10 Must-See Places in Phuket You Can’t Miss (With Insider Tips!)

Table of Contents

Your Ultimate Guide to Phuket’s Best Experiences

Phuket is more than just a tropical island—it’s an adventure-filled paradise waiting to be explored. From hidden caves and turquoise lagoons to untouched beaches and vibrant marine life, there’s something for everyone.

The best way to experience Phuket’s true beauty? With expert-guided day trips that take you beyond the tourist hotspots. Whether you’re looking for snorkeling, island hopping, cultural explorations, or luxury cruises, Sunset Paradise Tour has the perfect adventure for you.

Here are 10 must-see places in Phuket that should be at the top of your travel list!

1) Glow Under the Stars at Hong by Starlight

Unique Experience: Paddle through glowing bioluminescent waters at night!

Imagine canoeing through mysterious sea caves, surrounded by the glow of bioluminescent plankton, as the sun sets over the Andaman Sea. The Hong by Starlight Tour takes you on an exclusive journey through hidden lagoons and limestone caves, offering an unforgettable night-time adventure.

📍 Location: Phang Nga Bay

Best Time to Visit: Evening for the bioluminescence effect

🚣 Tour Includes: Guided canoeing, gourmet Thai dinner, and stargazing

2) Explore James Bond Island in Style

Unique Experience: Visiting the iconic movie location from The Man with the Golden Gun

One of Phuket’s most famous landmarks, James Bond Island (Koh Tapu) is a must-see. Choose between a luxurious big boat cruise or a thrilling speedboat ride to reach this cinematic gem. You’ll also have the chance to kayak through sea caves and discover Phang Nga’s dramatic landscapes.

📍 Location: Phang Nga Bay

Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds

🚤 Tour Includes: Island hopping, canoeing, and guided exploration

3) Discover Marine Paradise at Similan Islands

Unique Experience: Snorkeling & diving in one of the world’s top marine parks

The Similan Islands are a diver’s dream, home to some of the clearest waters in Thailand and diverse marine life. Swim among colorful coral reefs, manta rays, and tropical fish in this protected national park.

📍 Location: Andaman Sea (Northwest of Phuket)

Best Time to Visit: November – April (closed during monsoon season)

🤿 Tour Includes: Snorkeling gear, boat transfers, and expert guides

4) Escape to the Untouched Surin Islands

Unique Experience: Snorkeling with vibrant marine life in a quiet, secluded paradise

If you’re searching for an unspoiled island experience, the Surin Islands are your best bet. These remote islands offer incredible snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters and thriving coral reefs. Plus, you’ll get to visit the traditional Moken sea gypsy villages and learn about their unique way of life.

📍 Location: 100 km north of Phuket

Best Time to Visit: December – March

🐠 Tour Includes: Snorkeling, cultural immersion, and beach relaxation

5) Paddle Through Hidden Caves at Hong Island

Unique Experience: Exploring Phuket’s secret lagoons by canoe

The Phang Nga Bay Hong Island Krabi tour takes you through secluded sea caves and hidden lagoons, offering one of the most unique and peaceful experiences in Phuket. Glide through the emerald-green waters, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush mangroves.

📍 Location: Krabi Province

Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon

🛶 Tour Includes: Canoeing, cave exploration, and island hopping

6) Unwind on the White Sands of Phi Phi Bamboo Island

Unique Experience: Relaxing on one of Thailand’s most beautiful hidden beaches

Bamboo Island is a tropical paradise with powdery white sand and crystal-clear water. It’s a perfect escape from crowded beaches and an excellent snorkeling spot with vibrant coral gardens just offshore.

📍 Location: Near Phi Phi Islands

Best Time to Visit: Year-round

🏝️ Tour Includes: Snorkeling, beach time, and a picnic lunch

7) Experience Ethical Elephant Encounters

Unique Experience: Interacting with elephants in a humane and responsible way

Unlike traditional elephant tourism, the Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary offers a responsible and ethical experience. Feed, bathe, and learn about rescued elephants in a natural and cruelty-free environment.

📍 Location: Phuket mainland

Best Time to Visit: Morning or afternoon

🐘 Tour Includes: Elephant feeding, mud bath, and conservation education

8) Indulge in a Phang Nga Luxury Cruise

Unique Experience: Sailing through stunning landscapes in absolute comfort

For those seeking a high-end travel experience, the Phang Nga Luxury Day Trip offers a private cruise with stops at breathtaking locations. Enjoy gourmet meals on board, visit hidden lagoons, and soak in the majestic limestone cliffs.

📍 Location: Phang Nga Bay

Best Time to Visit: Year-round

🥂 Tour Includes: Private yacht, premium dining, and exclusive island visits

9) Explore the 3 Authentic Islands of Phuket

Unique Experience: Visiting hidden islands away from the crowds

For a customized and exclusive island adventure, the 3 Authentic Islands Tour is the perfect choice. Discover secluded beaches, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy a private escape tailored to your preferences.

📍 Location: Phuket’s secret islands

Best Time to Visit: Year-round

🏖️ Tour Includes: Private boat, snorkeling, and flexible itinerary

10. Discover Phuket’s Cultural Gems on a City Tour

Unique Experience: Exploring Phuket’s rich history beyond the beaches

Phuket isn’t just about islands—it’s full of history, temples, and vibrant markets. On the Phuket City Tour, visit the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and Old Town, where colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings and bustling street food markets await.

📍 Location: Phuket mainland

Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid heat

🎭 Tour Includes: Guided sightseeing, temple visits, and local food tasting

Private Day Trip of Phuket from Sunset Paradise Tour