Phuket Hotels

Its natural beauty is known all over the world and the recreational options are endless. White powder-like sands, crystal clear blue waters and a rich ecosystem are enough to keep Phuket on anyone’s list of dream retreats. You can either spend the whole day at the beach or dive and explore the underwater sights. Then for a grand end to a most relaxing day, pamper yourself in any of the fabulous spas. Thus there is no argument that Phuket is still Asia’s most popular leisure destination.

Attractions

Phuket’s major card is its impressive lineup of beaches. Each has its own character and ambience; some are bustling with energy while others are wrapped in exclusivity. Generally, those at the south and west of the island have better beaches than the ones found in the west, which are more muddy.

One place to find the party crowd is Patong Beach. The area is jam-packed with tourists and further congested by hotels, restaurants and bars. Some may be put off by the polluted beach but the energetic vibe is definitely irresistible.

The second largest beach is Karon Beach, well-liked for its powdery sand and clear waters. The atmosphere here is not as chaotic as in Patong. The long strip allows you to choose your own secluded spot and laze around. Another plus would be the lovely coral reefs which encourage good snorkeling options. Right next to Karon is Kata Beach. This compact-sized beach is a hit among families. Though it has seen a lot developments, the beach is very pleasant with the mountains as backdrop.

Other beaches found in the north end are Kalim Beach and Kamala Beach. Rugged Kalim offers a good distance away from the bustling centre while Kamala beach is a peaceful spot further up the hill.

On the South end, Cape Panwa is a beautiful serene beach huddled by a thick forest. Resorts are built far from each other thus giving a bit of privacy for visitors to fully enjoy the calm beach. Same goes for Nai Harn Beach, utterly quiet and less developed.

Posh fills the air at Laguna Phuket in Bang Tao Bay where a group of upscale hotels hold fort. Its palm fringed beaches, though a bit narrow, provides a relaxing seclusion from the more vibrant areas in the north.

What else can you enjoy doing in Phuket? Watch the sunset from Phrom Thep Cape. Keep in mind though that there are others like you gathering around to view this spectacular sight so it’s pretty much a public affair.

Phuket’s biggest cultural attraction is Phuket Fantasea, an amusement park for both kids and adults. Visitors who have seen the 45-minute cultural show about the story of the magic elephant only have high praises for it! Intricate costumes and amazing acrobatics add up to the entertainment. For more fun with the animals and if you have time to spare, do drop by the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project near Bang Pae Waterfalls, an outreach project which aims to nurture abused gibbons.

Events

On March, the island celebrates Thao Thep Krasatri and Tao Sri Sunthorn Festivals to honour the two heroines who fought for peace in the island during the Burmese invasion. The monument in Thalang District is adorned with colorful garlands.

It’s a wet and wild affair during the Songkran Festival in April, a nationwide event to welcome the Thai new year. Here in Phuket, it coincides with the celebration of National Fisherman’s Day with baby turtles being set out to sea as a form of thanksgiving.

Patong Carnival brings out the fun in November to welcome what else? The tourist season! There are parades, food fests and quirky beauty contests. A more rambunctious mood emanates when Gay Pride Festival sets in every year.

Another major Thai festival is Loy Krathong in October. Cute and lovely flower boats lit with candles are set adrift into the ocean. In fact, expect all of the waterways in Thailand lit up during this festival.

There are sporting events in Phuket as well. In November, triathletes converge for the Laguna Triathlon in Bang Tao Beach. Then on the King’s birthday in December, the King’s Cup Regatta gets underway at Nai Harn Beach with trendy boats coming in from all around the world.

Climate

• Hot and Dry Season (November – May) 25 - 31oC; sweltering heat, little or no rainfall
• Rainy season (June – October) 26 - 30oC; occasional heavy rain but the cool sea breezes ease the humidity and high temperatures