While the Thai island of Phuket has a wide variety of things to see and do, how many days you should stay here depends on your interests and the type of holiday you’re looking for.
Keep in Mind
Overall, the duration of your stay in Phuket will be dependent on your interests and travel style. If you’re looking for a more relaxed and laidback holiday, you could spend more time at the beach and less time exploring the island. But if you’re looking for an action-packed getaway, you may need more days to see and do everything. Either way, look to stay by the beach at properties like Anantara Layan Phuket Resort that will help in organising excursions and activities too.
03 to 05 Days
If you have limited time, look to be based along the west coast at beaches like Patong, Kata or for more seclusion, Layan. Apart from soaking up the sun, you can enjoy water sports like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and squid fishing. Time permitting, you could spend a day exploring the Old Town of Phuket; attractions, like the Big Buddha, can also be visited, while a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands can be included as well.
One Week
With a week to spend in Phuket, you can take your time exploring all the island has to offer. Apart from enjoying beachside bliss, you could look to get the needed training and PADI certification to go diving and devote a few nights to experiencing the happening nightlife scene in Patong. You can additionally plan excursions to other islands such as James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay which has more attractions to discover; this idyllic bay is the perfect place for a sunset cruise too.
10 Days or More
For extended trips, there are plenty more things to do in Phuket in addition to those mentioned above. You can visit other nearby places of interest such as the Similan Islands which offers excellent snorkelling and take a longtail boat ride to Koh Weao, another enchanting island. Look to stay at a resort that lets you charter a boat for ocean adventures as well as engage in rewarding activities; these can include learning the Thai language, local culinary secrets and Muay Thai, a traditional martial art!