The biggest and most picturesque island in Thailand has much to offer to all kinds of travellers, let's see which are Phuket's main attractions.
The island of Phuket, situated on the west coast of the Andaman Sea, is the biggest island in Thailand and one of the most picturesque thanks to its dream sunsets and many activities on offer. The best season to visit Phuket is from December to March, when it doesn't rain and the weather is milder. The other months of the year are known as the rainiest months.
In 2004 a violent tsunami destroyed many areas of the island, in particolar the ones close to the coast. The areas of Patong and Kata, two of the most popular tourist destinations in the island were completely destroyed and only a year later, in 2005, all business activities returned to normal. Today no signs of that tragedy are left and everything has been rebuilt to continue receiving tourists and travellers from all over the world.
The most beautiful beaches in Phuket
For those who love beaches and sea, Phuket is the perfect destination to relax in the sun. Prices are slightly higher than in the rest of Thailand but still moderate for anyone coming from Europe. The most popular tourist areas are Kata, Karon and Patong beach; all three areas develop along the coast and are different from one another.
Kata and Karon Beach: For those in search of relaxation, the two areas of Kata and Karon beach are very calm and tranquil. The sea is very clean and has a crystal clear color, furthermore sunsets are really spectacular. They are two perfect areas for anyone who wants to stay away from the chaos of Patong and they are generally better suited for families and couples who decide to travel here.
Patong beach: The center of Phuket's nightlife, in Patong lies Bangla Road, which is basically a long road with normal bars, go-go bars, discos, clubs and lap-dance bars. It's the road of transgression in Phuket and clubs in this area are open 24/7. Around this road lies the entire Patong area, with luxury hotels and chains of famous restaurants, such as Hooters and Starbucks, receiving tourists who crowd the area all year round. A real fun-fair in the open air. Patong beach can be very crowded between December and March, and also very dirty since tourists take almost no care. In spite of this, in less crowded months, Patong beach is very picturesque and, especially at sunset, it offers marvellous sights.
Another very interesting and less popular beach is Kamala, certainely less modern if compared with the other three destinations in Phuket. Here lies a fabolous coral reef and many surfers use this beach for their activities.
The main city on the island is Phuket Town, where the port is located - Rassada Pier - from which ferry boats set off to reach the nearby islands of Phi Phi and other famous destinations such as Maya Bay, the beach which was made famous by Leonardo di Caprio's The Beach movie, and Krabi province. Furthermore, in Phuket Town you can find the Chinese district of the island, obviously called Chinatown, and the statue of the giant Buddha.
Phuket is an island to discover and one of the most interesting places in all Thailand; we suggest you to choose the most suitable area according to your needs and set off from here to explore the island, renting a motor scooter or a car. Still the best way to better discover these dream places, the dream beaches and the best hidden spots in Phuket.
