Thailand's largest island, Phuket stretches into the Andaman Sea in southwestern Thailand. The country's most popular tropical paradise, with its dream beaches, nature excursions, incredible marine life, and delectable cuisine, Phuket has everything to delight its visitors.

The History of Phuket Island

Phuket wasn't always called by this name; it was known to Europeans as Djonkseylon or Junk Ceylon. It received its definitive name "Phuket" only much later, derived from the Malay "Bukit" meaning "hill." The island particularly interested Europeans for its tin reserves. In 1685, the French signed a treaty with Thai authorities of the time for the exploitation of this mineral, but in 1688, they were forced to leave the country. Around 1770, British merchants arrived in Phuket.

Moreover, the island was not spared from war against the Burmese. Initially, it managed to avoid enemy assault thanks to the intervention of Francis Light. As he sailed along Phuket's coasts, he encountered Burmese fleets preparing to attack the island. He sent a message to islanders warning of the imminent invasion. Despite precautions taken, the Burmese still managed to seize Phuket, but it didn't last. Local resistance led them to retreat and leave on March 13, 1785.

The 19th century marked the arrival of the Chinese, who began exploiting tin mines. When Rama V ascended to the throne, Phuket became the administrative center of tin production. When the country transitioned from monarchy to parliamentary rule, Phuket became an autonomous province, and rubber plantations emerged on the island. Thanks to these plantations, the country became recognized worldwide for rubber production, a distinction it maintains today.

Phuket gained prominence in tourism during the 1970s when hippies began discovering this little paradise on earth. By the early 1980s, this destination had become one of the world's most appreciated.

The Tsunami of December 2004

This natural disaster left a heavy past for island inhabitants. It resulted in the loss of many lives and the destruction of a significant portion of coastal structures.

Today, a Popular Holiday Destination in Thailand

Phuket attracts numerous tourists from around the globe thanks to its many tourist attractions. The island is notably renowned for its magnificent beaches, diving spots, markets, temples, and more.

Phuket Town and particularly its old quarter immerse you in a colorful setting with yellow, blue, green colonial houses... Many of these charming buildings have been converted into hotels, restaurants, or small shops. Along the beach, the town reveals a more modern face with large hotel complexes and other infrastructure suited for tourism.

Why Visit Phuket?

Its Gastronomy Is to Be Savored

Gastronomy in Phuket province caters to all tastes. The island offers an incredibly varied range of dishes, covering cuisines from around the world. You'll undoubtedly find a rich selection of Thai cuisine, both traditional and modernized. There are also numerous international options for those who prefer to stay within their culinary comfort zone.

A Nightlife Like No Other

Phuket is renowned for its exceptional nightlife, ideal for adult visitors. Located at Patong Beach, Bangla Road is the heart of evening entertainment, with its numerous bars, clubs, and lounges. Its advantage lies in the proximity of establishments, allowing easy passage from one venue to another. Full moon beach parties, organized each month, also attract many tourists.

Its Landscape Is Idyllic

With its diversity of landscapes—beaches, islands, mountains, jungles, and cities—you'll be breathtaken at every turn. The region's beauty will always inspire you to capture memories to share with loved ones.

Luxury Hotel Equipped with Latest Technologies

Phuket's upscale resorts and beach clubs are equipped with numerous modern facilities such as gyms, relaxing spas, swimming pools, entertainment activities for children, and hotel-organized excursions. Plus, you can enjoy fine dining restaurants, room service, and poolside bars.

Friendliness and Safety Assured

Here, the warm welcome of locals and their dependence on tourism contribute to creating a friendly and safe atmosphere.

As for safety, Thailand is renowned as one of Asia's safest countries. Phuket, in particular, is a safe and vibrant destination where help is always available if needed.

Prices Are Reasonable

Phuket province is an attractive destination due to its affordable rates, a characteristic highly appreciated in Asia. You'll find great deals at every corner! Moreover, with Thai currency being weaker than in other countries, the island becomes even more economically accessible.

The Climate Is Pleasant

Its year-round sunny climate is another great reason to visit Phuket. Temperatures generally remain constant between 76 and 93°F, or approximately 24 to 33°C. This is ideal for all sorts of planned activities, as it's warm without being stifling. Of course, it can sometimes be very hot, but most of the time the climate is very pleasant compared to other regions of the world.

What to Do in Phuket Province?

Scuba Diving

This activity attracts many enthusiasts to Phuket province. Moreover, it's possible at any time of year, and there are so many spots to discover. For excellent visibility during underwater exploration at Phuket, you should visit between December and April. From April to October, the sea becomes rougher, reducing visibility. As for average water temperature, it generally varies between 27°C and 31°C throughout the year. Besides this, the island has numerous diving centers where beginners can learn this discipline.

Aquatic Fauna and Flora in Phuket's Waters

No matter what time of year you plan to explore Phuket's seabed, one thing is certain: the underwater life will always offer an exceptional show. You'll notably be greeted by schools of tuna, barracudas, moray eels, parrotfish, cuttlefish, triggerfish, manta rays, sea turtles, and sharks...

Must-See Diving Spots

Shark Point

This location is situated approximately twenty kilometers east of Phuket City. You'll find a small rock with 3 pinnacles forming a natural shelter for many tropical fish.

As its name suggests, this place is also frequented by sharks, notably the leopard shark which often rests on the ocean's sandy bottom.

King Cruiser

This spot's name comes from a vessel that sank in this area in 1997 after hitting an anemone reef. Since its shipwreck, this ferry has become a refuge for ocean inhabitants. This site is particularly suited for professional divers, among others, those with CMAS and PADI certification.

Anemone Reef

Located east of Phuket, this is a rocky pinnacle found approximately 3 meters below the surface. As its name suggests, sea anemones largely cover this zone, but there are also corals. Most divers consider this spot one of the region's best. The presence of anemones and plankton attracts several fish species, including mackerel, trevally, barracudas, and more.

Phuket's Paradisiacal Beaches

Patong Beach

This beautiful beach stretches approximately 4 km and is lined with numerous tourist establishments. It's particularly lively at night with its electric atmosphere. During the day, the atmosphere is quieter, and tourists take advantage to sunbathe or engage in water activities like jet-skiing or parasailing.

Jungle Beach

If you're seeking tranquility, opt for this beach located south of Phuket. After indulging in relaxation on the shore, you can go snorkeling.

Surin Beach

This beach, located on the island's west side, is especially famous for its turquoise waters bordered by a magnificent stretch of clear sand. It's also renowned for its numerous beachfront restaurants.

It's a place especially appreciated by surfers between April and October.

The Weather in Phuket City

Due to its proximity to the equator, Phuket benefits from a tropical monsoon climate. The island experiences 2 seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry period generally extends from December to March. However, it's worth noting that even during this period, there are often some showers in the late afternoon. As for the rainy season, precipitation begins in April and ends in November.

What's the Best Month to Visit Phuket?

The best time of year to visit Phuket is between December and February. Indeed, the average temperature ranges between 22° and 34°C.

How to Get There?

To reach Phuket island, you can choose between plane, bus, or car. Train is also an option to consider, but it should be noted that there's no railway network on the island. The nearest train station is in Surat Thani. From this city, you then need to take a bus to the island.

By Bus

From Bangkok, you can take a line heading to Phuket from the Mo Chit Bus Station. The distance separating the capital from the island is approximately 900 km. There are several comfort levels depending on the companies. There are notably VIP buses with air conditioning and comfortable seats. For this type of vehicle, expect around 1,000 baht for a one-way ticket.

By Car

If you wish to travel by private vehicle, you should allow approximately 10 hours of driving before arriving at Phuket, but this allows you to appreciate the beauty of southern Thailand. Many rental cars are available at Bangkok Airport.

By Plane

More than 50 flights daily depart for Phuket from Bangkok Airport. They are often provided by local airlines. (Nok Air, Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways International, etc.)