Ao Bang Thao

A large open bay that is the location of one of Phuket's longest beaches, Ao Bang Thao has a long history related to the economy of the island. Previously a tin mining area the location has been transformed into an area where Phuket's luxurious resorts and golf courses, especially Laguna complex, are located. Additional accommodations outside Laguna at the bays south end are also available.

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.

Ban Thao Thepkasattri

A recent discovery has identified the house of Phuket's heroine, Thao Thepkrasattri. The place is located at Ban Kien, Tambol Thepkrasattri. To get there from the town, travel along Thepkrasattri Road , at kilometer 19 marker, take the road that leads to Ban Riang and proceed for approximately 2 kilometers.

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

Koh 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.

Koh Hey

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

Koh 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.

Koh 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

Koh 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

Koh Nakha Noi

Located near Po Bay, approximately 25 kilometers north of Phuket City , the island offers unspoiled natural beauty that is second to none. Ko Nakha Noi is approximately 6 kilometers off of Po Bay and is home to the Naga Pearl Farm the only South Sea Pearl Farm which is open to the public all year round. Visitors will be able to learn more on techniques of pearl cultivation at the farm. Souvenir shops are available.

Koh 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.

Koh 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.

Koh 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.

Mangrove Forest

Located in the area of Tha Chatchai, the mangrove forest covers an area of approximately 320 acres. Situated on the islands northern tip, the place offers interesting nature trails for those wishing to learn more about the forest that protects the land and natures sea creatures.

Namtok Bang Pae

A relatively small cascade located amidst the dense woods, the waterfall is also home to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center . To get there from the town, follow the route to the Two Heroines Monument , then turn right to Tambon Pa Khlok and proceed for approximately 7 kilometers.

For nature enthusiasts, the sanctuary has mapped out some walking trails. Further information may be obtained from the Nature Study Center.

Namtok Krathu

This relatively small waterfall with a simple view but unique atmosphere is located approximately 4 kilometers from Amphoe Krathu. The entrance to the waterfall is located next to the Log Palm Golf Club. Restaurants and basic tourist amenities are available.

Namtok Ton Sai

The waterfall is located approximately 22 kilometers from the town. A relatively small waterfall that looks its best in the rainy season, Namtok Ton Sai is shaded by big and small trees which make it ideal for relaxation. To get there from Thepkasattri Road , turn left at Amphoe Thalang intersection and proceed for approximately 3 kilometers. Call 076 311998 for more information.

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 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

Saphan Hin

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.

Sirinat National Park

The park is located approximately 30 kilometers from Phuket City . Occupying an area of 90 square kilometers, the park has a 13-kilometer beach. Formerly known as Nai Yang National Park, it was declared a National Park on 13 July 1981.To reach the Park, start from Thepkasattri Road and continue towards the Thalang intersection, then take a left turn at kilometer21 and 22 markers and proceed for approximately 10 kilometers. Alternatively, at kilometer 21 and 22 markers, follow the road which leads to the airport for approximately 2 kilometers. The park consists of picture-perfect beaches and mangrove forests as follow:

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.

Thalang National Museum

Located near the Two Heroines Monument , the museum features a permanent exhibition of life in old Phuket and ancient artifacts and remains discovered on the coast as well as materials used during war with Burma ( Myanmar ). It is open daily except national holidays from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call 076 311426 or 076 311025. Admission fee is 30 baht / person.

The Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in Thalang District, approximately 20 kilometers from Phuket City , the sanctuary covers an area of 13,925 rai (5,570 acres) of rich and fertile land which is home to several types of wild animals.

The compound was declared a wildlife sanctuary in July 1969. The special Palm called Chao Mueang Thalang Palm (Lang Khao Palm) can only be seen here.

The Two Heroines Monument

This monument was established by local residents in 1966 to honor the heroic deeds of Thao Thepkasattri and Thao Srisunthorn. It is located at the Tha Ruea intersection, Amphoe Thalang.

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.

Wat Phra Thong

The temple is a popular attraction for both visitors and local residents. Located in the temple is the upper half of a large Buddha statue which seems to emerge from the ground. Legend has it that during the invasion of Thalang town in 1785, the Burmese made several attempts to excavate the statue in order to take it back to Burma . Each time they dug into the ground, swarms of hornets would swoop on them and they had to give up in the end. Later, the visible part of the statue was covered with gold by the villagers and has remained as such until today. The temple is located approximately 20 kilometers from Phuket City . Travel along Thepkrasattri Road , upon reaching the Thalang District Office, turn right and proceed directly to the temple.

Wat Phranang Sang

Located approximately 20 kilometers from town is a historic temple that serves as an invaluable reference on Thalangs history. The compound was once used as a Burmese military camp in 1785. The ubosot is where the three oldest and biggest tin Buddha images are enshrined. They are called the Three Kings and are positioned in between three other large statues.

To get there,travel along Thepkasattri Road , at Thalang District intersection, turn left and proceed directly into the temple