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Big, bigger, Phuket

We’ve flown in and out of Phuket International Airport several times on our travels to Thailand, but it wasn’t until 2024 that we actually spent time on the country’s largest island.

We stayed for 18 nights – 10 in Karon and 8 in Surin – and while we can’t say we fell completely in love with Phuket, we still had a lovely time.

The beaches are beautiful with soft sand and inviting waves. The weather was perfect with clear blue skies every day and barely a drop of rain. As always, the Thai people were incredibly warm and the food was nothing short of fantastic.

We also really enjoyed visiting Big Buddha and Phuket Old Town.

Put simply, Phuket is an easy and convenient holiday destination.

Thailand has plenty of places where you can escape the crowds and mass tourism, but if all you’re after is a sunbed, a cocktail and pleasant tropical weather… Well, Phuket delivers.

We returned again in 2026 after island hopping our way up from Trang Province.

This time we spent a few days in the quieter southeastern corner at Cape Panwa, by Ao Yon Beach.

We also escaped to nearby Naka Island, where we had the most wonderful days at the secluded The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa (adlink).

Now, we know a thing or two about the best places to visit in Phuket, and we want to share it with you.

Keep reading our Phuket travel guide to find out what makes the island worth visiting, how to avoid the busiest spots, where to find the best beaches, the best things to do in Phuket (and what to skip), where to stay, great places to eat, getting around and our top tips for making the most of the island.