Phuket isn’t just Thailand’s beach capital—it’s a beautiful blend of turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, vibrant nightlife, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a luxury traveller, adventure lover, foodie, or someone simply chasing sunsets, Phuket offers something for every kind of traveller in 2026.
Here are 20 amazing things you absolutely must do in Phuket this year:
1. Explore the Iconic Phi Phi Islands
Take a speedboat to the Phi Phi Islands and float in crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Perfect for day trips and snorkelling.
2. Spend a Day at Phang Nga Bay
Home to the famous James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay’s emerald waters and limestone formations make it one of Asia’s most stunning photo spots.
3. Visit the Big Buddha
This 45-meter white marble statue offers panoramic views of Phuket. A calm, peaceful escape from the buzz.
4. Wander Around Old Phuket Town
Colourful Sino-Portuguese buildings, cute cafés, murals, and Sunday Walking Street Market—Old Town is a must for culture lovers.
5. Watch the Famous Phuket Fantasea Show
A grand cultural show with elephants, dancers, and Thai mythology. Very family-friendly.
6. Relax at Patong Beach (and Enjoy the Nightlife)
Patong is noisy, vibrant, and full of energy. Beach by day, party by night—Bangla Road is iconic.
7. Try the Legendary Phuket Night Markets
Chillva Market, Naka Weekend Market and Malin Plaza are perfect for shopping, food tasting, and discovering local crafts.
8. Go on an Island-Hopping Adventure
Khai Island, Coral Island, Racha Island, Leam Had Beach—Phuket is the gateway to dozens of picture-perfect islands.
9. Enjoy a Thai Cooking Class
Learn to cook pad thai, green curry, papaya salad and mango sticky rice with local chefs. A delicious souvenir to take home.
10. Get Pampered at a Luxury Thai Spa
Thai massages, herbal treatments, coconut scrubs—Phuket’s spa scene is world-class.
11. Visit Wat Chalong
Phuket’s largest and most important Buddhist temple—serene, spiritual, and beautifully designed.
12. Try Scuba Diving or Snorkelling
Phuket’s marine life is vibrant and colourful. Beginners can try fun dives, pros can explore deeper reefs and wrecks.
13. Take in the View from Promthep Cape
One of the most famous sunset points in Thailand—orange skies, blue water and perfect photos.
14. Cruise on a Luxury Catamaran
Sail through turquoise waters with music, food, drinks and an unbeatable sunset backdrop.
15. Experience the Simon Cabaret Show
Glamour, music, lights and stunning performances—great for all travellers.
16. Visit the Elephant Sanctuary
Ethical sanctuaries let you feed and bathe elephants responsibly—no riding. A meaningful experience.
17. Go Beach Hopping
Kata, Karon, Surin, Kamala, Nai Harn, Freedom Beach—each beach has its own vibe.
18. Try Surfing or Paddleboarding
Kata Beach is great for surfing lessons, especially during May–October.
19. Explore Local Food: Seafood, Roti, Noodles
Don’t miss tom yum, pad see ew, grilled fish, Thai milk tea, and coconut ice cream.
20. Stay at a Pool Villa
Phuket’s private pool villas—especially in Kamala, Kata and Surin—offer luxury, privacy and stunning views.
Why Phuket Should Be on Your 2026 Travel List
From adventure to relaxation, street food to five-star luxury, day trips to night markets—Phuket is the perfect mix of fun and tranquility. Whether you’re a couple, honeymooner, family, solo traveller or group of friends, this island has something magical for everyone.
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