Phuket is famously known for their serene beaches and being a couple getaway island destination, and of course their highly interesting nightlife.
But if you dig a little deeper, Phuket and its myriad of islands, have a lot of fun to offer for the whole family. It truly is an underrated travel destination for that one family vacation of the year. When you’ve run through the usual list Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, turn your attention to Phuket, and you’ll find that there’s a lot more than meets the eye.
1. Island Hopping
This is one of Phuket’s main attraction, and rightfully so as its islands are stunning with azure clear waters. Headlining one of the many stops is James Bond Island and if you haven’t guessed it already, it was one of the filming sites of the iconic 1974 Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”.
Since then, droves of tourists have flocked to the island to catch a glimpse and take photos with the peculiar rock formation. Many of the surrounding islands also offer great diving and snorkelling activities which could open up the marine world to kids like never before.
But if you’re feeling a bit more indulgent and adventurous, we recommend seeing the islands from a helicopter! Each flight experience will come with refreshments, cold towels (for freshening up after the flight), and educational narration by the pilot. There are three different flight routes to choose from, so let’s say you’ve experienced the boat tour before, why not try something different this time round? Taking a helicopter tour over the island allows you to see terrain you wouldn’t otherwise have access to.
2. Fishing
At first glance, fishing seems to be a flat out boring activity to do. But if you give it a chance, especially at Phuket Fishing Park, it can be incredibly fun for the family. At the fishing park, you hunt for what is called big game fish so don’t expect to see teeny tiny fish that you can hold up with one hand, they are humongous.
Phuket Fishing Park has 12 different species of Carp, Catfish, and others from Thailand, America, and all over the world. Trust me, it’s extremely rewarding when you’re able to nab a big one. Oh, there’s even a dog called Jackie who will be beside you when you fish and he’ll bark when a fish gets caught in your line!
Address 102/5 Moo 5 Chalermphrakieat Ror 9 Road, Tambon Rasada, Amphur Muang, Phuket Opening Hours Daily 8:00AM – 5:00PM
3. Baan Teelankan
Baan Teelanka, or famously known as the Upside Down House, is one of the more popular places to go in Phuket. And no, all you Stranger Things fans out there, it has nothing to do with the eerie supernatural otherworld.
Inside, you’ll find many exhibits that present different 3D illusionary perspectives on top of well, every inch of the house being reversed. There’s even a maze outside that was designed by a world acclaimed maze designer, Adrian Fisher. Imagine yourself to be like your friendly neighbourhood Spiderman as you “hang” from ceilings and walls, and it’s definitely going to be a surreal experience.
Address 51/11 Moo 5, Chalermprakiet Ratchakan Thi 9 Road, Ratsada, Phuket Town, Phuket 83000, Thailand Opening Hours Daily 9:30AM – 6:00PM
4. Night Markets
There are tons of night markets in Phuket, and some are even on the scale that rivals that of the famous Chatuchak in Bangkok. The Thais just love their night markets. The newest kid on the block though, is hipster bohemian night market Chillva.
Reminiscent of the bigger Artbox night market, Chillva has stacks of industrial containers which serve as “makeshift” bars or restaurants.
Chillva boasts an overall youthful and well, chill vibe which has no doubt become the new hangout spot for the younger demographic. It’ll be a refreshing change to the usual night markets around, so definitely a place to check out with the family!
Address Ratsada, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand Opening Hours Monday to Saturday 5:00PM – 11:00PM
5. Anthem Wakepark
Anthem Wakepark is for those who love water sports and water activities. Their specialty is, of course, wakeboarding where both professional and experienced coaches will guide you through the basics on how to wakeboard. After that, you can hit their fun course which will see you going up ramps and falling into the water, tons of fun!
Now, Anthem also offers a completely new experience — the flyingboard, which is a board that propels you up into the air by way of water jetpacks. That adrenaline rush while being propelled upwards is something to experience for yourself.
Address 194/6 M.7 Sri-sunthorn road, Sri-sunthorn sub-district, Talang, Phuket 83110, Thailand Opening Hours Tuesday to Sunday 9:00AM – 6:30PM
6. Phuket Fantasea
Phuket Fantasea is a dream show come alive. If the family is a big fan of The Greatest Showman, then look no further for the live-action version.
Phuket Fantasea is a cultural show that celebrates the history and culture of Thailand, putting together a performance that has a good mix of choreography, magic, and animals. That’s not all, for there’s a smorgasbord of pre-show activities such as a theme park, a carnival, and even a shopping avenue.
With a high-quality production and even a buffet, Phuket Fantasea proves to be a great night out.
Address Phuket FantaSea, 99 M3 Kamala Kathu, Phuket 83150 Opening Hours Daily show begins at 9:00PM
7. Mini Golf at Dino Park
Mini Golf is fun for everyone, and it doesn’t matter what age you are, there’s just something that makes you excited and brings that inner kid out of you when it comes to Mini Golf. Perhaps that’s the reason Mini Golf at Dino Park continues to draw in crowds, families especially.
What makes Dino Park more special is their dinosaur-themed mini golf, featuring life-sized dinosaur replicas with the 18-hole park built within a jungle which enhances the overall feel and adds to the whole Jurassic vibe. You’ll also walk through a cave with actual bats and a man-made volcano to boot!
Dino Park’s investment in providing a comprehensive immersive experience is what is winning everyone over.
Address 47 Karon Road, Karon Beach, Phuket Opening Hours Daily 10:00AM – 11:00PM
8. Flying Hanuman
Flying Hanuman gets its name from Hanuman, who is the Monkey God in Hinduism. And of course, you aren’t exactly going to be leaping from tree to tree. Flying here means feeling the rush of the wind in your face as you soar through the sky on a zipline.
There are tons of zip lines around (15 in fact) that cross the tropical forest of Phuket, with one that even stretches to 400m. Aside from zipping all over, you can abseil down an ancient tree and zip along with a partner on the Honeymoon Sling. If conquering your fear of heights is on your bucket list, why not have fun while doing it?
Address 89/16 Moo 6, Soi Namtok Kathu, Wichitsongkram Road, Kathu, Kathu, Phuket 83120, Thailand Opening Hours Daily 8:00AM – 5:00PM
9. Big Buddha
The Big Buddha is an iconic facade in the Phuket skyline. Perched on Nakkerd Hill, this 45m tall Buddha statue towers over all. Many climb up to pay respects, pray for their loved ones, and take in the expansive views of Phuket. Next to the Big Buddha is a smaller statue that appears to be gold in colour but in truth is made of brass.
What’s impressive about the Big Buddha is that it was reportedly built via the people’s donations and you can even sponsor a white marble that ranges from 300 to 1000 Baht, depending on the size. Attracting thousands of people every day, the Phuket Big Buddha has become a tourist hotspot, but there are monks living in temples within the grounds, so be sure to dress appropriately and be respectful.
Address Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand Opening Hours Daily 6:00AM – 7:00PM
10. Phuket Town
Phuket Town reminiscent of the streets of Penang and the beautiful art murals giving life to that heritage town. What’s different for Phuket is that Phuket Town is a step away and a completely different side than what many know of Phuket.
The shimmering turquoise waters, the nightlife, the adrenaline activities are, without a doubt, what makes Phuket an enticing travel destination. Phuket Town is what gives depth to your travel experience. A burgeoning cafe scene, art murals, historical significance, Phuket Town is the quiet side of Phuket, but equally enchanting.
Address Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
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