7 island trip phuket

The PERFECT 7 Day Itinerary for Phuket, Thailand

Are you visiting the beautiful island of Phuket? My complete 7-day itinerary for Phuket is all you need to make the most of your trip a success!

I still remember visiting Phuket for the first time, the winding roads on the island, continuous palm trees, and glimpses of beach bays every few minutes. It’s a stunning island, and the best part is all the conveniences it has to offer.

From the best things to do in Phuket, day trips, where to stay, restaurant recommendations, must-know tips, and more, read further as I share all you need to know when visiting Phuket!

7-Day Itinerary for Phuket Overview

• Day 1 : Big Buddha Phuket & Wat Chalong, Kata Beach, Karon Temple Market
• Day 2 : Elephant Sanctuary, Patong Beach & Bangla Road
• Day 3 : Day Trip to Koh Phi Phi Island & Chillva Night Market
• Day 4 : Freedom Beach, Kamala Beach, or Beach Club & Massage Time
• Day 5 : Phang Nga Bay Day Trip & Tann Terrace Restaurant/Fireshow
• Day 6 : Thai Cooking Class, Nai Han Beach & Cape Phrom Thep for Sunset
• Day 7 : Surin Beach & Old Phuket Town

How Many Days in Phuket

Phuket is a large island with plenty to do here and it also makes for a great base to explore southern Thailand. Realistically you could spend a great portion, if not all your trip here!

I’d recommend staying at least seven days for visitors only exploring the south of Thailand.

For those traveling and exploring Thailand on an extended itinerary, plan to spend at least four days in Phuket.

Day 1 in Phuket

Once you’ve enjoyed breakfast, it’s time to adventure to the top of Phuket and visit the famous Big Buddha.

You will join a small group on tour to see the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong, two of the most beautiful temples in Phuket. Those who enjoy hiking can do the 2-hour hike to the Big Buddha, but it will take away time from other plans in your itinerary throughout the day.

Once you’ve seen both temples, you’ll spend your first afternoon at Kata Beach and your evening at the Karon Temple Market.

Big Buddha & Wat Chalong

Your first morning in Phuket will start with a visit to the island’s most recognized attraction, the Big Buddha . Shortly after, you will visit Wat Chalong, a well-known temple.

Built in 2004 and perched atop the Nakkerd Hills in Phuket stands this impressive 45-meter-tall Big Buddha.

When you visit the Big Buddha, you will also be greeted with fantastic panoramic views of Phuket. Watch out for your bags and belongings, there are monkeys around at the Big Buddha.

TIP : Ladies, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered, or you can’t visit. At the Big Buddha, they sell sarong scarves, a traditional Thai scarf you can purchase to cover up.

With its soft white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush palm trees, and hills in the distance, Kata Beach is picturesque, to say the least!

The shoreline is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the beach offers many water sports, including parasailing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and surfing.

Located next to the beach, there are many bars, shops, and local vendors selling street foods.

Karon Temple Market

Next to Kata is Karon, another popular beach area and home to the Karon Temple Market, a lively night market in the temple.

Whether you want to experience a local market or engage with friendly vendors as you try their street food, Karon Temple Market is worth visiting. You’ll also find many souvenirs and house goods to purchase.

Down the street from the street are countless restaurants, bars, and shops you can visit later.

Day 2 in Phuket

Ready for an exciting day two in Phuket? The second day involves another fun morning of adventures, this time at an elephant sanctuary.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll head to Patong Beach, one of the most popular beaches due to its shopping and nightlife. Once you’ve spent the day relaxing there, walk along the famous Bangla Road and prepare for the famous nightlife street.

If you’re visiting with kids, you could skip visiting Bangla Road in Patong at night!

Elephant Sanctuary

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is one of the only ethical elephant sanctuaries in Phuket. It’s important to know that humans shouldn’t ride elephants and you shouldn’t support such places that allow it.

Day two will start with a morning at Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, where you’ll meet, feed, and observe the elephants as they freely roam in their natural habitat.

During the tour, you will also learn about the rescue stories and efforts the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary has made to sustain ethical elephant visits in Phuket.

For those visiting Thailand for the first time, a trip to an ethical elephant sanctuary is a must-do!

Patong Beach & Bangla Road

Your afternoon will be spent visiting the infamous Patong Beach . This beach area is famous for its many clothing markets, large malls during the day, and wild nightlife at night.

Visit the area for the afternoon, and you can spend it relaxing along the beach or possibly shopping. The area offers plenty of shops and two large malls.

Once you’ve enjoyed dinner, wander over to the famous Bangle Road. This road closes off in the evening and becomes a Walking Street full of countless bars, nightclubs, and more.

If you’re with your family, you may skip this. Also, for those who aren’t looking to party, I’d suggest visiting quickly to see what the craziness is about, that’s what I did.

Day 3 in Phuket

A trip to Phuket isn’t complete without visiting Phi Phi Island. The top-ranked tour is one of the best things to do when visiting Phuket!

On your third day, you’ll spend most of it on a day trip to Phi Phi Island. In the evening, you’ll visit Chillva Night Market for a laid-back evening.

Phi Phi Island

Prepare for a day of island adventures as you embark on a full-day trip to Phi Phi Island and its many surrounding attractions.

Starting in the early morning with a pickup from your hotel, you’ll head to Phi Phi Island by speedboat in a small group and visit Bamboo Island, Phi Phi Don, Maya Bay Beach, Monkey Beach, and more!

This Phi Phi Island tour is ideal because it shows you the best of Phi Phi Island all in one day and includes lunch.

I highly recommend you experience this tour. You know all those images you see online of Thailand with towering limestones amongst crystal blue water, that’s here!

Chillva Night Market

Once you’ve returned from a long day touring around Phi Phi Island, it’s time to enjoy an evening at one of Phuket’s best and more local night markets.

Like your typical night market, here you’ll find a wide variety of food to try: fresh grilled seafood, meat skewers, pad Thai, other stir dishes, green coconut curry, Tom yum soup, and much more.

Compared to other night markets in Phuket, the Chillva Night Market offers a wider variety of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.

Located near Phuket Town, Chillva Night Market is open Monday to Saturday from 5:00 PM to 11:00 .

Chillva Night Market is closed on Sunday because of the famous Old Phuket Town Sunday Market every Sunday. It’s known as the best night market in Phuket, but it only happens on Sunday!

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Day 4 in Phuket

After three days of non-stop adventure, as you make the most of your visit to Phuket during these seven days.

It’s time to take a step back and experience Phuket differently. Your fourth day will mainly consist of relaxation!

First, you’ll visit the beautiful, remote Freedom Beach in the morning. Then, spend the afternoon at Kamala Beach or visit Cafe Del Mar, a beach club on Kamala Beach, for a luxurious beach day.

You can stay longer at Freedom Beach, it’s a stunning beach, but there aren’t amenities there.

In the evening, experience your first Thai massage at one of the many local shops, and lastly, it’s time for dinner!

Freedom Beach

Many people think of remote beaches inaccessible by car when they think of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. Freedom Beach is exactly that. This stunning beach is only accessible by foot or longtail boat taxi.

With its crystal clear waters and many palm trees surrounding the shoreline, adding to the island atmosphere and rock formations, Freedom Beach ranks in Phuket’s top three best beaches!

Know that there are no washrooms here, but a few food vendors are on the beach.

Kamala Beach or Beach Club

After a morning of visiting one of Phuket’s best beaches , it is time to visit Kamala Beach beach, another beautiful beach with plenty of amenities for guests.

Kamala Beach has an extensive shoreline, and the waves are calm, perfect for those visiting with kids. It’s also located approximately in the middle of Phuket’s west coast, so its location is excellent.

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Kamala Beach. Plenty of beach lounger chairs are for rent, 100 Baht per chair with an umbrella for the day. Later, go for dinner in the area; many great restaurants are around.

For those looking to visit Kamala Beach but in a luxurious way, visit Cafe Del Mar, the best beach club in Phuket. Spend the day relaxing here with cocktails and appetizers.

Massage Time

Last but not least, to end your day in a relaxing manner, time to get a traditional Thai massage. There are many parlors in the Kamala Beach area, take your pick!

Traditional Thai massages consist of being stretched out by the masseur. They are very relaxing and are known in the culture as medically healthy for you.

One must experience at least one Thai massage when visiting Thailand for the first time!

Day 5 in Phuket

I hope you feel rested after your beach relaxation and Thai massage. Today, you’ll spend most of the day visiting one of Thailand’s most beautiful areas.

Once you’ve returned from a long day of island adventures, it’s time to spend the evening at Tann Terrace restaurant for dinner, accompanied by a beach fire show!

Phang Nga Bay

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in a small group and on your way to Phang Nga Bay, one of Thailand’s most nature-rich bays.

The famous Phang Nga Bay features several unique dramatic limestones, turquoise waters, hidden caves, and the famous James Bond Island, which was featured in “The Many with the Golden Gun” movie.

During the Phang Nga tour , you will enjoy sightseeing at Phang Nga Bay on a large boat, canoeing through caves, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, and a lunch buffet.

Phang Nga Bay is regarded as one of the top three-day trips from Phuket to experience.

Tann Terrace Fireshow

Day trips can be tiring; there’s so much happening all in one day, but thankfully, the evening will be relaxing.

Spend the evening after your day trip to Phang Nga Bay at Tann Terrace , a vibrant beachfront restaurant with exciting, fun fire shows happening each evening.

The menu is diverse, featuring Thai, Japanese, Italian, and Arabic food, so it’s sure to please all!

Day 6 in Phuket

Thai food is well-known worldwide and delicious, but instead of eating it during your trip to Phuket, why not learn to make it yourself? So when you go back home, you can make some for yourself!

Your sixth day will start with a morning cooking class, followed by an afternoon at Nai Han Beach, one of Phuket’s most crystal-clear beaches.

Nearby from Nai Harn Beach is Cape Phrom Thep, a stunning sunset area where locals and tourists gather to watch island sunsets!

Thai Cooking Class

Once you’ve been picked up from your hotel, you will first visit a produce market with a small group.

After you’ve visited the fresh produce market and sampled some local fruit, the class will be in session. Two English-speaking chefs will guide you as you make four traditional Thai cuisines.

Foodies will love this cooking class , you will cook and try many foods, including red/green curry, pad Thai, traditional Thai tea, fresh fruit tasting, and more. Also, considering the price and all you get to eat, it’s well worth it!

Nai Han Beach

Located on the southern-western side of the island is Nai Han Beach, a picture-perfect quiet beach with powdery soft sand and vibrant turquoise shaded waters.

Spend your afternoon relaxing at Nai Han Beach. Near the park are Ban Nai Han Park and Nai Harn Temple, which are worth visiting shortly after leaving the beach.

Despite being near many hotels, because of its location, Nai Han Beach is often less crowded than most of the beaches in Phuket.

You’ll find a diverse mix of restaurants to consider dining at after the beach, but don’t be too long at dinner. Catching the sunset later is on the agenda!

Cape Phrom Thep

For those looking to catch an impressive sunset in Thailand, Cape Phrom Thep is perfect for just that!

Famous for its unforgettable sunsets, the area offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Andaman Sea, which surrounds Phuket.

When you arrive in the evening, you’ll see many tourists preparing to capture sunset photos here, it’s fun!

The extensive row of palm trees, combined with the picturesque water vistas from the hill and the vibrant skies, many miss Cape Phrom Thep when in Phuket, and it’s a must-visit!

Day 7 in Phuket

On your last day in Phuket, it’s best to take things easy since you’ll be traveling the next day.

Phuket is known for its excellent beaches, so on the last day, why not visit one last beach before leaving? Surin Beach is known for its crystal clear water and vibrant day street food market.

In the late afternoon, discover Old Phuket Town, known as the island’s city center. Here, you’ll find the famous, colorful, picturesque Portuguese-Sino buildings, charming cafes, a wide variety of great restaurants, and a few rooftop & unique speakeasy bars.

TIP : There’s plenty to do in Phuket Town, so if you’re over the beaches, head earlier and spend more time exploring there!

Surin Beach

Starting your morning visiting Surin Beach. Similar to Freedom Beach, Surin Beach offers some of the clearest shorelines in Phuket; the sand is soft, and there are many stores and restaurants nearby.

Waves can be aggressive at Surin Beach, so if you’re not a great swimmer, be careful. The end of the beach, where the rocks are, offers a great area to go snorkeling!

Surin Beach might be my favorite beach in Phuket because Surin Beach has the most food vendors in Phuket. It’s like a night market in the day by the beach!

Old Phuket Town

Considered the island’s city center, where many businesses are, vendor trades happen, and more. Phuket Town is a vibrant area on the island best known for its charming Portuguese-Sino buildings built long ago.

While the area may not have a beach, there’s plenty to do in Phuket Town. There are countless shops offering souvenirs, clothing, textiles, spices, and more.

There are also several quaint cafes in the area, and the cocktail bars in Phuket Town are top-notch, with many unique speakeasy bars. Lastly, it’s also home to the famous Phuket Town Sunday Night Market .

Where to Stay in Phuket

Kata/Karon, Patong, and Kamala are the three best and most popular beach areas in Phuket .

All three beach areas are ideal for solo travellers and couples. For families, Kamala, Kata, or Karon would be best.

Kata or Karon Beach : These two popular neighbouring beach areas in Phuket are next to one another, sharing very similar atmospheres.

Both have stunning beach shorelines and a relaxing beach area full of restaurants, shops, and bars.

Katathani Phuket Resort  — Beautiful 5 Star beachfront resort, full of many activities and amenities

Blu Pine Villas  — Modern boutique-style hotel offering villa rooms close to many excellent restaurants

Le Meridien Phuket  — A stunning modern 5 Star beachfront resort with many amenities and a private beach area

JonoX Karon  — Ultra modern hotel minutes away from the beach, beautiful rooftop pool, and very well-priced

Patong Beach : Wildly known as Phuket’s most popular area due to its nightlife and wide variety of shopping. Patong Beach offers a lively area for those looking for a lively beach stay!

Rosewood Phuket  — A luxurious boutique hotel located in the hills of Patong in a private area, offering villas equipped with all you need and stunning panoramic ocean views

Amari Phuket  – The Amari Phuket offers exceptional views of Patong Beach and the area; the hotel is well-rated and conveniently close to the central Patong area

Lub d Phuket Patong  – Known as the best hostel in Patong, Lub D has a fun communal space with many activities and opportunities to meet other travelers.

Kamala Beach : Similar to Kata/Karon, Kamala Beach also offers visitors a relaxing island stay. Kamala Beach is beautiful but not as lovely as Kata/Karon’s beaches. However, Kamala Beach provides more things to do during the day and night than Kata/Karon.

Kamala is perfect if you’re looking for somewhere relaxing yet slightly more lively than Karon/Kata, but not Patong!

InterContinental Phuket Resort  — offers guests a tranquil, relaxing, luxurious stay, InterContinental is a beachfront stay along Kamala Beach, offering several world-class amenities.

Novotel Kamala Beach  — Located along the end of Kamala Beach, it offers direct beach access, spacious rooms, and excellent amenities.

When to Visit Phuket

Phuket has two significant seasons: the dry season and the rainy season, also known by locals as the monsoon season.

The best time to visit Phuket is during the  dry season , from late  November to April .

During the  dry season  in  Phuket , you can look forward to hot, sunny weather daily with minimal to no rain and low humidity.

Dry Season in Phuket:  November to April

The  rainy season in Phuket is from May to October , sometimes even till mid-November.

If you visit during the rainy season, you will experience sunny weather but understand the chances of it raining are much higher. Also, humidity levels are increased during the monsoon/rainy season.

Rainy Season in Phuket : May to October

Getting Around Phuket

Besides  renting a scooter , here are the most efficient and cheapest ways to get around Phuket.

Phuket Smart Bus : This local white bus operates on the West side of the island, driving and stopping at all the popular beach areas, including  Surin ,  Kamala ,  Patong ,  Karon , and  Kata .

Each beach area has designated stops, so make sure to wait there. The bus stops around  every hour  and costs 100 Baht/$2.88 US –  Check the Schedule

GRAB : Popular ride-sharing app you can download the app and find a ride quickly. It is safe, efficient, and one of the best ways to get around Phuket.

Song Taew  ( local Blue Bus):  The local blue bus picks you up and drops you off anywhere you want along the route. Stand on the side of the road and wave for the driver to stop; once you’re at your destination, press the button and pay the driver 30-50 Baht ( they’ll tell you ).

It operates from Old Phuket Town and outwards from  6:00 AM to 6:00 PM  and frequents each route approximately every 30 minutes ( sometimes slightly longer ).

Tuk-Tuk/Taxi : The fastest way to get around Phuket is by taking one of the many red tuk-tuks you can spot all over the island, and remember to negotiate!

Tips for Visiting Phuket

• Once you’ve landed at Phuket International Airport , use Grab for a ride to your hotel.
• Use the Phuket Smart Bus to get to different beaches in Phuket.
• Watch out for a few common reoccurring Phuket Scams.
• Visiting Phuket on a budget? Stick to the night markets and local cuisine, and it’s always the most affordable.
• If one of the days you’re visiting Phuket is a Sunday, you can’t miss the famous Phuket Town Sunday Market !
• Buy sunscreen before visiting Phuket. It’s more expensive here, and most sunscreen has whitening agents. If you prefer to tan, you won’t want to use it.
• Red Flags on beaches are there for a reason. If you see them, it’s not safe to enter the water.
• Always carry cash with you in Phuket. Some places accept credit cards, but Phuket is still a cash society.

No, seven days in Phuket isn’t long, the island offers plenty of beaches to visit, activities to do and sights to see. It also makes a great base to explore much of southern Thailand!

Thailand, including Phuket, has strict laws against disrespecting the royal family, drug use and possession, and visa overstays. Additionally, Phuket enforces a smoking ban on busy beaches such as Patong.

First, go to Bangkok, which is easier to fly into due to the airport’s many airline connections.

Overall, yes Phuket is quite touristy, however the island is rather large so it’s easy to find areas which are less touristy.

Areas on the island such as Rawai, and areas nearby Phuket Town aren’t nearly as touristy as Patong, Kamala and the other beaches!

Happy & Safe Travels

Planning Checklist

• Find the best Hotels/Resorts
• Book a Vacation Home Rental
• Book a fun Tour in the Place you’re visiting
• Find the best Hostels
• Find/Buy the Cheapest Flights
• Get Travel Insurance when traveling

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We recommend products/services we’ve either used or researched thoroughly – Thank you for supporting me so we can continue to share helpful travel content!

Owity founded Travel Hiatus in 2022 to document his travel, food and cultural experiences from all over the globe in order to help fellow travellers along the way. His slow travels allow him to research and explore places in-depth, meaning only the best and most informational guides for fellow readers! From Europe to North America, Asia and more, so far Owity has visited 21 countries.

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Global Gallivanting

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

No Thailand trip is complete without visiting Phuket and Krabi! If you want to find out how to explore both then this blog is for you!

Located in the south of Thailand, in the gorgeous Andaman Sea, Phuket is the country’s biggest, most diverse and most popular island with 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!

My 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 Ultimate 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.

The most convenient place to stay in Krabi is on Ao Nang beach but my favourite place is the stunning Railay Bay Resort on Railay Beach – just a 10 min boat ride away.

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.

Krabi is a large province with many beaches and islands to explore, check out my guide to where to stay in Krabi for a detailed overview and recommendations.

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 and catch an early boat to go island hopping.

You could 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.

Or, if you’re looking for something more off the beaten track, head to the Hong Islands where you’ll find a dreamy beach, hidden lagoon and 360 degree viewpoint.

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 from Ao Nang to explore the incredible limestone cliffs, caves, and lagoons or try rock climbing.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, eat lunch at one of the restaurants along Railay walking street or Ao Nang beach o r 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 and Krabi

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 and Krabi

As a tropical island, Phuket and Krabi are warm all year round, but have different seasons that you should be aware of.

The best time to visit Phuket and Krabi 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 Thailand, 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 Southern Thailand if you don’t mind the heat. The islands are 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 and Krabi are 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. Krabi also has an international airport but it doesn’t receive as many flights as Phuket does.

I find the best connections and cheapest flight deals with WayAway and even get cashback.

For this Phuket – Krabi itinerary you could fly into Phuket airport and then fly out from Krabi Airport to avoid traveling back on yourself, but it’s often cheaper to get your international return flight to Phuket and then add an internal Krabi to Phuket flight or take the ferry or buses between Phuket and Krabi – it only takes about 2.5 – 3 hours and is more environmentally friendly.

There are also buses and ferries 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. You can extend this for another 30 days by visiting the immigration office.

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

11 Best Island Hopping Tours & Day Trips From Phuket (2024)

21 amazing places to visit in thailand – my favorites (2024).

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Phuket Island Hopping: 15 Amazing Islands & How To Visit Them

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: June 21, 2024

Are you traveling to Phuket and want to explore some of the nearby islands, but are not sure where to start? This Phuket island hopping guide features all the most popular islands that you can easily visit as a day trip from Phuket. It also includes a few lesser known islands nearby and some well known islands a bit further away that are well worth a visit.

In addition, for each of the islands featured in this Phuket island hopping guide, we included practical tips and information on how to get there.

We have recently stayed in Phuket and used it as a base to do some island hopping nearby. However, we opted for a longer island-hopping adventure in Thailand and Phuket was just a part of it.

So in order to give you a better picture of the available Phuket island hopping options, I also asked other travel writers to share their favorite islands that they visited as a day trip from Phuket. This way you can read authentic travel stories that will hopefully help you decide which islands to visit from Phuket.

Top 4 Experiences in Phuket:

• Phi-Phi Islands & Maya Bay .
• Elephant Jungle Sanctuary .
• Similan Islands (amazing snorkeling!)
• James Bond Island .

Phuket is an ideal base for island hopping in southern Thailand. In fact, infrastructure is so good that it makes it possible to see so many amazing islands without ever having to switch hotels. So if you are short on time and want to explore the most spectacular islands as a day trip from Phuket , you’ll be glad to know that there are many amazing choices. Those islands are featured in the beginning of our selection (#1-8).

Many bigger islands not far from Phuket are certainly worth a longer trip and an overnight stay. So in this post, I also included a few islands that you can visit from Phuket, but where you better stay overnight . While, theoretically, they could also be visited as a day trip from Phuket, I personally would advise staying on those islands a bit longer. You’ll find these islands featured towards the end of this article (#9-10).

At the very end of this article, I also included 5 islands (#11-15) that are very close to Phuket, but are more local and therefore rarely visited by day-trippers, let alone organized tours. Each of these five islands are well worth a short visit, but they are also perfect as a place to stay in Phuket area.

Stunning location, no crowds, and exclusive luxury resorts – these islands are a great alternative if you are not keen on staying in the huge hotels along the crowded beaches on Phuket itself . After all, staying on a little paradise-like island is the ultimate island-hopping experience.

This Phuket island hopping guide not only features the most beautiful islands near Phuket , but it’s also full of practical tips and information showing you how to visit them. Find out!

TIP: If you want to see as many different islands in a short time, check out this 2-day tour that visits 12 (!) different islands.

Here are some of the best islands you can visit from Phuket:

1. Koh Phi Phi

I’ll start with one of the most beautiful islands of the Andaman sea and our personal favorite day trip from Phuket – Phi Phi islands . The name Koh Phi Phi actually refers to not one island, but a cluster of six islands. Most day trips and tours will focus on just the two biggest islands – Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Lee.

Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island of Phi Phi islands and is a real tourist hub with busy boat piers and a big choice of restaurants, shops, and accommodations for all budgets. Despite its reputation of being a party island, it’s well worth a visit due to its stunning location.

On the quieter side of the island, you can still find white sand beaches and azure blue waters surrounded by some amazing scenery. Make sure to also go up to the two viewpoints overlooking the wide surroundings. The views are stunning!

Koh Phi Phi Leh is an uninhabited island, probably best known for its secluded and incredibly picturesque Maya Bay, featured in the famous movie The Beach . To get here, you’ll need to take a boat.

All the guided Phi Phi islands tours from Phuket visit both islands and make many stops along the way, including several snorkeling locations. The most popular stops are Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, and lunch on Bamboo Island.

How to visit Phi Phi islands from Phuket:

• On your own. There are many ferry and speedboat connections between Phuket and Phi Phi Don. A speedboat takes about an hour (you can book a speedboat here ), whereas a ferry will take 2 hours ( you can book a ferry here ). You can easily visit Phi Phi Don on your own. However, if you also want to see Phi Phi Leh and the stunning coastline, you’ll need to hire a local long-tail boat to get there. There are plenty of boats on both harbors of Phi Phi Don and you can just negotiate the trip and the cost once you get there.
• Here is the Phi Phi islands tour that we took .
• This is the most popular tour – a great option for those who don’t want to get up at 5-6 AM…
• If you want more choices, here you can find all the best tour options for Phi Phi islands .

2. Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island

The second group of islands that are a must when island-hopping from Phuket, is Phang Nga Bay Marine National Park. There are over 100 islands in this area, but its main landmark is the so-called James Bond island .

Known for its appearance in the 1974 James Bond film ‘ The Man With The Golden Gun ‘, the stunning Khao Ping Kan with a 20-meter tall islet Koh Tapu, has gained the name ‘James Bond Island’. With flocks of tourists visiting the island to take in the striking scenery created by the towering vertical karsts on emerald-green water, it is best to get here early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Just 40 kilometers off Phuket, many tour companies offer full-day and half-day tours around Phang Nga Bay. Organized day trips usually include hotel pick-ups, minivan transfers to Phang Bay and back, a long-tail boat or speedboat to James Bond Island, as well as the 200 TBH entrance fee to the national park. Organized trips also include lunch and a stop at the floating fishing village of Koh Panyee.

Other main points of interest of Phang Nga Bay are the sacred Buddha Cave Temple, Wat Tham Suwana Kuha, and Hong Island (see also as an independent day trip below). If you go with a tour, you usually have the option to explore the caves and the stunning coastline by canoe or kayak as well.

How to get to Phang Nga Bay from Phuket:

• On your own.  You can explore all the attractions of Phang Nga Bay by hiring a long-tail boat. If you have a car or a motorbike, you can drive to Klong Khien Pier and rent a long-tail boat for a half-day excursion (it can be quite affordable or rather expensive – depends on how many people share the boat). Alternatively, you can also drive to Sam Chong Seafood , a floating restaurant that serves good-value tasty food and arranges long-tail boat hires as well.
• James Bond Island by Longtail Boat . This tour includes kayaking as well.
• Phang Nga Bay: Early Bird James Bond Tour . This is a great tour that offers a bit different itinerary than most others allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery without big crowds.
• Luxury Sunset Cruise: James Bond & Hong Island with Kayaking – fewer crowds and dinner included.

No matter how you visit, Phang Nga Bay is definitely worth a trip. Without any doubt, this is one of the absolute best day trips you can make from Phuket!

James Bond Island is suggested as one of the best islands to visit from Phuket by Karolina from Lazy Travel Blog .

A paradise, away from the bustle of Phuket, is one of my favorite islands in Thailand, Ko Hong . Known as Hong Island, it is located near dozens of other uninhabited islands in Phang Nga Bay.

Hong Island is one of the larger islands in the bay. On arrival, there is a small additional park entry fee. The beach has the softest white sand with stunning views of limestone cliffs and gentle emerald waters. It is the perfect spot to lay out and relax or spend some time snorkeling.

If you come here with a tour, you then continue to the back of the island, where a small entrance leads into a lagoon inside the middle of the island. It is perfect for kayaking!

Dedicated Ko Hong tours spend most of their time at Hong Island. However, they also take the time to explore the nooks and corners of several other stunning islands in the area.

How to get to Ko Hong from Phuket:

• On your own. It is possible to hire a private long-tail boat from a local fisherman for the day. This is a perfect option for couples, families, or groups of friends looking for a more intimate experience and more say in the time spent on the island. It is easy to find local fishermen near the main pier in Phuket or anywhere along the beach. There are often language barriers in Thailand, but with persistence, we found a local Thai person to help arrange the tour for us and negotiate a price. The tour was basic, with nothing provided (no food, water, etc…); just a long-tail boat, wind against our faces, and a smiling captain steering the boat.
• With an organized tour. Tours to this part of Phang Nga Bay by long-tail boat range in cost. Prices depend if the tour is on a long-tail or a fast boat. There seem to be more tours going to Ko Hang from Krabi than from Phuket, but there are a couple of James Bond Island tours that visit Hong Island as well. You can find some Hong Island tour options here .

This stunning little island is suggested as an unforgettable day trip from Phuket by Yana from Beard and Curly .

4. Koh Racha Yai & Koh Racha Noi

The Racha Islands, Racha Yai & Racha Noi can be found a mere 20km south of Phuket. Despite being so close to the busy Phuket, the islands are still quite off the beaten path. The laid back atmosphere and lack of major development will give you an inkling of how Koh Phi Phi was 20 years ago.

In the Thai language “yai” means big and “noi” means small. The smaller Racha Noi island is uninhabited and has more rocks than beaches. Fishing and diving are the main attractions at Koh Racha Noi. The larger island, Koh Racha Yai , is the main attraction with gorgeous beaches, secluded bays, a few bars, and accommodations.

Crystal clear water and an abundance of sea life make for excellent diving and snorkeling, which is one of the biggest draws to the Koh Racha Yai. Patok Bay has the longest beach of brilliantly white sand and it’s here that all the boats moor. From the jetty continue up the beach and follow the track to the village in the middle of the island. The little village has hut-like restaurants and shops that stock most things you would need for a short stay.

If you continue with the dirt track up and over the hill you’ll reach the equally beautiful Siam Beach. This is the quieter side of the island where you can escape from the day-trippers on Patok Beach. If you’re lucky, you may see the huge monitor lizards and the odd water buffalo in the coconut groves. Walking from one side of the island to the other should take about 15 minutes.

Transport on Koh Racha Yai is mostly by foot, but you can hire bicycles and motorbikes. Make your way to the West of the island for some spectacular sunsets.

How to get to Koh Racha Yai from Phuket:

• On your own. Boats to Koh Racha Yai leave from Chalong Pier or Ra Wai Beach and take 35 min. You can hire a speedboat or a ferry shuttle. It is also possible to take a long-tail boat from Chalong Beach to Racha Yai, but it will take more than an hour and could be dangerous should the weather suddenly change.
• Book a tour. While not as popular or well-known as the other island-hopping options from Phuket, it is possible to find organized tours to Koh Racha Yai . Most of them involve scuba diving, but there are also more relaxing tours more focused on water sports, snorkeling, and beaches. Here’s one of the best-rated Koh Racha Yai tours from Phuket . It actually visits two white-sand islands near Phuket – Racha Island and Coral Island (see below).

Koh Racha Yai day trip from Phuket is suggested by Jeanne from Learning to Breathe Abroad .

5. Coral Island – Koh He

Ko He (also Koh Hay or Koh Hae) or in English Coral Island, is located nearest to Phuket of all the islands in this selection. Despite that, it’s not hard to find places that are not yet completely overrun with tourists. It’s a great getaway for those looking to visit a white-sand blue-sea island near Phuket.

Coral Island is famous for its big variety of water sports and activities like diving and snorkeling. The place to be on Coral Island is the white-sand Long Beach, but it can get really crowded with day-trippers from Phuket. A better option for those looking to escape the crowds a bit more is Banana Beach, just 10-15 minutes walking distance.

How to get to Coral Island from Phuket:

• On your own. You can get to Coral island by boat from Ao Chalong pier .
• With a tour. You can join an organized tour that visits Racha Yai and Ko He as a day trip from Phuket .

6. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands are a group of eleven islands off the coast of Southern Thailand that can be visited on a day trip from Phuket or Khao Lak. This island archipelago is one of the best snorkeling spots in Thailand and I can highly recommend a visit if you are looking for an unforgettable island hopping experience in the Phuket area.

Depending on where you are staying in Phuket, and from which pier your tour departs, the total journey to Similan Islands by car and speedboat can take up to 2-3 hours. Journey times can become longer due to traffic and bad weather, but it’s worth the trouble.

How to get to Similan Islands from Phuket. The best way to get the most out of your visit is to take an organized day trip to the Similan Islands . If you book a tour, they will arrange everything including pick up from your hotel, drop off at the end of the day, and take you to all the best snorkeling spots in the Similan Islands.

On a 1-day trip from Phuket, you will visit 2-3 different islands. The Similan Islands have the clearest and most turquoise waters I have ever seen, paired with soft white sandy beaches. The islands are a protected national park and there is a wide variety of marine flora and fauna. If you’re lucky enough, you might even be able to snorkel with turtles!

Similan Islands day trip from Phuket is contributed by Greta from Greta’s Travels .

7. Surin Islands

Surin Islands , north of Similan Islands, is an archipelago of 5 islands. They are a bit further away from Phuket than most other islands and are therefore not as widely known or visited. It’s a real paradise with natural unspoiled beauty, the way many popular Thai islands used to be some 20 years ago…

With emerald green waters, colorful coral, and lots of sea life, Surin Islands are known as one of the absolute best snorkeling and diving locations in Thailand.

How to get to Surin Islands from Phuket. Surin Islands are quite far from Phuket, so the best way to get there is by booking an organized day tour . If you rather go on your own, there are boats running from Khao Lak, but depending on the schedule you might have to stay there (camping?) at least one night.

8. Koh Jum – Ko Pu

Koh Jum, also known as Ko Pu , is one of Thailand’s quieter and less developed Andaman islands. The island with two names (the northern part is known as Koh Pu, while the southern part is designated Koh Jum) is accessible from both Krabi and Phuket.

The beaches that make up Koh Jum’s western coastline are an obvious highlight. Popular stretches of sand include Lubo Beach, the island’s northernmost beach, Ao Ting Rai, and Ao Si. There is a smattering of low-key bungalow resorts along the beachfront that serve drinks and food (drop-ins welcome). Further south, Golden Pearl Beach is home to a few luxury villas. Water activities include swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving with local outfit, Koh Jum Divers.

There’s not a whole lot else to do on Koh Jum—and that’s precisely what makes the island so appealing. You won’t find any rowdy bars, full moon parties or shopping malls (at the time of our visit, there wasn’t even an ATM).

Hire a motorbike or bicycle to explore more of the island. Don’t miss Baan Ko Pu and Baan Ko Jum, the largest towns, which both have markets and mosques to see (the island’s residents are predominantly Muslim). You can also hike in the jungle interior and up Mount Pu, but make sure to hire a local guide who knows the area well.

How to get to Koh Jum – Ko Pu from Phuket. A high-speed ferry connects Phuket’s Ao Po Pier to Baan Koh Jum. The trip takes around 1.5 hours. Visitors also have the option to purchase a van-ferry joint ticket from Phuket Airport or the bus terminal. Note that boats are sometimes canceled during the rainy season, so it’s best to check availability in advance.

This lesser-known island not far from Phuket and Krabi is suggested by Emily from Wander-Lush .

9. Koh Lanta

Located about 70km away from Phuket, Koh Lanta is not immediately the first destination that comes to mind when exploring island hopping options from Phuket.

I personally wouldn’t advise going to Koh Lanta for just a day, but if you can stay on the island overnight, it’s definitely worth the trip. It was one of the favorite islands from our trip in Thailand!

Even if you take the earliest boat from Phuket to Lanta in the morning, you’ll probably have just 4-5 hours on Koh Lanta. The last boats from Koh Lanta to Phuket leave around 1-1.30 PM. Koh Lanta is a big island with lots going on, therefore I suggest that you stay on Koh Lanta for at least 1, ideally 2 nights. That way you can actually explore the island a bit more.

Koh Lanta has miles of calm, sandy beaches and very few people compared to the other popular islands nearby. This makes it a welcome respite from Phuket, which is usually packed with tourists.

The island is also surrounded by healthy coral, so snorkeling is always a pleasure here. The best way to do it is by boat via a snorkeling tour that allows you to reach more remote snorkeling locations near Koh Lanta. Here you can find a big selection of the most popular tours in Ko Lanta .

The Mu Ko National Park in the southwest of Koh Lanta is great for hiking. Don’t miss the lighthouse where you can enjoy some beautiful views. There are also remote beautiful white sandy beaches here.

Other popular things to do include kayaking tours to the nearby sea caves . You can also visit Lanta’s Old Town where you can see the Chinese Temple or do some shopping.

How to get to Koh Lanta from Phuket. Lanta is a short (1.5 hour) speedboat ride from Phuket. If you are just visiting Koh Lanta just for a day or two, don’t take a slow ferry as it can take over 4 hours. The speedboat costs more, around 1300-1500 TBH, but it’s so worth it. Boats to Lanta leave from Rassada Pier in Phuket. On Koh Lanta, the boats arrive at the Saladan Pier , which is located on the northwest side of the island.

You can book a boat transfer from Phuket to Ko Lanta and just visit for a day, but if you are on a tight schedule, make sure to book a boat there and back in advance!

Once you get to Ko Lanta, you can then do the tours that start on the island itself . At the moment, there are no day trips from Phuket that would include the transfer as well as sightseeing, because it is really easy to arrange yourself. And also because most people stay in Ko Lanta longer than a day (this is my personal recommendation as well).

Koh Lanta is suggested by Stefan from Nomadic Boys .

10. Ko Samui

Koh Samui is one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. This is one of the islands where you’d want to stay longer! And not just because it’s really far from Phuket, but also because it has so much to offer that it would be a shame to not explore this island a bit more. After all, Ko Samui is one of Thailand’s largest islands.

I was not sure if I would include Ko Samui in this selection of islands to visit from Phuket and I myself would definitely not just go there for a day. But it turns out that it’s possible to do that, so if you have just limited time and want to visit Koh Samui from Phuket, I want you to know that it is possible. Below you can find all the practical information, in the meantime here are some insider tips on how to see the best of Ko Samui in just a day.

Start the day at the Rich Resort in Lamai – their breakfast is healthy and yummy and very affordable. On top of that, you can also take a dip in their swimming pool overlooking Lamai beach.

Next, you may want to hire a motorbike or a car for the day as it’s much easier to go around. If you are visiting Ko Samui for just a day, make sure that you arrange to drop off the vehicle at the airport; this would make things so much easier. And don’t forget to drive on the left!

The first stop I recommend is the Lamai viewpoint. Afterwards continue to Grandpa & Grandma rocks (Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks). Another few minutes drive further you can see Overlap Stone. Don’t miss the Secret Buddha Garden (or Magic Garden). After that, you can visit Na Muang Waterfall 2 (not 1, it is a bit too far if you are short on time).

I suggest heading to Na Than Pier for lunch (a great spot for sunsets too). After that, you can drive back towards the airport and check out Chewang area along the way. Alternatively, if you still have half a day left, make a loop through Maenam beach, fisherman’s village, and The Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai).

How to get from Phuket to Koh Samui:

• By plane. For a day trip, the best way to travel from Phuket to Ko Samui is by taking a plane. Return flight from Phuket to Koh Samui will only take 55 minutes and Bangkok Airways offers several flights a day. You may spend more on flights (approximately $100 one way), but gain the whole day to explore Ko Samui. You can drive across the island in about an hour, but with various stops, you certainly need at least one full day to see some of the best places of Ko Samui. If you are planning to do this, make sure to book your flights well in advance.
• By car. The second option is to rent a car in Phuket, drive to Don Sak Pier in Surat Thani and get on a ferry. It departs every hour from 6 am to 7 pm. This route takes about 6 hours one way and isn’t really feasible if you have just a day. So in this case, you definitely want to stay in Ko Samui for at least one night. Even then, start early, so that you have some time to explore the island.

Ko Samui is suggested as one of the best islands to visit in Thailand by Anna Sherchand, who was also adventurous enough to actually visit it from Phuket.

The selection above features some of the best islands that you can easily visit from Phuket. This list is not complete, of course, and there are countless possibilities. Below you can find several wonderful lesser known local islands close to Phuket .

These islands are more suitable for those looking to escape the crowds. They are so close to Phuket that can also serve as a perfect alternative home base for your island-hopping excursions.

We ourselves also opted for this option and, instead of staying in busy Phuket, chose a resort on a little island nearby.

Here is a selection of some incredible off the beaten path islands close to Phuket:

11. Coconut Island

We stayed in a beautiful The Village Coconut Island Beach Resort on Coconut Island , just 5 minutes by boat from Laem Hin Pier in Phuket.

It’s a quiet island with a local village and no day tourists at all. In addition, it is so close to Phuket that it allowed us to easily book day trips to the other islands nearby without having to pay more for the same tours offered by the hotel.

TIP: booking online is so much cheaper! See also our practical tips a bit further below.

12. Naka Yai Island

Naka Yai island , just a stone’s throw away from mainland Phuket, is popular with day-trippers as well as honeymooners. It’s called the Pearl Island and no visit would be complete without a short stop at the pearl farm.

With many wide sandy beaches, few people, and spectacular views of nearby Phang Nga Bay, it’s a perfect day trip from Phuket. There is also an exclusive resort on the island that makes me want to book a trip back to Thailand right away. Check it out – The Naka Island, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa .

The best way to get to the Naka island is by taking a long-tail boat from Ao Por Pier ; it takes just 15 minutes.

13. Ko Yao Yai

Another wonderful island that I heard nothing but good things about is Ko Yao Yai , just 25 minutes by speedboat from Bang Rong pier in Phuket.

There are several really nice accommodations on this island and many budget options .

It’s a perfect offbeat island getaway for everyone looking for a more unique island experience near Phuket.

14. Ko Yao Noi

A bit more developed nearby Koh Yao Noi island is also easily reachable from Bang Rong Pier. It takes about an hour to get there.

You could visit for a day (check out this local Koh Yao Noi bike tour ) or stay on the island a bit longer (there are quite a few accommodation options ).

It’s a very local island with few tourists and eco-friendly activities and accommodations (you have to check these adults-only Treehouse Villas !). If you are looking for a somewhat different island experience in the Phuket area, this could be it.

15. Ko Mai Thon

If you are looking for a unique and romantic island getaway near Phuket, make sure to check Ko Mai Thon . Maiton is a private island and the best way to visit it is by staying at the exclusive resort Maiton Private Island By Favstay (I’m not sure it’s still operating at the moment of the last update though…).

Crystal clear green waters and white-sand beaches, in combination with this beautiful resort – it’s a dream island vacation and an experience you won’t find in Phuket itself.

Maiton is a perfect honeymoon island in Thailand! If you are on a tighter budget, you can also visit Maiton island as a day trip from Phuket .

Phuket island hopping – which boat to choose

Depending on which islands you are visiting, you may want to consider different options in terms of transportation.

• Take local long-tail boats  for shorter distances or off-the-beaten-path experiences – they are perfect for that! Believe me, you really don’t want to sit in a long-tail boat for more than an hour – 90 minutes at a time, even if the sea is very calm. Also keep in mind that long-tail boat drivers hardly ever speak any English at all. So sometimes it might be difficult to explain where exactly you want to go.
• Book speedboat tours for all bigger distances, such as visiting Similan Islands or Koh Lanta, but also Phi Phi islands and James Bond Island. It allows you to see so much more in a short time and you can spend more time sightseeing than sitting on the boat. It’s also rare that anyone gets seasick on a speedboat. But the best of all is that organized tours have set itineraries and English-speaking guides.
• Book ferries only for short distances or if you have a lot of time to visit different islands. Ferry transfers are really not ideal for further day trips. Ferries are much slower, you have no flexibility, the groups are much bigger, and if the sea is rough you’ll get seasick quicker.
• Private speedboat. Many companies offer the possibility to book a private speedboat for day trips near Phuket. However, for longer trips of 8-9 hours, you’ll quickly pay 800-900 EUR. Still, it might be worth looking into these options if you are visiting with a big family or a group of friends. If you look well, you might be able to find cheaper options; we didn’t find any. Long-tail boats can be a much cheaper alternative for private island hopping tours, but once again, you don’t want to do that for very big distances.

Practical tips for island-hopping day trips from Phuket

When looking into all the options for island hopping from Phuket, you will get overwhelmed with choices. If you don’t research in advance, you’ll find yourself drowning in the tour brochures and offers everywhere you go… From tour kiosks all over the place, taxi or van drivers, hotel lobby areas and resort activity centers – everyone seems to be selling island hopping tours in Phuket.

You might think that booking tours in Phuket itself will save you time and money, but our experience shows quite the opposite. Booking online lets you compare different offers, itineraries, prices, and read customer reviews.

Furthermore, if you book with a reputable agency (we recommend GetYourGuide  which we also used for our tours in Thailand), you have the option to cancel any tour up to 24 hours in advance . It’s also easier to get a refund in case of any problems. Try to reschedule a tour or get a refund from a local kiosk…

But that is not all! We found that most island hopping tours were not cheaper if booked in Phuket. Even worse, most tours organized by hotels and resorts were about 50% more expensive. That’s a difference of hundreds of euros for a big family like ours… per tour.

The cheapest option by far is to try and arrange all your island hopping tours yourself. However, this is easier said than done and is not always a feasible option if you are short on time.

First, you have to get to the right pier that has the best connections for the islands that you want to visit.

Second, keep in mind that ferries have strict schedules. Most ferry connections in southern Thailand seem to happen in between 8 AM and 1-2 PM; if you want to come back later, you have to make sure there will still be a ferry available.

Third, boat transfers are ok for getting from A to B, but you won’t see anything on the way. In most cases, you will still need to hire a long-tail boat to bring you to places worth visiting, but the ‘guides’ won’t speak English… It’s a lot of organization, research, and even more hassle if things don’t go as planned.

My advice for you is take a real vacation and book organized tours for all island hopping trips that involve visiting more than one destination on the same day . Please see our hand-picked tour suggestions and practical information for each destination above.

Are you visiting southern Thailand and are looking for more ideas on where to go and how to plan your trip?

Check our 2-week Thailand island hopping itinerary that includes many places mentioned in this post, but also brings you to some amazing islands further away. It also includes an incredible nature destination not far from Phuket – Elephant Hills at Khao Sok National Park . Take a look!

Some travel inspiration for Bangkok:

• Bangkok in 1 Day
• Where to Stay in Bangkok
• Bangkok Canal Tour

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Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Hi Jurga I am messaging you from Perth Australia We are heading to Thailand in May its my second trip but my Girlfriend first we are both 61 years old. I have been looking for the best way to see as much of the Islands as possible in one day with out blowing the budget up to much. The trip i am finding on the net is drop off for a time where we have one day so see as much as possible like you we will have cameras in hand what we like to do. we spoke to our travel agant ansd she said book it over there but you say not to do that. Can you give me a few links as to getting a boat to show us with out stopping on beaches do not want to swim or be dropped off Just like to explore and take pics of the Islands Happy to go into James Bond Island and etc then leave Hope i have given you a challange as i am not having much luck with this. Enjoyed reading this page got some very helpfull tips

Friday 17th of February 2023

Hi Brendan, I think your best bet is to book a private trip and then ask your guide/skipper exactly what you want. You can find quite a few private boat tours here. And otherwise, indeed, try to figure it out when you get there. But I think it will not be very easy to try to do it there without losing way too much time. Also, keep in mind that long-tail boats can't travel that fast (=far), so you can't cover that much ground in a day as e.g. with a speedboat or so. If you just want to visit one area, it shouldn't be a problem, but if you want to see several places that are somewhat further away, it might not always be possible in a longboat in just a few hours. Good luck!

Sunday 6th of November 2022

Hello going to be doing solo female travelling so i'm nervous & overwhelmed with all the info- 1. I really want to experience the long tail boats as they look so cool (also experience abit slow travel sometimes atleast) but then i have to independently arrange everything? 2. How do i manage if the boat drivers dont speak any english ? (It seems the organized tours mostly use speedboats) 3.Without hotel pickup how do i get to these boat stops? I dont drive so no renting anything for me. 4. How do i determine which islands are safe to travel by long boat vs speedboat 5. The get your guide tours seem quite expensive with each tours costing over $100 and covering 1-2 islands- so theres no way to experience tailboats within that arrangement ? (The viator 12 islands deal seemed cheaper interms of coverage but it seems crazy hectic) 6. Whats the safety situation? Like if i'm snorkling whose going to watch out for my bag as it will have money & valuables? 7. You mentioned none of the popular resorts are near the island hopping terminals? Like if i stay in a hotel in phuket and do daytrips then that doesnt apply to me right unless i stay at an island and do hopping from there like u guys did? (I was thinking of doing daytrips so i dont have to pay for another hotel plus face more complications)- whats your suggestion ??

Wednesday 9th of November 2022

Hi Shahrin, that's a lot of questions and I really have no time to properly address them all properly (I run this blog on my own and there are just not enough hours in a day). You're overthinking it. It's simple enough to just book a tour, most of them offer a pick-up from your accommodation, and it's usually the easiest way to see a lot. And if you are alone, it's much cheaper than trying to arrange anything individually. There are so many tour options - read the descriptions, the reviews, and you'll easily find something that suits you. Regarding safety. Don't take any belongings that you don't absolutely need, but it's usually safe enough to leave them on the boat when you are in the water (if you go on a tour). I would be careful leaving your stuff unattended on the public beach though (but this is everywhere, not Thailand-specific). I'm not sure you can do lots of longboat tours - they usually travel much slower and it will be quite a lot more hassle to arrange everything (and will be more expensive). But there are many places where you could hire them if you absolutely want to try. Hope this helps a bit. Have a great trip!

Jonas Johnsson

Thursday 29th of April 2021

I would not to island hopping like this. It does not give you the time to get to know the place and its charms. But I go to Thailand often so I have time to spend more time on each place :) To rent a motorbike cannot be 3000 bath, maybe 300 bath a day :)

Friday 30th of April 2021

Hi Jonas, everyone travels differently and the majority of people simply have no time to travel slow. I absolutely agree with you that it's better to travel slower and spend more time at each place, but many people have very limited vacation time and want to see as much as possible. Thus the popularity of day tours to all these areas. As for the motorbike or car rental, I assume you meant the part about Ko Samui that was contributed by a fellow travel writer. I just double-checked current rates and it seems that there was indeed a zero too many. Edited to correct now. Thanks a lot!

Wednesday 29th of April 2020

Thanks for your response. I got the tickets from a website where I can see the boat pics. I'm okay with speed boat sized boat. Just can't wait to get trough this covid storm and start to exploring. Stay safe, Jurga!

Tuesday 7th of January 2020

Hi there I f I want to do some island hopping day tours (with snorkelling), where is the best area to stay in Phuket? I have never been to Thailand before, and there are sooo many options. thank you

Wednesday 8th of January 2020

Hi Char, it's so hard to say because there are so many different harbors in Phuket and, depending on which tour you book, they leave from different places. We found that the most excursions we were interested in were leaving from the northeastern part of Phuket island - and to approx. center. So staying somewhat in the middle of the eastern coast worked well for us. We stayed on Coconut Island and never had a transfer longer than 30 minutes. Most popular resorts are on the western coast, however, but that's not where the tours leave from. That being said, if you stay somewhat in the center on the western coast, it's also a very good central location. For example, Patong Beach is a good area, I think, and the beaches there are very popular. All the tours usually offer free transfers from any Phuket hotels, but it's not fun if you have to spend two hours in the minivan before and after your tour. So yes, it's very smart of you to research this upfront. Enjoy your trip!

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7 Island Tour Phi Phi

7 Island Tour Phi Phi Includes

Pick-Up & Drop

7 Island Tour Phi Phi Overview

Trip Location: Phi Phi

Discover the spectacular scenery of the 7 islands of Phi Phi in a traditional Longtail boat. Enjoy Snorkeling, swimming or simply take a walk on the breathtakingly beautiful islands on 7 Island Tour Phi Phi. What to Expect Watch the wild Monkeys in Monkey Beach The stunning Monkey Beach is famous for its white sandy beach and emerald waters. Go for snorkeling, visit hidden cove of Ao Ling or Monkey bay, or simply watch the wild monkeys play around from far away.   Snorkel at Bamboo Island Bamboo Island is a perfect spot for a day trip with opportunities for snorkeling in the crystal clear water. Those who do not wish to go for Snorkelling, can go for swimming or can relax and sunbathe or even take a walk on the white sandy stretch.  Explore the ancient cave paintings at Viking Cave Viking Cave is famous for its ancient cave paintings. Explore the cave and watch thousands of swallows living on the top of the high ledges. Visitors can also opt to do snorkeling and watching colorful coral reefs. Cruise around the Pi Leh Lagoon  The spectacular Pi Leh Lagoon is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs rising out of the turquoise sea and has only one entrance and exit. The place is ideal for swimming or snorkeling with an abundance of marine life in the coral reefs in crystal clear waters. Visit Loh Samah Bay Or Take pictures at Maya Bay Visit Loh Samah Bay for snorkeling, swimming, or sightseeing. Visit the semilunar-shaped Maya Bay, surrounded by limestone mountains and clear green water, and famous for being the location of the movie “The Beach”. Spot the blacktip reef sharks at Shark Point Shark Point where you can spot blacktip reef sharks hunting smaller fish, Visitors may also spot many Leopard Sharks resting and sleeping. Know Before You Go: Pick up/Drop off:  Hotel/Place of accommodation Type of transfer:  Shared Tour Duration:  11 hours Starting Time:  08:00 AM

Other Inclusions

• Hotel Pickup
• Accident Insurance
• Drinking-Water
• Life Jacket
• Snorkeling mask
• First Aid Kit

Things To Carry

• Swimming suit
• The tour may be postponed or canceled due to bad weather or sea conditions
• Pregnant guests or guests with high blood pressure, heart or bone diseases are not recommended to join the tour.
• This is a group tour

7 Island Tour Phi Phi: Cancellation Policy

• If cancellations are made 30 days before the start date of the trip, 25% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
• If cancellations are made 15-30 days before the start date of the trip, 50% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
• If cancellations are made within 0-15 days before the start date of the trip, 100% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
• In case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain trips or activities may get cancelled. In such cases operator will try their best to provide an alternate feasible. However a cash refund will not be applicable for the same.
• Cancellations are strictly subjected to cancellation policies mentioned on the website & are irrespective of the date of booking.

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People Also Ask About 7 Island Tour Phi Phi

What can we expect from 7 island tour phi phi.

7 Island Tour Phi Phi includes a visit to 7 islands by traditional long-tail boats and do snorkeling, swimming or just relaxing on the white sand or explore the islands.

Will we do any water activities in 7 Island Tour Phi Phi?

There are two water activities in the 7 Island Tour from Phi Phi which visitors can indulge during the tour. They are snorkeling & Swimming.

Which are these 7 Islands?

The seven islands of the 7 Island Tour Phi Phi are - - Bamboo Island - Viking Cave - Pi Leh Lagoon - Maya Bay - Monkey Beach - Loh Samah Bay - Shark Point

What will be the duration of the 7 Island Tour Phi Phi?

The total duration is 11 hours. From 8:30 am to 7:30 pm.

Are meals included in the package?

Yes, Lunch box during lunchtime, fruits and drinking water is included in the package

Are pick up and drop included in the package?

Yes, pick up and drop in included in the package from McDonald near Tonsai pier on Phi Phi Don Island.

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The ultimate 7-day phuket itinerary.

    When you imagine a perfect holiday getaway filled with sandy beaches, coconut trees and ice-cold cocktails, the island of Phuket is often one of the first places that come to people’s minds. With so much to do and so much to see, Phuket truly lives up to the hype. To truly experience the full package of the island, Lub d has narrowed down a list for a 7-day itinerary to help you experience the best of the best Phuket experience!

Patong Beach as a BASE

Patong is an ideal place to base yourself for your 7-day adventure. Why not throw yourself in the deep end on the very first day? Patong is world-renowned for its picturesque beach, and legendary nightlife. A short 3-minute walk from Patong beach, in the heart of all the action, is Lub d Phuket .

      It is a vibrant, fun-loving, and newly renovated pool party hotel . Being a budget hotel , it is a reasonable choice to base a stay here. From our hotel, you can explore the beautiful Patong beach and its never-ending cafes, bars, and stalls during the daytime, then head out for an incredible night out in the lively and intense Bangla Walking Street once the sun sets.

Beach Hopping in the South

Once you’ve recovered from your Bangla Road-induced hangover, beach hopping along the Southern coast of the island is a remedy you need! South Phuket is home to some of the most stunning clear waters and calm atmosphere and a great way to start the beach hopping adventure from Karon Viewpoint just south of Patong, to see spectacular views of the Andaman Sea.

You can also explore the coastline, covering many world-class beaches like Kata Noi, Kata, Karon, Nai Harn, and Rawai beach. The Big Buddha, Wat Chalong temple, Promthep cave, and the Windmill viewpoint are other great places to visit in this part of the island. All these spots are conveniently located within distance from Lub d Phuket !

Northern Phuket

      While the Southern side of the island is undoubtedly the tourist hub, the northern parts are underrated. A much quieter and family-friendly area, North Phuket offers visitors the chance to relax and enjoy a more tranquil vibe. Banana Beach, Mai Khao, Nai Yang, Haad Sai Kaew, and Naithon are among the nicest beaches that you must visit. A jungle trek to see TonSai and Bang Pae waterfalls in Khao Phra Thaeo national park is also a great way to spend your third day if you’re looking for a good workout. 

Overnight Trip to an Island

      Another top-notch activity to experience is going to one of the smaller islands neighboring Phuket for either a day trip or an overnight stay. There are 6-7 stunning islands around Phuket that you can reach via a short boat trip. We would highly suggest checking out Phi Phi Island — a world-renown destination with its signature turquoise waters. Aside from Phi Phi, other great islands near Phuket include the Similan, Racha, Coral, and Koh Yao islands. Here you can enjoy world-class snorkeling, kayaking, diving trips, private yacht charters, deep sea fishing, or just relaxing on the white sandy beaches.

Outdoor Activities (ATV / Buggy Tours, Jet-Skiing, etc.)

      Phuket is also home to a lot of great adventure-based outdoor activities. After returning from the overnight island trip, spend your day trekking or book ATV/buggy tours that take you to some hidden spots deep in the jungle with incredible views like the one at Nui Beach that we extremely recommend. Also, you can book a Jet Skiing adventure found across most of the touristy beaches around the island, or reserve a private speedboat charter to take you deep-sea fishing.

Phuket Old Town

      Finally, after 7 days of sun, sea, and outdoor activities, the perfect way to wind down and take in the real essence of Phuket is to visit Thalang Road in Phuket’s Old Town. This historic street full of influences from neighboring countries comes to life at night, and you can enjoy a variety of different street foods, snacks, and handicraft shops to take souvenirs back with you. The street food here is out of this world, and the Sunday walking street is a must for all people visiting the island.

      Things to do in Phuket can be overwhelming and packing it all into 7 days may get a little exhausting at the end of your trip! However, if you follow our itinerary, you’ve more or less covered the key highlights of a classic trip to this island paradise.

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Island Hopping Tours: A Full Day Adventure Touring 7 Islands of Pure Tropical Paradise

Explore the luscious local islands off Phuket – Koh Lon, Coral, Bon, Kaeo, Kaeo Noi, Man, and Thanan – all in one unbelievable day! Our tropical island day tour will take you on an exotic adventure where you get to discover and explore a lucky number of 7 islands! Get ready for an exhilarating day out!

7 Islands Getaway! Turquoise Sea and White Sand Await!

Spend a day zig-zagging from one beautiful island to the next by speed boat off the coast of Phuket from Ao Yon Beach, amid spectacular scenery of lush vegetation, granite rocks, limestone mountains and mangroves, and amazing seascapes! These island gems may be small, but they have a lot of memorable moments to offer. All the islands lure visitors with a palm-fringed white sandy beach at every turn and authentic island vibes. Dip in and out of the turquoise waters all day long, snorkeling with the colorful marine life in and around the coral reefs off the beaches.

The day will bring idle moments on the sand as you laze about, soaking up the sun and tropical feel, and watch a traditional longtail boat go by. The idyllic backdrop of every island will present great photo ops – all – day – long!

Time for some lunch, on the boat, or choose the perfect picnic spot on the island of your choice, perhaps in a hidden cove or along a stretch of white sandy beach, and indulge in a local spread of delicious Thai food and tropical fruits.

Continue your island hop adventure in the afternoon, with more islands to see and more time for exploration. Grab a life jacket and head off on a kayak, if you are lucky, you may spot shy Reef Sharks scouting the corals, or just enjoy dipping into the shimmering crystal clear waters that lap the white sand.

All good things come to an end, as you head back to Phuket; enjoy the last moments on the Andaman Sea, with a day full of truly tropical memories that will last a lifetime.

Until your next voyage with Coral Seekers!

Thailand’s Unseen Highlights Beautiful Island Boat Trip

We offer other island tours to many dreamy destinations in the Andaman Sea. From neighboring islands like Coconut Island, Naka Yai Island and Naka Noi Island – and across the tropical waters to James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay and the towering limestone cliffs rising from the hues of blue and green – to Phi Phi thrills – visit Monkey Island and watch the free living monkeys playing on Monkey Beach, Chicken Island (Koh Gai), spectacular Pi Leh Lagoon and Maya Bay, or our Krabi tours, to name a few!

We Offer Island Hopping Tours That are Exclusive and Tailored to Your Preferences

If you are seeking great service, book our 7-Island Tour Phuket today.

It is your private charter – your day – your choice, so we’d like to know your preferences! We strive to be as flexible and accommodating as possible for our guests while maintaining safety and the original scope of the charter. See what is included and what is not included in the tour price – such as the National park fee (if applicable) and lunch – and all the extra details below, listed in our sample itinerary.

So meet us in your hotel lobby at the scheduled pick-up time of your tour date, and we will whisk you away in no time to our exclusive Ao Yon Beach Club away from crowded tourists and tour guides, only you and the turquoise blue – and your friends and loved ones – on a captained private day charter.

100% Private and Customizable & 24 Hour Full Refund

Experience an exceptional 7-Island day tour adventure with our exclusive private tours and personalized itineraries. Immerse yourself in a bespoke adventure meticulously crafted to your preferences, ensuring every moment is flawless, from the moment we collect you by private transfer to the time we transport you back to your hotel in style.

Discover incredible islands, with natural spectacles of crystal clear sea, a view point or two, snorkeling spots, marine life, colorful fishes, attractive coral reefs, and secluded beaches, at your own rhythm.

This is your aquatic adventure, and we will create the best 7-Island day trip through an unforgettable exclusive tour with a team that strives to bring service excellence.

Enjoy the confidence of a 24-hour full refund, which we will guarantee, for your peace of mind.

7 Island Tour Phuket FAQs

What is always included on a boat trip in phuket.

The specific inclusions on a boat trip in Phuket can vary depending on the type of boat tour, the operator, and the package you choose. Some common, essential elements that are often included on such boat trips include drinking water, life jackets and safety equipment, but it is necessary to check the specific details of the boat trip you’re interested in, as the offerings can vary.

Can I encounter marine life like the leopard shark during the island cruise in the Andaman Sea?

The Andaman Sea offers the opportunity to observe rich marine life, and you might have the chance to witness fascinating, non-threatening leopard sharks resting on the ocean floor if you are scuba diving or even snorkeling.

What should I expect regarding physical activities during an island cruise?

Island cruises can offer a variety of activities, including snorkeling and beach exploration. These activities can even be enjoyed by visitors with a low to moderate physical fitness level.

Do island tours offer the opportunity of a thrilling jet ski tour?

Some island tours offer the option of a jet ski excursion as an additional water activity within the day’s itinerary. Jet skis are readily available on Phuket beaches, and it is recommended that you check with jet ski providers or a Phuket jet ski tour operator to confirm the availability, details, and costs associated with an amazing jet ski adventure tour.

• Land transfer from hotel and drop-off included.
• Private charter quality speedboat with crew.
• Sole use of the boat during the charter period (no sharing with other groups).
• English-speaking guide provided.
• Soft drinks, fruit, and snacks included.
• Snorkeling equipment provided.
• Life jackets available.
• Insurance included.

38ft twin-engine speedboat with crew THB THB 45000 45,000 Per boat

Terms & Conditions / Extras

• Excludes National Park Fees and private island access fees.
• Pricing based on 10 passengers.
• Minivan transport: up to 10 adult passengers. Add 2,500 THB for every additional 10 passengers.
• Optional picnic lunch: 450 THB per person.
• Itinerary subject to change due to tide and weather conditions.
• Additional engine-running time beyond standard allotment incurs extra fees. Extra costs advised in advance if necessary.
• Prices quoted in Thai Baht, exclusive of VAT.
• Floating pool available: 5000 THB for the day.
• Fishing rods for game fishing: 1000 THB per person.

Sample Itinerary

• 8:30am Air-con minibus pickup from your location on Phuket. Pick up time is noted at 08.30 a.m., but earlier times can be arranged for a slight surcharge.
• 9:00am Arrive at the marina or Coral Seekers’ beach club location at Ao Yon. Meet your tour guide, discuss the day's charter and board your private speedboat. *Arrival time may vary - based on your Phuket accommodation location.
• 9:30am Arrive at Coral island and visit for sightseeing, swimming or just relaxing on the beach
• 12:00pm Enjoy your delicious picnic lunch.
• 1:00pm Cruise around nearby Islands for swimming, snorkeling or relaxing.
• 2:00pm Board your speedboat and begin your cruise to Kaeo Islands.
• 3:00pm Snorkeling and swimming near Naiharn Beach.
• 4:00pm Visit Thanan island for an sundowner
• 5:00pm Arrive back at the marina or Ao Yon Beach.
• 5:30pm Arrive back to your resort/villa via air-con minibus. *Arrival time may vary based on your Phuket accommodation location.

Note: All bookings are subject to availability. A member of our team will respond to your booking request once you submit the form above. No money will be charged until you wish to confirm your booking.

Last minute bookings: For bookings with less than 24 hours notice, we strongly recommend you call our reservations team on +66 (0) 81 677 0601 (for Speedboat Charters) or +66 (0) 81 956 9961 (for Yacht Charters).

Destinations:

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7 Day Phuket Itinerary (2024) | The Best Things to do in 7 Days in Phuket

7 days in phuket is a good duration to get to explore all the island has to offer. even if small, phuket is quite popular and busy, so here’s some of the best foodie, fun and responsible things you can do on a phuket 7 day itinerary..

All of us have heard about Phuket, a tropical island paradise located in the Andaman Sea in southern  Thailand .

Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, Phuket is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors every year and is arguably one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world!

You will find plenty of Phuket itineraries for planning your ideal Phuket travel itinerary. However, the best Phuket itinerary is one which not only covers famous attractions in and around the city but also gives you a chance to truly feel and appreciate the beauty of  Thailand’s  culture.

This Phuket itinerary 7 days covers not just fun activities but will also help you indulge in Thai food, ethical Elephant visits and see the best beaches, ensuring you get time to relax too! Read on!

PLANNING YOUR PHUKET TRIP | THE ESSENTIALS

Best Phuket tours –

• Phi Phi Islands day tour from Phuket
• James Bond Island Excursion from Phuket 
• Phuket city tour with yoga or Muay Thai class

Top Phuket hotels –

• The Memory at On On Hotel
• The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa
• Ritsurin Boutique Hotel

IN THIS GUIDE

7 Day Phuket Itinerary – where to stay, eat and detailed things to do

Where to stay in phuket.

Phuket has plenty of options to choose from in terms of accommodations, from luxurious high-cost stays to budget accommodations for budget travellers.

Luxurious :  The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket

Situated on a hillside overlooking Siray Bay with stunning views of the Andaman Sea, the Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa is a luxurious beachfront resort with spacious and luxurious rooms.

Its secluded location on the east coast of the island offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the more crowded areas of Phuket.

Mid-range :  The Memory at On On Hotel

The Memory at On On Hotel is a historic boutique hotel located in the heart of Phuket Old Town.

The hotel was originally built in 1929 and has been beautifully restored to its former glory, preserving its unique Sino-Portuguese architecture and charm.

Budget :  Ritsurin Boutique Hotel

The Ritsurin Hotel is a highly rated 3-star accommodation with comfy beds and a near-perfect location: walking distance away from the Old Town, but far away from the noise.

The rooms are comfortable, spacious and airy and the hotel has lots of amenities including cycles and car rentals.

Best time to visit Phuket

Planning to spend some days in Phuket? November to February would be the perfect time for a Phuket 7 day itinerary, as the temperature ranges between 23° C to 30° C, meaning cool temperatures throughout.

Monsoons have just ended so you can expect plenty of warm sunshine without being washed away by the rain. Do note that this is the peak season so expect plenty of crowds.

If you want a quieter time in your itinerary to Phuket, you can also visit during the monsoon months from  June  to  September  which is the low season.

You can expect plenty of rainfall but some sunshine and a cool breeze with lush greenery will be a constant companion. Mind you, you may not be able to enjoy the fantastic beaches of Phuket if you plan 7 days in Phuket itinerary for this time

This Phuket itinerary is suitable for both the peak season and the off-season. If you choose the latter, you might not be able to enjoy the beaches.

7 day Phuket Itinerary : Day 1

Arrival in phuket.

The Phuket International Airport is the gateway to the largest island of Thailand and is the first destination of your 7 day Phuket itinerary.

The airport is around 32 kilometres away from the main Phuket city and there are plenty of airport transfers, such as taxis and airport buses.

On reaching Phuket, check in at one of the highly-rated hotels I have provided above and rest your legs after the long journey for your upcoming 7 day Phuket itinerary!

Spend the evening at Dibuk House if you like some drinks and music or any of the numerous street food places and restaurants in Old Town.

If you’re someone who doesn’t need to relax, start off with the things to do in Phuket on Day 2 right away!

7 day Phuket Itinerary : Day 2

Places: phuket old town, wat chalong, big buddha & simon cabaret show.

After a hearty breakfast of relishing Thai cuisines such as Joke or Khao Kai Jeow, it is time to start this Phuket itinerary and explore the beauty of Phuket!

I always start the first day either by relaxing if it is been a tiring journey or heading to the heart of the city to take a look at the markets, get a feel of the place and interact with locals.

You can also use this as a one-day itinerary for a day trip Phuket if you are visiting Krabi.

Phuket Old Town

The historic  Old Town of Phuket  is lined with Sino-Portuguese architecture in the form of quaint colourful shops and colonial buildings, with cafes and eateries scattered about.

Take a stroll along Thalang Road and Phang Nga Road to admire the various architectural marvels of the Old Town, a must-see for any Phuket itinerary

If you happen to visit on a Sunday, do not forget to go to the Sunday Walking Street, which is full of food stalls, local performers and shops selling artefacts, a perfect place for shopping for some souvenirs!

Stop by the  Thai Hua Museum , to learn more about the history of Chinese immigration to Phuket, and the  Chinpracha House  featuring many personal collectables for a vintage charm.

Old Town is a gastronomical delight with plenty of eating options, right from local street food to a more nuanced experience. Some must-try local favourites are Hokkien mee, dim sum, Tom yum Goong and Pad Thai!

Address: 42 Krabi Road, Phuket Town, Phuket, 83000, Thailand

Timings: All day

Price: Free at Old Town / Thai Hua Museum – 120 BHT for Adults, 200 BHT for children / Chinpracha House – 150 BHT

Wat Chalong

The  Wat Chalong  temple is the largest temple of Phuket and is a revered place for Buddhists and is a must-visit spot for any itinerary for Phuket.

The temple complex itself is intricately designed and is home to several statues of Buddha, as well as other important figures from Thai history and mythology.

Light incense and make an offering at the shrine and visit the exhibition hall which displays several artefacts and relics.

If you happen to visit Wat Chalong during the Chinese New Year, you will be mesmerized to witness the hustle and bustle at the Wat Chalong fair!

Pay your obeisance or simply admire the holy relic at the temple, a bone fragment of Buddha in a glass case!

The lush garden in the temple complex makes the experience even more divine. Take in the view of the Phra Mahathat Cheti as you sit in the shade of a tree.

Address: 70 หมู่ที่ 6 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd, Chalong, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand

Timings: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Your next stop is the  Grand Buddha of Phuket , located near Wat Chalong on the peak of Mount Nagakerd.

The imposing 150-foot-tall statue overlooking Phuket City is truly a sight to behold! There is a short hike to reach the top.

The Big Buddha offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, so be sure to take some time to enjoy the scenery on your Phuket itinerary.

There are also plenty of photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera!

As your day ends, you will be greeted with a majestic sunset, forever imprinted in your mind.

Address: Tambon Karon, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83100, Thailand

Timings: 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

You can also consider taking this interesting Phuket City Tour with Yoga, or Muay Thai Class to customize your own Phuket itinerary

Start the day with a choice of either a yoga class or a Muay Thai class! After this unique experience, you get a guided tour of Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha, with the trip ending at Old Town.

So, all you have to do is move along with the group, without worrying about planning!

Simon Cabaret show

Any Phuket itinerary 7 days is incomplete without catching a late Simon Cabaret Show, which is a must-see performance in Phuket.

It’s a stunning display of costumes, music, and dance that is sure to leave you mesmerized. Nothing beats the famous Cabaret show in terms of pure entertainment!

You can book the tickets for the show through this  link . The duration of the show is around 1 hour.

Simon Cabaret Show

Address: 8  Sirirat Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

Timings: 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Price: Check here

7 day Phuket Itinerary : Day 3

Places : phuket elephant sanctuary, patong beach, phuket phantasea.

On the second day of your Phuket itinerary 7 days will be something different and unique, as you cover some of the other famous spots in and around the city.

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Did you know elephants are the national animal of Thailand? They are considered sacred in Buddhism, which is the reason why you will see magnificent elephant statues if you visit any Buddhist temples.

Unfortunately, many elephants have been treated cruelly and have lived a hard life in Thailand’s logging industry, apart from their use for human entertainment.

The sanctuary is Phuket’s first and most ethical elephant sanctuary, providing old elephants with a final home where they can freely roam, bathe, and forage.

See these majestic animals up close and personal in their wild habitats. A short documentary on elephant taming before the tour is sure to bring tears to your eyes.

A visit to this sanctuary will leave you a little more appreciative of the beauty of nature and animals on your Phuket 7 days itinerary.

You can book tickets directly on their website through this link ..

Address: Phuket Elephant Sanctuary Co., Ltd. 100, Moo 2, Paklok, Phuket, Thailand

Timings: 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. / 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Price: Adults – 3000 BHT / Children (4 to 12 years) – 1500 BHT

Best beaches around Phuket

Perhaps the most awaited moment of this Phuket trip itinerary is the beach!

One of the most famous beaches of Phuket, Patong Beach is known for its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal location to sunbathe or enjoy some water activities.

However, if you want to relax away from the crowds, you can also head towards Surin Beach, which is renowned for its clear water and tranquil atmosphere.

The beach is closer to our next spot, the Phuket Fantasea.

So, close your eyes and feel the sun’s warmth on your skin, listening to the soothing sound of the ocean!

Phuket FantaSea

One of the most famous attractions of Phuket which is a must in your Phuket 1 week itinerary is the Phuket FantaSea, a cultural theme park that offers a unique and unforgettable experience!

The park’s main attraction is the cultural show, which is a dazzling display of Thai culture, featuring traditional dances, acrobatics, and other performances that showcase the country’s rich history and heritage. So, make sure you catch this show!

Phuket FantaSea also offers a range of other attractions, including a carnival village with games and rides, a 4D theatre, and a shopping complex where you can purchase souvenirs and handicrafts.

But perhaps the most memorable aspect of Phuket FantaSea is the spacious habitats of elephants, tigers and other exotic animals that mimic their natural environments, where you can observe them from a safe distance and learn about their behaviours and habitats through informative displays.

The Phuket FantaSea offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, exciting entertainment options, and a commitment to animal welfare that makes it a standout destination!

Address: 5:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. (Cultural show starts at 9:00 p.m.) every Tuesday / Friday / Sunday

Timings: 8 am – 5 pm everyday

Price: Adult: 1800 BHT to 2200 BHT / Child: 1800 BHT to 2000 BHT

Phuket 7 day Itinerary : Day 4

Places : pha nga bay.

Another famous attraction in Phuket which is an essential visit for this Phuket itinerary 7 Days would be the Pha Nga Bay, a stunning natural marvel, where you’ll see a variety of unique rock formations, hidden lagoons, and pristine beaches.

Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as colourful tropical fish and playful monkeys that inhabit the lush vegetation of the islands.

James Bond Island is an imposing limestone rock formation located in the middle of Phang Nga Bay in Thailand. Also known as Khao Phing Kan, this iconic island gained worldwide fame when it was featured in the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”.

One of the most iconic ways to explore Phang Nga Bay is by long-tail boat, a traditional Thai boat that’s perfect for navigating the shallow waters and hidden coves of the bay and this  James Bond Island Excursion by Longtail Boat  is highly rated.

Apart from the natural marvels of Pha Nga Bay and James Bond Island, the boat will also cruise through Ao Phang Nga National Park ,  to explore its magical mangrove forests.

You will also get a chance to paddle around the scenic Talu Island to experience the area’s beauty, before returning to continue on your Phuket itinerary 7 days.

Phuket 7 days itinerary : Day 5

Places : phi phi island.

A stunning tropical paradise right off the coast of Phuket, Phi Phi Island is a small archipelago of six islands, each with its unique charm and character.

Known for its crystal-clear water, white sand beaches, and towering limestone cliffs, Phi Phi Island is one of the most famous landmarks of Phuket!

Hop on a boat for a day trip to this fairyland!

I highly recommend the  Phi Phi Island Day Tour from Phuket  if you want a hassle-free experience.

Not only does the tour provide a pick-up and drop facility, but it also covers the breath taking attractions of Phi Phi Island, including:

Maya Bay  is   a picturesque stretch of white sand beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, which has been featured in Leo DiCaprio’s famous movie ‘The Beach’.

Koi Phi Phi Le,  one of the smaller islands of the Phi Phi Islands, is famous for its stunning natural beauty. Swim in the calm emerald waters of the Pi Leh Lagoon which is surrounded by massive rock formations.

Monkey Beach,  where you can see wild Macaques monkeys playing and lounging on the shore.

Koi Phi Phi Don,  the larger and more populated island of the archipelago where you enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants

Viking Cave  is   a fascinating historical site that tells the story of the island’s bird nest industry.

Bamboo Island,  is   a small and secluded island known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear water where you choose to swim, snorkel or simply relax on the beach.

Khai Nok Island is  an idyllic island known as the Pearl of Andaman Sea that’s perfect for swimming and snorkelling!

The tour ends at Phuket, leaving you with pleasant memories of the short-day trip.

Phuket itinerary 7 days : Day 6

Places : nai harn beach, chalong rum distillery, bangla road.

As your enchanting trip to Phuket comes to an end, it’s time to take it too slow and let the travel blues sink in.

On day 6 of the Phuket itinerary 7 days, it’s time to explore the less explored!

Nai Harn Beach

After days of roaming around Phuket in this Phuket Thailand itinerary, we start the day in peace at Nai Harn beach, relaxing on its white sandy beach and gazing at the crystal clear waters.

Nai Harn is a relatively quieter beach compared to other popular beaches in Phuket and is surrounded by lush green hills, providing a beautiful natural setting.

You can also choose to do some water activities, such as surfing, swimming and snorkelling.

Hiking to the nearby Promthep Cape is also another option if you want some gaze upon mesmerizing views.

Chalong Rum Distillery

I am sure all of us have heard about wine tasting. But did you know rum tasting is also a thing? Like wine, rum holds history in every sip!

Rum connoisseurs planning a Phuket itinerary 7 days have got to visit the Chalong Rum Distillery for a session of rum tasting.

Before starting the tasting tour, have a sumptuous lunch at  SUAY x Chalong Bay Restaurant & Cocktail Bar . The best part? The head chef is a Michelin star awardee!

After a delicious lunch, work that appetite again by touring the distillery. You can get a behind-the-scenes view of how rum, gin and vodka are produced whilst also tasting some fine rum.

You can also consider taking a cocktail workshop and shaking some delicious cocktails for this part of the Phuket itinerary.

Check for all the amazing details here .

Address:   14/2 Moo 2, Palai, Soi 2, Chalong, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83130, Thailand

Timings: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Rum tasting and tour are held every day at 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.)

Distillery visit – 550 BHT

Cocktail workshop – 900 BHT to 1500 BHT 9 (depending upon package)

Nightlife at Bangla Road

It’s time to let loose on your last night in Phuket as you conclude your Phuket itinerary 7 days!

Located in the heart of Patong Beach is Bangla Road, a lively and colourful street that is packed with bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences.

Choose from different venues: from small bars with live music to large nightclubs with international DJs or from reggae and hip-hop to techno and EDM; there is something for everyone here!

The street food around Bangla Road is particularly mouth-watering and very very cheap. Try some Keuy Toew (Noodle Soup), Khao Pad (Fried Rice), Dimsums and Moo Ping (Grilled Pork).

Seafood lovers are in for a treat, with the street lined with gigantic prawns, fishes and lobsters, it’s an all-you-can-eat festival!

All this right by the beach: what more can you hope for?

7 days in Phuket Itinerary : Day 7

And it’s finally the last day of the best Phuket itinerary!

Head one last time to the beach; for a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, Kata Beach is the place to go. I usually prefer to end my stays with another spa day thrown in, to ensure I’m up for the journey and busy days ahead!

If you’ve missed anything on the itinerary this is the day to make time for it!

Places to eat in Phuket

Phuket is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of cuisine influenced by Thai, Chinese, and Indian cultures and has some creative food options such as Tom Yum Goong, Roti, Massaman Curry, Moo Hong and Mango sticky rice.

The  Black Ginger  is a unique and stylish restaurant located on an island in the middle of a lagoon, accessible only by a wooden boat. The menu features a fusion of Thai and international cuisine, and the restaurant is known for its creative cocktails and stunning ambience!

Tu Kab Khao is another trendy restaurant that serves up delicious and creative Thai cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Fun fact – Long ago, the small closet in every Thai home was given the name Tu Kab Khao to protect the food from ants and flies until the next meal!

For those of you more into street food, the bustling Phuket Town Night market is the place to go to experience the vibrant atmosphere and flavours of Phuket, with a wide range of street food stalls serving up authentic Thai dishes.

Lastly, the Baan Rim Pa restaurant is an institution in Phuket and has been serving up fine dining Thai cuisine with spectacular ocean views since 1981. The menu features classic Thai dishes with a modern twist, and the restaurant has won numerous awards for its food and service.

Relax, swim or take a surf while the memories of this eventful itinerary in Phuket pass you by. After having your fill of Phuket, it’s time to pack and head back home with some sweet memories!

7 Day Phuket Itinerary FAQs

How many days in phuket do you need.

7 days are perfect to completely explore Phuket in peace, with its many beaches and attractions and short halts for some Thai cuisine. But, if you find yourself on the clock, 7 days are sufficient. You can use my itinerary from Day 1 to Day 5 for planning a short 4-day trip, excluding travel time.

Is 3 days enough in Phuket?

3 days Phuket itinerary is a little short for exploring Phuket completely and you will have to plan carefully if you want to cover the major attractions. Apart from local spots such as beaches and nightlife, Phi Phi Island and Pha Nga Bay will easily require a day trip, so 3 days might be pretty tedious.

Is Krabi or Phuket better?

This will depend more on your preferences and choices.

If you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, high-end shopping, and a wider range of accommodations and entertainment options,  planning a Phuket itinerary may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more relaxed natural setting with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and adventure, Krabi is the place to go.

Ultimately, both destinations have a lot to offer and are worth exploring!

Which month is best for Phuket?

Anytime between November and February is the best time to plan a Phuket itinerary as the temperature is cool with pleasant sunshine and winds.

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 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.

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

…Enjoy!

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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!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

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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Home / Destinations / Thailand / Unforgettable Phuket itinerary: 7 days in paradise

Unforgettable Phuket itinerary: 7 days in paradise

Find the ride you need in.

Going to Thailand? Read on for the ultimate Phuket itinerary. How to spend 7 days in Phuket. What to do, how to get there, and where to next.

Phuket, Thailand, is well-known for its vibrant nightlife, high-end beachfront resorts, and memorable island hopping. But your Phuket itinerary should include more than that. There’s also the old town with its Sino-Portuguese buildings, urging you to take pictures. Let’s not forget the sunset viewpoints, the capes and hiking trails. And of course, you can shop till you drop and find massage parlors everywhere.

So what to do in Phuket, and how do you get from, say, Bangkok to Phuket ? Rather than flying, you can take a ferry ride from Koh Phi Phi or Krabi to Phuket or ride the train from Bangkok to Suratthani and enjoy watching the scenery roll past. Then, once you’ve arrived, you can jump on a minivan from Suratthani to Phuket . 

Since Thailand has extended its Phuket Sandbox scheme, you can add onto your Thailand itinerary . You can now get to Phuket from the blockbuster islands of  Koh Phangan ,  Koh Samui , and  Koh Tao . Still, there are Phuket travel restrictions, so you’ll need a negative Covid-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours before flying or a rapid antigen test not older than 48 hours if you’re a domestic traveler. But you can forget about certificates to eat out, enter shopping malls, etc. However, things change at a moment’s notice, so check the Thai government websites for the most up-to-date info. 

So pack your bags and get excited. Here’s how to spend one week in Phuket.

• Phuket itinerary day 1 – Lounge on the aptly named Paradise Beach

Now that you’ve checked in and dumped your backpack on your bed, beach life is just around the corner. A ten-minute drive from Patong Beach, Phuket’s mecca for nightlife, you’ll find two sheltered bays with soft white sands and shallow waters. So spread out your towel in the shade of coconut trees, take in the salty breeze, and enjoy the chilled-out vibe. 

You can also rent a sun recliner; Paradise Beach is a beach club, after all. Mind you, the entry fee is currently only 100 baht ($3), so suitable if you’ve come to Phuket on a budget. Apart from working on your tan, you can also enjoy water sports like kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

Thirsty? Order an ice-cold Singha beer at the circular beach bar with a thatched roof. They also serve palatable coconut and mango shakes, and the on-site restaurant provides creature comforts.

Getting to Paradise Beach

Look for the pick-up and drop-off locations in the Patong Beach area. Shuttle bus service to Paradise Beach is free. If you’d rather ride a scooter, go south on the last part of Patong Beach Road, turn left at Amari and follow that road to the very end.

• Phuket itinerary day 2 – visit Phuket’s Old Town

Undoubtedly a must on your Phuket itinerary, Phuket Town’s appeal is in its bars, bakeries, and pretty little cafes like Phuketique, an old Phuket-style café with tiny tables and a chatty atmosphere, plus the Sino-Portuguese architecture.

Ambling through the streets, catching the scents of succulent meat and sticky calorie bombs, you’ll pass coffee shops, abandoned mansions, and stalls selling irresistible delicacies, light clothes, and wacky handicrafts.

The historic buildings are a sight for sore eyes day in and out, but more so on Sundays when Phuket Town’s Lard Yai Sunday Night Market takes place. That’s when the colorfully lit structures on Thalang Road lend the area a unique atmosphere.

Getting to Phuket Town

You may get to Phuket Town via tuk-tuk or the local blue bus, which stops at the city market. From there, you can walk to Thalang Road. Also, check out the local markets near the bus station and saunter along the empty manor houses.

• Phuket itinerary day 3 – Relax on Surin Beach

An 800-meter stretch of soft sand, Surin Beach in the island’s west is among the best beaches in Phuket. There are numerous cashew, casuarina, and coconut trees, and it’s still blessed with clear blue water and light-brown sand that makes for excellent swimming. You won’t have to walk for miles until the water gets deep.

While Surin’s beach clubs are history, you can still find everything here. Street vendors between the tree lines sell anything from local fish and exotic fruits to chicken that comes in a mouth-watering variety of spicy tastes, grilled on a skewer. Also, Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish typically served with shrimp, bean sprouts, veggies, peanuts, and scrambled eggs.

Besides, affable Thais rent out umbrellas and sun recliners. Heading back to your hotel, you’re bound to hear their friendly phrase, “See you tomorrow.”

Getting to Surin Beach

Ride a scooter along Phuket’s west coast—it’s about a 20-minute ride from Patong— or stump up some 800 baht ($24) for a tuk-tuk. 

• Phuket itinerary day 4 – Have a blast at one of Phuket’s waterparks

Now that you’ve been to two of Phuket’s countless beaches, it’s time to check out the waterparks. Splash Jungle, Blue Tree Phuket, or Andamanda are Phuket’s largest and appeal to visitors with hair-raising slides, pools, paddleboards, and ziplines. 

Theme parks are a terrific alternative for kids and grown-up water babies when the seas are rough. 

Getting to the waterparks

Rent a scooter or car, or hail a cab. The waterparks are dotted across the island from Kathu to Mai Khao.

• Phuket itinerary day 5 – Discover Central Festival Shopping Mall

The island’s major shopping mall, Central Festival, and its newer wing, Central Floresta, are among the things to see in Phuket, particularly on a rainy day. It’s on the fringes of Phuket Town and spread out on four floors in a circular shape. Central Festival targets mid-market customers. 

The shopping gallery is enormous, and it frequently hosts loud commercial events like auto displays that get louder at the end of the month. But usually, the area is just a massive exhibition of discounted goods. There’s also an on-site cinema, a supermarket called Tops Market, plus a food court and restaurants galore.

Central Floresta, the luxury wing, was built across the street in 2018. It’s more than triple Central Festival’s 120,000m 2 and serves the affluent. You can easily access the luxury wing from Central Festival via the glass sky bridge.

Getting to Central Festival

Situated just outside Phuket Town on the way to Patong Beach, all you need to get here is either a car, scooter, or taxi, the latter of which can be pricey. However, if you’re looking for Phuket airport transfers, you can ride the bus to Phuket town and then hop on a tuk-tuk or cheap songthaew, a pick-up truck with two benches in the back.

• Phuket itinerary day 6 – Feel on top of the world at Black Rock (Pa Hin Dum)

Pa Hin Dum, or Black Rock, was unknown before 2016 but is well-known now due to its large granite rock. The thirty-minute hike through tropical rainforest is easy and well worth it.

You can look forward to panoramic views of Phuket’s south and vistas of Nai Harn and Yanui Beach, Koh Man, Promthep Cape, and Windmill Lookout. You can even catch a glimpse of Koh Bon and Chalong Bay peeping back at you on the far left.

Getting to Black Rock 

Head for Nui Beach and park your car or scooter at the sign that reads Nui Beach. It’s the beginning of the short trail and where a pick-up truck shuttles beach bums to the beach. One track leads down to Nui Beach, and another on your left goes up one kilometer to Black Rock.

• Phuket itinerary day 7 – Kick back at Arkanit Signature Massage & Spa

There’s no better way to unwind after an exhilarating week than at a spa. From hot stone treatments to affordable Thai, oil, and Swedish massages (including heated neck support!) – at Arkanit Signature in Cherngtalay next to Porto de Phuket, an open-air mall with an upscale vibe, you’ll get your money’s worth and come away with recharged batteries.

Want more? Check out these unique things to do in Phuket while you’re there.

Yep, but it’s called Grab. It is pretty much everywhere except the airport.

Nope. There are bars, restaurants and lounges dotted throughout the island.

There is definite appeal to Phuket Town, so it depends on what you are looking for. If you want beaches then stay elsewhere. But if you want culture stay in town.

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PERFECT 7-Day Phuket And Krabi Itinerary For 2024!

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If you are planning a Phuket and Krabi itinerary and are not sure how to spend your days, then you’ve come to the right place. I’ve done exactly what you are planning to do, so I can share some insight and experience on organizing a Phuket and Krabi trip.

As you might already know, Phuket and Krabi are two of the most popular beach destinations in Thailand, and there is no doubt that there are plenty of things to do.

That is why I’ve created this 7-day Phuket and Krabi itinerary that explores the best highlights of these two places, so you can make the most out of your vacation.

Let’s get to it!

How Many Days In Phuket And Krabi Is Enough?

Before we jump into our 7-day Krabi and Phuket itinerary, let’s find out how many days you should spend in those two places.

I recommend spending no less than 7 days in Phuket and Krabi because there are simply so many things to explore. With 7 days, you’ll just have enough time to explore iconic places like Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands, Railay Beach, and Patong Beach.

However, if you have the time, I would recommend you to spend 10 days in Phuket and Krabi. This will give you plenty of time for sightseeing and just relaxing on the beach, which you don’t really do that much of with 7 days!

Things To Do On Our 7-Day Phuket And Krabi Itinerary

Below we’ll give a day-by-day breakdown of things to do in Phuket and Krabi on each day. We’ve started our itinerary in Phuket instead of Krabi, but it can be done vice versa as well.

Day 1: Arrival Day At Phuket And Relaxing On The Beach

On your first day, you will most likely arrive in Phuket by plane. After getting from Phuket Airport to your accommodation, it is time to relax on one of the many stunning beaches.

Pro Tip: Organize a transfer shuttle from Phuket Airport to your accommodation to save time and money!

If you are looking for a lively atmosphere for your beach day, head to Phuket’s most famous beach – Patong Beach.

Patong Beach is a busy beach with tons of activities, such as parasailing, jet skiing and more. But don’t mistake it for being dirty or overly crowded, as you can still find some quieter areas on the beach.

For a more relaxing vibe, head to Kata or Karon Beach, where you can also find plenty of restaurants and bars. Karon is my favorite beach in Phuket thanks to its white sand and crystal clear water. It is busy but not too busy, and the view from there is just gorgeous!

Day 2: Big Budhha, Phuket Town, And Partying At Patong Beach

On the second day, we recommend renting a motorbike or hiring a private driver to explore more of Phuket’s inland areas.

First, head to the Big Buddha, one of the most famous landmarks on the island. This gigantic white marble statue is 45 meters tall and sits on top of Nakkerd Hill with breathtaking views over Phuket.

Next, make your way to Phuket Town, where you can explore the old town with its unique Sino-Portuguese architecture and colorful buildings. If you are visiting on Sunday, then make sure to visit the famous Sunday Walking Street Market for some amazing street food and souvenirs.

In the evening, head back to Patong Beach for a night out. Grab some street food at one of the night markets, then hit up the Bangla Road for some lively bars and clubs. It’s a definite must-do experience in Phuket!

Day 3: Koh Panyee And Bond Island Tour

On the third day, take a day tour to explore some of the islands and beaches near Phuket. A popular island hopping tour from Phuket is the Koh Panyee Tour with Bond Island.

Koh Panyee is an iconic floating village built entirely on stilts over the water by Indonesian fishermen. The community is predominantly Thai Muslim and has approximately 1,600 people from 360 families.

This remarkable village floats in the middle of Phang Nga Bay and is part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park.

James Bond Island, known locally as Khao Phing Kan, is one of the most famous landmarks in Thailand . It earned its name from the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun” which was filmed there in 1974.

At James Bond Island, visitors can admire the peculiar shape and the striking rocky pinnacle that juts out of the water.

Both islands are situated in Phang Nga Bay and are part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park!

📚 Read More: When Is The Worst Time To Visit Phuket?

Day 4: Go From Phuket To Krabi And Relax On The Beach

On day four, it’s time to head from Phuket to Krabi. For everyone traveling between Phuket and Krabi, even budget travelers, I recommend organizing a shuttle transfer. That is because public transportation takes a lot longer and drops you off either in Krabi Town or the outskirts of Krabi.

The shuttle from Phuket to Ao Nang takes around 3 to 4 hours, and once you check into your accommodation in Krabi, it is time to relax on one of the beaches!

There is really one beach in Krabi that is easy to get to and nice to relax on: Ao Nang Beach. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Krabi with stunning limestone cliffs and clear blue water.

Spend the rest of your day in Ao Nang, and make sure you check out Ao Nang Landmark Night Market in the evening for some delicious street food.

📚 Read More: Phuket or Krabi: Which Should You Pick?

Day 5: Tiger Cave Temple And Emerald Pool

On the fifth day, we recommend exploring some of Krabi’s top attractions. Start your day early by heading to Wat Tham Sua or Tiger Cave Temple, located about 15 kilometers outside of Krabi Town.

To reach the summit where the tiger paw prints are, you’ll have to climb a steep stairway with over 1,200 steps! But don’t worry, the climb is worth it once you experience the stunning views from the top.

Next, head to the Emerald Pool , a beautiful natural pool with crystal clear water surrounded by lush jungle. It’s a great place for swimming and cooling off after your trek up to Tiger Cave Temple.

It is possible to do this on your own with a rental scooter or a hired taxi for a day. However, if you want to save some money and don’t want to drive hours on the scooter, we recommend going on a tour.

I drove from Ao Nang to Emerald Pool and it took 2 hours one way on a scooter. It was a painful experience that I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemies

Day 6: Phi Phi Island Tour With Maya Bay

If you have come to Phuket and Krabi, then visiting the Phi Phi Islands is a must! Two islands make up the Phi Phi Islands: Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Leh.

Phi Phi Don is the main island with resorts, restaurants, and bars while Ko Phi Phi Leh is home to the most famous beach in Thailand – Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

Maya Bay was closed for many years to allow for the damaged coral and wildlife to recover, but it has recently reopened to tourists! Don’t miss this Thailand bucket list experience !

Because Koh Phi Phi is rather far from Krabi and Phuket, we recommend doing a day tour to explore the islands. Make sure you pick a tour that includes snorkeling and sunbathing as well as Phang Nga Bay is full of gorgeous beaches and underwater wildlife.

Note: If you are considering staying on the Phi Phi Island (which you totally should), then check out our Phuket, Krabi and Koh Phi Phi itinerary here!

Day 7: Railay Beach Departure

On your final day, wake up early and head to Railay Beach for some last-minute beach relaxation and exploration. Railay Beach is cut off from the mainland by epic limestone cliffs, so it is only accessible by boat.

Railay Beach and its accompanying town are quite small, so it won’t take that long to see. Walk around the island and explore the different beaches, go rock climbing on the limestone cliffs (or just admire), or simply soak up the sun and enjoy your last day in paradise.

In the afternoon, take a boat back to Ao Nang and catch your shuttle or transportation back to either Phuket or Krabi airport for your departure flight.

Where To Stay In Phuket

The Thai party island of Phuket has tons of areas catering to different budgets and preferences. But because our Phuket and Krabi itinerary are only 7 days long, we’ll need to stay pretty central.

For that, we recommend staying in Patong Beach, the most popular and busiest area of Phuket. Stay close to the beach and nightlife, or find a quieter spot further away from the main strip.

Karon Beach is also a great option, with its long stretch of sand and relaxed vibe. It is located directly south of Patong Beach so you can still easily access the nightlife if you wish.

📚 Read More: Patong Beach or Karon Beach: Where Should You Stay?

Kamala Beach is another option, offering a more peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for couples or families. It’s just north of Patong Beach and still close enough to the action.

Where To Stay In Krabi

Similar to Phuket, the province of Krabi has many different areas to choose from when it comes to accommodation. However, we recommend staying in either Ao Nang, the main tourist hub of the Krabi province.

You might be tempted to stay on Railay Beach, but keep in mind that the accommodation options are limited and tend to be more expensive. Plus, staying in Ao Nang allows for easier access to other parts of Krabi like Koh Phi Phi or the Tiger Cave Temple.

Krabi Town is not a bad place to stay either, but the disadvantage of staying there is the distance from the beaches. If you don’t mind a 20-30 minute drive to the beach, Krabi Town offers a more local and authentic experience.

📚 Read More: Ao Nang or Railay Beach: Where Should You Stay?

Phuket & Krabi Itinerary FAQs

What is the best time to visit phuket and krabi.

The best time to visit Phuket and Krabi is during the dry season from November to February. The weather is pleasant with little rain and comfortable temperatures. March to May can be quite hot, while June to October is the rainy season with potential for heavy downpours and storms.

What Kind of Budget Should I Plan for a 7-day Trip to Phuket and Krabi?

The budget for a 7-day trip to Phuket and Krabi will vary depending on your travel style and preferences. However, on average, we recommend a budget of $50-100 USD per day for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Keep in mind that this may fluctuate based on the season and specific activities you choose to do.

What is the Best Way to Get Around Phuket and Krabi?

The most convenient way to get around Phuket and Krabi is by hiring a private driver or renting a scooter. There are also taxi-hailing service apps like Grab in Phuket and Krabi, but it’ll generally be harder to call one for long-distance journeys.

Final Thoughts: 7 Days In Phuket And Krabi Itinerary

Phuket and Krabi are two popular destinations in Thailand for good reason. With stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and plenty of adventure activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Our 7-day Krabi and Phuket itinerary gives you a taste of the best that these two provinces have to offer, but there is still so much more to explore. We hope this itinerary helps you plan your own unforgettable adventure in Thailand!

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A Week in Phuket: The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary for Adventure Seekers

Exploring Phuket in Just seven days may sound like a challenge, but with the Phuket itinerary plan you’re about to uncover, it’s more than possible.

Phuket has become a dream destination for travelers from all corners of the globe, with its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, rich cultural heritage, and exhilarating adventures.

In this blog post, I will guide you through a memorable 7-day itinerary, highlighting the must-visit attractions, exhilarating activities, and hidden gems that will make your Phuket vacation an unforgettable experience.

Table of Contents

Is 7 days enough in Phuket?

Seven days in Phuket can provide an enjoyable and fulfilling experience for most travelers.

With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, Phuket offers a diverse range of attractions and activities to explore.

During this time, visitors can relax on world-renowned beaches like Patong or Kata, engage in thrilling water sports such as snorkeling or jet skiing, and indulge in the delectable local cuisine.

Additionally, a week allows for a few day trips to nearby islands like Phi Phi Island or James Bond Island, offering picturesque landscapes and memorable adventures.

However, for those seeking a more in-depth exploration of the region or desiring a slower pace, extending the stay may be worthwhile.

Ultimately, the duration largely depends on individual preferences, but seven days in Phuket is typically enough to create lasting memories and experience the essence of this tropical paradise.

Day 1: Exploring the Old Town

Begin your Phuket journey by immersing yourself in the island’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Spend the first day exploring Phuket Old Town , a charming area renowned for its vibrant Sino-Portuguese architecture.

Marvel at the beautifully restored buildings, colorful shop-houses, and ornate temples. Don’t miss visiting the awe-inspiring Wat Chalong, the largest Buddhist temple on the island.

Indulge in delicious street food, visit local markets, and soak in the unique ambiance of this eclectic town.

Day 2: Island-Hopping Adventure

Embark on an island-hopping adventure to explore the breathtakingly beautiful Phi Phi Islands.

Take a speedboat or ferry to Phi Phi Don, the largest and most popular island.

Discover hidden coves, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, and swim in crystal-clear lagoons.

Don’t forget to visit Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach.”

Continue your island exploration by visiting the stunning Khai Islands, known for their pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling spots. Immerse yourself in the beauty of these tropical paradises.

Day 3: Beach Bliss and Sunset Views

Spend a day indulging in Phuket’s spectacular beaches. Head to the famous Patong Beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere, water sports, and buzzing nightlife.

Take a dip in the turquoise waters, unwind on the soft sandy shores, and indulge in a beachside massage.

As the evening approaches, make your way to Promthep Cape to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Andaman Sea. The panoramic views from this viewpoint are simply awe-inspiring.

Day 4: Cultural Delights and Nature’s Wonders

Delve deeper into Phuket’s cultural heritage by visiting the Big Buddha, an iconic landmark perched atop Nakkerd Hill.

Admire the colossal statue and take in the panoramic views of Phuket from its vantage point.

Continue your journey to the picturesque Wat Suwan Khiri Khet, also known as the Monkey Temple, where you can interact with playful macaques.

In the afternoon, embark on an adventure to explore the mesmerizing Phang Nga Bay, famous for its towering limestone karsts and emerald-green waters.

Take a boat tour, kayak through hidden caves, and marvel at the enchanting landscapes.

Day 5: Thrilling Adventures

For adrenaline junkies, Phuket offers an array of thrilling activities. Head to the Flying Hanuman, an exciting zipline adventure park set amidst the lush jungle.

Soar through the treetops, conquer suspension bridges, and experience an exhilarating rush.

If you’re seeking more excitement, try parasailing or jet skiing along the stunning coastline.

End the day by indulging in a seafood feast at one of the beachfront restaurants, savoring the flavors of the Andaman Sea.

Day 6: Wellness and Relaxation

After days of exploration and adventure, it’s time to rejuvenate your mind and body.

Phuket is renowned for its wellness retreats and luxurious spas, offering a range of indulgent treatments and therapies.

Pamper yourself with a relaxing massage, practice yoga on the beach, or indulge in a refreshing Thai herbal steam bath.

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Phuket’s serene surroundings and let the stress melt away.

Day 7: Unwind and Departure

On your final day in Phuket, take the opportunity to unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had during your week-long journey.

Spend the morning strolling along one of the quieter beaches, such as Kata or Kamala, where you can bask in the peaceful atmosphere and soak up the sun.

In the afternoon, explore the local markets and indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping.

As the sun sets on your Phuket adventure, bid farewell to this enchanting island and carry the memories of your incredible journey back home.

Phuket offers a diverse range of experiences, from cultural exploration and thrilling adventures to beachside relaxation and wellness retreats.

This 7-day itinerary provides a balanced mix of must-visit attractions and hidden gems, ensuring you make the most of your time on this tropical island paradise.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or a blend of both, Phuket will captivate your heart with its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.

So pack your bags, embark on this mesmerizing journey, and create memories that will last a lifetime in the stunning paradise of Phuket.

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An Easy Off-The-Beaten-Track 7 Day Itinerary to Phuket for Responsible Travellers

Posted on Last updated: 03/01/2024

Categories THAILAND

Here is a 7 day itinerary to Phuket for those looking to explore the hidden gems and off the beaten track side of this wonderful island, while doing it responsibly and having a positive impact on the local community.

What comes to mind when you think about Phuket? Probably some of what came to mind for me before I visited – crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and a vibrant party scene. And you wouldn’t be wrong.

However, Phuket has so much more to discover beyond its beaches and nightlife, I could put together several Phuket itineraries. From one of the most ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand and one of UNESCO’s Creative Cities of Gastronomy, to great community tourism initiatives and delicious organic Thai cooking classes.

I have based this 7 day itinerary to Phuket on my own experience, so here are my recommendations.

Table of Contents

• 1 Where to stay in Phuket
• 2.1 Day 1 – Phuket Elephant Sanctuary 
• 2.2 Day 2 – Street food trail of Phuket Old Town
• 2.3 Day 3 – Bang Rong Village (Community-Based Tourism)
• 2.4 Day 4 – Day trip to Ko Racha Yai
• 2.5 Day 5 – Spa Retreat Day
• 2.6 Day 6 – Organic Thai cooking class at a farm
• 2.7 Day 7 – Architecture, Street Art and An Epic Sunset Spot
• 3 Best time to visit Phuket
• 4 How to get around Phuket
• 5 How to get to Phuket
• 6 Travel Tips for this itinerary to Phuket
• 7 Phuket FAQs
• 8 Planning your itinerary to Phuket

Where to stay in Phuket

There are plenty of accommodation choices in Phuket for all budgets, depending on whether you are looking for peace and quiet or looking to be in the thick of it all.

I stayed at Anantara Mai Khao Phuket , in the north of the island, by Mai Khao Beach, a long stretch of golden sand fringed by lush palm trees. The resort consists of 83 stunning pool villas clustered around a lagoon.

Not only is Anantara Mai Khao Phuket a gorgeous resort, but it also has a number of sustainability awards for their conservation work in partnership with the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation , and their social responsibility program working closely with the local communities.

Book Anantara Mai Khao Phuket here

For more budget friendly options, check out more places to stay in Phuket here .

An easy itinerary to Phuket for responsible travellers

Famous for its beautiful beaches, Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. However, 70% of it is covered in mountains. The name Phuket comes from the Malay word Bukit, which means mountain or hill.

Away from the tourist hot spots, you can find the real Phuket that a lot of visitors don’t get to see. 

Not only that, but you will be discovering the lesser known side of Phuket while supporting sustainable initiatives that include wildlife welfare programs, community tourism schemes, as well as supporting local businesses and enjoying the best of the island’s local produce. Read more about what responsible tourism means .

In this 7 day itinerary to Phuket I am highlighting one key sustainable place to visit and one place to eat for each day, in order to help you build some time to relax and enjoy this lush and gorgeous island without rushing. Slow travel is definitely the best way to enjoy Phuket.

Read on to discover some truly amazing hidden gems in this fascinating island.

Day 1 – Phuket Elephant Sanctuary 

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary (PSE) is the first and most ethical elephant sanctuary in Phuket. With 12 elephants in its care, PSE focuses on rescuing older elephants that can no longer work in the logging industry and whose owners no longer have a function for them.

Montri Todtane, the founder of PSE, is a former owner of an elephant riding camp, who realised that the elephants were working too hard.

After learning about Chiang Mai’s Elephant Nature Park (ENP), one of the most ethical animal sanctuaries in the world according to National Geographic , together with Libearty Bear Sanctuary , Montri was inspired to start his own ethical sanctuary.

PSE has 12 mostly female elephants that can roam freely in a 30-acre ‘retirement home’ and be looked after in the last years of their lives.

You can observe the elephants at a safe distance from the new 600-metre long canopy walkway built to provide the elephants with maximum freedom to roam.

One of the things that I was really happy to see is that there is no bathing or any sort of interaction between visitor and elephant, allowing the animals to be themselves and behave as naturally as they would in the wild. 

Book your half day to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary here

Where to eat – Tunk-Ka Cafe Phuket Hilltop Restaurant

Tunk-Ka Cafe is one of the most famous restaurants in Phuket. It’s been open since 1973 and it’s a bit of an institution.

Located on the hilltop of Khao Rang, right next to the viewpoint, it has an impressive view over Phuket Town, Cape Panwa and Chalong, particularly at night. Arrive before sunset to secure a table on the balcony terrace.

But the real highlight at Tunk-ka Cafe is the food, which includes a wide range of Thai dishes and of course, local Phuket specialties. Delicious yet affordable, you can’t go wrong with whatever you order.

I particularly recommend tod mun goong (deep fried shrimp cakes) and tom kha goong (hot and sour coconut soup with seafood).

Day 2 – Street food trail of Phuket Old Town

One of the best ways to get to know a destination is through its food, and in particular through its street food. So what better way to explore Phuket Old Town than through a street food trail?

Phuket is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, renowned for its rich culinary heritage and mouth watering street food. 

It is a culturally diverse city, where the influences of multiple cultures such as Malay, Chinese and Southern Thai have resulted in what is known as Peranakan food.

Start the day with Phuket-style dim sum breakfast at Ratcharot Dim Sum, where you order small portions of dim sum and they get steamed for you on the spot.

Walk into the Old Town, where you can try butterfly pea sticky rice with custard, fresh pork spring rolls, and the famous hokkien mee (hokkien noodles).

For dessert, don’t miss trying o-aew , a local specialty that consists of shaved ice served over jelly and drizzled with syrup. It’s incredibly refreshing. Another local dessert to try is ​​ khanom ahpong , a thin crispy coconut pancake.

If you are looking for something a bit more experimental, why not try tom yum ice cream at Thaivetro.

The best way to enjoy a street food tour in Phuket Old Town is by joining a tour that can take you to the best places to try the most iconic Phuket dishes. Here are a couple of food tours you could join:

• Old Town Phuket and Peranakan Food Trail
• Phuket Old Town 15-Taster Food Tour

After you’ve eaten your way through Phuket Old Town you probably won’t want to eat any more, so I’m skipping today’s recommendations for where to have dinner.

Day 3 – Bang Rong Village (Community-Based Tourism)

Bang Rong is a small Muslim community located in the north-east of Phuket with a history that goest back more than 200 years. Surrounded by mangrove forest, Bang Rong has created a conservation program that you can visit to learn about the way this small community lives. 

This program allows visitors to get involved in community-based tourism that, in turn, allows local people to continue to maintain their traditional way of life.

By visiting Ban Rong, you support a way of life that is in danger of disappearing, and you get to learn and experience agricultural and fishing life in Phuket.

Activities include a visit to a pineapple plantation, where you will try the sweetest pineapple you’ve ever eaten straight from the plant, and a visit to a rubber plantation where you learn about the process of harvesting rubber.

There is also a visit to a coconut plantation, where you get to try freshly picked coconut and you learn about the different by-products of the coconut. 

Last but not least, you will be taken on a boat tour out to sea from the mangroves, to release female crabs carrying eggs onto the seagrass, in order to hatch and give them a better chance of survival.

The boat trip includes a visit to Koh Phae, a true desert island and real hidden gem in Phuket. It is a small rocky island with a long sandbar that is visible and accessible only at low tide.

To book a day out in Bang Rong Village, you can message them directly on their Facebook Page . 

Where to eat – Kan Eang @ Pier Restaurant

A trendy seafood restaurant, Kan Eang @ Pier Restaurant is located along the banks of Chalong Bay, in South Phuket, and has fantastic views over the marina. 

A family run restaurant, it has gained a reputation for being one of the top seafood restaurants in Phuket.

The menu includes traditional Thai dishes from all over the country as well as local Phuket specialties. I highly recommend the Phuket lobster, a 7-colour lobster, in sashimi form – delicious and served with a bit of drama!

Day 4 – Day trip to Ko Racha Yai

The best way to do a day trip to Ko Racha Yai, or spend a day island hopping, is by hiring a private catamaran with a crew.

This may sound a bit extravagant, but if you are travelling with a group of friends, it can be surprisingly affordable for such an amazing experience. 

I went on a day trip with Tiger Marine Charter to Ko Racha Yai, a paradisiac island about 20kms south of Phuket. We departed from Boat Lagoon and it took a couple of hours to get to the island.

The catamaran had everything you needed for a fun day out at sea. From snorkelling equipment, kayaks and SUP boards, to a floating jacuzzi and an inflatable slide. There was something for everyone. We even had an iAQUA Stingray, a sea scooter for underwater exploration. 

On the way back to Phuket we went via Mai Thon Island, a privately owned island where there is a permanent pod of dolphins. We sadly weren’t lucky that day and didn’t see any dolphins, but it was fun to look out for them.

The day trip included an incredible spread of food freshly prepared for us onboard, including delicious steamed blue crab.

Book the same chartered catamaran I went on here

Alternatively, if you are travelling solo or your group is not big enough to charter a private catamaran, you can join a tour for a day trip to both Ko Racha Yai and Ko He (Coral Island) .

Where to eat – One Chun Restaurant

The food in Phuket was incredibly good everywhere I went, but my favourite restaurant was One Chun, in Phuket Town. 

Housed in a 19th century building, the designer vintage feel of One Chun is the first thing that will catch your eye. Decorated with antiques and traditional painted tiles, it has a very welcoming atmosphere.

But the food is really something else. Using family recipes passed down from three generations, one of its signature dishes include keang poo (southern style yellow crab curry) with rice vermicelli. 

Other traditional Phuket dishes not to miss out on are moo hong (southern Thai stewed pork belly) and nam prik kung seab (spicy dry shrimp dip).

Day 5 – Spa Retreat Day

Exploring and discovering new experiences can be hard work, so why not spend a day relaxing and treating yourself at a literal oasis?

Oasis Spa is a Tropical Retreat Spa located within the Laguna Resort at Bangtao Beach. Nestled among white sand beaches and peaceful lagoons, this elegant sanctuary lives true to its name.

After a very refreshing welcome drink, I was led to a spacious treatment villa with an outdoor shower and bath, where I got ready for a 2.5 hour personalised treatment.

The treatment included an organic coconut full body scrub, a coconut oil full body massage, and a facial treatment and massage that left me feeling like a new person.

The treatment was fully tailored to me, where I was able to choose how gentle or how deep the body massage was. And it was exactly what I needed!

After the treatment I was presented with a lovely cup of jasmine tea and a sample of my favourite Thai dessert – mango and sticky rice.

Book your own Oasis Spa treatment here

Where to eat – Age Restaurant at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort

Age Restaurant is a real treat, with a menu by the winner of Thailand’s Iron Chef and a wine cellar any sommelier would dream of.

The specially prepared menu included octopus and chickpea tartlet, parsnip cooked three ways (my favourite dish of the night), dry aged sea bass and an amazing red velvet bombe Alaska. All of it cooked with ingredients produced locally.

Day 6 – Organic Thai cooking class at a farm

No itinerary to Thailand is complete without a Thai cooking class, and if you can make it organic, even better.

I visited Old Phuket Farm, a working farm and education centre where you can learn about traditional farming methods of used in the old times in Phuket. Part of my visit was a cooking class, using some of the ingredients grown in the farm. 

I love cooking, although it doesn’t necessarily mean I’m good at it, but I love eating even more. So I was very excited to try my very own Thai creations.

I was taught how to cook five different Thai dishes: Tom Yum Kung (hot and sour prawn soup), prawn pad thai, panang chicken curry, vegetable spring rolls and, for dessert, banana fritters.

As I said, I’m no masterchef, but every single dish I cooked turned out to be delicious! Of course, I had a little bit of help from the amazing chef that ran the class and her assistants. But I was still really proud of what I cooked. I even made it look good! 

And after a day cooking and eating, I’m sure you won’t be needing dinner, so I’m skipping today’s recommendation for where to eat.

Day 7 – Architecture, Street Art and An Epic Sunset Spot

I was pleasantly surprised about how much Phuket Town had to offer and by how beautiful it is, and I feel it deserves a second visit.

Phuket Old Town has been heavily influenced by other cultures such as Malay, Chinese and Indian, and this can be reflected in the local architecture. As you walk around the city, you will come across shophouses of Sino-Portuguese style. 

One street where you can see a great concentration of this gorgeous and colourful style is Soi Romanee. It reminded me a lot of the shophouses in Penang, Malaysia .

Thalang Road is a busy hub with great shops and where the weekly Sunday Walking Street Market takes place.

Don’t miss a visit to Phang Nha Road, where you can visit the Shrine of The Serene Light, a small Hokkien shrine founded in 1891, and the famous On On Hotel, where the scene where Richard meets Duffy on ‘The Beach’ was filmed.

While you wander the streets of Phuket Old Town, you will come across a lot of street art, including works by Alex Face, Phuket’s street artist famous for its three-eyed characters. This includes Red Turtle Cake, which symbolises a long and prosperous life.

To finish off the day, head further south of the island to Cape Panwa, more specifically to Baba Nest at Sri Panwa. 

Baba Nest is a spectacular rooftop bar that has been named one of the best rooftop bars in the world by Conde Nast Traveler .

With its wrap-around infinity pool, it feels like you’re in the middle of the ocean overlooking 360 degrees views of Phuket’s southeastern peninsula, the Andaman Sea, and the surrounding islands.

Grab a cushion, make yourself comfortable with a cocktail, and prepare yourself for an epic sunset you won’t forget in a hurry.

Where to eat – Raya Restaurant

Raya is easily Phuket’s most famous restaurant and a Michelin guide restaurant. It serves original Phuket style dishes and is popular with both locals and tourists.

Raya is housed within a Sino-Portuguese shophouse that is beautifully preserved, but to see the original features, you need to go right to the back of the restaurant.

The food was truly spectacular, with my favourite dishes being the chicken massaman curry, deep fried fish with lemongrass and tamarind sauce, the crab meat with curry and coconut milk served with vermicelli noodles, and the shrimp cakes.

Best time to visit Phuket

Phuket is warm throughout the year, with average temperatures between 22C and 34C. However if you are looking for beach weather, the best time of the year to visit Phuket is during the dry season, from December to March. 

December and January are the driest and sunniest months, but this also means that they are the busiest and it’s the most expensive time to visit.

The rainy season in Phuket is from mid-May to October. This is a better time to visit if you are looking for the best deals and to avoid the crowds. However, you will often get heavy rain and the seas are too rough for swimming.

But don’t let this put you off from visiting Phuket during the rainy season. I visited in July and the days were hot with temperatures around 30C, with a combination of sunny and overcast. I actually only got one hour of rain during my 7 days in Phuket.

How to get around Phuket

One of the easiest ways to get around Phuket is by tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks are great for short distances and, in my opinion, it’s the most fun way to get from A to B. Just make sure that the driver knows the destination and you agree on the price before jumping on one.

If you are travelling on your own or if you are a couple, hiring a scooter is a great way to move around the island. You get the flexibility and freedom to explore in your own time and at your own pace and you’ll get a real sense of adventure.

There are, however, many scams related to scooter hire, so I would recommend hiring one through your hotel if possible. Another thing to note is that traffic rules are completely ignored in Phuket, so make sure you have adequate travel insurance to avoid any horror stories .

Taxis are another option for getting around Phuket. They are reasonably priced and taxi drivers (if you find one that speaks English) can give you some local insights and tips. Again, agree your fare in advance.

Alternatively, use Grab Superapp to order a ride and you’ll know exactly what you’ll be paying beforehand.

How to get to Phuket

Many airlines fly to Phuket from the UK and the US, but I travelled with Singapore Airlines via Singapore. The transit at Singapore Changi Airport was really easy, with people directing you to the right area for your connecting flight as soon as you disembark the aircraft.

Singapore Changi Airport is one of the most exciting airports in the world to visit, with a lot of things to do and visitor attractions to keep you entertained in between flights.

Travel Tips for this itinerary to Phuket

The ‘real’ Phuket: If you’d like to experience the real Phuket, stay away from overdeveloped areas like Patong. It’s an area that needs to be experienced, but I’d recommend basing yourself somewhere else in the island and visit instead.

Tap water: Tap water is not drinkable anywhere in Thailand, and Phuket is no exception. If you want to avoid buying water, use a reusable bottle with a purifier like Grayl (it’s good for the environment too!)

Visiting temples: Thailand, including Phuket, is a devout Buddhist country, so please respect local customs by dressing appropriately when visiting temples. Ensure you cover your shoulders and knees, and take your shoes off before entering a temple.

Mosquitos: They are everywhere. No matter where you go or where you stay, you will find these little nuisances. Don’t forget to pack an effective insect repellent .

Driving: They drive on the left, but traffic rules are not always respected, so ensure you keep all your wits about you when driving.

Staying Connected: Get a SIM card when you arrive in Phuket. There are deals for tourists where you can get a SIM card with unlimited data to last the length of your stay. The easiest way to buy them is to go to a phone shop (I used the dtac network shop).

Phuket FAQs

Phuket has so much to offer, I’d say a minimum would be 5 days to get a good feel for the island. But you could easily spend 7 days in Phuket and even 14 days without feeling like you are running out of things to do.

Not at all. This Phuket itinerary is based on 7 days, and I have to admit that I wish I had longer to spend on the island, as there were areas that I left unexplored. It just depends on what you’d like to see and do.

As mentioned, it depends on how deeply you’d like to get to know Phuket. There is certainly enough to keep you from getting bored on the island, so it’s very unlikely that you will ‘run out’ of things to do.

The only things you should avoid in Phuket apply to the whole of Thailand. Things like walking bare-chested in the street, disrespecting the Thai Royal family and visiting temples and not covering up shoulders and knees should be avoided. These are just a few examples, so make sure you learn about the do’s and don’ts of visiting Thailand.

There are a few things that are against the law across Thailand, including Phuket. Disrespecting the Thai Royal family, consuming and possessing drugs, and overstaying your visa are a few of them. Specific to Phuket, smoking in popular beaches such as Patong is banned.

The best area to stay in Phuket will depend on what you are looking to do during your time on the island. If you are looking for a quiet beach area, Mai Khao is set within a protected national park, so it’s more tranquil and less developed. If you are looking to do a lot of sightseeing, Phuket Town is a great base. But if you are looking to be in the middle of the hustle and bustle and the famous (or infamous?) Phuket nightlife, Patong may be for you.

Planning your itinerary to Phuket

• Plan your trip to Phuket with  these guidebooks .
• Get the best flight deals with Skyscanner  or Kiwi.com .
• Find the perfect place to stay in Phuket on Booking.com .
• Prefer living like a local? Why not stay in an apartment ?
• Discover more about Phuket through guided tours .
• And last, but not least, don’t leave home without travel insurance !

Do you have any questions about this Phuket 7 day itinerary for responsible travellers? Let me know in the comments !

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Disclosure: This post has been created as a partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) . As always, all views are my own. 

Teresa is an award-winning travel blogger based in London. She’s on a mission to explore the world through responsible cultural and adventure travel , and through deeper, more meaningful local experiences. She’s a lover of adventure, the outdoors and everything food related, and she’s always looking for ways to make a positive impact through sustainable travel .

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Alluring Phuket, Krabi, And Phi Phi Island Package

Brimmed with pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, bustling street markets, stunning views, adventure, and a vibrant culture, our Phuket Krabi Phi Phi package has been designed to leave you in awe. If you are an explorer, then this package is meant to help you quench your thirst for a stirring experience in this wondrous kingdom of Buddhist temples. Opt for this Thailand tour package to visit some spectacular national parks, enjoy an array of activities in the air, at the shorelines, and on the land, and have an experience that may tickle your memories for life!

Bestselling Phuket-Krabi-Phi-phi-Island Tour Packages From Top Cities of India

Best places to visit with phuket krabi phi phi island tour.

The following are the places that you will exploring with this exclusive Thailand tours from India :

What's Special: The biggest island of Thailand

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Famous Cuisine: Tom yum goong, Pad Thai, Kuay tiew, Som tam, Tom kha gai

Timings: Throughout the day

Distance from City Centre: 0 km

Phuket, the biggest island of Thailand resides on the Andaman Sea. The pristine island features magnificent beaches that guarantee you the best beachy vacay. Some of the famous beaches of Phuket are Rawai, Kamala, Patong, Kata Yai, and many more! Diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, and sailing are popular adventures here.

What's Special: Stunning vistas

Famous Cuisine: Phad Thai, Noodle soup, Som tam gai yang, Moo Ping and Khao niao

Krabi, a lively gem of southern Thailand featuring stunning vistas has a 150 km long coastline, sprawling interiors surrounded by jungles, mysterious caves, mesmerizing waterfalls, exotic waterfalls and everything that makes your holiday beautiful. Island-hopping, snorkelling, rock climbing, sea kayaking, jungle trekking and scuba diving are the most popular things to do in this gorgeous island.

3. Phi Phi Island

What's Special: Enticing tropical getaways

Famous Cuisine: Khao Mok Gai, Khao Mun Gai, Khao Pad, Khanom Chin, Kuay Tiew

The Phi Phi Islands hosts enticing tropical getaways in Southeast Asia. Located in proximity to Phuket and Krabi, the beauty of the island can be seen in numerous Hollywood movies. The place is home to leisurely properties boasting a memorable holidaying experience for visitors from across the world.

Being a beautiful amalgamation of rich culture and history, and a bevy of water sports, this exotic destination ensures a holistic holiday experience. Get on this quintessential Phuket Phi Phi Krabi tour, and grab a chance to enjoy a sojourn amidst the breathtaking views. Famed for its stunning beaches, Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. While, Krabi island is a secluded place where you may cherish some peaceful moments. Fringed with over 130 islands, a jungle-covered interior, towering limestone cliffs, waterfalls, caves, and exotic wildlife, as you visit Krabi, here’s your chance to witness a treasure of natural assets and enjoy a wide array of leisure activities with this Phuket Krabi Phi Phi island holiday tour package.

Itinerary for Phuket Krabi and Phi Phi for 7 days let one explore the local cuisines and the exotic seafood that Thailand has to offer to its tourists. Some of the best dishes to try out in Phi Phi are rice dishes, kuay tiew, khanom cheen, tom yam gung, tom kha gai, and som tam which is basically a papaya salad. Dishes to try out in Phuket includes mee hokkien noodles, massaman curry, som tam, and tom kha gai. Besides the enormous eating options, Thailand is also a good destination for shopping. Itinerary for Phuket Krabi and Phi Phi for 7 days lets one explore the local markets and malls in Thailand.

Get in touch with our travel experts, and let them create an all-inclusive Phuket Krabi Phi Phi itinerary plan comprising some major attractions of these islands. Hop on a speedboat, and grab a chance to explore the majestic caves on a tour to James Bond Island. Get into your shorts and slippers to enjoy some beach activities, while we take you to Phi Phi Island. Replete with vivid turquoise waters, tropical beaches, stunning rock formations, and marine life, an enchanting sojourn is sorted for you! Head to Krabi Island, and explore the scenic landscapes on a tour to 4 islands. Visit Pranang Beach to enjoy sunbathing and swimming, Tup Island for snorkelling, Chicken Island for coral reefs, and Stop Poda Island for majestic rocky cliffs and stunning beach. What’s more? Our Krabi Phuket Phi Phi tour package will also take you to numerous malls and bustling street markets of Krabi and Phuket islands to shop some souvenirs that you  may cherish for life.

So, choose from our Phuket Krabi Phi Phi tour packages now, and escape to these exotic islands for an experience that is unmatchable!

• Enjoy the beauty of secret lagoons at the James Bond Island
• Soothe your senses by the picturesque beauty of the Phi Phi Islands
• Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at the Pranang Beach
• Enjoy snorkeling at the Tup Island

Phuket: Welcome to Phuket

• Leisure Time

Other Benefits (On Arrival)

Gear up for an exhilarating experience

Embark on an exciting journey with us as you arrive in Phuket. As perusal of this Phuket Krabi Phi Phi package , let our local representatives transfer you to a hotel. Check-in there to unwind yourself for a while, and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. You may choose to explore the breathtaking surroundings. By evening, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Distance from Phuket Airport to Phuket: 33 kms (approx.)

Travel Time: 1 hr (approx.)

Phuket: Go on a James Bond Island tour

• Sightseeing
• James Bond Island

Dig into the majestic caves

Have a delicious breakfast, and head towards James Bond Island tour as included in our Phuket Krabi Phi Phi tour package. Hop on a speedboat, and let us take you to the secret lagoons. Enjoy a luscious lunch along the tranquil environs, and grab a chance to explore the majestic caves. Post a remarkable day, return to your Phuket hotel, and retire for the day.

Distance from Phuket to James Bond Island: 25 kms (approx.)

Travel time: 1 hr (approx.)

Phi Phi Island: Move to Phi Phi Island

Take the ferry ride

Post a delicious breakfast, it’s time to checkout from the hotel for a new destination. Let’s hop on a ferry, and head to Phi Phi Island as mentioned in the Phuket Krabi Phi Phi itinerary plan. Replete with vivid turquoise waters, tropical beaches, stunning rock formations, and marine life, here’s an enchanting sojourn awaiting you! Check-in to your hotel there, and choose to explore the mystical surroundings at your leisure. Later by night, enjoy a sound sleep in your comfy room overnight.

Distance from Phuket to Phi Phi Island: 53.9 kms (approx.)

Travel time: 2 hrs (approx.)

Phi Phi Island: Enjoy the day at your leisure

Enjoy the tropical getaway

Gorge on a delicious breakfast, and enjoy this day at your leisure. Go through our Phi Phi Island travel guide, and make the most of our Krabi Phuket Phi Phi tour package . As you visit to this group of six islands, enjoy a sojourn on lovely shores of Phi Phi Don and beautiful bays and beaches of Phi Phi Leh. Return to your hotel, and snuggle down for night.

Optional: Explore Phi Phi Island (charges extra)

Krabi: Head towards Krabi

• Leisure time

Go amidst the scenic landscapes

Munch on a tasty breakfast, and check-out from the hotel to proceed towards Krabi- one of the most relaxing places on the planet. As per our Phuket Phi Phi Krabi tour package , let the representatives escort you to a Krabi hotel. Check-in to your hotel, and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Later, unwind yourself overnight.

Distance from Phi Phi Island to Krabi: 40.9 kms (approx.)

Travel Time: 90 min (approx.)

Krabi: Get on a tour of 4 Islands

• 4 Islands Tour

Sail through the sinuous coastline

With our Krabi Phuket Phi Phi tour packages , enjoy a full-day tour to 4 islands of Krabi. Have a delectable breakfast, and hop on a longtail boat to explore the magnificent islands. Visit Pranang Beach to enjoy sunbathing and swimming, Tup Island for snorkelling, Chicken Island for coral reefs, and Stop Poda Island for majestic rocky cliffs and stunning beach. Later, binge on a luscious lunch, and then return to your hotel for a sound sleep.

Optional: Water sports activities: snorkeling, swimming, & more (charges extra)

Krabi: Go back home

Backpack enticing memories

Have a fulfilling breakfast, and pack your bag with some cherishable memories. End your trip with our Phuket Krabi Phi Phi packages for 6 nights 7 days , and board a flight back home.

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

Icheck inn ao nang krabi

666/6 Soi 8 Moo 2 | Ao Nang beach, Ao Nang, Krabi Town 81000, Thailand

Phi phi island

Phi phi banyan villa

129 Moo 7, Ao Nang | Muang Krabi, Ko Phi Phi Don 81000, Thailand

The frutta boutique

86/14 Pra Baramee Road, Kathu, Phuket, 83150 Patong Beach, Thailand

• Daily Breakfast
• James bond island tour, lunch, long tail boat transfer
• 4 Island tour, lunch, long tail boat transfer
• Transfer from Phuket Airport---- Phuket Hotel---- Krabi Hotel---- Krabi Hotel on pvt basis
• All tours by SIC Basis
• Any meal other than specified in inclusions
• Personal expenses such as tips, porterage, telephone calls, rooms service, etc.
• Surcharge applicable on particular events, festival, exhibition & fairs
• Any security deposit asked by the hotel during check-in
• Travel insurance
• Bed type is subject to availability

Your Preferences

Where do you want to go?

FAQs for Thailand

Is it better to visit phi phi islands from phuket or krabi.

It is better to visit Phi Phi Islands from Phuket, since it is closer to Phuket. There are several ferries, speedboats and other day trip packages that you can make use of to visit this place.

How do I travel from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands?

You can book a charter speedboat round trip or a day trip package that will take you to Phi Phi Island, let you explore, take you to a fishing village for some lunch, and then drop you back at your hotel.

Is it safe to visit Thailand for tourists?

Owing to a quite low crime rate to its credit, Thailand is one of the safest destinations. Although, it’s always advised to be aware of pickpocketing and cautious of surroundings. Travelers can take a look at what more there is to explore through Thailand Packages .

What travel documents tourists are required to carry along?

Every tourist is expected to carry a valid passport with a validity of at least six months, a valid Thai visa, and proof of onward travel.

What are the things to experience in Krabi?

Travelers may enjoy cave exploration, cold freshwater springs, bicycling, hot springs, kayaking, boating, hiking up mountain peaks, ferry rides to Koh Phi Phi or even down to Phuket, and much more on a Krabi tour.

What are the recommended places to visit in Phuket?

Here are many tourist attractions in and around Phuket:

• Phi and James Bond islands
• Phang Nga Bay
• Rawai village
• Hat Nai Yang National Park
• Laem Phromthep viewpoint
• Chalong Bay

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s Phuket Itinerary for 7 Days in Thailand

Today I want to share my Phuket itinerary for 7 days with you. Mountainous and lush, Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and a great place to travel in Asia. It’s surrounded by the spectacular water of the Andaman Sea, and there’s a lot to do in a week. I’ve traveled to Phuket with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and I’m excited to bring you this advertising feature to inspire you to visit yourself someday soon.

Phuket Itinerary for 7 Days

My Phuket itinerary for 7 days in Thailand has been made possible by Fan Club Thailand. There’s lots of information about it below, so make sure to read on for details.

I’m visiting with a group of travel bloggers and YouTubers, and we’re excited to experience Phuket firsthand. Our itinerary is packed with activities that go beyond the traditional beach-and-nightlife combination, and I can’t wait to discover the island.

If you’re wondering how many days are enough for Phuket, 7 days on Thailand’s largest island is a great amount of time. You’ll be able to see the highlights and experience the best of what this part of the country has to offer.

Day 1: Arrival in Phuket

Our Phuket itinerary for 7 days begins as we arrive in the morning and spend our first day relaxing by the private pools at our rooms at the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas . It’s a great way to kick off the trip, get over jet lag , and start adjusting to island life.

The rooms themselves are spacious villas with big beds, walk-in closets, and enormous bathrooms. There are outdoor showers and lounge chairs by the pools, and plenty of privacy to enjoy it all in. I feel like I could stay here for my whole 7 days in Phuket.

But there’s more to see. I take a walk out to the main resort pool and beach, and in the evening I enjoy dinner with my group at the hotel restaurant. It’s a Thai feast, and it’s the perfect introduction to the cuisine we’ll enjoy throughout the trip.

Day 2: Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

The next morning our Phuket itinerary for 7 days continues with a trip to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary . It’s set in lush surroundings with plenty of room for the animals to roam.

We get a tour of the grounds with an expert guide named Vincent. He takes us around to see the elephants walk by ponds, through fields, and up hillsides. There’s a raised walkway with observation platforms for viewing, too.

At the end of the tour we enjoy lunch at the sanctuary and make rice balls for the elephants to eat with their mahouts later in the day.

And speaking of later in the day, that evening we head south for beachfront drinks and canapes at The Shore at Katathani Resort , a hotel I’ll stay at later in the trip. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset on one of the best southern Phuket beaches .

Afterwards we head up into the hills for dinner at Tunk-Ka Cafe Phuket Hilltop Restaurant. It’s famous for its views over the island, and we tuck into heaping plates of Thai food as the night sets in.

Day 3: Phuket Town

The following day our Phuket itinerary for 7 days continues with a trip to Phuket Town. On arrival we start a tour through the Phuket Old Town , which is famous for its colorful shophouses and delicious cuisine.

We start at Soi Romanee, a street packed with Sino-Portuguese heritage buildings in every hue. At the end we discover some of the street art Phuket Town is famous for.

Soon we find ourselves on Thalang Road and Phang Nga Road, both of which have more attractive shops and restaurants.

We stop at the 19th-century Shrine of the Serene Light and the On On Hotel. The latter is famous for being Phuket’s oldest hotel and a filming location for the movie The Beach .

But the real highlight is the food. Phuket Town is one of UNESCO’s “World’s Leading Cities of Gastronomy”, and it’s known for its Chinese-influenced Peranakan cuisine.

As we walk through town, Ek, our guide, takes us for everything from dim sum at Ratcharot to Thai tea-flavored ice cream at Thaivetro.

We try sticky rice with custard, Hokkien noodles and spring rolls from the Lock Tien food market, and o-aew (shaved ice) from Siam O-aew.

As if the food in Phuket Old Town isn’t delicious enough, we go to dinner at Age Restaurant at the Anantara Layan Phuket Resort in the evening.

First we enjoy drinks with sea views on the hillside terrace, then we dine on international cuisine in the restaurant. It’s an impressive meal with great ambiance.

Day 4: Village Tour in Phuket

The next morning our Phuket itinerary for 7 days continues with a tour of Bang Rong Village. This small Muslim community is nestled in mangrove forests and offers visitors unique insights into traditional crafts, fishing, and agricultural practices.

We start the day with a fabric painting lesson. We each get a cloth bag to decorate with paint, and we come away with our own handcrafted souvenir from the village.

From there we tour a pineapple plantation and sample fresh fruit from the source. It’s followed by a rubber plantation tour where we get to try tapping trees and watch locals turn the raw material into sheets for commercial use.

After lunch at a riverside restaurant, we go to a coconut garden and learn how to use a long pole to get coconuts out of trees. We also work with local women and girls to weave our own sticky rice containers from leaves.

At the end of the tour we board a boat and go out to Phae Island, which sits off the coast of Phuket. Along the way we release crabs into the sea to help preserve the local crustacean population.

After the tour is over we head down to Kan Eang @ Pier restaurant in Phuket for an impressive waterfront dinner of sesame lobster and other seafood dishes.

Day 5: Racha Yai Island Catamaran Tour in Phuket

The following day our Phuket itinerary for 7 days has us board a catamaran for a snorkeling trip to Racha Yai Island with Tiger Marine Charter.

The weather is beautiful and it’s great to feel the sun on our skin and the breeze in our hair as we head out on the Andaman Sea.

When we reach Racha Yai Island, we snorkel and kayak before enjoying a seafood feast on the catamaran. The highlight is fresh local crab, which goes down a treat.

On the way back to Phuket, we pass Mai Thon Island to look for dolphins. They’re not out, but their absence gives us something to come back for someday.

In the evening we enjoy dinner at One Chun restaurant in Phuket Town. With vintage interior decor and great fish curry, it’s a fun way to end the day.

Day 6: Spa in Phuket

The next morning our Phuket itinerary for 7 days continues with a trip to the spa. No visit to Thailand would be complete without a massage, and we’re excited to get pampered.

Ready to relax, we head to the Oasis Tropical Retreat Spa in the Laguna resort area on Bang Tao Beach.

We each get a two-and-a-half hour personalized treatment that includes an organic coconut body scrub, a coconut oil body massage, and a facial massage with fragrant oils.

All of us get our own private cabanas with massage rooms and shower rooms, making the treatments as luxurious as they are relaxing.

After the treatment we head to Maikhao Dream Villa Resort and Spa for dinner. The hotel is right on Mai Khao Beach, and we enjoy a three-course Thai meal in one of the spacious villas on the waterfront.

Day 7: Organic Farm Tour and Thai Cooking Class in Phuket

The following morning our Phuket itinerary for 7 days continues with an organic farm tour and Thai cooking class .

We head out to a local farm, where we see everything from palm trees to vintage cars dotted around the grounds (apparently the cars are from movies that were filmed in Phuket).

From the grounds we move into the open-air kitchen, where the chef teaches us how to make everything from vegetable spring rolls to pad Thai and Tom Yum soup.

Given I’m not much of a cook, I’m grateful there’s plenty of help on hand to make sure my dishes turn out as delicious as the rest of the food we’ve eaten in Phuket.

At the end of the class, we sit down to enjoy our culinary creations and take in the natural surroundings of the farm.

In the evening, our Phuket itinerary for 7 days takes us up to Baba Nest Rooftop Bar at the Sri Panwa Phuket Luxury Pool Villa Hotel .

This award-winning venue in Phuket has been voted one of the best rooftop bars in the world. With an infinity pool and gorgeous views over the Andaman Sea, it’s hard to beat Baba Nest for atmosphere.

We enjoy cocktails and canapes as a spectacular sunset forms on the horizon. We can’t help photographing and videoing the views as the sky goes from blue to orange to purple.

After drinks we head into Phuket Town for dinner at Raya, one of the most famous restaurants on the island. It’s known for serving local food, and the fresh ingredients and delicious sauces make it my favorite meal of the trip.

Everything from shrimp cakes to spicy crab curry and deep-fried grouper with tamarind and lemongrass is delicious.

The following morning our official trip comes to an end, but four of us have chosen to stay an extra week. There’s still a lot of Phuket to see, and I can’t wait to get some beach time in.

But more on that later. I hope you’ve enjoyed this Phuket itinerary for 7 days and that it’s inspired you to visit the island yourself sometime soon.

If you want to read more about other destinations in the country, you can take a look at my blog posts about 8 days in Thailand and 24 hours in Bangkok .

You can find the most up-to-date information about traveling to Phuket here , too. I hope it helps you plan an amazing trip to Thailand!

I traveled to Phuket in Premium Economy with Singapore Airlines.

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2 Comments on Lady’s Phuket Itinerary for 7 Days in Thailand

I have travelled many times to Thailand including Phuket and i have found it too good in terms of relaxation and sight seeing and value for money along with my wife and she too liked it. We see forward to many more trips over there and your blog was really informative.

I’m so glad to hear that! I hope you can visit Phuket again soon.

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• 20 MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES
• ⛱️ Patong Beach
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• 62 BEST THINGS TO DO IN PHUKET
• 20 Best Tours
• 24 Best Things to Do in Phuket with Kids 🧸
• Walking Guide to Old Phuket Town
• Phang Nga Bay
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• About Willy Thuan

15 Islands Near Phuket 🏝️ Phuket Island Hopping

• Best of Phuket , Cruises , Diving , Hot Pages , Islands , Tours , What to Do?

Which islands near Phuket should I visit?

There are so many big and small islands around Phuket; it would take forever to visit them all. Most are not far, and you should consider island hopping for your trip or even a private cruise . These are just a few islands near Phuket we had the chance to visit, and we will be adding more as we travel around.

1. Phi Phi Island

(About 2,800 baht with transfer – 50 mn Speedboat – Full day)

Phi Phi is the most visited island departing Phuket or Krabi, and it got even more popular after the movie The Beach. Phi Phi is mostly a destination for young travellers who feel like partying on a tropical island with its beautiful beaches and bays. Ideally, you should go for a two days trip to make the best of it, it’s a little far and can be tiring to reach by speedboat, plus you’ll have the best beach for yourself in the morning.

Popular Ways to Discover Phi Phi Island

2. similan islands.

(About 2,400 baht with hotel transfer – 2 hours minibus + 1.30-hour speedboat – Full day)

The Similan Islands are a bit far from the island of Phuket, and you will have to dedicate an entire day to visit them, but the experience is so incredible that you will never regret it. You don’t need to be an excellent photographer to get striking photos. If possible, you should go on a two-day trip to make the best of it, it’s far and can be tiring to reach by speedboat, plus you’ll have the best beach almost for yourself in the morning, but the accommodation on the island is quite unpredictable.

Popular Ways to Discover Similan Island

Private island hopping cruises with 5 star marine.

Join 5 Star Marine's private tropical speedboat tours, and experience island hopping from one idyllic sandy island to the next. For an experience that most people only dream of, allow our experienced crew to tailor the perfect itinerary for your adventure, island hopping in paradise. From snorkelling in Phi Phi, picturesque lunches at Racha, and capturing memories of James Bond Island; to sea canoeing in Phang Nga Bay or even dolphin spotting with a sunset BBQ. The choice is yours with 5 Star Marine.

3. Racha Island

(About 1,200 baht – 30 mn by speedboat – Full day)

Racha Island is a small hideaway twelve miles south of Phuket, about two hours by boat or 30mn by speedboat. This lovely tiny island is very well-known by divers as a clear dive site. Racha is also the home of three resorts, The Racha , a luxurious villa resort, and the Rayaburi and Baan Raya Resort. The two beaches on the main island are beautiful, and the island is fun to explore.

Popular Ways to Discover Racha Island

(about 1,000 baht for longtail to cross – 2 minutes ride)

Koh Bon is one of the closest islands to Phuket that can easily be reached from Rawai Beach by longtail boat. This small hideaway features two beaches. One beach used to be for the exclusive use of the now-closed Evason Resort’s guests. The other beach is home to the very friendly Bon Restaurant and is an enjoyable stop for lunch followed by a lazy day on the beach or playing some water activities.

5. Maiton Island

(2,800 Baht – 15 minutes by speedboat – Full day tour)

Maiton island is a small idyllic spot 15 minutes south of Phuket that used to be home to a luxury hotel. The hotel no longer operates, but the beach is still accessible and is a great day trip with a picnic and snorkelling among a thousand fish. Expect to pay 2,800 baht for a day (including lunch).

6. Rang Yai Island

(mostly a private island)

Rang Yai Island is a beautiful private island located about five kilometres east of Laem Hin Pier . If you want to experience a Robinson Crusoe lifestyle, Rang Yai is a great place to spend the day (they used to have bungalows for rent, but these don’t exist anymore). You can spend time swimming, eating and even visiting a pearl farm. It costs around 2,000 baht (round trip) to reach Rang Yai by longtail boat from Laem Hin pier.

7. Koh Khai

(1,000 baht – 20 mn speedboat – Half day)

The Koh Khai are three tiny but trendy islands just 15 minutes from Phuket’s east coast. People go there to soak in the sun and play in the clear water for a few hours. Just remember that feeding the many hungry fish is illegal and could get you in trouble!

Popular Ways to Discover Khai Islands

8. coral island.

(About 1,200 baht – 15 mn speedboat – Full day)

Coral Island, or Koh Hae, is one of the few islands you can reach within fifteen minutes by speedboat and spend the day playing on the beach, even during the low season. The only accommodation is the small but welcoming Coral Island Resort offering small bungalows right on the beach with two beautiful beaches.

Interested in Coral Island Tours?

Stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, mesmerizing underwater world, and more...

Advertise on Phuket101!

9. Koh Panyi

(1,600 baht with James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay + hotel transfer – Full Day)

Koh Panyee in the bay of Phang Nga near Phuket is quite a touristic fishermen’s village almost entirely built on stilts. This village is still a very unusual and exciting place to visit, but the trick is to go there early to be the only visitor in town! Read more

10. James Bond Island

(1,600 baht with Koh Panyee and Phang Nga Bay + hotel transfer – Full Day)

Not really an island as you imagine it, but definitely surprising and very popular since that old James Bond movie; usually, people visit it together with Koh Panyi and the rest of Phang Nga Bay .

Popular Ways to Discover James Bond Island

11. koh hong.

(Only available as a full-day island hopping tour)

Koh Hong is one of the four tiny Hong islands in Phang Nga Bay , belonging to the National Marine Park. The most beautiful part of the island is the inside lagoon with its white sand and excellent blue water where many fish swim around visitors. The island is near Krabi and can therefore get busy.

12. Koh Yao Noi

(1,700 Baht with hotel transfer – 30 minutes by longtail boat)

Koh Yao consists of two large islands located halfway between Phuket and Krabi. Koh Yao Noi, the smallest of the two, has several hotels, such as the beautiful Six Senses Hideaway Resort and 9 Hornbills Tented Camp . These islands can be reached from Bang Rong Pier on the east coast of Phuket or Krabi. The island has no majestic sights but is a favourite mountain bike day trip. The east coast has rice fields, a small village on stilts, and a few rubber plantations.

Other more modest nearby islands

13. koh kaeo.

Koh Kaeo, facing the famous Promthep Cape , is just a tiny island you can visit by longtail boat from Rawai . Apart from a small beach, the only particular signs of this island are the two large golden Buddhas, one sitting and one standing, and a small temple on top of the hill.

14. Koh Maphrao

Koh Maphrao or Coconut Island is quite a large but unknown island close to Phuket. The luxurious Coconut Village is almost the only reason to go there. If you happen to eat at Laem Hin or Kru Suwit Floating Restaurant , you will see the island on the other side of the bay.

15. Koh Sirey

Koh Sirey is indeed an island, but you would never guess it from a map, and many probably have never heard of it. Connected to Phuket town by a very short bridge, this small piece of land doesn’t have any particular signs, but this is where you will find the beautiful Westin Siray Bay Resort .

Map of Islands near Phuket

Contact a local tour agent in Phuket

Phuket 101 is not a travel agency, but you can get in touch with a local tour agent to get better prices as well as local information or even custom tours by using this link: https://www.johnwelcometravel.com/

Contact a local tour agent

More reading

Island hopping around Phuket

Phang Nga Bay – The Many Ways to Explore Phang Nga

Fast facts about Phuket islands

Faqs about islands near phuket.

a. The closest islands are: Koh Bon Rang Yai Coral island Koh Khai Noi

a. The most famous islands you can visit on a day trip are: Similan islands Maiton Island

a. You can book a hotel on those islands: Phi Phi Island Coral island Koh Racha Koh Yao islands Coconut Island

a. Nearby islands can easily be accessed by longtail boats from one of the east coast piers. You can book other island trips via a tour agent or hotel reception.

a. Tour agents can arrange some island hopping, but the best way is to ask a specialised travel agent to plan custom private cruises .

Born in France a long long time ago, I started to travel the world early until I settled in Phuket in 1994. For the past 30 years, my passion for photography and my curiosity have taken me to every corner of Phuket, Bangkok and everywhere I could go in Thailand. My goal is to share my discoveries, photos and tips to help travellers plan their holidays by making Phuket 101 as easy as possible to use for everyone!

10 Unmissable Things to Do in Phuket with Kids and Tips for Visiting in 2024

P huket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, known for its stunning white sandy beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. However, it’s not just a destination for adults, there are many things to do in Phuket with kids, making it an ideal destination for the whole family.

With plenty of family-friendly activities and accommodations to choose from, there’s something for everyone. 

If you’re thinking of visiting Phuket with kids, this guide will provide you with tips and ideas on how to make the most of your family trip to Phuket.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Is Phuket a good place to visit with kids?

When people think about  what Phuket is famous for , they usually conjure up images of Patong Beach and Bangla Road which is known for its wild nightlife and seedy tourism.

However, this is only a small part of Phuket, and the rest of the island is a fantastic destination for families with kids. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and adventurous attractions, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. 

The island of Phuket has many family-friendly accommodations ranging from luxurious beach resorts to budget-friendly hotels, that cater to the needs of families. 

It also has plenty of activities that are perfect for kids, including visiting elephant sanctuaries, splashing around in water parks, and zipping through the jungles on an ATV tour. 

Families can enjoy quality time together while exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of this amazing destination. 

With its warm weather, friendly people, and welcoming atmosphere, Phuket is a great place to create unforgettable memories with your children.

Things to Do in Phuket With Kids

There are plenty of family-friendly attractions in Phuket to choose from. Here are some of the best things to do in Phuket with kids.

1. Visit Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Visiting an elephant sanctuary is one of the top things to do in Phuket but you should choose the sanctuary with care. Not all sanctuaries offer ethical experiences, by allowing visitors to ride, feed, bathe, and play with elephants.

The  Phuket Elephant Sanctuary  allows visitors to observe but not interact with the elephants, allowing them the freedom to go about their day undisturbed.

As you observe these gentle giants, you will learn about where the elephants were rescued and learn about the conservation efforts.

Don’t miss a chance to walk along Thailand’s longest canopy walkway, walk the nature trails through the park, and watch the environmental documentary in the Tree Top Lounge.

2. Take a Boat Tour of Phang Nga Bay

The whole family will enjoy a boat tour of this stunning bay, known for its towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. This tour also includes a visit to James Bond Island, which was featured in the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun,” as well as Panyee Island, which is where you will find the famous floating village which was built on stilts.

Perhaps the best part of this tour is when you visit a lagoon where you can enjoy canoeing around the limestone formations, looking out for monkeys and sea birds, and exploring sea caves.

3. Visit Phuket Old Town

Take a walk through the historic streets of the charming Old Town, known for its Sino-Portuguese architecture and colorful markets.

Cool down with a refreshing Thai Milk Tea in one of the boutique cafes, or visit one of the markets and shop for souvenirs. 

Don’t miss the Naka Weekend Market if you’re visiting on a weekend, which runs from 4 pm – 10 pm. The night markets are a great place to try traditional Thai street food.

This is a great first-day activity if you are feeling jet-lagged or tired from traveling.

4. Hit the Beaches

Phuket has some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. You will find a more relaxing atmosphere at beaches like Kata Beach and Karon Beach where you can swim in the sea and spend quality time on the beach.

If you have kids who need more entertainment, head to Patong Beach or Kamala Beach where you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, go parasailing, jet skiing, and more. 

Most of the towns in Phuket have convenience stores where you can buy buckets and shovels, footballs, and volleyballs, so take your kids to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.

5. Watch a Cultural Show at Siam Niramit

If you’re looking for things to do in Phuket with kids at night, then check out Siam Niramit.

Famous for its cultural show, visitors get to watch live entertainment themed around Thailand’s history, traditions, culture, and mythology through dance and music. The show also features spectacular special effects, elaborate costumes, and music.

Visiting Siam Niramit is a unique way to experience Thai culture and enjoy a fun-filled evening out with your family whilst enjoying a buffet dinner.

6. Splash Around in Splash Jungle Water Park

Splash Jungle Waterpark  is a must-visit attraction in Phuket. It is perfect for families looking for a fun and exciting day out. 

Located in Mai Khao Beach, the water park features a range of water slides, pools, and attractions suitable for all ages. There are thrilling rides like the Whizzard, a waterslide with a 360-degree loop, and Boomerango, which has a 15-meter vertical wall.

Younger kids will enjoy the relaxing Lazy River, Wave Pool, or Splash Park, or the whole family can go on the raft ride. There is something for everyone. 

The water park also offers dining options, lockers, and shower facilities, making it easy to spend the whole day there.

Another water park that’s worth checking out if you have more time and enjoy Splash Jungle Waterpark is Andamanda Park .

7. Visit Aquaria, The Phuket Aquarium

Located in Cape Panwa, this aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and colorful fish.

Aquaria is a magical underwater experience, where you can get up close to 25,000 marine animals and learn about Thailand’s marine ecosystem from the knowledgeable and friendly staff.

Don’t miss a chance to visit the aquarium’s Trick of the Eyes exhibit , an AR exhibit that allows you to awaken all of your five senses.

8. Go ziplining

Ziplining in Phuket is an exhilarating activity that is perfect for families with older kids. The island offers a range of zipline parks, including  Flying Hanuman  and Jungle Xtrem Adventures , which offer a unique way to experience the beauty of Phuket’s natural surroundings. 

Ziplining is an  adventurous outdoor activity in Thailand  that not only allows you to feel the thrill of the experience but also to be in touch with Phuket’s nature.

The parks offer a variety of zipline courses suitable for different ages and skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. 

9. Take an ATV tour 

An ATV tour in Phuket is an exciting experience that the whole family can enjoy. Driving around on an ATV allows you to experience the island’s nature in a unique way, and get off the beaten path.

Not only is riding an ATV a thrilling way to get your children excited about outdoor adventures, but it’s also a great way to enjoy the stunning scenery of Phuket. You can choose between riding around jungle trails, along beachside paths, or around the mountainside. 

An ATV tour in Phuket is a fun way to create unforgettable memories with your family that you’ll cherish for years to come.

10. Take a Day Trip to the Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are one of the most beautiful spots in Thailand and are the scene on many postcards. It’s an easy day trip from Phuket and makes for an exhilarating experience the whole family can enjoy.

The Phi Phi Islands are known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and thriving marine life. 

On a day tour, you get to visit the famous Maya Bay, a pristine beach made famous by the Leonardo Dicaprio movie, The Beach , as well as visit lagoons for swimming and snorkeling.

Tour operators provide safe and comfortable boats with knowledgeable guides to ensure an enjoyable and memorable experience for the whole family. 

Phi Phi Islands Tours

• Get Your Guide Phi Phi, Maya, and Bamboo Island – CLICK HERE
• Best of the Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling tour with Viator – CLICK HERE

Where to Stay in Phuket

When visiting Phuket with kids, it’s important to choose accommodation that is safe, and comfortable and offers the amenities and services that families need. Fortunately, Phuket has a wide variety of options available to suit different budgets and preferences. 

Some of the best areas to stay in Phuket with kids are Kata Beach, Kamala Beach, and Karon Beach. Patong Beach is where you will find parties and nightlife, so it’s not recommended to stay here with young kids, however, it’s a great place to visit in the daytime as the beach has lots of watersports on offer.

Popular family-friendly hotels in Phuket

• Holiday Inn Resort Phuket – This beachfront resort is located in Patong Beach and offers a range of family-friendly facilities, including a kids’ club, swimming pools, and a family suite with separate bedrooms and living areas.
• Pullman Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa – Located in Karon Beach, this resort offers a range of fun activities for families, including a kids’ club, waterslides, and a pool with a two-level water slide.
• Novotel Phuket Resort – Located in Patong Beach, this resort offers a range of family-friendly activities, including an outdoor swimming pool and a children’s playground.
• JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa – This 5-star beach resort is located on Mai Khao beach and it’s fairly close to the airport. Guests have access to a spa, three outdoor pools, a modern fitness center, and activities such as Thai cooking classes. Most rooms have a terrace or balcony and there are several room configurations that work for families.

Getting Around Phuket With Kids

When traveling with kids, it’s important to plan how you will get around. While taxis and tuk-tuks are available, they may not be the most convenient option (or cheapest option), especially if you have young children. 

Ways to Travel Around Phuket with Kids

• Rent a Car : Renting a car is a great option if you want to explore Phuket at your own pace. Most car rental companies offer child seats for an additional fee.
• Hire a Driver : Hiring a driver can be a good option if you don’t want to drive yourself. Drivers are often available for hire by the hour or day.  Click here to book a driver .
• Use Public Transport : If you’re on a tight budget, public transport such as a tuk-tuk and songthaews (local buses) are a good option. Keep in mind that public transport is very slow as it stops at multiple places, and there isn’t really a set timetable. It’s important to plan ahead if you plan on taking public transport with children and allow extra time.
• Use Grab : Grab is the most famous  riding-sharing app in Phuket . It allows you to book a driver and take you from A to B quickly and efficiently. They can be more expensive than public transport, but they are much faster.

Tips for Visiting Phuket with Kids

When traveling in Phuket with kids, it’s important to take extra precautions and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. 

Here are some tips to keep in mind when visiting Phuket with kids:

• Arrive before your kid’s bedtime – Depending on where you are flying from, your kids may be cranky and tired when they arrive. You should try to arrive just before their bedtime so they can go straight to sleep. Try not to arrive in the dead of night as it’s not always easy to find taxis at the airport.
• Stay hydrated – The weather in Phuket can be hot and humid, so it’s important to keep your family hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.
• Dress appropriately – When visiting temples or other cultural sites, remember to dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees and avoiding revealing clothing.
• Look out for your kids – Phuket can be quite busy, so it’s important to keep an eye on your children at all times, especially around the pool or on the beach.
• Try the local food – Thai cuisine is delicious and there are many kid-friendly dishes to choose from. Don’t be afraid to try something new.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Phuket with Kids

Phuket is a great destination for families with kids of all ages. The island boasts stunning beaches, beautiful natural habitats, exciting theme parks, and a range of water sports and outdoor adventures. 

Phuket is a safe place to visit, with friendly locals and excellent medical facilities. 

The island’s warm weather and tropical climate make it an ideal year-round destination. 

Phuket is a fantastic place to create unforgettable memories with your family while enjoying the beauty and culture of Thailand.

About the author: This is a guest post contributed by Louisa from  Travel Thailand Together . Travel Thailand Together is a site dedicated to everything Thailand, run by ex-pats and frequent travelers to Thailand, offering recommendations for things to do, see, stay, and explore. 

This tiny island has the best beach in Europe. Did your favorite make the top 10?

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Travelers love flocking to Europe to relax and recuperate at one of its many beaches .

It's no wonder why. Europe's diverse coastline is full of natural beauty, from the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to the rugged cliffs of the Atlantic coast. These beaches are set against the backdrop of charming coastal villages and host iconic European beach clubs (Aperol Spritz, anyone?).

To help travelers find the perfect beach for their next Euro-trip, U.K.-based travel insurance comparison site Quotezone ranked Europe's most popular beaches, considering factors such as sea and air temperature, calmness of the water, TripAdvisor reviews and average cost to visit the destination (including food, drink and an overnight stay). The beaches spanned beloved destinations like Greece, Spain and Italy but also included lesser known locales such as Slovenia.

"Anyone planning a vacation to Europe should be sure to visit these beauty spots featured in our index, especially our top three hidden gems Cyprus, Malta, and Slovenia," CEO and travel insurance expert at Quotezone, Greg Wilson, told USA TODAY in a statement.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Can't make it to Europe? Try Montreal for its European flair

Read below to find the best beaches in Europe.

10. Plage de Palombaggia in Corsica, France

Located in the Mediterranean Sea just south of mainland France, Corsica offers beaches comparable to the Caribbean with Plage de Palombaggia is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Think crystal-clear water, soft white sand and secluded coves. The beach scored the 10th spot on the ranking for is gentle waters and having over 3,300 five-star reviews. However, visiting the beach won't come cheap. Plage de Palombaggia is the most expensive beach on the ranking, costing €233 (about $259.73) for an overnight stay with food and drink.

9. Bournemouth Beach in Bournemouth, England

Tucked beneath cliffs, the sprawling Bournemouth Beach has been voted the top beach in the U.K. on TripAdvisor, offering rare warm waters for the country, a bustling pier and calm waters. Visiting the beach will be a bit costly for visitors – the beach is the second-most expensive on the index – clocking in at an average of €180 (about $200) for a one-day stay.

8. Playa de Maspalomas in Gran Canaria, Spain

Spain's Canary Islands are idyllic, offering diverse beaches made of black or golden sand. Playa de Maspalomas on the island of Gran Canaria is well-known for its lighthouse, rolling dunes and warm waters earned it a spot on QuoteZone's index. Surrounded by restaurants and hotels, visiting the beach will cost, on average, €151 (about $168).

7. Praia da Falesia in Algarve, Portugal

One of Portugal's most famous beaches, Praia da Falesia is worth the hype. The beach has an array of natural beauty on display – from sandstone cliffs to bright blue water – but also offers a lot to do. Visitors can check out the tide pools at low tide, swim or surf. Visitors can expect to pay around €137 (about $152) for a one-day stay.

6. La Pelosa Beach in Sardinia, Italy

Located on the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, Sardinia is a picturesque escape for travelers, and its beaches are no different. La Pelosa Beach's tranquil waters and white sands have made it so popular that you need to book your visit in advance, which will cost €3.50 (about $3.90). Staying near the beach is pricey, costing about €166 (about $185).

5. Zlatni Rat in Bol, Croatia

Translating to "Golden Horn," Zlatni Rat is a famous triangle-shaped beach on the Croatian island of Brac that extends into the ocean. As the tides and swells change, the beach also shapeshifts. Besides how stunning the beach is, it's also relatively inexpensive to visit, coming in as the second-least expensive beach locale on the index. For food, drink and a one-night stay, the average price is €96 (about $107).

4. Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece

Crete is beloved by travelers, and Elafonissi Beach is one of the Greek island's famous beaches. Depending on the season of your visit, you may encounter the iconic pink sand, but year-round, the beach is beautiful with calm azure waters. However, the beach isn't exactly tranquil, and gets quite crowded as the day goes on. To visit, the average cost is €184 (about $205).

3. Portoroz Beach in Portoroz, Slovenia

Nestled against the Adriatic Sea, Portoroz Beach is a gorgeous pebble beach fronting Portoroz's resort area, so you can take a break from the sun and stroll the promenade. The beach is also the cheapest on the index, costing €93 (about $103) on average for a one-day stay.

2. Mellieha Bay Beach in Mellieha, Malta

Not only is Mellieha a sheltered bay that provides gentle and warm waters, but it's also the largest sand beach in Malta, making it the perfect place for families. The beach scored high on the index for its warm temperatures and water. Visitors can rent sunbeds, swim, kayak and more. To visit, it will cost €117 (about $130) on average.

1. Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

Earning the top spot on the index is the picturesque Nissi Beach in Cyprus – and rightfully so. The beach seemingly has it all: warm weather and water temperatures, and calm waters since it's located in a bay, has. In the near distance is a small island, adding to the natural beauty of the beach. "This destination ranked in the top spot across all factors, including water and air temperatures, waves, value for money and the number of 5-star reviews left by visitors," Wilson said. To visit for one night, it will cost approximately €103 (about $114).