Planning a trip to Phuket? This Phuket travel itinerary covers 2 to 7 days of beaches, island hopping, culture, and hidden gems—tailor it to your travel style!
📝 Quick Answer: What’s the Best Phuket Travel Itinerary?
Are you staring at your half-packed suitcase, scrolling through endless options, and wondering—what’s the perfect Phuket itinerary that won’t leave you exhausted but still lets you see it all? The ideal itinerary for Phuket depends on how much time you have and what kind of traveler you are. If you’re short on time (2 days or so), focus on the beaches, viewpoints, and island hopping. With more days (3 to 5 days), you can explore Phuket Old Town, hidden beaches, and adventure spots. And if you’ve got an entire week, balance it all with cultural experiences, day trips, and well-earned downtime. Mix, match, and tailor it to fit your style—because Phuket isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Now, if you’re like me, you don’t just want a list—you want to know what makes Phuket tick, the good, the bad, and the unexpected. So, let’s break it down and map out the perfect trip.
Phuket: A Beautiful, Busy Island
Phuket surprises you like a sudden wave. It grabs your heart and pulls you into its hot, messy world. You feel excited and a little annoyed. The sun rises and turns the water gold. The air smells like salt and cooking food. Tuk-tuks race through traffic like speedy clowns.
We arrived in March 2024, tired from the flight but full of hope. We wanted that Thailand dream from Instagram—James Bond Island’s tall cliffs, Phi Phi’s bright blue water, and sunsets that make you think about life.
Phuket is the big star of the Thai islands or, for that matter, Thailand at large.
PS: If you’re craving more tropical escapes, check out our guide to the Best Islands in Asia for even more paradise picks.
I had to see it like every new traveler with a passport and a wish. Famous places are famous for a reason. You don’t skip the Mona Lisa because it’s got a line out the door.
And Phuket delivers—kind of. It’s got the looks, the charm, and the energy of a place that knows it’s irresistible. But here’s the truth: Phuket’s a stunner with a messy side. I had huge dreams—perfect beaches, great day trips—but the sand didn’t amaze me.
I’ve sat on beaches from California to Kerala, Capri to Goa. Phuket’s beaches are good, but not “live-here-forever” good.
Patong is crowded like a busy store day. Traffic makes loud noises all the time. Tourist traps wait to trick you. Once, a scooter lady turned our easy ride into a big mess—rude words, fake “cops” who seemed like her friends, and too much money charged. My advice: Avoid local arguments—smile, pay, leave fast. Fighting gets you stuck with scammers.
Even with the mess, Phuket has a fun, tricky charm that keeps you hooked. Food is a surprise—some pad thai tastes so plain it’s wrong, but the best dishes, like mango sticky rice, stay in your dreams. Free water doesn’t exist—bring a bottle or pay for every sip. Too many visitors leave trash—dirty sand, loud sellers, and “elephant sanctuaries” that sound good but seem strange.
If you look past the noise, Phuket has a big, warm heart. For couples, Kamala’s sunset dinners feel romantic. Bangla Road’s bright lights and sounds might make you cover your ears. For families, Kata’s small waves and Andamanda’s water slides are great for kids. Be careful crossing roads—it’s like a fast game.
Here’s my unique find: Don’t just sit on beaches like a cooked fish. Old Phuket Town won me over—colorful houses, quiet temples, and a feeling so lovely it’s sneaky. Beaches get all the attention, but Old Town is the quiet winner you wish you’d found earlier.
So, Phuket’s a wild mix—paradise with a side of crazy. Annoying, outstanding, and worth it if you’re ready. Newbie or pro, it’s a ride—buckle up!
This 2-to-7-day plan’s got you covered. It tells you what to do, what to avoid, and how to skip the silly mistakes. I put in the best of Phuket—choose what you want, change what you don’t. Make it fit your speed, your style, your Phuket dream.
Editor’s Note: This itinerary is based on my recent visit to Phuket. I spent five days exploring the island, soaking in its beauty, making a few mistakes along the way, and learning what works best. If I were to visit again, I’d tweak a few things, and that’s exactly what I’ve done in this itinerary—to help you plan better. Whether you’ve got a couple of days or an entire week, this guide is yours to mold. You can mix and match the days to suit your time, budget, and interests—skip a day, mix Day 3 with Day 6, or stretch it to 3 days by cherry-picking your faves. It’s your trip, your vibe, your Phuket.
Ultimate Phuket Travel Itinerary for 2 to 7 Days
Day 1: Explore Phuket’s Famous Beach, See Big Buddha, Enjoy Sunset from a Famous Viewpoint, & End with a Calm Beachfront Dinner
Morning: Patong Beach (7:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Begin at Patong Beach, Phuket’s noisy star. It’s busy and touristy, but you can’t skip it—it’s the famous Phuket picture! The sand is soft, the waves are fun, and it wakes you like coffee. Please get to the beach early before it gets crowded (by noon, it’s packed), or grab a coconut and watch vendors sell sarongs like it’s a show. Try parasailing or a banana boat ride, but skip jet skis—scams happen too often.
Alternative: Freedom Beach is a short, longtail boat ride away if you prefer a quieter beach. It offers soft white sand and fewer crowds.
Lunch: Thai Food Near Patong (11:30 AM – 12:30 PM)
Go to No. 6 Restaurant near Patong (Soi Post Office—look for the green sign). It’s cheap and authentic Thai food. Try traditional pad thai—tasty noodles with peanuts and tofu (or prawns/chicken if you eat meat)—or massaman curry, a warm, spicy dish with peanuts, potatoes, and either vegetables or meat. Get som tam—papaya salad with a spicy kick (if you are a vegetarian, ask to skip fish sauce)—or mango sticky rice, sweet rice with juicy mango. It’s so good you’ll smile all day!
Tip: If you don’t like spice, ask for “mai phet”; they’ll dial it back.
Afternoon: Big Buddha (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
Take a Grab taxi to Big Buddha. It’s a massive statue on a hill with amazing views of Phuket—beaches, trees, everything. The ride is hot and steep, but the top is calm and quiet—a nice break after Patong. Walk around, listen to the monks if they’re chanting, and take a photo. It’s free, but you can make a small donation.
Tip: Dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered—or they’ll drape you in a sarong (free but awkward). I forgot once and got the polite side-eye.
Evening: Promthep Cape Sunset (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM)
Go to Promthep Cape for sunset—it’s 45 minutes by Grab from Big Buddha. Get there by 5:45 PM—the sun sets around 6:15 PM in March. The sky turns red and orange over the sea, and it’s so pretty you forget Patong’s noise. It’s busy with tourists, but the view is worth it.
Alternative: If Promthep feels too crowded, try Windmill Viewpoint, a quieter alternative with similar views.
Night: Dinner at Kata or Karon Beach (7:30 PM – 9:00 PM)
End with a calm dinner near Kata Beach or Karon Beach—less wild than Patong, perfect for families and couples
Sit by the water, sip a Singha beer, and let the kids play in the sand. Try Mama Tri’s Kitchen at Kata—grilled fish (or stir-fried morning glory if you’re vegetarian) or green curry, which comes with either tofu or chicken with a great view. Or go to Two Chefs Kata Beach—seafood pizza or prawns (a Margherita pizza or stir-fried tofu with basil for a veggie option) with a cool breeze. At Karon, pick The Boathouse (fancy crab curry or a flavorful Thai-style vegetable curry) or On The Rock (BBQ skewers or grilled veggie skewers) at Marina Phuket Resort—relaxed and fun.
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, try Soul Phuket near Karon Beach—we loved the food there! It’s all vegan, with tasty Thai dishes and smoothie bowls, just a short walk from the sand.
Tip: Call ahead for The Boathouse or On The Rock—they get full at sunset. Bring bug spray for the beach. Stay near Karon or Kata Beach so you’re close to your hotel after a long day.
Day 2: Explore Phuket’s Pretty Old Town, Visit a Stunning Temple, and End with a Sunset & a Quiet Beach Night
Morning: Old Phuket Town (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
If you haven’t had breakfast at your hotel, grab a bite at Roti Taew Nam for delicious roti with curry, or stop by The Tent for a cozy café-style start with Thai iced coffee.
Start your day at Old Phuket Town— less chaos, more soul. Walk Thalang Road, where pastel shophouses look like colorful toys. Stop at a café—Bookhemian is the best—for a cold coffee or juice. It’s less crowded, more pretty, and feels unique. I fell in love here—beaches get all the talk, but the Old Town’s the real treasure! Take a lot of photos and enjoy the slow morning.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—the streets are bumpy. Bring cash for small shops.
Lunch: Quick Bites in Old Town (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
Eat nearby at The Cook on Phang Nga Road. Try chicken satay or tofu satay, which is a tasty stick with peanut sauce, or pineapple fried rice, which is sweet and fun in a pineapple. It’s simple, cheap, and keeps you full. No bad tourist food here—just yummy stuff.
Tip: Keep it light to save room for later.
Afternoon: Wat Chalong & Karon Viewpoint (1:30 PM – 4:00 PM)
Take a Grab to Wat Chalong, Phuket’s prettiest temple. It’s quiet with gold roofs and bright colors—a nice break from noise. Walk inside, look at the pretty walls, and feel relaxed. It’s free, but you can give a small donation. Remember to cover your shoulders and knees at the temple.
If traffic’s good (30 minutes more), stop at Karon Viewpoint—see three beaches at once, a quick and incredible view. Sunsets in Phuket are something else. If you want a laid-back vibe, this is the perfect spot to watch the sky turn golden.
PS: If you want a sunset drink near Karon Viewpoint, try After Beach Bar. Located along the hillside between Kata and Nai Harn, it offers incredible sea views with a relaxed and budget-friendly vibe.
Evening: Kamala Beach Stroll & Snacks (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Head to Kamala Beach (45 minutes from Karon Viewpoint)—it’s calm, not crazy like Patong or Bangla Road. Perfect for families and couples—no loud parties here. Walk the soft sand, let kids splash in shallow water, or just sit and watch the stars come out.
Grab snacks from nearby stalls—spring rolls, grilled corn, or tofu skewers for vegetarians, while meat lovers can try grilled chicken or shrimp satay—tasty and easy. Or try the HQ Beach Lounge for a chill drink and fish bites. It’s simple, safe, and feels like a secret after Day One’s big moments.
Tip: Bring a towel to sit on—sand gets everywhere! Check tide times; the water can be low at night.
Day 3: Explore the Pretty Islands, Swim, and Relax with a Drink at Night
Full Day: Phi Phi Islands Tour (7:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Book a Phi Phi Islands tour—leave early from Chalong Pier (Grab a Grab from Kata or Karon). Pick a small-group boat (1,500-2,000 THB per person)—fewer people and more fun than on big tours. You’ll see green water, tall cliffs, and Maya Bay—it’s so cool you’ll say, “Wow!” Swim and snorkel (gear included), but put on lots of sunscreen—I burned severely! Visit Monkey Beach (watch your snacks—monkeys grab stuff) and Bamboo Bay if time’s good. Boats stop for lunch—usually rice and fish (included), but vegetarian options like vegetable stir-fry with tofu are available too. It’s a long day, but the beauty’s worth it.
Tip: Wear a hat and bring extra water. Kids need life jackets, as the currents can be intense.
Evening: Beach Beer & Rest (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Back at your hotel near Kata or Karon (45 minutes from Chalong), crash with a beachside beer—Singha hits right. Sit by the water—try Kata Beach near your stay. Your legs will be tired, so keep it simple. Families can grab ice cream for the kids; couples can watch the waves.
If you’re hungry, grab a bowl of veggie noodles from a beach stall or something light from a local café. It’s a quiet end to a big day—no wild stuff, just rest.
Day 4: Visit Hidden Beaches, Learn to Cook Thai Food, and Relax with a Massage
Morning: Lesser-Known Beaches (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Head to Phuket’s secret beaches—away from the crowds, perfect for a quiet morning. Pick Ao Sane Beach (near Nai Harn, 15 minutes from Kata/Karon by Grab)—a tiny, rocky cove with clear water for snorkeling. Bring your gear; it’s basic here, but the peace is gold.
Or try Ya Nui Beach (south of Nai Harn, 20 minutes)—it’s small, with soft sand and calm waves, perfect for paddleboarding.
Nai Harn Beach is a local favorite nearby—more significant, less littered, with fine sand and shady trees for a picnic (pack snacks or grab fried chicken from stalls).
Banana Beach (near Layan, 30 minutes north) has blue water and palm trees—super quiet.
Or Laem Ka Beach (near Rawai, 25 minutes)—a hidden spot with rocks and a lone shack for coconuts. I loved Nai Harn’s chill vibe—less trash, more real Phuket.
Or Mai Khao Beach—raw, long, plane-spotting bonus. Less trash, more space.
Good Eats Nearby: At Nai Harn, hit Lucky 13 Sandwich (try their veggie wrap) or Da Vinci (pizza, maybe)—they’re tasty and close. Near Ya Nui, the Seaview Restaurant serves cheap seafood (grilled fish or grilled veggies). Ao Sane has a small shack—basic noodles.
Tip: Bring a towel and water. There are no big shops at these spots. Rent (300 THB/hour) paddleboards early; they go fast.
Afternoon: Thai Cooking Class (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Take a Thai cooking class near Kataor Karon or Phuket Town—you’ll learn to make pad thai or green curry!
Try Pum’s Thai Cooking School in Patong—it’s fun and hands-on, and you eat what you cook.
You can also visit the Blue Elephant Cooking School in Phuket Town—it’s fancier and includes a market tour.
Both schools teach classics like mango sticky rice, and for vegetarians, you can cook stir-fried tofu with basil instead of chicken or meat dishes. I burned my first curry, but I still ate it—a proud moment!
Tip: Book ahead—small classes fill up. Wear comfortable clothes; you’ll get messy.
Evening: Thai Massage & Spa (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
End with a traditional Thai massage—it’s stretchy, not soft, but so good after beach days. Near Kata or Karon, go to Oasis Spa. It’s quiet, and there is herbal tea afterward.
Or try Let’s Relax in Phuket Town—it’s clean, simple, and near eateries.
Add a foot massage or a spa package. It’s relaxing but intense—I felt like a noodle after!
Pair it with dinner at Kan Eang @ Pier near Chalong or Tunk-Ka Cafe on Rang Hill—both are local and yummy.
If you’re vegetarian, try Thai papaya salad, stir-fried tofu with cashew nuts, or green curry with eggplant instead of the usual seafood-heavy dishes.
Tip: If you’re new to Thai massage, tell them “light”—it’s intense! Book spa slots early for the evening.
Day 5: Day Trip to Similan or Racha Islands & End with a Sunset Cruise
Full Day: Similan or Racha Islands (7:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Book a day trip—pick Similan Islands (Nov-May only, 1.5-hour boat from Khao Lak Pier) for clear blue water and fantastic snorkeling. It’s far (Grab to pier from Kata or Karon), but so pretty—I missed it and wish I hadn’t!
Or choose Racha Islands (all year, 30-minute boat ride from Chalong Pier)—white sand, calm waves, great for swimming or relaxing. Book a small-group tour—fewer people, more space. Lunch is included—usually rice and fish. Swim, snorkel (gear’s free), or sit—both are quieter than Phi Phi.
Tip: Wear sunscreen and a hat—the sun’s strong! Bring water. Racha is safer for kids—there is less current.
Lunch on the Boat (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
Tours stop for food—think fried rice, chicken, or fish (included in price, veg version is available). It’s simple but good—eat on the beach or boat. Bring snacks if you’re picky—I nabbed a mango from a stall, and it was perfect.
Tip: Tell them “no spice” if you don’t like heat.
Evening: Sunset Cruise (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Back at Chalong Pier, hop on a sunset cruise—book via Phuket Sail Tours or your hotel. Sail slowly, watch the sky turn orange, and sip a beer (included). It’s peaceful and pretty—a nice way to end a big day. I’d have done this every night—so relaxing!
If you’re hungry, you can nibble on light snacks—fruit platters, vegetable tempura, or fried banana snacks for vegetarians, while others might go for grilled shrimp.
Tip: Get there by 5:45 PM for a good seat. Bring a jacket—the wind is cold.
Day 6: Day Trip to Phang Nga Bay & End With a Beautiful Sunset at the Beach or Shop at the Local Market
Full Day: Phang Nga Bay (7:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Start early! Take a day trip to Phang Nga Bay—it’s 1 hour from Phuket by car or van (Grab or join a tour with pickup). This place has big limestone cliffs sticking out of green water—super cool to see. First stop: James Bond Island (Koh Tapu). It’s famous from a movie—small, with a tall rock in the sea. You’ll take a boat (long-tail or speedboat, included in tours) to get there. Walk around and take photos, but it’s busy—go early!
Next, grab a kayak (included in some tours) and paddle through sea caves. The caves are dark and quiet, with water dripping—very exciting! I loved the kayak part; I felt like an explorer.
Good Tip: Wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Bring a hat—the sun is intense.
Lunch at Floating Village (12:30 PM – 2:30 PM)
After kayaking, head to Koh Panyee, a village on water! It’s built on stilts—houses float above the sea. Eat fresh seafood here—grilled fish, prawns, or crab at a local restaurant. If you’re vegetarian, go for stir-fried vegetables with tofu or a classic Thai-style omelet with jasmine rice. Simple, tasty, and cheap!
Walk around after—see wooden paths, small shops, and a mosque. It’s different from Phuket—very local.
Good Eats Tip: Bring cash (small bills, THB)—most spots do not accept cards.
Evening: Sunset at Surin Beach or Market Fun or Sunset at Bana Nest (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Pick your ending in Phuket by 4:00 PM (1-hour ride).
Option 1: Surin Beach. It’s fancy but calm—soft sand, clear water, and a pretty sunset. Relax with a drink—cocktails at beach bars or juice.
Option 2: Visit a night market like Chillva Market in Phuket Town. Shop for souvenirs and eat street food, such as satay sticks (chicken or tofu) or mango sticky rice.
Option 3: If you’re not in the mood for the beach or markets, swap it for a fancy sunset drink at Baba Nest, hands down one of Phuket’s best rooftop bars. Perched at Sri Panwa Resort in Cape Panwa, it’s all about 360-degree ocean views, floating sunbeds, and a chill, luxurious vibe. Sip a cocktail while watching the sun melt into the Andaman Sea. Reservations are a must, and there’s a minimum spend (totally worth it for the view).
Good Tip: At Surin, sit on the sand for free—bars charge more. At the market, check prices before buying.
Day 7: Choose Your Own Adventure
Morning: Muay Thai Class (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Start with a Muay Thai class—Thai boxing! Go to Tiger Muay Thai in Chalong or Sinbi Muay Thai near Kata. Learn kicks and punches—it’s fun and tiring.
Tip: Wear comfortable clothes. Book ahead—they fill up.
Afternoon: Boat Trip to Coral Island (Koh Hae) (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Take a short boat trip to Coral Island (Koh Hae)—15 minutes from Chalong Pier. Speedboat tickets are 800 THB for adults and 500 THB for kids (round trip, book at the pier or online). The island has clear water and soft sand—perfect for swimming or relaxing. Rent snorkel gear to see fish if you want, or just play on the beach. Kids can build sandcastles or splash around—it’s safe and shallow. Grab a snack there—coconut or fried rice from small stalls.
Good Tip: Bring sunscreen and towels. There are no big shops on the island. Boats leave around 1:00 PM—be on time!
Evening Option 1: Shop at Sunday Night Market aka Lard Yai (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
If it’s Sunday, head to the Phuket Sunday Night Market in Phuket Town. It opens at 4:00 PM. Buy shirts, bags, or eat pancakes (meat filling for non-vegetarians and banana or coconut filling for vegans or vegetarians). It’s busy and fun!
Wander past street food stalls selling crispy spring rolls, grilled corn, and veggie pad thai alongside skewered chicken and seafood dishes. There’s something for everyone, so pick what excites your taste buds!
Tip: Bring cash (small bills). Hold kids’ hands—it’s crowded.
Evening Option 2: Unwind at a Beachside Resort (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
If it’s not Sunday, or you’re tired of exploring and hopping around, grab a day pass and chill at a resort like Katathani Phuket (Kata Noi) or The Surin Phuket (Surin Beach). Swim, sip juice, or eat delicious food.
Order a classic Thai curry—it’s available with tofu or vegetables instead of meat. Pair it with a coconut smoothie, and soak up the last bit of Phuket’s charm.
Kids can play in the pool—great last night. Let Phuket’s charm sink in one last time.
Tip: Book early—passes sell out. Bring towels or pay extra. Ask for a quiet spot if you want peace.
Practical Tips for Your Phuket Itinerary
Best Time to Visit
- November to February: Dry and cool—perfect weather! Sunny days, no rain, great for beaches and trips. It’s best for everyone.
- March: Still lovely—green and lush—but expect short showers. Mornings are sunny; afternoons might get wet. Bring an umbrella!
- April to October: Hot and rainy. Some days are fine, but storms can hit. Cheaper prices and fewer crowds are reasonable if you don’t mind the rain.
Getting Around Phuket
- Scooters: Rent for ~300 THB/day. Fun for bold couples or solo travelers—fast and cheap. Wear helmets (it’s the law) and watch for bumpy roads. Not great with kids—too risky.
- Grab: This is a straightforward app for cars or bikes. It costs 200-300 THB to travel from Kata to Phuket Town. It is safe and clean, and there is no haggling. It is best for families or if you hate chaos.
- Tuk-tuks: Everywhere, but pricey—200-400 THB for short rides. They overcharge tourists—bargain hard or skip them.
- Taxis: Good for families—400-800 THB for longer trips (like airport to Kata). Book via hotel or Grab for fair prices. Kids stay comfy, no stress.
- Boats: For islands (like Coral or Phang Nga), 500-1,000 THB round trip. Speedboats are fast; long-tails are slow but cheap. Check times—last ones leave by 5:00 PM.
- Public Transport: Phuket doesn’t have a great bus system for tourists. Songthaews (shared blue buses) run between beaches and Phuket Town for 30-50 THB. They’re slow and stop early (~6:00 PM). Good for budget travelers with time.
- Walking: Phuket isn’t easy to walk in. Sidewalks are rare or blocked by parked scooters. Crossing streets takes patience. Old Phuket Town is okay for walking, but beaches are far—use Grab instead.
- Car Rental: For longer stays, rent a car (~800-1,200 THB/day). Safer than scooters, lets you explore your way. Drive carefully—locals don’t always follow rules.
Budget Tips
- Street Food: Cheap and yummy—50-100 THB. Think fried chicken, satay, or noodles. Markets like Chillva or Sunday Night have tons—save money here!
- Restaurants: Mid-range—150-300 THB per dish. Seafood (fish, prawns) costs more near beaches.
- Tours: 1,000-3,000 THB each. Phang Nga Bay or cooking classes are worth it—book online for deals. Couples splurge on a boat trip, and families stick to markets or beaches to save.
- Drinks: Coconut water (40-50 THB) is fresher and cheaper than soda. Cocktails at resorts (200-250 THB) are nice for a last-night vibe.
- Daily Spend: Budget 1,000-2,000 THB per person for food, transport, and fun. Add more if you love spas or tours.
- ATMs & Currency Exchange: ATMs charge a ~200 THB fee per withdrawal. Exchange cash at SuperRich or banks in Phuket Town for better rates. Avoid hotels and airport exchanges—they take more money.
- Happy Hours & Drink Deals: Beach bars and rooftop spots have 2-for-1 cocktails from 4:00-6:00 PM. Get a fancy drink with a view and save cash.
- Free Beach Lounging: Beach chairs cost 100-200 THB/day to rent. Bring a towel and sit for free on any public beach.
Where to Eat
- Street Stalls: Quick and cheap—50-80 THB for noodles or rice. Look for busy ones—fresh food!
- Local Spots: Near beaches or towns, 100-250 THB. Grilled fish or curry is a tasty and authentic Thai food.
- Resorts: Fancier—300-500 THB per meal. Great for a chill night—kids eat free at some (check ahead).
- Picnics: Buy snacks (fried chicken, 50 THB) and eat at parks or beaches—fun and cheap for families.
Safety Tips
- Roads: Busy and wild—watch out crossing streets. Hold kids’ hands near traffic. Scooters need care—don’t ride if new to it.
- Water: Swim where it’s calm—some beaches have strong waves (check signs). No lifeguards at quiet spots like Ao Sane—stay close to shore with kids.
- Crowds: Markets and beaches get packed, so keep bags close. Pickpockets love tourists, so use a small bag with a zip.
- Sun: Hot all day—wear sunscreen (buy there, 200 THB) and hats. Kids burn fast—cover them up.
- Rental Scams: For scooters or jet skis, take photos before using. Some dishonest renters say you broke it and charge extra. Use trusted shops, not random beach ones.
- Mosquito Protection: Mosquitoes bite near jungles or after rain. Bring repellent (or buy for ~50 THB). Dengue fever is rare but real—stay safe.
- Rip Currents: Beaches like Kata Noi, Karon, and Surin have strong waves in rainy months (May-October). Red flags mean no swimming—check conditions first.
What to Pack
- Clothes: Light stuff—shorts and T-shirts. Flip-flops are used for beaches, and closed shoes are used for walking on muddy spots (like Phang Nga caves).
- Extras: Towel (resorts charge for them), umbrella (for rain or sun), water bottle (refill at hotels—save cash).
- Kids: Snacks and small toys keep them happy on boats or long rides. Swim gear: goggles and floaties (rentals cost 200 THB).
- Cash: Small bills (20-100 THB) for stalls—most don’t take cards. ATMs are everywhere, and there is a 200 THB fee for withdrawals.
- Dry Bag: Must-have for boat trips to Phi Phi, Similan, or Phang Nga—keeps phone, camera, and money dry. Buy in Phuket Town for ~200 THB.
- Reusable Shopping Bag: Stores charge for plastic bags. Bring a small foldable tote for markets and shops.
- Earplugs: Near Patong or Bangla Road, nights get loud—bring earplugs. Good for hotels with thin walls too.
Booking Tips
- Tours & Classes: Book online 1-2 days ahead—cooking schools and boat trips fill up. Resorts also need day-pass bookings.
- Transport: Grab is instant—no need to plan. Tuk-tuks or taxis? Fix the price first—don’t get tricked.
- Saves Time: Early bookings guarantee better spots (like a massage at Oasis Spa). Walk-ins work, but you might have to wait.
Family with Kids Tips
- Pace: Slow down—kids tire fast. Pick one big thing (like Coral Island), then rest.
- Food: Stalls have kid-friendly stuff—rice, chicken. Resorts have pools—safer than wild beaches.
- Rides: Taxis over scooters—kids hate the heat and chaos. Grab has car seats if you ask.
- Baby & Toddler Gear: Hotels offer baby cots, but sidewalks aren’t good for strollers. Use a baby carrier. Diapers and formula are at Tesco Lotus or 7-Eleven—brands are limited.
- Best Kid-Friendly Attractions: Splash Jungle Water Park (fun for hot days) and Phuket Aquarium (small but great for toddlers.)
Couple Tips
- Splurge: Boat trips or massages (1,500 THB at Oasis Spa)—romantic and fun. Sunset drinks at Surin Beach—perfect end.
- Quiet: Pick small beaches (Ya Nui, Banana) or resorts—less noise, more chill time together.
- Private Beach Picnics: Resorts offer picnic baskets (~1,000-1,500 THB) with fruit, wine, and snacks—perfect for a quiet sunset at Ao Sane or Banana Beach.
- Sunset Spots Beyond Patong: For a cozy sunset, skip Promthep Cape. Try Layan Beach or Ao Yon Beach—fewer people, just you and the waves.
Phuket’s a crazy, beautiful mess—stunning views, little flaws, and all the magic in between. It grabbed my heart, and I bet it’ll snag yours, too. What’s calling you? The crash of Kata’s waves, the hot spice of a noisy market, or a silent shore where time slows down? This 2-to-7-day plan is yours to twist—chop it, stretch it, flip it upside down. Make it match your style!
Tell me your stories below! The wins that made you grin, the “oops, wish I’d known that” stumbles, or the secret spots I’ve got to hunt down next time. I’m listening—spill it all! Where’s Phuket pulling you? To a wild adventure, a lazy sunset, or something totally your own? Let’s swap stories and see where this island takes us next!
Save This Ultimate Phuket Itinerary to Pinterest
Sharing is nice. 🙂 If you liked our post, please share it with your friends and family, and feel free to subscribe to our mailing list. You can also follow our stories on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.
![LIVING IN SOUTH KOREA [SHARING OUR EXPERIENCE]](https://som2nynetwork.com/wp-content/plugins/phastpress/phast.php/c2VydmljZT1pbWFnZXMmc3JjPWh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGc29tMm55bmV0d29yay5jb20lMkZ3cC1jb250ZW50JTJGdXBsb2FkcyUyRjIwMjUlMkYwNyUyRkxpdmluZy1pbi1Tb3V0aC1Lb3JlYS0zMzZ4MjIwLmpwZyZjYWNoZU1hcmtlcj0xNzUzOTcyMTQwLTEzNTM4JnRva2VuPTAxYTUxNzJkOGU0ZDhlMDE.q.jpg)
