Come and explore the stunning beauty of Phuket, Thailand‘s little slice of paradise! With its gorgeous beaches and sparkling clear waters, plus a vibrant culture that’s hard to resist, Phuket is the perfect getaway just a short 90-minute flight from Bangkok. You’ll find breathtaking landscapes to admire, mouthwatering food to savor, and the warmest welcomes from the friendly locals. From relaxing by the beach to discovering hidden treasures, every moment spent in Phuket is bound to be a magical experience! I went a few times to Phuket and these were the highlights of my stays.

Rawai Beach

During my first visit, I chose to stay at Rawai because it is a hidden gem in Phuket. Rawai is indeed away from the busy tourist areas, and it’s very peaceful. Families and friends enjoy this place a lot. It’s not crowded, and you have space to relax.

Sunset at Laem Promthep

Sunset at Rawai Beach is a must-see. At the end of the afternoon, head to Laem Promthep. It’s Phuket’s sunset paradise. The sky dances in colors, and it’s a moment you’ll never forget. The sky changes colors again. Some people take photos. Others just watch. I chose to drink a fresh coconut, very tasty, with some friends. It was a really nice way to end the day.

Dinner at Rawai Fish Market

After sunset, explore the fish market of Rawai. It’s dinner time but also an adventure. You can choose your seafood at the fish market and bring your fish, lobster, crab, or whatever you bought to a nearby restaurant. The restaurant will cook it perfectly for an extra 100 bath per item and per kilogram. And then, enjoy the freshest meal under the stars, in front of the sea. It’s delicious and authentic. My Thai friend also ordered a bottle of Sanjsom, a local Rhum. It was pretty cheap and pleasant to drink with Coke or soda water.

Morning Hike to Black Rock Cliff

Wake up early because an adventure to Black Rock Cliff awaits! The hike through the forest is pretty short—15 minutes—but really thrilling. The path winds through lush greenery. Reaching the top rewards you with stunning views. The ocean stretches far and wide. Just open your eyes and breathe in the beauty.

I was frustrated not being able to fly my drone at Laem Promthep. You are supposed to register it before entering Thailand, and the process seems complicated and very long. And without registration, you face confiscation? But there was no chance that the police would undertake the 15-minute hike just to control your drone, so I took my revenge at Black Rock Cliff and later during the stay at Samet Nangchi Viewpoint.

Swim at Hat Nai Han Beach

Next, Hat Nai Han beach beckons. Its waters are crystal clear. The sand, soft and inviting. Swim, relax, and enjoy the sun. It’s a piece of paradise on earth.

Old Phuket Town

Old Phuket Town is a colorful place. You can see at the first glimpse it is full of history. The streets are bright and beautiful and are lined with old buildings. Walking here really feels like stepping back in time. The architecture, Sino-Portuguese, is pretty unique and charming. Moreover, Old Phuket Town has amazing street art and the murals tell stories. Indeed, it’s a photographer’s dream, where every corner offers a new surprise.

You can find some super tasty food in Old Phuket Town. Street food stalls offer local dishes. They are cheap and delicious. I went to Ko Yoon Phuket Noodle and I ate there the best yellow noodles ever.

You can shop in small boutiques. They sell handmade crafts and souvenirs. And there are many cafes too. They serve delicious coffee and snacks. Try Doubrew Coffe and give me some feedback !

Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are a cluster of picturesque islands located just a short boat ride away from Phuket. With their towering limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and lush jungles, the Phi Phi Islands are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore hidden coves, swim in secluded bays, and snorkel among colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. Don’t miss the chance to visit Maya Bay, famous for its stunning beauty and cinematic history. The Phi Phi Islands are a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the true essence of tropical island living.

Iconic Sights in the north of Phuket

Samet Nagshe View Point: A Panoramic Vista

Samet Nagshe View Point offers sweeping views of Phuket’s coastline and surrounding islands. Perched atop a hill, this scenic spot is the perfect place to watch the sunrise or sunset and take in the stunning vistas below. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Samet Nagshe View Point is sure to leave you spellbound with its natural beauty and serenity.

For those less courageous (including myself), you can reach the viewpoint from the parking lot with 4 by 4 trucks. Otherwise, you may sweat a lot under the sun because the road is really, really very steep!

Lunch at Hin Rom Pier

The Hin Rom Pier community in Phuket stands as a testament to the island’s rich maritime culture. Nestled along the coast, it serves as a vital hub for local fishermen and traders, offering a daily spectacle of fresh catches and lively bargaining. This area is renowned for its authentic seafood restaurants, where the day’s haul is transformed into exquisite dishes that capture the essence of Thai cuisine. Visitors to Hin Rom Pier can immerse themselves in the genuine warmth of the locals, witnessing the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. It’s a place where the rhythm of the sea shapes the daily life, inviting all to experience the true heart of Phuket. You can book a boat from here.

Boat Tour to James Bond Island

A boat tour from Hin Rom Pier to James Bond Island offers an unforgettable journey through Phuket’s stunning seascapes. Famous for its appearance in “The Man with the Golden Gun,” this iconic landmark is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and majestic limestone cliffs, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers and movie fans alike.

How to get to Phuket

Getting to Phuket is easy, as the island is well-connected by air, land, and sea. Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the main gateway, serving both domestic and international flights from major cities like Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai. And even long-haul destinations in Europe and Australia. But be patient at the airport. I spent over an hour each time I visited Phuket to get through immigration…

If you’re already in Thailand, you can take a domestic flight from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Krabi for a quick and convenient trip. For those traveling by land, buses from Bangkok take around 12-14 hours, offering a budget-friendly but lengthy journey. If you’re coming from nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi or Krabi, ferries and speedboats operate regularly, providing a scenic approach to Phuket. Once you arrive, taxis, airport shuttles, and rental cars are available to take you to your accommodation.