Whenever my family and friends ask where to vacation in Thailand, Phuket is always a reliable choice. Let me recommend a few lesser-known secret spots to show you a different side of Phuket.
Island hopping is a must-do activity in Phuket. There are many routes available for those looking to explore the islands around Phuket. For those who enjoy lively parties, Phi Phi Island is a popular choice. If you prefer a shorter travel distance, you can opt for snorkeling at nearby Coral Island.
However, my top recommendation would be the Racha Islands (Racha Yai and Racha Noi), where you can not only snorkel but also hike to enjoy stunning views from the heights. Particularly notable is the beach on the west side of the island, where the sand is as white and fine as flour. Stepping on the wet sand and lifting your foot, you might even see the sand bouncing back slightly.
As a diving enthusiast, after numerous scuba diving experiences in Thailand, I switched to freediving. Phuket offers numerous freediving shops where you can practice, along with half-day training programs in open water available for flexible purchase. Practicing every day might lead to fatigue, so I spice things up by including wake surfing to add some fun.
For someone like me, lacking abs and core strength, wake surfing is much simpler than traditional surfing and easily gives the thrill of gliding over water.
Wake surfing in Phuket is done in open waters rather than lakes, surrounded by beautiful scenery, making it thoroughly enjoyable. Some yachts from other countries anchored in Phuket also choose wake surfing as a leisure activity during their stay in the Andaman Sea.
Besides its multiple renowned beaches, Phuket is also home to numerous stunning bays, thanks to its rugged terrain. In my opinion, the most beautiful spot in Phuket is Phang Nga Bay. Its scenery is similar to China’s Guilin—very unique and utterly breathtaking.
This bay was designated a national park by the local government in 1981 and is known for offering some of the most picturesque landscapes on the island. Phang Nga Bay is famous for its limestone karsts, where you can see various strangely shaped rocks. If you have more free time, I recommend taking a day tour to the famous James Bond Island, which was a filming location for the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.” If you’re short on time, I suggest visiting the lesser-known local restaurant “Bay View Cafe,” where you can enjoy a magnificent view and some excellent cocktails.
As evening falls, Phuket comes alive with countless entertainment options. There are bars of every style, a variety of restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets, and exceptionally good value Thai massages. I truly wish I could live in Phuket all year round!
