Phuket holidays

What are the best things to do in Phuket?

1. The jury is out on whether it stretches for four or five miles long but either way, Bang Tao Beach is as long as it is picturesque. With soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, it constantly ranks highly for its chilled-out bars and restaurants.
2. You can’t miss the Big Buddha. This 45-metre marble statue can be spotted from much of southern Phuket. If you have the puff, you can do the climb to it from Karon Beach, but it’s easier to get whipped up here by tuk-tuk. Don’t forget to enjoy the views of the Andaman Sea, Phuket Town, Kata, Karon, Chalong Bay and more.
3. When you consider that the soft, white sands and turquoise waters of this beach can only be reached by hiking, swimming or longtail (boat) taxi – then you can understand what gives Freedom Beach its charm. Its secluded nature means you’ll dodge crowds, though bear in mind there’s no lifeguard.
4. Head for clubs like glitzy Catch for dining and dancing. Carpe Diem and Xana in Bang Tao are also well-rated. Phuket also has its very own Cafe del Mar on Kamala Beach. The clubs at Patong beach tend to have a less savoury reputation. Phuket’s Old Town is worth exploring for its bright-coloured shophouses that sit alongside grand Portuguese mansions and Taoist temples. For an insight into history, check out Thai Hua Museum and explore the island’s history, including a tribute to the island’s Chinese influences.
5. The Simon Cabaret Show in Phuket is one of Thailand’s most spectacular cabaret performances that gives Las Vegas a run for its money. It’s where some of the country’s ladyboys put on their glad rags and sing their hearts out while wearing some of the most ornate costumes you’ll ever see.
6. Phuket, like Thailand, has lots of elephants and it’s a sad fact many are abused. If you want to see these majestic pachyderms in the flesh, head for ethical sanctuaries that offer a ‘hands off’ responsible approach where you can view them in a natural habitat from a distance. Less ethical animal sanctuaries feature elephants that are bathed on command, made to do tricks, are chained, or fed or ridden by visitors. 
7. For eight days in October Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival blazes through. It’s a huge draw for visitors and locals alike and you can expect technicoloured shows of extreme body piercings, celebrations invoking gods and firewalking. Each year it gets more daring than the last. It usually takes place on the ninth month of the Chinese lunar calendar.