Phuket isn’t just a beach — it’s a whole vibe. With turquoise waters, buzzing night markets, laid-back beach towns, and incredible Thai food, it’s no wonder it’s one of Thailand’s most loved destinations.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, these Phuket travel tips will help you plan smarter, explore deeper, and stay healthier while soaking up island life. From where to eat and how to get around to how to avoid common travel mistakes, we’ve got you covered.
From the Airport to the Sand: How to Get Into Town
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is where your journey begins. It’s located in the north of the island, about an hour’s drive to popular spots like Patong, Kata, or Phuket Old Town.
Here are the best ways to get to your accommodation:
- Grab App (like Uber): Grab is safe, easy, and often cheaper than taxis.
- Taxi Stand: Prices range from 600–900 THB depending on where you’re headed. Always agree on the fare before driving off.
- Airport Shuttle Buses & Smart Bus: Budget-friendly and pretty reliable, but not as fast.
- Private Transfers or Hotel Pickup: A bit pricier, but zero hassle.
Getting Around the Island
Phuket isn’t huge, but getting from place to place can still be tricky without knowing the local options.
Transport tips:
- Tuk-tuks: Fun and flashy, but they can overcharge. Always negotiate!
- Motorbike Rentals: Great freedom, but roads can be wild. Only rent if you’re confident driving.
- Songthaews: Shared open-air trucks. Super cheap, but slow and unpredictable.
- Grab: Your safest, easiest bet for door-to-door rides.
What to Eat (and What to Avoid)
Thai food in Phuket is amazing — fresh, flavorful, and affordable. But some dishes can be spicier than expected, and hygiene varies, so here’s what to know:
Must-try dishes:
- Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup)
- Mee Hokkien Noodle (stir-fried noodles with pork and seafood)
- Khao Man Gai (chicken rice, Thai style)
- Banana Roti (sweet street food favorite)
Where to eat:
- Chillva Market (for snacks and souvenirs)
- Lock Tien Food Court (local eats in Phuket Town)
- Mor Mu Dong (hidden gem for authentic southern Thai dishes)
🏝️ Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems
There’s more to Phuket than beaches — though the beaches are top-notch too!
Top attractions:
- Big Buddha: Massive marble statue with a panoramic view.
- Phuket Old Town: Colonial buildings, coffee shops, and cool murals.
- Promthep Cape: Catch the sunset with a sea breeze.
- Wat Chalong Temple: Phuket’s most important Buddhist temple.
- Island Hopping: Visit Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, and Similan Islands.
Fun Things To Do With Kids
Traveling with family? Phuket has plenty of options to keep the little ones happy:
- Elephant Sanctuaries: Visit ethical centers like Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.
- Splash Jungle Water Park: Waterslides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.
- Aquaria Phuket: Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium.
- Dino Park Mini Golf: Jurassic fun for all ages.
Where to Stay: Area Guide
Every beach has its own personality. Here’s a quick vibe check:
- Patong: Lively and loud, great for nightlife.
- Karon & Kata: Relaxed but still close to restaurants and shops.
- Kamala: Family-friendly, quieter and more chill.
- Phuket Town: Great if you want local culture and fewer tourists.
When to Visit Phuket
Thailand is warm all year, but Phuket has two seasons you’ll want to plan around:
- Dry Season (Nov–April): Best time to visit. Expect sunny skies and calm seas.
- Rainy Season (May–Oct): Cheaper hotels, lush greenery, and some heavy showers.
Budget Tips for Phuket
Want to save while still having an unforgettable time?
- Eat where locals eat — it’s cheaper and more authentic.
- Skip overpriced tours and compare prices online first.
- Use public transport or Grab instead of taxis.
- Bring your own sunscreen and meds — they’re expensive here.
What to Pack for Phuket
Keep it light — literally! You’ll basically be living in flip-flops.
- Lightweight, breathable clothes
- Swimwear + sarong
- Flip-flops + walking shoes
- Sunscreen & bug spray
- Hat + sunglasses
- Power bank
- Reusable water bottle
- Rain jacket (if visiting during monsoon season)
Staying Safe in Phuket
Phuket is safe overall, but here’s what to watch out for:
- Scams: They’re not unheard of in Phuket. If someone offers a deal that seems too good to be true — especially around tours or jet skis — double-check online reviews first.
- Road safety: The traffic can feel a little chaotic at times, especially if you’re on a scooter. If you’re not confident driving, it’s okay to skip the rental and Grab a ride instead.
- Swimming safety: Always take note of the beach flags. Red means dangerous currents, and trust us — it’s not worth the risk.
- Nightlife: If you’re heading out for cocktails or a beach party, just stay with your group, keep your drink close, and plan your ride home ahead of time.
- Tsunami signs: One of our team members at Air Doctor shared this from their own trip:
“When I visited Club Med in Phuket as a kid, I remember seeing a road sign for tsunami evacuation routes. It stuck with me — not in a scary way, just as something you take note of. It made me realize how much thought goes into traveler safety here.” But they’re just there as a precaution. Thailand has an early warning system in place, and these signs are part of keeping everyone informed. It’s one of those quiet, reassuring safety nets you’ll hopefully never need — but it’s nice to know it’s there.
Final Thoughts: Phuket in a Nutshell
Phuket is more than just a beach getaway — it’s a cultural melting pot with warm locals, rich flavors, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re planning your first Thai trip or coming back for more, these Phuket travel tips will help you stay safe, savvy, and relaxed.
And if you get sick or need medical care during your stay, don’t worry—we’ve got your back.
About the Air Doctor App
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Healthcare access in 90 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including cardiologists, gynecologists, and pediatricians
FAQs
Yes, especially in busy tourist areas like Patong, Kata, and Karon. Stick to well-lit streets, avoid walking alone in quiet areas, and keep valuables secure.
It can be — but it doesn’t have to be. Street food, markets, and public beaches make it easy to keep costs low. Want luxury? That’s here too.
Yes! Most people in tourist-facing roles (hotels, restaurants, tour operators) speak basic English. Still, learning a few Thai phrases is always appreciated.
