Thailand’s largest island Phuket, is a mountainous province located on the southern tip of the Andaman Sea. The island is around 50Km long so getting around is easy.

Flights

Flights to Phuket International Airport are cheap as chips. Return flights from the east coast of Australia range from $450 to $650 and the west coast from $500. Flying time is about 8 hours direct and on average 12 with stops overs in Singapore or Kuala Lumpur.

We suggest Scoot (flights via Singapore) and Air Asia (flights via KL) for best value, especially if booked well ahead.

Jetstar and Virgin also have direct flights from capitals and major airports with competitive pricing.

Phuket Airport is centrally located and about 30-40 minutes from Patong and other major resort areas.

Getting Around

Thailand’s largest island Phuket, is a mountainous province located on the southern tip of the Andaman Sea. The island is around 50Km long so getting around is easy.

Vehicle Hire- You can drive easily in Phuket (one of Asia’s less stressful places to take to the road) with car hire at the airport or from the hotels.  If you plan to pick up a car from the airport, we advise to book ahead. The operators often have a desk at the terminal, or will meet you outside with the vehicle. Rental is competively priced and well worth considering if you plan to day trip and see the island.

Hire Cars- Transfers can be arranged in advance either with the assistance of the hotel you have booked, or by contacting one of the transfer operators. They are usually very reliable and cheap. We suggest booking ahead to take the stress out of getting from the airport to your hotel. They’ll be waiting at the exit with your name on a placard and ready to carry your bags to the car.

Places and things to do

Phuket boasts a large range of  beaches, parks and forests to explore with a rich history and culture to discover.

Kamala Beach- A fantastic beach, the tropical greenery and friendly locals.

Karon Beach- Recently Lonely Planet named Karon Beach as one of the Top Ten Family Beach Holiday Destinations in the world.

Kata Beach- One of the most popular beaches in Phuket, Kata has the best of both worlds, with swaying palms, white sands and clear water on the beach itself.

Mai Khao Beach- The opening of Splash Jungle Waterpark at West Sands Resort at the beginning of 2010 promoted Mai Khao to a must-visit destination, especially for families with young kids.

Nai Harn Beach- Nai Harn Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket. It’s encompassed on both sides by jungle-and-palm covered mountains and there’s a large freshwater inland lagoon.

Patong Beach- Patong Beach has gained a reputation over the years as the place to go for heavy partying. But those who are looking for more than just a crazy night out can also enjoy other activities.

Phi Phi Islands- Phi Phi Island are world famous.  The islands, when approached by boat, rise from the sea like fortresses. Sheer cliffs tower overhead, then give way to beach-fronted jungle. It’s well worth the effort and time to take a day to see the islands. It takes about 90 minutes on an express boat, and costs around $30-$50 AUD with meals, snorkelling and activities.

Adventures

For the adventurous you can swing through the trees at Phuket Tree Adventures and Flying Hunuman and for those that prefer a more slow pace head to the museum, Aquarium or indulge in a spa treatment.

Phang Nga Bay - Located in the Strait of Malacca between the island of Phuket and the mainland of the Malay Peninsula. The spectacular limestone cliffs and emerald green waters are a must see when you are in this region. You can take a variety of guided tours, helping you discover the 42 islands. Recommended companies include Phuket Sail Tours and  Simba Sea Trips.

Wat Chalong -  Visited by thousands each year Wat Chalong is one of Phuket’s most important temples. On special holidays Wat Chalong hosts ‘country fairs’ with a real local flavour where you can buy just about anything and snack on Thai food to your heart’s content.

Eating & Drinking

You may not find as many fine-dining choices in Phuket town as you would in nearby Patong beach, but you will still have an extensive choice of great food, with friendly service, at a reasonable price.

Some stand out restaurants include Siang Khae which serves some of the best north-eastern Thai on the island, Khon 101 with its delicious local cuisine and Ka Jok See which has a great wine list and delicious cocktails.

Shopping

From the more traditional shopping markets to air-conditioned malls, Phuket is a shopaholics dream. Head to Central Festival Phuket which lies just outside of Phuket’s CBD, rightly regarded as the shopping hub of the island, Central plays host to over 120 outlets selling products ranging from silk to sushi, from Levi’s to laptops, books to barbecues.