Phuket is with approx. 540 km² the largest island of Thailand and one of the most popular holiday regions worldwide. No wonder, because this beautiful island has so much to offer. Besides numerous cultural sights, a large number of good restaurants, and interesting cookshops you will find many wonderful sandy beaches. Surely you know the picturesque pictures with the turquoise sea, fine sand, and colorful fish, which cavort in the water. Who wouldn't dream of spending their holidays on one of the palm-lined beaches of Phuket? 

If you have just discovered Phuket for yourself, I have to warn you a little, because already thousands, a million travelers worldwide have fallen in love with this island. Accordingly, at certain times and in certain regions there is a real tourist rush. But luckily there are still enough beautiful places on the island where you only meet a few tourists. Phuket can offer you both: Western standard at the highest level, if you feel like it, or authentic, typical Asian life. Depending on the region, Phuket is home to renowned 5-star hotels, restaurant chains and parties, or small wooden huts, street food, and cultural sites.

Cultural Sites

Wat Chalong (Chaithararam Temple)

The largest temple on the island is located eight kilometers south of Phuket Town. Wat Chalong is dedicated to the monks Luang Pho Chuang and Luang Pha Champ. Both had extensive knowledge of herbs and medicine and were mediators during the uprisings of the Chinese miners in 1867. In the main temple, there are statues of the monks. To the right of it lies the great Chedi, which is accessible up to the top. Inside you can see numerous Buddha statues and murals. Also worth seeing is the small teak sala with possessions of King Ramas V. Three wax figures of monks are also kept there.

Big Buddha

On the summit of Nakkerd Mountain sits the 45-meter-high marble Buddha statue. The high-altitude tourist attraction is also one of the most beautiful vantage points on the island. The great Buddha is a must for most travelers from home and abroad. 

Our tip: In the afternoon and at sunset, the viewpoint is heavily frequented. If you arrive early in the morning, you can usually enjoy the view without crowds.

Wat Khao Rang and Viewpoint

With a drive to Khao Rang Mountain, you can combine a temple visit with a great view of Phuket. From the top of the mountain, you can see a large part of Phuket Town. As you climb up, you'll pass a trim-you-path and huge trees. Numerous monkeys live in the parking lot and in the surrounding area. Afterwards, you can visit the really beautiful temple Wat Khao Rang. Highlights include statues of temple guards, the golden statue of a sitting Buddha, and the God of Death.

Beaches

Mai Khao Beach

On the north west coast of Phuket, you will find the longest beach on the island with 11 km. Since Mai Khao Beach is part of the Sirinat National Park, it is under strict conservation. Therefore you won't find jet skis or motorboats near the coast. But for those who want to have their rest at the beach, this prohibition will be very pleasant. You won't find beach beds on May Khao Beach either, so you should pack a large enough towel. However, these restrictions should not prevent you from visiting Mai Khao Beach. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket!

Nai Han, Nai Thon Beach and Panwa Bay

If you are looking for absolute peace and relaxation, you should take a scooter to these beaches. They are located in the north of the west coast, at the western east coast as well as in the south of Phuket. Not many tourists come here, so the trip is definitely worth it.

Freedom Beach

The freedom beach is located in the south of the island. You can reach it either by boat or by car, bicycle, or moped. The beach is still regarded as an insider tip, which is probably also due to the somewhat awkward way by which it can be reached. You should put on sturdy shoes if you want to get safely to the beach via the many steep steps and narrow beaten paths. But you will also be rewarded with a really beautiful and not overcrowded 300-meter long beach with wonderful white sand. By the way, an entrance fee has to be paid at the parking lot. As you won't find any jet skis or other motorboats at the beach, you can snorkel in the sea. 

These and many more highlights can be found in our guide for Phuket below.