Phuket Town holidays

Essential information for your Phuket holiday

Planning a trip to Phuket, Thailand's beloved island paradise, promises an enchanting blend of breathtaking landscapes, cultural richness, and vibrant nightlife. To ensure a smooth and memorable experience, here's what you should know before embarking on your Phuket holiday.

How to reach Phuket

• Flight Time: Direct flights to Phuket International Airport from the UK typically last around 11 to 13 hours. Options with one or more stops may extend travel time.

• Transfer Time to the City Centre: Located approximately 32 km from Phuket Town, the airport transfer by taxi or minibus can take about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and your exact destination.

• Price of Different Transport Options: Taxi fares from the airport to popular areas like Patong or Phuket Town range from 600 to 800 Thai Baht (THB). Shared minibus services are a cheaper alternative, costing about 200 THB per person.

Best time to visit Phuket

Your ideal visit time "depends on your expectations," with each season offering distinct experiences.

• High Season (November to February): Cooler, dry weather (average 23°C to 30°C) makes this period perfect for beach-going and sightseeing. This peak tourist season sees higher prices and crowded spots.

• Hot Season (March to May): With temperatures climbing (average 27°C to 36°C), this time is great for those who love the heat, offering ideal conditions for swimming and sunbathing with fewer tourists around.

• Wet Season (June to October): Characterised by increased rainfall and humidity (average 24°C to 32°C), the wet season offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates.

Practical information for Phuket holidays

• Spoken Languages: While Thai is the official language, English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, facilitating communication.

• Local Habits and Customs: Showing respect for local customs is important. Dress modestly when visiting temples and always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.

• Tips: Tipping isn’t mandatory in Thailand, but it is appreciated. Leaving small change or rounding up the bill in restaurants and for taxi drivers is customary.

• Security: Phuket is generally considered safe for tourists. Nonetheless, maintaining vigilance with personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night is advisable.

• Health: No specific vaccinations are required for Thailand, but mosquito protection is recommended. Stick to bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

• Papers and Visa: UK citizens are permitted to enter Thailand without a visa for up to 30 days when arriving by air. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity beyond your intended stay.

• Currency: The Thai Baht (THB) is the currency. ATMs are widely accessible, and credit cards are accepted in most establishments.

• Getting Around: A variety of transport options are available, including taxis, tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis. Renting a car or motorbike offers more freedom but requires caution due to local driving conditions.

• Electricity/Plugs: The standard voltage is 220V, with primarily two-pin power outlets. Adaptors may be necessary for UK devices.

A Phuket holiday offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore stunning beaches, indulge in Thai cuisine, and immerse yourself in the island's vibrant culture. With this essential information in hand, you're set for a fantastic adventure in this tropical paradise.

Discovering the Best Beaches During Your Phuket Holiday

Phuket, Thailand's island paradise, is synonymous with breathtaking beaches, each offering a unique experience from serene shores to hubs of aquatic adventure. Whether you're seeking relaxation under the sun or engaging in exhilarating water sports, Phuket's beaches cater to every preference.

The best public beaches in Phuket

• Patong Beach: Phuket's most famous beach, known for its lively atmosphere, soft golden sands, and crystal-clear waters. Despite its popularity, there's always a spot to sunbathe or swim.

• Kata Beach: Ideal for families and surfers, this beach combines beauty with a relaxed vibe and is less crowded than Patong.

• Karon Beach: Offers a long stretch of sand with fewer crowds, perfect for those looking for a quieter beach day.

• Nai Harn Beach: A favourite among locals, this beach provides a peaceful retreat with its stunning bay and lush surroundings.

Exclusive experiences at private beaches in Phuket

Many luxury resorts in Phuket offer private beach access, where you can enjoy:

• Private sunbeds and umbrellas: For the ultimate relaxation experience.

• Beachside service: Sip on tropical cocktails without leaving your sun lounger.

• Water sports facilities: From snorkelling to paddleboarding, available exclusively for guests.

Beaches with sunbeds and facilities

• Surin Beach: Known for its upscale atmosphere, Surin offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and a selection of chic beach clubs and restaurants.

• Bang Tao Beach: Home to the luxurious Laguna Phuket resort complex, this beach provides ample facilities for a comfortable day by the sea.

Beaches for water sports enthusiasts

Phuket's clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a prime destination for water sports:

• Diving and Snorkelling: Explore the underwater world at Ao Sane and Ya Nui beaches.

• Surfing: Catch the perfect wave at Kata Beach, especially popular during the monsoon season.

• Kite Surfing: Nai Yang Beach and Chalong Bay are known for their excellent conditions and kite surfing schools.

• Kayaking: Discover hidden caves and lagoons around Phang Nga Bay, easily accessible from several beaches in Phuket.

Nearest beaches to explore

• Freedom Beach: Accessible only by boat, this secluded beach offers pristine sands and a tranquil atmosphere, a short distance from the bustling Patong.

• Paradise Beach: Just around the corner from Patong, Paradise Beach is a hidden gem offering a more intimate beach experience with all the necessary amenities.

A holiday in Phuket is incomplete without experiencing its stunning beaches. From the lively shores of Patong Beach to the serene hideaway of Freedom Beach, each coastline promises a unique slice of paradise, making Phuket a true beach holiday destination.

Embracing Sports on Your Phuket Holiday

Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is a paradise not just for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife but also for the plethora of sports activities it offers. Whether you're an avid sports enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Phuket provides ample opportunities to stay active and engaged.

Local sports events in Phuket

• Muay Thai: Experience Thailand's national sport, Muay Thai, by catching a match at one of the local stadiums, such as Bangla Boxing Stadium or Patong Boxing Stadium. These events are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the skill and dedication of the fighters.

• Stadiums or Arenas: For football fans, Surakul Stadium hosts local matches that offer a glimpse into Thailand's football scene.

Sports facilities for travellers in Phuket

• Swimming-Pools: Almost every resort and hotel in Phuket features a swimming pool, from infinity pools offering spectacular views to family-friendly pools with water slides.

• Yoga and Fitness: With its serene surroundings, Phuket is the perfect place for yoga enthusiasts. Many resorts offer yoga classes, and there are numerous yoga retreats around the island. Fitness centres and gyms are also widely available for those looking to keep up with their workout routine.

• Tennis: Several resorts and sports clubs in Phuket have tennis courts available for guests and visitors.

Cycling in Phuket

Exploring Phuket on two wheels is an exhilarating experience:

• Bike Rental: Bike rental shops are plentiful in Phuket, offering everything from mountain bikes to road bikes and electric bikes.

• Popular Cycling Routes: The coastal roads offer breathtaking sea views, while the hilly interior provides challenging routes for more experienced cyclists. The area around Old Phuket Town is great for leisurely rides with its historic Sino-Portuguese architecture.

Hiking in Phuket

Phuket's lush landscapes and national parks are ideal for hiking:

• Popular Hiking Routes: The Khao Phra Thaeo National Park offers several trails through the jungle, leading to waterfalls and great viewpoints. The hike to the Big Buddha offers not only a spiritual experience but also panoramic views of the island.

Water sports in Phuket

The crystal-clear waters around Phuket are perfect for a wide range of water sports:

• Diving and Snorkelling: Explore the Andaman Sea's vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

• Surfing: Catch the waves at Kata Beach, which is popular among surfers, especially during the monsoon season.

• Kite Surfing: The windy conditions at Nai Yang Beach make it an ideal spot for kite surfing.

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): A more relaxed way to enjoy the water, suitable for all ages.

Golf courses in Phuket

Golfers will find world-class courses in Phuket:

• Golf Courses: Phuket is home to several championship golf courses, such as Blue Canyon Country Club and Laguna Phuket Golf Club, offering challenging play with stunning scenic backdrops.

A holiday in Phuket allows you to combine relaxation with active pursuits, offering everything from adrenaline-pumping water sports to serene yoga sessions by the beach. Whether you're exploring the island's natural beauty on a bike or challenging yourself on a golf course, Phuket's diverse sports activities are sure to enhance your holiday experience.

Seasonal Events in Phuket

Phuket, a vibrant island in Thailand, is not just a beach lover's paradise but also a hub of cultural and festive activities that reflect both its local traditions and the global community that visits and resides there. Here's a guide to the seasonal events and festivals that you can enjoy during your Phuket holiday. To fully enjoy your holiday, don't miss our guide with the best things to do in Phuket.

New Year

• New Year Celebrations: Phuket welcomes the New Year with spectacular fireworks displays along Patong Beach, vibrant street parties, and festive gatherings at hotels and resorts across the island. It's a time of joyous celebration, where locals and tourists alike come together to welcome the year ahead.

Christmas shopping and markets

• While Christmas is not a traditional Thai festival, the island caters to its international visitors with festive decorations, Christmas trees, and special events in major shopping centres, resorts, and along the beaches, creating a festive atmosphere for holiday shopping.

Easter

• Similar to Christmas, Easter is celebrated in Phuket by the international community, with resorts and some restaurants offering Easter brunches and themed activities, particularly in areas popular with tourists.

Festivals in Phuket

Phuket's festival calendar is dotted with events that showcase its rich culture and the diversity of its residents and visitors.

• Phuket Vegetarian Festival: One of the most famous events, taking place in September or October. This nine-day festival is marked by street processions, ceremonial rituals, and a focus on vegetarian cuisine, in honour of Chinese beliefs.

• Loy Krathong: Celebrated in November, this festival of lights sees locals and visitors alike floating krathongs (decorated baskets) on water bodies, paying respect to the water spirits and letting go of negativity.

• Songkran (Thai New Year): In mid-April, Phuket participates in Thailand's traditional New Year celebration with water fights, street parties, and cultural ceremonies, offering a fun and refreshing experience for all ages.

• Patong Carnival: Marking the start of the tourist season in November, this carnival features colourful parades, musical performances, and cultural shows along Patong Beach.

• Phuket King’s Cup Regatta: Usually held in December, this prestigious sailing competition attracts yachtsmen from all over the world for races and social events.

These events provide a wonderful opportunity for visitors to engage with the local culture, participate in unique traditions, and enjoy the festive spirit that pervades Phuket throughout the year. Whether you're looking to experience traditional Thai festivals or enjoy celebrations known worldwide, a holiday in Phuket promises memorable experiences against the backdrop of this beautiful island.