is a surprising amount of museums here, and while they might not be jaw-dropping, they offer an interesting view of how Phuket island became what it is today, starting with the arrival of the first Chinese immigrants who brought wealth with tin mining long ago.

53. Discover the little-known island of Maiton

There are a lot of islands near Phuket, but because Maiton was a very exclusive private island for a long time, it has remained a little mysterious. Even though Maiton is only 15 minutes from Phuket by speedboat, not many people visit it. To add to this surreal atmosphere, 60 of the once luxurious 70 villas are now just standing wrecks. It's a very peaceful and beautiful island, great to relax, snorkel and take photos, and there are no loud watersports here.

▷ SPORTS & ACTIVITIES

Beyond landmarks and islands, there are a lot of fun things to do in Phuket for active travellers, from easy-going spas and cooking classes to water activities like surfing and scuba diving, all the way to intense training in Muay Thai camps.

54. Snorkeling

Snorkelling is an easy and fun activity anyone can enjoy, young or old. During the high season, the water is crystal clear, and the island has many great bays where you can easily admire tropical sea life and enjoy beach time.

ATV in Phuket is a wild ride through nature! You get to zoom on rugged trails, feeling the adrenaline rush as you explore jungles, hills, and muddy paths. It's like a thrilling adventure on wheels, letting you experience the island's beauty in an exciting and fast-paced way.

56. Learn to Surf

Surfing in Phuket is mostly possible during the rainy season, from May/June until October. The waves are not big, so it is the perfect opportunity to start and practice safely. There are a few surf schools in Kata Beach and Bang Tao Beach.

57. Scuba Diving

Scuba diving has always been a big attraction in Phuket, and the dive sites in the Andaman Sea made it to the top 10 best dive sites in the world, especially Richelieu Rock. Diving is easy and affordable, and many advanced courses are available. There are many dive clubs for all nationalities, languages, specialities and budgets.

58. Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding is a popular activity at Phuket Wake Park in Kathu, around an O-shaped lake equipped with a 700 m long cable running counterclockwise at 30 km/h for a fun cable ski experience. Wakeboard is much easier to enjoy than one would imagine! You will be surprised how fast you can succeed and how much pleasure you will get for each little step done.

59. Take a Muay Thai Training in a Camp

Muay Thai is another way to make the best of your holiday to experience the legendary Muay Thai martial art. There is a surprisingly large number of Muay Thai camps around the island, offering full training and even accommodation for those who want to maximize their experience. Read more about Muay Thai Camps

60. Kitesurfing

Kitesurfing is an exhilarating water sport that is getting popular in Phuket. It's a mix of surfing, wakeboarding, and flying kites. Phuket is a good spot for kitesurfing because it has amazing beaches, warm water, and a holiday vibe all year round, but the low season is the best time to learn and improve your kitesurfing skills.

61. Join a Yoga Session

Many yoga classes are available around the island, some in beautiful tropical surroundings and at reasonable prices. Yoga is also a perfect activity for one of those occasional rainy days.

62. Race a Go Kart

Go Kart Phuket is a fun, fast and exciting way to compete with friends while on holiday in Phuket. Several Go-Kart tracks are available on the island, two near Patong, just passed the hill and close to Kathu. Patong Go-Kart Speedway is easy to spot and has been a long-time favourite.

63. Play Golf in Phuket

You are spoilt for choice if you intend to play golf in Phuket, with seven golf courses on the island and several more just across the border in Phang Nga province. Most of the golf courses in Phuket are in the northern half of the island.

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Visiting Phuket in June - Phuket Forum

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Can get cancelled but more from rough seas, you dont want to go if its rough. Who knows about the weather but June is in the raining season. Im hearing there quite a bit of rain around now. Mornings are probably better bet if you want to avoid rain, it is often thunderstorms which tend to be late afternoon/evenings. I would wait until you get there before booking anything and check the weather forecasts for the next day.

This may give an idea about the weather: https://www.holiday-weather.com/phuket/averages/

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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The Ultimate Phuket 3 days itinerary | Culture, fun and island hopping

The ultimate Phuket 3 days itinerary, a detailed guide of the best things to do in Phuket in 3 days. Culture, fun and island hopping in Phuket!

Last Update: March 9, 2024

• Destinations

Phuket is one of the top tourist destinations in Thailand, and exploring it is an absolute must. We have put together the best Phuket 3 days itinerary , covering all the top things to do, places to see, and where to eat and stay.

During our time in Phuket, we completely fell in love with the place, whether it was the delicious food, picturesque beaches, colonial architecture, or the incredible mixed views to explore.

Spending three days in Phuket will allow you to experience the beauty and charm of the island. You can either stay in the old town or explore the tropical beaches. Beyond the usual Patong and Kuta beaches, there are several other hidden gems to discover. Without further ado, our ultimate three-day Phuket itinerary will take you straight to the point.

The Best Phuket 3 day itinerary

Day 1 | elephant sanctuary and old phuket town.

• Elephant Sanctuary
• Phuket Old Town
• Cabaret Show
• Bangla Road

Day 2 | Sightseeing and beaches

• Big Buddha 
• Freedom Beach
• Kata and Kata Noi Beach
• Karon Viewpoint
• Promthep Cape
• Kata Night Market

Day 3 | Island hopping and snorkelling

• Phi Phi Island
• James Bond Island 
• Chillva Night Market 

This post may contain affiliate links or Sponsored Links ( read our Cookie Policy ), and useful experiences that we love to suggest to you. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are really grateful) at no extra cost to you. Click on it will help us run this website for you, for FREE, funding our project and continuing to travel, informing curious explorers.

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Day 1 in Phuket | Elephant Sanctuary and Old Phuket town

Morning | elephant sanctuary.

The concept of Elephant Sanctuary has evolved over the years. While visiting Thailand, you may come across different sites called “ Elephant Sanctuary ” but do not treat the Elephants well. Therefore, being mindful when booking a day out with Elephants is crucial.

The Elephant Sanctuary in Phuket provides a safe environment for retired and abused elephants. The sanctuary offers both medical care and rehabilitation for the animals. Visitors can observe the elephants, interact with them, and admire them in their natural habitat.

AFTERNOON | Phuket Old Town

We had a wonderful time strolling around the charming old town of Phuket. The town is considered one of the best locations for Phuket Instagram spots . During the stroll, you will encounter various colourful houses, cafes, impressive temples, and great shops. Exploring the Old Town thoroughly takes about a couple of hours, and we assure you that you will enjoy every moment of it.

Don’t forget to visit two of the most remarkable Buddhist temples in the Old Town – Wat Wichit Sangkaram and Wat Mongkhon Nimit. These temples are truly unique and definitely worth a visit!

SUNSET SPOT | Patong Beach 

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to admire a beautiful sunset on the beach, Patong Beach in Phuket is one of the most famous beaches. As the sun sets over the ocean, any spot along the beach will provide a fantastic view. Sunset time is usually around 6:30 PM, which is an ideal time to relax and enjoy the beach.

However, it can get quite hot sometimes, making it difficult to enjoy the experience fully. So, grab a refreshing coconut or a cold beer and maximise your time at Patong Beach during sunset.

EVENING | Cabaret Show

We had a fun night watching a cabaret show when we were in Chiang Mai with our friends. We couldn’t miss the opportunity to see the famous Simon Cabaret Show in Phuket .

Even if it’s your first time, you can still enjoy the show as much as we did. You can purchase tickets with different packages available depending on your preference, and it’s definitely worth the price. The show runs at 6 PM, 7:30 PM, and 9 PM, so you can decide whether to watch it before or after dinner.

NIGHT OUT | Bangla Walking Street 

After enjoying a fabulous cabaret show, it’s time to experience the vibrant nightlife of Phuket. Bangla Road, the Khao San Road of Phuket, is an ordinary street during the day, but it transforms entirely at night. It’s the place that never sleeps, offering numerous party places, live music, and bars that stay open till late.

Bangla Road is the heart of Phuket’s nightlife and a must-visit for anyone looking to have a good time. From 6 PM, the road becomes entirely pedestrian, and the real fun begins. So, grab a drink or two or even more and have the time of your life!

Day 2 in Phuket | Sightseeing and beaches

SUNRISE SPOT | Big Buddha and Wat Chalong Temple

Waking up early in the morning and exploring a still-sleeping city can be a truly magical experience. To make the most of your Phuket itinerary, set your alarm for sunrise and head to the Big Buddha, one of the city’s most breathtaking and Instagram-worthy locations . From there, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Phuket that is simply stunning.

Visiting the Big Buddha early in the morning means you’ll have everything to yourself. It opens at 6 AM and closes at 6:30 PM. Although it is also fantastic for sunset, we found 6 AM was the best time to go. At that time, hardly anyone was around, only a few locals, and it was just perfect.

Constructed in 2004, the Big Buddha statue is the third tallest statue in Thailand and should definitely be included in your 3-day Phuket itinerary. As you make your way to the Big Buddha, stop at Wat Chalong temple, one of the most religious sites in Phuket. You will be amazed to see the intricate details of this incredible temple, which is a must-see attraction in Phuket.

MORNING | Freedom Beach

After an early morning start, take some time to unwind and enjoy the tranquillity. Grab a scooter and head to Freedom Beach, a hidden paradise that requires a bit of a hike. While the path is well-designed, there are some challenging parts due to the rocky terrain.

Although it’s a 500m drop, once you arrive at the beach, you’ll be amazed by its beauty. Take a few hours to sunbathe and swim at Freedom Beach , allowing yourself to recharge before moving to another nearby beach. If you prefer not to hike, rent a kayak on the other side and paddle for about half an hour to reach Freedom Beach.

AFTERNOON | Kata and Kata Noi Beach

On your way, grab some lunch and head to the beautiful Kata Noi beach on the west coast of Phuket. Known for its picturesque and tranquil atmosphere, this beach and Freedom Beach is one of our favourites.

Don’t forget to grab a refreshing coconut and enjoy the crystal clear water and white sandy beach. Spending a few hours here before sunset is one of the best ways to relax and unwind.

SUNSET SPOT | Karon Viewpoint or Promthep cape

Watching a lovely sunset in Phuket is an experience like no other. There are numerous stunning locations to choose from for this activity. Karon Viewpoint and Promthep Cape are both great options. Karon’s viewpoint is one of the most famous ones in Phuket, and during sunset time, you might find a few people there trying to catch the sunset.

The view from there is incredible, and it’s no wonder it’s so popular. Additionally, you can travel down to the Promthep Cape, which is only 10 minutes away from the viewpoint by scooter. We prefer the Promthep Cape as the view is unique and breathtaking.

EVENING | Kata Night Market

It doesn’t matter which location you pick to watch the sunset in Thailand; within 20 minutes on a scooter, you can reach the Kata Night Market for dinner and evening entertainment. Night markets are a must-visit in Thailand, as they offer various delicious local Thai food.

The Kata Night Market is open every Tuesday and Friday, allowing visitors to indulge in street food, shop for cute souvenirs, and enjoy refreshing drinks. If your Phuket itinerary does not include these days, you can still explore the area and find plenty of great places to grab a bite.

Day 3 in Phuket | Island Hopping and Snorkelling

MORNING | Maya Bay

If you’re planning a Phuket 3 days itinerary , we strongly recommend including island hopping in your plans. You’ll need a whole day to explore the best islands around Phuket.

And if you’re in Phuket, you can’t leave without visiting the famous Maya Bay. This beautiful island was one of the filming locations for Di Caprio’s movie “ The Beach ” and is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand.

You can book a tour that includes Maya Bay and Phi Phi Island , which was completely shut down in 2020 to allow the local corals and fish to recover. Although swimming is prohibited, you can still enjoy the beautiful sandy beach that feels like flour. If you’re looking for a smaller group , we recommend a tour with no more than 20 people. We did this tour and loved it!

ADMISSION FEE | 400 THB per adults, £9.53 – 200 THB children, £4.77

IMPORTANT NOTICE | Swimming is not allowed

AFTERNOON | Phi Phi Island 

If you’re looking for a great destination, Phi Phi Island is a must-visit. Along with Maya Bay, the island is one of the region’s most famous and visited places.

We highly recommend a day trip from Phuket to explore and snorkel around the archipelago, surrounded by tropical fish in every colour.

One of the highlights of our 3-day itinerary in Phuke t was visiting Chicken Island, where we spotted a colony of Nemos (also known as Clownfish). It was indeed an amazing experience which we will never forget.

SUNSET | James Bond Island 

If you’re a fan of James Bond movies, you shouldn’t miss visiting James Bond Island, also known as Khoa Phing Kan, when in Phuket. This island was featured in the 1974 movie “ The Man with the Golden Gun ” and has since become a popular tourist spot. There are plenty of tours available on GetYourGuide and Viator that can take you there.

By booking in advance , you can get the best deal. I highly recommend the luxury sunset cruise from Phuket to James Bond Island, which my friends and I enjoyed immensely. You can check the availability of this tour and others by clicking here .

EVENING | Chillva Night Market

After a day of island hopping, there’s no better way to end it than by visiting the Chillva night market. This market is one of the coolest on the island, as it has a great atmosphere, lively music, retail stands and a hipster vibe.

You can indulge in local street food and make the most of your last night in Phuket. The market is open from Thursday to Saturday, 5 PM to 11 PM. So, if you want to end your day on a high note, visit the Chillva market.

Best places to eat in Phuket

When we travel, we enjoy discovering affordable places to eat. Phuket boasts various restaurants and dining options, but we have identified the following as our favourites. You can check out our reel for a sneak peek of these places.

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Cha Kang Way

During our Phuket 3 days trip , we found the best place for noodle soup that you can customise with your preferred toppings. We loved it so much that we visited the place eight times.

Not only is it affordable, but the taste is also exceptional. Although they also serve rice, we highly recommend their delicious noodle soup. You can even check out our Instagram reel to see how much we enjoyed the food.

AVERAGE PRICE | 150 THB – £3.59 (Based on 2px)

Steak Tonight 2

If you’re looking for a restaurant that serves delicious steak at an affordable price, look no further than Steak Tonight 2 . This eatery is famous among the locals for its variety of mouth-watering steaks.

We tried the bacon and cheese steak, and it was simply amazing. They offer different plates to choose from, so make sure you visit this place at least once. However, it’s better to go there earlier, around 7 or 7.30 PM, as it tends to be crowded with locals.

AVERAGE PRICE | 210 THB – £5 (Based on 2px)

Pad Thai Phanhin

I highly recommend trying the Pad Thai at this restaurant in town. It’s only 50 baht and definitely worth it. They specialise in Pad Thai and offer vegetarian, chicken, shrimp, or a combination of chicken and shrimp.

The taste is exceptional, and it’s a must-try for Pad Thai lovers. Don’t miss out on this gem!

AVERAGE PRICE | 50 THB – £1.19

Marni Pizza

Marni Pizza is a good option if you’re looking for a different taste, but it may not be the best restaurant if you’re on a budget. We had a delicious pizza with burrata and were impressed by the freshness of the ingredients and the perfect dough.

Despite being picky about pizza, we found this one of the best we have tried in Asia so far.

AVERAGE PRICE | 860 THB – £20 (Based on 2px)

Is Phuket worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! Phuket is worth visiting , and there should be no doubts about it. During your Phuket itinerary, you will discover many incredible places, taste the best food, and experience the incredible nightlife.

If it’s your first time in Thailand , Phuket is a great destination to start from. We absolutely loved it; we originally planned to stay for a short period but stayed for 2 weeks instead .

READ ALSO | Reasons why visit Phuket, Thailand

How to get to Phuket?

Phuket is easily accessible, being well-connected to the rest of Thailand. The island has a busy International Airport in the northern part, serving as the main gateway.

Phuket International Airport is the primary airport serving Phuket, offering flights from all major cities in Asia , Europe , and the Middle East . You can choose from famous companies such as Thai Airways, Emirates, AirAsia, and Jetstar when booking your flight.

There are various ways to reach Phuket from Thailand and other countries. Buses and minivans are available from nearby cities and towns, including Bangkok and Krabi.

After spending a few days there, you can also take longtail boats or ferries from the unique dreamy islands, such as Phi Phi or the rugged Koh Lanta . Venture further in the Jungle and explore Khao Sok, stay overnight in a floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake and enjoy nature.

How to get around Phuket

Walk and Public transport

Scooter Rental

Phuket Rental Car

Travel Insurance

Best time to visit Phuket

Walk / public transport.

We found Phuket to be an easily walkable destination compared to other places in Thailand. If you’re staying in the Old Town , getting around is hassle-free.

Alternatively, you can use the public blue, pink, and yellow buses to explore distant locations. For instance, public buses are available at the old town bus station in Phuket to take you to the other side of the island, where all the beaches are located.

SCOOTER RENTAL

If you’re looking for a convenient and efficient way to get around Phuket, renting a scooter is one of the best options. However, driving in a foreign country can be daunting, so ensure you feel comfortable before renting one.

There are plenty of rental shops in Phuket, but it’s essential to find a reputable one that offers reasonable prices. Remember that prices can vary significantly, so it’s worth shopping around. The cheapest rental we found was 300 THB, which cost £7 per day.

Although this is still affordable, it’s relatively expensive compared to other destinations in Thailand. To avoid any issues with the police, ensure you have an international driving license before renting a scooter.

Remember that the police are known to stop tourists frequently, and the fine for driving without a license can be as much as 1000 THB (£23) . During our Phuket trip, we were stopped five times, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

TAXI / GRAB

One of the most convenient ways to get around Phuket is by taxi or Grab. If it’s your first time in Phuket, download the Grab app , which is similar to Uber and available in various Asian countries.

If you travel with your family, renting a car and exploring Phuket can be a great option. We saw many families driving around with a rented car as it’s a convenient way to transport multiple passengers. You can easily rent a car with an airport pick-up service available here.

The best time to visit Phuket is between November and February because the weather is usually sunny and dry. Although we visited Phuket in January and experienced a few rainy days, overall, our Phuket itinerary went perfectly, and we enjoyed the hot weather.

However, it is worth noting that the wet season in Phuket is between May and October. Therefore, when planning a three-day itinerary in Phuket, consider these months.

Thailand hidden gems

Visiting Thailand? Stay in a floating bungalow in Khao Sok for unforgettable memories

Phuket Travel Insurance

Where to stay in Phuket

The vijitt resort phuket.

With spacious private villas beside the sea, The Vijitt Resort is the perfect place to stay in Phuket. Book your private villa with a pool or with a sea view and enjoy a relaxing stay at Vijitt Resort.

“Beautiful property, tasteful design. Loved the quiet, out-of-the-way location. Great breakfast. Great spa scrub and massage. Lovely staff”

OLD TOWN/AFFORDABLE STAY

PURE PHUKET

If you’re planning to stay in Phuket for an extended period, Pure Phuket Residence is an ideal place to stay. The hotel is in the old town , just 10 minutes from the main street. It features spacious, clean rooms perfect for solo travellers or couples.

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3 Day in Phuket itinerary final thoughts

If you’re looking for a great destination for a short getaway, Phuket is an excellent choice. It offers a wide range of attractions, places to see, and beaches to explore, making it the perfect place to spend a 3-day trip.

Phuket has something for everyone, whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, family, or a partner. You’re sure to have an amazing time exploring all that this island offers. So, if you’re planning a trip to Thailand , pack your bags and book your next flight to Phuket!

Q&A Phuket 3 days itinerary

Is 3 days in phuket enough.

The time you should spend in Phuket depends on your itinerary and what you want to see. We suggest spending at least one week there to explore the island fully. However, even if you only have three days, you can still visit some of the most important sights and best beaches.

How many days in Phuket is enough?

If you’re wondering how long to stay in Phuket, 5 days are sufficient to cover all the top activities and attractions. However, if you wish to have a more comprehensive experience and explore all of Phuket’s offers, we recommend planning for 7 days.

Is Krabi or Phuket better?

We found Phuket to be more enjoyable than Krabi, although Krabi is also a lovely place to visit. Phuket offers a wide variety of incredible activities and things to do, and it serves as an ideal base for planning your day trips to the surrounding islands. However, we still recommend spending a few days in Krabi to appreciate its beauty fully.

Is Phuket cheaper than Bali?

During our travels in Southeast Asia, we found Thailand to be slightly cheaper than other destinations. However, we noticed that the cost of living in Northern Thailand is significantly lower compared to the South. In terms of transportation, Bali turned out to be cheaper than Phuket. We spent 350 baht (£8.48) per day in Phuket, which is more expensive than Bali. Although Phuket might be cheaper than Bali regarding accommodation and eating out, it ultimately depends on the specific location.

Which month is best for Phuket?

The optimal time to visit Phuket is from November to February. The temperature is not too hot during this period, and the days are mostly sunny and dry. However, it’s always good to be prepared for some rain as there can be occasional cloudy and heavy rain during this time. I visited in January and experienced a few days of heavy rain.

Meet the Authors: Toti and Ale

We're Toti and Ale, avid travellers, award-winning writers, and photographers  living life one stamp at a time. It's more than five years since we hit the road in search of the perfect place to explore, dive into the local culture, eat tasty exotic food, and discover every corner. We have been in more than 35 countries, hand in hand, offering inspiring guides on Passport and Stamps and other award-winning travel blogs. We are London-based, but we travel the world as Digital Nomads with a purpose: to help you travel more and better in a sustainable way. You can find us here, offering tips for backpackers, itineraries or guides to cross countries and get on the most insane adventures. We are committed to sharing insights, providing valuable information, and inspiring responsible and meaningful travel. Join us as we explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, savour the beauty of slow travel, and make a positive impact on the places we visit.

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New Netflix Film ‘Mother of the Bride’ Spotlights Phuket as a Hub for Global Film Production

The hit romantic comedy was filmed at anantara layan phuket resort and anantara mai khao phuket villas and is a love letter to the enchanting island of phuket in thailand..

Bangkok, 17 May 2024 – Minor Hotels, the operator of the award-winning Anantara Resorts, is sending an invitation to travellers from around the world to “holiday like the cast of Netflix Hit Movie ‘Mother of the Bride’ and experience the glamour of Anantara Resorts in Phuket” , Thailand.

Its press release read “ Step into the sun-kissed world of the chart-topping ‘Mother of the Bride’ and live out your silver screen dreams in the very locations that charmed over 26.7 million Netflix viewers worldwide in its debut weekend. Directed by Mark Waters, who is known for his work on ‘Freaky Friday’ and ‘Mean Girls’, the hit romantic comedy was filmed at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort and Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas and is a love letter to the enchanting island of Phuket in Thailand.”

Minor Hotels’ also earlier this month released a press information, saying “Thailand has established itself as the go-to destination for Hollywood and international filmmakers, leveraging its stunning locales to boost tourism and support the local economy.”

In 2022, the Thai government took a bold step to waive personal income tax for foreign talent for five years, augmenting an already attractive film incentive system. Since then, the programme was further enhanced to offer foreign film productions a cash rebate of up to 20%, with Phuket emerging as a prime location for shooting overseas films.

Tourism authorities, the government and local businesses are confident that this investment will pay dividends, anticipating a surge in visitor numbers and a significant uptick in spending, as international productions like Mother of the Bride, introduce Thailand to new audiences.

Premiered on Netflix on 9 May, Mother of the Bride starring Brooke Shields, Miranda Cosgrove and Benjamin Bratt, narrates the tale of Lana, whose daughter Emma’s return from overseas with news of her impending destination wedding in Thailand. This sets off a chain of comedic events—especially since Lana is set to marry her ex’s son.

William Heinecke, Founder and Chairman of Minor International, who makes a cameo in the film, shared his enthusiasm: “Thailand is skilfully tapping into the ‘set-jetting’ phenomenon, where tourists flock to locations featured in films and TV shows. Our goal is to showcase Thailand as a vibrant cinematic hub that enriches the local economy while offering tangible benefits to production teams in terms of cost and efficiency. When Thailand thrives, we all benefit.”

Source: www.minorhotels.com

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Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , THAILAND / Created : May 29, 2024, 18:25 IST

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Planning the perfect trip to Thailand that promises unforgettable adventures? Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, crafting an itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences is key to making the most of your time in the Land of Smiles. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan your ideal journey to Thailand. Read less

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Planning the perfect trip to Thailand that promises unforgettable adventures? Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, crafting an itinerary tailored to your interests and preferenc...

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Now boarding: Faces, places, and trends shaping tourism in 2024

After falling by 75 percent in 2020, travel is on its way to a full recovery by the end of 2024. Domestic travel is expected to grow 3 percent annually and reach 19 billion lodging nights per year by 2030. 1 Unless otherwise noted, the source for all data and projections is Oxford Economics. Over the same time frame, international travel should likewise ramp up to its historical average of nine billion nights. Spending on travel is expected to follow a similar trajectory, with an estimated $8.6 trillion in traveler outlays in 2024, representing roughly 9 percent of this year’s global GDP.

About the authors

This article is a collaborative effort by Caroline Tufft , Margaux Constantin , Matteo Pacca , and Ryan Mann , with Ivan Gladstone and Jasperina de Vries, representing views from McKinsey’s Travel, Logistics & Infrastructure Practice.

There’s no doubt people still love to travel and will continue to seek new experiences in new places. But where will travelers come from, and where will they go? We developed a snapshot of current traveler flows, along with estimates for growth through 2030. For the purposes of this report, we have divided the world into four regions—the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East and Africa.

Our analysis identifies three major themes for industry stakeholders to consider:

• The bulk of travel spending is close to home. Stakeholders should ensure they capture the full potential of domestic travel before shifting their focus to international travelers. And they should start with international travelers who visit nearby countries—as intraregional trips represent the largest travel segment after domestic trips.
• Source markets are shifting. Although established source markets continue to anchor global travel, Eastern Europe, India, and Southeast Asia are all becoming fast-growing sources of outbound tourism.
• The destinations of the future may not be the ones you imagine. Alongside enduring favorites, places that weren’t on many tourists’ maps are finding clever ways to lure international travelers and establish themselves as desirable destinations.

The bulk of travel spending is close to home

International travel might feel more glamorous, but tourism players should not forget that domestic travel still represents the bulk of the market, accounting for 75 percent of global travel spending (Exhibit 1). Domestic travel recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic faster than international travel, as is typical coming out of downturns. And although there has been a recent boom in “revenge travel,” with travelers prioritizing international trips that were delayed by the pandemic, a return to prepandemic norms, in which domestic travel represents 70 percent of spending, is expected by 2030.

The United States is the world’s largest domestic travel market at $1 trillion in annual spending. Sixty-eight percent of all trips that start in the United States remain within its borders. Domestic demand has softened slightly, as American travelers return abroad. 2 Dawit Habtemariam, “Domestic U.S. tourism growth levels off as Americans head overseas,” Skift, August 18, 2023. But tourism players with the right offerings are still thriving: five national parks broke attendance records in 2023 (including Joshua Tree National Park, which capitalized on growing interest from stargazers indulging in “dark sky” tourism 3 Scott McConkey, “5 national parks set attendance records in 2023, and the reasons may surprise you,” Wealth of Geeks, April 16, 2024. ).

China’s $744 billion domestic travel market is currently the world’s second largest. Chinese travelers spent the pandemic learning to appreciate the diversity of experiences on offer within their own country. Even as borders open back up, Chinese travelers are staying close to home. And domestic destinations are benefiting: for example, Changchun (home to the Changchun Ice and Snow Festival) realized 160 percent year-on-year growth in visitors in 2023. 4 Shi Xiaoji, “Why don’t Chinese people like to travel abroad anymore? The global tourism industry has lost 900 billion yuan. What is the situation?,” NetEase, February 12, 2024. In 2024, domestic travel during Lunar New Year exceeded prepandemic levels by 19 percent.

China’s domestic travel market is expected to grow 12 percent annually and overtake the United States’ to become the world’s largest by 2030. Hotel construction reflects this expectation: 30 percent of the global hotel construction pipeline is currently concentrated in China. The pipeline is heavily skewed toward luxury properties, with more than twice as many luxury hotels under construction in China as in the United States.

India, currently the world’s sixth-largest domestic travel market by spending, is another thriving area for domestic travel. With the subcontinent’s growing middle class powering travel spending growth of roughly 9 percent per year, India’s domestic market could overtake Japan’s and Mexico’s to become the world’s fourth largest by 2030. Domestic air passenger traffic in India is projected to double by 2030, 5 Murali Krishnan, “Can India’s airports cope with rapid passenger growth?,” Deutsche Welle, February 7, 2024. boosted in part by a state-subsidized initiative that aims to connect underserved domestic airports. 6 “India is seeing a massive aviation boom,” Economist , November 23, 2023.

When travelers do go abroad, they often stay close to home (Exhibit 2).

Europe and Asia, in particular, demonstrate strong and growing intraregional travel markets.

Recognizing this general trend, stakeholders have been funneling investment toward regional tourism destinations. An Emirati wealth fund, for instance, has announced its intent to invest roughly $35 billion into established hospitality properties and development opportunities in Egypt. 7 Michael Gunn and Mirette Magdy, “UAE’s $35 billion Egypt deal marks Gulf powers’ buying spree,” Bloomberg, April 27, 2024.

Europe has long played host to a high share of intraregional travel. Seventy percent of its travelers’ international trips stay within the region. Europe’s most popular destinations for intraregional travelers are perennial warm-weather favorites—Spain (18 percent), Italy (10 percent), and France (8 percent)—with limited change to these preferences expected between now and 2030.

Despite longer travel distances between Asian countries, Asia’s intraregional travel market is beginning to resemble Europe’s. Intraregional travel currently accounts for about 60 percent of international trips in Asia—a share expected to climb to 64 percent by 2030. As in Europe in past decades, Asian intraregional travel is benefiting from diminishing visa barriers and the development of a low-cost, regional flight network.

Thailand is projected to enjoy continued, growing popularity with Asian travelers. Thailand waived visa requirements for Chinese tourists in 2023 and plans to do the same for Indian tourists starting in 2024. It has aggressively targeted the fast-growing Indian traveler segment, launching more than 50 marketing campaigns directed at Indians over the past decade. The investment may be paying off: Bangkok recently overtook Dubai as the most popular city destination for Indian tourists. 8 “Bangkok overtakes Dubai as top destination for Indians post visa relaxation, reveals Agoda,” PR Newswire, January 18, 2024.

A McKinsey ConsumerWise survey on consumer sentiment, conducted in February 2024, suggests that Chinese travelers are also exhibiting high interest in international travel, with 36 percent of survey respondents indicating that they intend to spend more on international travel in the next three months. 9 Daniel Zipser, “ China brief: Consumers are spending again (outside of China) ,” McKinsey, April 8, 2024. Much of this interest is directed toward regional destinations such as Southeast Asia and Japan, with interest in travel to Europe down from previous years. 10 Guang Chen, Zi Chen, Steve Saxon, and Jackey Yu, “ Outlook for China tourism 2023: Light at the end of the tunnel ,” McKinsey, May 9, 2023.

Given travelers’ preference for proximity, how can tourism stakeholders further capitalize on domestic and intraregional travel demand? Here are a few strategies:

• Craft offerings that encourage domestic tourists to rediscover local gems. Destinations, hotels, and transportation providers can encourage domestic tourists to integrate lesser-known cultural landmarks into their trips to visit friends and relatives. In France, the upscale hotel chain Relais & Châteaux markets historic properties that lie far from classic tourist sights—such as Château Saint-Jean in rural Auvergne—as a welcome escape from the bustle of Paris. In Mexico, the Pueblos Mágicos program has successfully boosted domestic tourist visits to a set of “magical towns” that showcase Mexican heritage.
• Fold one-off domestic destinations into fuller itineraries. Route 66 in the United States is a classic road trip pathway, which spurs visits to attractions all along the highway’s length. Tourism stakeholders can collaborate to create similar types of domestic itineraries around the world. For instance, Mexico has expanded on its Pueblos Mágicos concept by branding coordinated visits to multiple villages as “magical routes.” In France, local tourism boards and vineyards have collaborated to promote bucket list “wine routes” around the country.
• Make crossing borders into neighboring countries seamless. Removing logistical barriers to travel can nudge tourists to upgrade a one-off trip to a single attraction into a bucket list journey across multiple, less-trodden destinations. In Africa, for example, Ethiopian Airlines is facilitating cross-border travel to major regional tourist sites through improved air connectivity. In Asia, Thailand has announced its intent to create a joint visa easing travel among Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Source markets are shifting

The United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, and France remain the world’s five largest sources of travelers, in that order. These countries collectively accounted for 38 percent of international travel spending in 2023 and are expected to remain the top five source markets through 2030. But interest in travel is blossoming in other parts of the world—causing a shift in the balance of outbound travel flows (Exhibit 3).

North Americans’ travel spending is projected to hold steady at roughly 3 percent annual growth. US consumers voice growing concerns about inflation, and the most cost-constrained traveler segments are reducing travel, which is affecting ultra-low-cost airlines and budget hotels. Most travelers, however, plan to continue traveling: McKinsey research suggests that American consumers rank international and domestic travel as their highest-priority areas for discretionary spending. Instead of canceling their trips, these consumers are adapting their behavior by traveling during off-peak periods or booking travel further in advance. Travel spending by Europeans paints a slightly rosier picture, with roughly 5 percent projected annual growth. Meanwhile, the projected 12 percent annual growth in Chinese travelers’ spending should anchor substantial increases in travel spending across Northeast Asia.

Alongside these enduring traveler segments, new groups of travelers are emerging. Eastern Europe, India, and Southeast Asia are still comparatively small source markets, but they are developing fast-growing pools of first-time tourists (Exhibit 4).

India’s breakneck GDP growth of 6 percent year over year is bolstering a new generation of travelers, 11 Benjamin Laker, “India will grow to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027,” Forbes , February 23, 2024. resulting in a projected annual growth in travel spending of 9 percent between now and 2030. Indian air carriers and lodging companies are making substantial investments to meet projected demand. Budget airline IndiGo placed the largest aircraft order in commercial aviation history in 2023, when it pledged to buy 500 Airbus A320 planes 12 Anna Cooban, “Biggest plane deal in history: Airbus clinches massive order from India’s IndiGo,” CNN, June 19, 2023. ; that same week, Air India nearly equaled IndiGo’s order size with purchase agreements for 250 Airbus and 220 Boeing jets. IndiGo later added an order for 30 additional Airbus A350 planes, well suited to serving both domestic and international routes. 13 “Airbus confirms IndiGo's A350 aircraft order,” Economic Times , May 6, 2024. The Indian Hotels Company Limited is ramping up its hotel pipeline, aiming to open two new hotels per month in the near future. International players are not sitting on the sidelines: seven hotel chains are launching new brands in India in 2024, 14 Peden Doma Bhutia, “Indian Hotels expansion plans: 2 new brands launching, 2 hotels opening every month,” Skift, February 2, 2024. including Marriott’s first Moxy- and Tribute-branded hotels in India and entrants from Hilton’s Curio and Tapestry brands. 15 Forum Gandhi, “Check-in frenzy: International hotel giants unleash fresh brands in India’s booming hospitality landscape,” Hindu Businessline , February 13, 2024. Development focus has shifted away from major metropolises such as Mumbai and Delhi and toward fast-developing, smaller cities such as Chandigarh and Hyderabad.

Southeast Asian travel spending is projected to grow at roughly 7 percent per year. Pockets of particularly high growth exist in Cambodia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. To capitalize on this blossoming source market, neighboring countries are rolling out attractive visa arrangements: for example, China has agreed to reciprocal visa waivers for short-term travelers from Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. 16 Julienna Law, “China launches ‘visa-free era’ with Southeast Asia. Will travel retail boom?,” Jing Daily , January 30, 2024.

Travel spending by Eastern Europeans is expected to grow at 7 percent per year until 2030—two percentage points higher than spending by Western Europeans. Areas of especially high growth include the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland, where middle-class travelers are increasingly venturing farther afield. Major tourism players, including the TUI Group, have tapped into these new source markets by offering charter flights to warm-weather destinations such as Egypt. 17 Hildbrandt von Klaus, “TUI develops Czech Republic as a new source market,” FVW, December 22, 2023.

Although the number of travelers from these new source markets is growing, their purchasing power remains relatively limited. Compared with Western European travelers (who average $159 per night in total travel spending), South Asians spend 20 percent less, Eastern Europeans spend 40 percent less, and Southeast Asians spend 55 percent less. Only 3 percent of the current Asian hotel construction pipeline caters to economy travelers, suggesting a potential supply gap of rooms that could appeal to budget-constrained tourists.

While acknowledging that historical source markets will continue to constitute the bulk of travel spending, tourism players can consider actions such as these to capitalize on growing travel demand from newer markets:

• Reduce obstacles to travel. Countries can look for ways to strategically invest in simplifying travel for visitors from growing source markets. In 2017, for example, Azerbaijan introduced express processing of electronic visas for Indian visitors; annual arrivals from India increased fivefold in two years. Requirements regarding passport photocopies or in-person check-ins can similarly be assessed with an eye toward reducing red tape for travelers.
• Use culturally relevant marketing channels to reach new demographics. Unique, thoughtful marketing strategies can help destinations place themselves on first-time travelers’ bucket lists. For example, after the release of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara , a popular Bollywood movie shot in Spain with support from the Spanish Ministry of Tourism, Indian tourism to Spain increased by 65 percent. 18 “ Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara part of syllabus in Spain colleges,” India Today , June 6, 2004.
• Give new travelers the tech they expect. Travelers from newer source markets often have access to tech-forward travel offerings. For example, Indian travelers can travel anywhere within their country without physical identification, thanks to the Digi Yatra app. The Southeast Asian rideshare app Grab has several helpful travel features that competitors lack, such as automated menu translation and currency conversion. Tourism stakeholders should consider how to adapt to the tech expectations of newer travelers, integrating relevant offerings that ease journeys.
• Create vibrant experiences tailored to different price points. Crafting lower-budget offerings for more cost-constrained travelers doesn’t need to result in giving them a subpar experience. Capsule hotels, in which guests sleep in small cubbies, began as a response to the high cost of accommodations in Japan, but they have become an attraction in their own right—appearing on many must-do lists. 19 Philip Tang, “24 of the best experiences in Japan,” Lonely Planet, March 23, 2024.

The places you’ll go: The destinations of the future may not be the ones you imagine

The world’s top ten destination countries (the United States, Spain, China, France, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Italy, Thailand, Japan, and India, in that order) currently receive 45 percent of all travel spending, including for domestic travel. But some new locales are gaining traction (Exhibit 5).

A significant number of travelers are expanding their horizons, booking journeys to less visited countries that are near to old standbys. For instance, Laos and Malaysia, which both border Thailand—an established destination that is home to Bangkok, the world’s most visited city 20 Katherine LaGrave, “This is the world’s most visited city,” AFAR , January 31, 2024. —are up a respective 20 percent and 17 percent, respectively, in year-over-year international travel spending.

The world’s top ten destination countries currently receive 45 percent of all travel spending, including domestic-travel spending. But some new locales are gaining traction.

Several other countries that have crafted thoughtful tourism demand generation strategies—such as Peru, the Philippines, Rwanda, and Vietnam—are also expected to reap benefits in the coming years. Vietnam logged a remarkable 40 percent increase in tourism spending in the five years before the pandemic. Postpandemic, it has rebounded in part by waiving visa requirements for European travelers (while indicating intent to offer similar exemptions in the future for Chinese and Indian travelers). 21 Ashvita Singh, “Vietnam looks to offer visa-free entry to Indians: India report,” Skift, November 20, 2023. The Philippines has made a concerted effort to shift its sun-and-beach branding toward a more well-rounded image, replacing its long-standing “It’s more fun in the Philippines” tourism slogan with “Love the Philippines.” Peru is highlighting less visited archeological sites while also marketing itself as a top-notch culinary destination through the promotion of Peruvian restaurants abroad. Rwanda is investing in infrastructure to become a major African transit hub, facilitated by Qatar Airways’ purchase of a 60 percent stake in the country’s major airport. 22 Dylan Cresswell, “Rwanda plots ambitious tourism recovery,” African Business , July 28, 2022. Rwanda has also successfully capitalized on sustainable tourism: by charging $1,500 per gorilla trekking permit, for instance, it has maximized revenue while reducing environmental impact.

Tourism players might consider taking some of these actions to lure tourists to less familiar destinations:

• Collaborate across the tourism ecosystem. Promotion is not solely the domain of destination marketing organizations. Accommodation, transportation, and experience providers can also play important roles. In Singapore, for instance, the luxury resort Marina Bay Sands partners extensively with Singapore Airlines and the Singapore Tourism Board to offer compelling tourism offerings. Past collaborations have included flight and stay packages built around culinary festivals and a Lunar New Year drone show. 23 “Singapore Tourism Board, Marina Bay Sands & UOB partner to enliven Marina Bay precinct,” Singapore Tourism Board news release, January 25, 2024.
• Use infrastructure linkage to promote new destinations. By extending route options, transportation providers can encourage visitors to create itineraries that combine familiar destinations with new attractions. In Asia, Thailand’s tourism authority has attempted to nudge visitors away from the most heavily trafficked parts of the country, such as Bangkok and Phuket, and toward less popular destinations.
• Deploy social media to reach different demographics. Innovative social media campaigns can help put a destination on the map. Australia launched its “Ruby the kangaroo” campaign in China to coincide with the return of postpandemic air capacity between the two places. A video adapted for Chinese context (with appropriate gestures and a hashtag in Mandarin) garnered more than 20 million views in a single day on one of China’s largest social media platforms. 24 Nicole Gong, “Can Ruby the kangaroo bring Chinese tourists hopping back to Australia?,” SBS, June 5, 2023.
• Embrace unknown status. “Off the beaten path” messaging can appeal to widely traveled tourists seeking fresh experiences. Saudi Arabia’s “#WhereInTheWorld” campaign promoted the country’s tourist spots by acknowledging that they are less familiar to travelers, using a series of images that compared these spots with better-known destinations.

As tourism stakeholders look to the future, they can take steps to ensure that they continue to delight existing travelers while also embracing new ones. Domestic and intraregional tourism remain major opportunities—catering to local tourists’ preferences while building infrastructure that makes travel more seamless within a region could help capture them. Creative collaboration among tourism stakeholders can help put lesser-known destinations on the map. Travel tides are shifting. Expertly navigating these currents could yield rich rewards.

Caroline Tufft is a senior partner in McKinsey’s London office, Margaux Constantin is a partner in the Dubai office, Matteo Pacca is a senior partner in the Paris office, Ryan Mann is a partner in the Chicago office, Ivan Gladstone is an associate partner in the Riyadh office, and Jasperina de Vries is an associate partner in the Amsterdam office.

The authors wish to thank Abdulhadi Alghamdi, Alessandra Powell, Alex Dichter, Cedric Tsai, Diane Vu, Elisa Wallwitz, Lily Miller, Maggie Coffey, Nadya Snezhkova, Nick Meronyk, Paulina Baum, Peimin Suo, Rebecca Stone, Sarah Fellay, Sarah Sahel, Steffen Fuchs, Steffen Köpke, Steve Saxon, Sophia Wang, and Urs Binggeli for their contributions to this article.

This article was edited by Seth Stevenson, a senior editor in the New York office.

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