Destination Guide in Phuket

Ao Chalong

This bay, which has the islands largest and most visited pier, is located 11 kilometers south of town. From this pier, holidaymakers can get chartered boats to some nearby islands south of Phuket. The bay area is dotted with dive shops, a few travel agencies and superb seafood restaurants. Although the bay has a stunning setting and relaxing ambience, swimming is not recommended here. Accommodations are available at the Phuket Youth Hostel.

Ao Sen

This is a small bay located next to Hat Nai Han, near the Phuket Yacht Club, which has a peaceful and scenic beach with white powdery sand.

Dino Park

An 18-hole mini-golf course is located beside Marina Cottage on Karon Beach. The golf course is set in a prehistoric atmosphere, where visitors can enjoy golfing in a world out of time. Take an adventurous trip to the world of Dinosaurs at the Dino Park, an entertainment and dining complex. Call 076 330493-7 or visit www.dinopark.com for more information.

Hat Karon (Karon Beach)

Located south of Patong Beach, Hat Karon is a curving beach that lies beautifully in the sun with small sand dunes, casuarinas and palm trees. The crescent bay is the beach's signature that drawing travelers attention. From May to October, the beach may be affected by serious undertows, as the bay open. Watch out for those warning flags before going swimming or surfing at the southern end of the beach. During the high season, the beach is ideal for relaxation, swimming or sunbathing. A wide range of accommodations, from top-end to budget and mid-range, are available. Other facilities such as nightclubs, restaurants and other evening entertainment are located along the beachfront road. The beach is located approximately 20 kilometers from the town and can be reached by taking either s or buses from Ranong Market in Phuket City. Transportation is available from 7.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. and costs approximately 20 baht / person / trip. Taking a taxi to the town is another option. It costs approximately 200 baht to Phuket City and 150 baht to Patong Beach.

Hat Kata (Kata Beach)

Located approximately 17 kilometers from Phuket City are Kata Noi (Small Kata) and Kata Yai (Big Kata) Beaches. Both are renowned for snorkeling to see the coral, tropical fishes and the seas eco-system. Also worth visiting is Ko Pu, a small uninhabited island located off Laem Sai. Most visitors find snorkeling along the islands rich coral reef enjoyable. Diverse beach activities are available on both beaches. Accommodations on Hat Kata are set amidst tropical and cliff settings. Visitors can choose to stay in budget to top end accommodations according to their preference. Well known hotels located here are Club Med and the Boathouse. For more information on how to get there, please refer to the transportation section in Hat Karon.

Hat Nai Han

Located a few kilometers from Kata Beach, next to Phromthep Cape, approximately 18 kilometers from town is Hat Nai Han, an extra-ordinary beach that has white powdery sand and crystal clear water. The beach borders on two charming landscaped lagoons surrounded by rubber trees and other tropical plants. As the beach has not yet been fully developed to its full potential, it is less crowded, more peaceful, thus is ideal for people seeking solitude. Holidaymakers are not recommended to swim during the monsoon season from May to October. Watch out for the red flag! Despite having a rather limited selection of accommodations, they range from budget bungalows to the top-class Yacht Club. Check with the TAT Phuket Office for more up-to-date information and room rates. This beach can be reached by songthaeos, which leaves from the intersection of Ranong Road and the fountain circle. The fare is 25 baht / person / trip. In addition, visitors can also charter tuk-tuks which costs a lot more at 150 baht to 200 baht / trip.

Hat Rawai

Located approximately 17 kilometers from town is the less crowded, more peaceful and less commercial beach with a second-to-none pristine beach. The Beach is home to a well-established community of Phuket s Chao Le people (sea gypsies). In addition, from this beach visitors can charter boats to explore other offshore islands. Hat Laem Kha, located to the northeast of the beach, is the departure point for those wishing to visit Ko Lon, and Ko He. Laem Phromthep, Phukets landmark, is located at the southern end of the beach. This cape is an ideal spot for diving and snorkeling. Accommodations range from budget bungalows to middle range resorts. Getting to the Beach is easy by songthaeos, which cost approximately 20 baht / person / trip. Songthaeos depart from the stop at the circle of Ranong Road, while chartered tuk-tuks will cost more at 150 baht / trip.

Khao Rang

A small hill located northeast of the town, Khao Rang offers a fascinating view of Phuket City. Inside the park is a fitness park, restaurants and souvenir shops. The statue of Phraya Ratsada Korsimbi, (Ratsada Korsimbi Na Ranong) the Governor of Phuket between 1890 and 1909 is also situated here.

Ko Bon

A small island located south of Phuket that is well known for its long- stretch of white sandy beach set in a secluded tropical ambience. Ideal for swimming, the island is accessible by chartering a boat from Rawai Beach or Laem Ka. No accommodations are provided.

Ko He

Located southwest of Cape Panwa, the island is famous for its white powdery beach and rich coral reefs which are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and other water sports. As the island is not affected very much by the monsoon, would be visitors can enjoy traveling to the place year round. Ko He has become a popular one-day tour from Phuket as it is only half an hour from the Chalong Pier. It is also dubbed the Coral Island by tourists. Accommodations and basic tourist facilities are available, contact the TAT Phuket Office for more up-to-date information.

Ko Kaeo

A small island located approximately 3 kilometers from Rawai Beach, south of Laem Phromthep where a replica of the Lord Buddha's Holy Footprint is enshrined. This quiet, white, sandy beach complimented by rich coral reef is a major tourist attraction. The island can be reached by taking a 30-minute boat trip.

Ko Lon

A relatively large island located south of the city close to Ao Chalong. Tranquil and undisturbed, the island is perfect for those wishing to unwind and recharge. A typical fishing village and a school are located on the island. Accommodations are available. To get there, visitors can take ferries which depart from Ao Chalong from 8.00 a.m. Alternatively, they can charter long-tailed boats. The trip takes approximately 20 minutes.

Ko Mai Thon

A small peaceful island located southeast of Phuket, Ko Mai Thon is famous for its unique corals, crystal clear water and relaxing ambience. The island is ideal for diving, swimming or even fishing. Accommodations are available for those wishing to stay in this enchanting, secluded den. A one-day trip is also provided by travel agencies. There are boats to Ko Mai Thon from Rawai Beach.

Ko Racha

The island consists of Racha Yai and Racha Noi islands located south of Phuket. Ko Racha Yai (Big Racha) has an enchanting beach located on the west between the valleys that resembles horseshoes. The area is known as Ao Bungalow which is famous for its white powdery beach and crystal clear water. Visitors can marvel at the delightful panoramic view of the whole island from the vantage point at the peak of the mountain located south of the bay. Ko Racha Yai is the ultimate place to explore the wonders of the underwater world, especially at Ao Siam, Ao Tue and Khon Kae. Accommodations are available. Ko Racha Noi (Small Racha) is located just 10 kilometers from Big Racha Island. Originating from the accumulation of coral stones, the island has more rocky hills than beaches, thus the island is more suitable for fishing. To get there, visitors can charter long-tailed or speed boats from Chalong Pier. Alternatively, they can buy a package tour from reliable travel agencies.

Ko Si-re

An interesting site to visit where visitors can explore the daily life of Chao Le as it is the oldest and biggest community of Phukets sea gypsies. With an area of approximately 20 square kilometers, the island is located approximately 4 kilometers southeast of Phuket and is separated from the main island only by the small Thachin Canal. The mountain-top temple on the island houses a big Buddha image in the reclining position. The island is not an ideal place for swimming, but is perfect for discovering the sea gypsies' way of life, especially at Laem Tukkae.

Laem Ka

This Cape is located approximately 16 kilometers from the town center at the extreme southwest end of Chalong Bay. Ideal for swimming, the beach is clean, quite and dotted with rocks.

Laem Phromthep or Phromthep Cape

Literally translate as Brahmas Cape, Laem Phromthep is perhaps one of Phuket's most important landmarks. There is a saying that you havent been to Phuket unless you visit Laem Phromthep. It is here that visitors soak up the sun and savor the breathtaking panoramic view of the Andaman Sea from the islands southern-most tip. The Cape is crowded especially in the evening, as it is a popular observation point at sunset. Laem Phromthep is located approximately 2 kilometers from Rawai Beach.

Phuket Aquarium

Located at Cape Phanwa, southeastern-most end of the island is an extraordinary aquarium that displays hundreds of exotic and colorful marine species found in the sea around Phuket. The aquarium opens daily from 8.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Call 076 391126 for more information. To get by public transportation, take a local bus from the towns fresh produce market.

Phuket Butterfly Farm

Located approximately 3 kilometers from Phuket City via Yaowarat Road and the Sam Kong intersection, the farm proudly presents a unique collection of tropical creatures such as butterflies and insects. The farm opens daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The entrance fee is 150 baht for adults and 60 baht for children. Call tel. 0 7621 5616, or 0 7621 0861 for more information.

Phuket City and old buildings

Phuket City is a fascinating city that can be explored on foot or by traditional means of transportation, tuk-tuk or Sino-Portuguese architecture that is evident in the citys shop houses provides the town with a charming atmosphere and a late 19th century ambience. For visitors interested in strolling along the city, start the trip at the central post office and walk west along Thalang Road, then turn south at the Standard Chartered Bank building and walk towards Yaowarat Road. Continue the trip to Fountain Circle, then head west to Ranong Road and proceed to Patipat Road, which connects with the historic Krabi Road.

Phuket Cultural Center

Located in the compound of the Rajabhat Institute of Phuket, the Center features an exhibition of Phukets intriguing history. Highlights of the daily lifestyles, traditional houses, household utilities and Thailand's history are exhibited. A library is located on the ground floor where books on the history, culture and arts of Phuket can be found. Call 076 211959 for more details.

Phuket Sea Shell Museum

Phuket Sea Shell Museum is located near Rawai Beach on the island's southwestern shores. On display are private collections of seashells from Thai waters (off Phuket Island itself). They are considered the most sought-after shells by collectors. In addition to such the collection, seashells from other parts of Thailand and other parts of the world are also on display. The main attractions at this Museum are the worlds largest golden 140-karat pearl, the worlds earliest known life form seen in sections of sedimentary rock containing shell fossils and a gigantic 250-kilogram shell. The museum is open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Call tel. 0 7638 1266 or 0 7638 1274 for more information.

Phuket Submarine

Phuket Submarine operates 5 dives daily and carries forty eight passengers into the waters southeast of Phuket. The dives will be to a depth of the thirty meters. The submarine is fully air conditioned and boasts the latest technology available in tourist submarines. Large 72 centimeter viewing ports and LCD screens enhance the viewing experience for the passengers. Schools of tropical fish and soft coral formations are a highlight of the dive site.The Submarine tour takes approximately two hours with 40 minutes spent underwater. For more information, please contact : Phuket Submarine Col Ltd. 64/423 Mu 7, Ratsada Harbour, Amphoe Mueang, Phuket 83000. Tel. 0 7625 3206-8, 0 7625 3215 Website: http://www.phuket-submarine.com

Phuket Zoo

Located on the way to Chalong Bay, the Zoo features a collection of Asian and African mammals and birds. Elephant and crocodile shows are performed daily. The entrance fee is 400 baht for adult and 200 baht for children. Call 0 7638 1337, 0 7638 1227 for more details.

Saphan Hin

A public park located by the sea at the end of Phuket Road, Saphan Hin is a recreational park for both locals and tourists. The Tin Mining Monument dedicated to the memory of Captain Edward Thomas Miles, the Australian who brought the first dredge to Phuket in 1909, is located inside the park. The Saphan Hin Sports Center is also located here.

Thai Village and Orchid Farm

Located on Thepkasattri Road, approximately 3 kilometers from Phuket City is an extraordinary place for culture lovers. The village provides stunning classical Thai dance performances, sword-fighting, Thai boxing, southern customs and elephant shows. Handicrafts and traditional mining techniques are also featured. The orchid farm outside is worth exploring. The performances are at 11.00 a.m., 2.00 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. The fees are 400 baht for adults and 200 baht for children. Call 076 214860 for more information.

The Viewpoint

The most famous observation point of the 3 beaches, Kata Not, Kata and Karon, is located on the road half-way between Nai Harn Beach and Kata Noi Beach. From this spot, an intriguing view of the 3 beaches and Ko Pu has constantly impresses visitors.

Wat Chalong

Phukets most popular and famous temple, Wat Chai Tararam, or Wat Chalong, was built in 1837. Located approximately 8 kilometers from the city, the temple houses the famous Luang Po Cham, a monk who helped the locals fight the Ang Yi rebellion during the reign of King Rama V (in 1876). A recent addition to the temple is a 61.4-meter high chedi containing the Phra Borom Sareerikatat relic, a piece of the Lord Buddha's bones brought over from Sri Lanka. The chedi is a mixture of southern, central and northeastern architectural styles and is the first in this region to house the holy Buddha's relic.