A Trip to Phuket – 6 Places You Must Visit
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Who doesn’t love some get away now and then, away from their normal lives and away from the stress of work? Phuket is one of those places that can make you forget about all your worries and you will lose yourself in its beauty and wonder. The Beaches here are of extraordinary beauty and are the star attractions of this island. Thailand’s largest island has some of its most popular beaches as well. The white sand stretches for miles, arcing around blue lagoons is not the only thing you will want to see here. Phuket also has a vast array of cultural and entertainment attractions starting from the clubs to national parks, from serene temples and engaging museums. You will find everything on this island. Here are some major tourist spots you have to visit in Phuket.
1. Patong Beach
Patong beach is the highlight of Phuket town. It is one of the most happening beaches on the island. This golden sand beach is vibrant and filled with cafes, shacks, and pubs. There are plenty of enthralling water sports here and the surrounding cliffs are home to crystal clear water. The shining sand only adds to the beauty of seashore. You can go to this beach for sunbathing, swimming, jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat riding. Snorkeling is another excellent option for you on the beach since the waters are so clear.
2. Phuket Town
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You cannot hope to come from Phuket without visiting the capital and largest city of Phuket. Phuket town offers its visitors a chance to explore the island’s rich history and go back in time. A lot of the charm of the city has its roots in the architecture that was built during the prosperous era in the 19th century. There are rows of shops that are painted in different colors. The Old Town is a must for anyone who loves shopping and wants to have the Phuket specialties such as pewter and batik clothing. Explore the Chinese and Buddhist temples, the abandoned mansions and the public museums like the Thai Hua Museum. You can also find the paintings of the Phuket Trickeye Museum that gives you more reasons to visit this town. Go for a walk on the Soi Romanee Street and witness the Sino-Portuguese style shops. The Thalang Road is lined with boutique shops and outlets, so you cannot miss that either.
3. Phi Phi Island
Have you ever seen a picture in a magazine or postcard and felt like wanting to visit that place? Well, Phi Phi Island is just that, and you will be glad for its existence. After you cruise for an hour in the Andaman Sea, be it a ship or kayak, you will reach Phi Phi that is one of the fantastic places to visit. The surrounding beauty of this island is mesmerizing. The blue-green water is see-through, and you will not find the beaches less than alluring. Phi Phi is a glamorous and happening island in Thailand and is among the ideal places you can visit in Phuket, especially for couples looking for honeymoon destinations. You can go to Phi Phi through the daily cruises from Phuket. Go Snorkeling, surfing, sunbathing, swimming, and diving in the Shark Point; whatever you desire. Get a bear and spend your day at this island building one or two sand castles and relax.
4. Hat Kata
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Kata is situated to the south of Karon and is the busiest beach of Kata. This beach is popular among families and travelers throughout the year. The place never feels crowded because of its long beaches, and there is always enough space to accommodate tourists and make them feel comfortable. Kata beach offers many activities for you, from water sports to scuba diving. If you want to hang on the soft sand of the beach, then that is also completely fine. If you want to have some food, you will find countless restaurants and bars nearby. The modern Palm Square complex is very popular among locals and tourists as a good hangout spot; you can grab a meal and a drink there. If you are in the mood for shopping, you will find a number of handmade Thai crafts and clothes in Kata Night Market. With everything available, this beach is perfect for families on a trip.
5. Karon Viewpoint
This point is located between Nai Harn and Kata Noi beaches. The Karon Viewpoint is among the top places to see in the tourist spots in Phuket. This viewpoint will offer you stunning view of the three beaches that are Kata Yai, Kata Noi, and Karon. The place is often very crowded with the tourists that are busy taking photographs. You will also find small eateries that serve tea and snacks in case you want to sit in some shade, away from the scorching sun. What you cannot miss is the View of the stunning Andaman Sea. Do not forget to take photographs of the glistening blue sea, shining beaches, snow-white sea, the outlandish island Koh Pu and the lush green hills of Phuket.
6. Chalong
Image via wikimedia by Максим Улитин
If you know your history and love such places, Chalong needs to be in your must-visit places. Chalong might not have one of the stunning beaches of Kata, but it is surely the home to two of the most famous cultural sites in Phuket. One of them is the famous Big Buddha statue that is one of the top attraction sites in Phuket. The statue is 45m tall and located at the top of a hill. The giant statue is made of marble and can be seen even from Phuket town. You have to go up to the summit to witness the breathtaking views. Apart from the Big Buddha, you will also visit Wat Chalong. It is an ornate temple that is open to visitors, and you will have to spend an hour or two to explore it.
Arrange a trip to Phuket and lose yourself into these beautiful sites!
Check out these Thailand travel guides for more info on the coolest things to do and attractions to visit in Thailand
About the Author:
Tom is a blogger and nature lover. He is obsessed with traveling and adventures and that too with his family. He believes that water has a steady hold of him. He regularly writes about his experiences at The Kayak Critic.