7 Best Things to Do in Phuket, Thailand for a Memorable Trip
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Things to do in Phuket
Before visiting Phuket, I thought it would be just another beach destination, and if you know me, you know I love the beach! I had no idea it would become the highlight of my entire time in Thailand.
From having custom pants made in just a few hours to island hopping through the Phi Phi Islands on a private longboat, Phuket was full of experiences I still think about to this day. It is more than beaches; it is nightlife, culture, adventure, and moments that feel straight out of a travel magazine.
If you are looking for the best things to do in Phuket, whether you want relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of chaos on Bangla Road, these are the experiences I would absolutely recommend to make your trip unforgettable.
1. Design Custom Clothing in Phuket
One of the most underrated things to do in Phuket is not a beach or animal encounter, but having custom pants made.
While walking through the market across the street from my hotel, Gran Mercure Patong Phuket, I came across many shops advertising custom clothing. Phuket is known for having affordable custom clothes, anything from suits, jackets, dresses, and pants. I chose to go with David Jone Fashion after visiting a few shops.
After looking through a ton of books to figure out what I wanted, he did my measurements, I chose a color, and in a few hours, I was back for my first fitting. We made a few small adjustments during the fitting, and he completed them before the final pickup. This entire process took less than 24 hours!
Are the custom pants worth it?
Yes! They are perfect for you if you struggle to find pants that fit you, want something in unique colors, or want a travel souvenir that is actually useful for years to come.
If you are in Phuket for a day or two, you might not be able to do this because you will need at least one fitting. If you are dying to do it, I would go early on your first day to see if anyone can accommodate you!
My pants cost around $100 USD because I chose wrinkle-free fabric, but you could spend more or less, depending on the fabric you choose.
What I love even more is that they keep your measurements on file, so if you want additional items, they can make and send them to you! This market stop turned into one of the most practical souvenir purchases I have ever made!
Tips Before Getting Custom Clothing in Phuket
Before choosing a tailor, visit a few shops to compare fabric quality, pricing, and overall professionalism. Ask about durability, turnaround time, and fitting policies. I recommend planning this early in your trip so the shop can meet your timeline and allow for at least one fitting before final pick up. If you want to see my experience, check out Tailored Perfection: Getting Custom Pants in Thailand.
2. Visit Yona Beach Club
If you are looking for a luxury, party-style experience in Phuket, Yona Beach Club is one of the most unique things you can do!
Located in the waters of the Andaman Sea, Yona is the world’s only floating beach club. After checking in at the pier, you are given a welcome drink before boarding a water shuttle that takes you out ot eh multi-level floating venue.
The club is multi-level and includes an infinity pool, restaurants, bar, and elevated deck with lounges and reserved sections.
We booked a section at Yona Beach Club so that we could have a dedicated seating space to relax throughout the day. You can find more information about sections and food here.
Is Yona Beach worth it?
It depends on the vibe that you are looking for. Overall, I enjoyed it. It is great for solo travelers, friend groups, birthday celebrations, and travelers seeking an upscale party atmosphere.
The music is loud, the energy builds throughout the day, and as it does, it starts to feel more like a day party than a relaxing, quiet beach escape.
Pricing and Booking Tips
You can purchase a day pass or a section in advance on their website. I highly recommend reserving a section early to ensure you get the one you want. We didn’t and had to choose another area. If you want a full breakdown, including cost, food, and what to expect, read my detailed guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Yona Beach.
3. Rent a Private Longtail Boat to Island Hop: Phi Phi Islands, Monkey Beach, Maya Bay
One of the absolute best things to do in Phuket is taking a longtail boat to explore the Phi Phi Islands, including Monkey Beach and the famous Maya Bay.
We booked a private longtail boat tour for four people that included food (Thai Fried rice and fresh fruit). Booking a private tour gave us full control over the day and what we did. The tour that I booked can be found here.
Instead of being rushed through crowded stops with dozens of other tourists, we were able to decide how long to stay at each island, skip stops we weren’t interested in, and adjust our route based on crowd levels. Our guide was great and gave us recommendations for where to go and how much time to spend in each place.
Is a private longtail tour worth it?
If your budget allows, yes. Private tours are ideal for groups of 3-4 so you can split the cost, couples, and travelers who dislike large-group tours! In addition, if you like a curated experience, this is perfect for you!
Important things to Know before you go
The ride can be rocky, especially if the water is choppy. If you are prone to seasickness tkae motion sickness medication beforehand. Bring sunscreen, water, and cash, because there are things to buy at some of the stops. Also, check the weather conditions the day before. There were moments when the waves made me a little nervous, but the experience of cruising past the cliffs and jumping in clear blue water made it completely worth it. If you want a full breakdown of what to expect, including pricing and more, check out my detailed guide Tips for Visiting Phi Phi Islands.
4. Feed the Elephants at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
I absolutely love interacting with animals, and this experience at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary was perfect for me.
We met a taxi driver the day before and decided to hire him for the day. He took us to the Elephant Sanctuary + Big Buddha.
Upon entering the Elephant Sanctuary, they give you a band depending on what type of tour was booked. We booked the Feed the Elephants tour, which included an educational element regarding the elephants, their backgrounds, how they were rescued, and how the sanctuary operates.
Before interacting with the Elephants, the staff showed us the proper way to feed them safely. During our hour there, the elephants had pineapples and bananas to eat.
What stood out to me the most was that the elephants were not tied or chained. They were free to walk around the space, drink water, and interact naturally with one another. At times, they wandered off to stand with their friends, which made the experience feel much more engaging.
Is it worth visiting an Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Phuket?
Yes, but make sure to choose an ethical one. This experience is best for families, animal lovers, and travelers interested in a meaningful experience. If you are looking for an experience where you can ride elephants, this is not the one for you. The tour of the Elephant Sanctuary that I visited can be found here.
Tips before Visiting
Make sure to research the sanctuary ahead of time to see the types of experiences they offer, and if you are heading there during high season, I recommend booking in advance. Also, bring sunscreen and water cause you are out in the sun for the entire experience, and there was not a ton of shade. If you want to read more specifics about the experience, check out Up Close with Elephants.
5. Visit the Big Buddha in Phuket, Thailand
This Big Buddha is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks and is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. especially if you want panoramic views and a cultural experience in one stop.
Located at the top of Nakkerd Hill, almost 400 meters above sea level, the 45-meter-tall white marble statues overlook southern Phuket and offer some of the island’s best views.
We made the Big Buddha the second stop of our day after visiting the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.
What to Know Before You Go
You have to dress modestly, making sure your shoulders and knees are covered, or you will have to purchase a scarf for 150THB or a dress for 450THB to cover up.
Entry is free, but donations are welcome.
The drive up is steep and winding, but the views along the way are beautiful. Once you arrive, you will have to walk around the statue and walk up the stairs to get a closer look. As you walk toward the base, you can fully take in the size of the statue. As you walk up the stairs, you will get sweeping views of Phuket’s coastline. When we visited, we also saw monks praying.
Is the Big Buddha Worth Visiting?
Yes, especially if you want to see more of Phuket than just the beaches. You will also get to learn more about the culture. I would recommend combining it with nearby attractions, since this entire experience should take only 45 minutes to 1 hour. We arrived around 1 pm, and it was not crowded when we went.
6. Party on Bangla Road, Phuket
If you are looking for nightlife in Phuket, Bangla Road in Patong is where the party happens. This pedestrian-only street transforms at night into a neon light strip with bars, nightclubs, street performers, and promoters offering drink deals as you walk by. The energy is loud, chaotic, and high-energy, so if you want a quiet cocktail, this isn’t the place. But if you want a fun night out, it delivers.
As you walk down the street, you will see a little bit of everything, but keep in mind not to get pressured to go inside the first venue you see. There are so many options. There will be promoters outside offering you deals ot drink at their establishments.
What to Expect
It gets crowded after 9 – 10 pm. Drink prices vary, so make sure to check menus before ordering. The area is loud, so I personally started my night at one of the less crowded bars, like Strawberry Social Club, before exploring busier spots later. Starting somewhere calmer made it easier to ease into the night before diving into the full Bangla Road experience. Keep in mind that the crowd will be very touristy, so if you want to party with locals, this is not the area for you.
Is Bangla Road worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you enjoy nightlife. There are so many options that you should be able to find a club/bar that is exactly what you are looking for. I would not recommend this for families or someone looking for a relaxing evening unless you head to the bars with fewer crowds.
7. Ride in a Tuk Tuk
You cannot visit Thailand without riding in a tuk-tuk for at least one of your trips. On the way home from Yona Beach, we got in one, and it was the same price as a cab! Some tuk-tuks even let you connect your phone to play music as you head to your destination, instantly turning it into a party ride.
Are tuk-tuks worth it?
Yes, these mini trucks are worth it at least once. I would recommend taking one when youare going a short distance, coming home from Bangla Road, or just wanting to head back to your hotel from an excursion.
However, they can be expensive at times, so also look at Grab, Thailand’s ride-sharing app.
Tips for Riding in a Tuk Tuk
If you are adding a tuk-tuk ride to your Phuket list, make sure you agree on the price with the driver before getting in. Since they only accept cash, make sure you have small bills on hand. Hold on to your belongings because you are about to experience an open-air journey.
Honorable Mentions of things to do in Phuket and places to visit in Phuket!
- Wat Chalong: Largest Temple in Phuket.
- Ma Doo Bua Cafe: Great Place to take Instagramable pictures on lily pads.
- Tiger Kingdom: Visit and interact with Tigers.
Final Thought on Things to do in Phuket, Thailand
Phuket offers so much more than beautiful beaches. From floating beach clubs and island hopping adventures to cultural landmarks and custom tailoring, there is something here for every type of traveller.
Whether you are visiting for a few days or planning ot stay longer, these experiences helped make my time in Phuket unforgettable. If I had ot priorize I would not skip the Phi Phi Island Tour or Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, becuase I loved those th emost.
If you are planning your trip to Phuket, start mapping out your days early, especially during high season when tours and beach clubs sell out quickly. I cannot wait ot head back to Phuket the next time I am in Thailand.
More Thailand Post
Chatuchak Weekend Night Market
Custom Clothing in Phuket Thailand
Chatuchak Market in Bangkok Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Phuket Thailand
How to book a trip to Thailand
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I love that you had your own pants made to fit and that they were ready in less than a day! Amazing.
I think I’d love to feed the elephants and then have pants made to fit before spending some time at the beach club – sounds like a good day to me!
This guide is perfect for anyone looking to experience the best of Phuket! Feeding elephants sounds like an unforgettable experience I definitely wouldn’t miss on the Elephant Sanctuary tour. Thanks for sharing!
such great things to do in Phuket. Would love to visit Yona beach club, the Big Buddha and island hop on a long boat.
I have had so many suggestions to visit Thailand and this even makes it look more exciting.
Thailand is such an amazing trip! I highly recommend it!