Quick summary: Explore Phuket’s stunning beaches, vibrant island tours, and breathtaking sunset spots over five days. This family-friendly itinerary balances relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences with mid-range budget options and mixed transport.
Route map + stops
Other
- Patong Beach (หาดป่าตอง)
Nearest station: Best exit: check station signage — Line: N/A — Exit: N/A - Big Buddha Phuket (พระใหญ่ภูเก็ต)
Nearest station: Best exit: check station signage — Line: N/A — Exit: N/A - Phang Nga Bay (อ่าวพังงา)
Nearest station: Best exit: check station signage — Line: N/A — Exit: N/A - Phi Phi Islands (หมู่เกาะพีพี)
Nearest station: Best exit: check station signage — Line: N/A — Exit: N/A - Old Phuket Town (ตัวเมืองภูเก็ตเก่า)
Nearest station: Best exit: check station signage — Line: N/A — Exit: N/A - Kata Beach (หาดกะตะ)
Nearest station: Best exit: check station signage — Line: N/A — Exit: N/A - Promthep Cape (แหลมพรหมเทพ)
Nearest station: Best exit: check station signage — Line: N/A — Exit: N/A - Bangla Road Nightlife (ถนนบางลา)
Nearest station: Best exit: check station signage — Line: N/A — Exit: N/A - Wat Chalong (วัดฉลอง)
Nearest station: Best exit: check station signage — Line: N/A — Exit: N/A - Freedom Beach (หาดฟรีดอม)
Nearest station: Best exit: check station signage — Line: N/A — Exit: N/A
Timeline (hour-by-hour)
Day 1
Begin at Patong Beach for sun and sea. In the evening, explore Bangla Road Nightlife with family-friendly dining and street performances.
09:00 — Relax at Patong Beach
Why go: Start your trip with Phuket’s most famous beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Do:
- Swim in the clear waters
- Rent a beach chair and umbrella
- Try local snacks from beach vendors
How to get there: Taxi or tuk-tuk from your hotel in Phuket Town or Patong area
Cost / tickets: Free access; chair rentals around 100-200 THB
Time needed: 3 hours
18:30 — Explore Bangla Road Nightlife
Why go: Experience vibrant nightlife with family-friendly dining options and street performances.
Do:
- Dine at family-friendly restaurants
- Watch street shows
- Enjoy a casual stroll
How to get there: Walk or short taxi ride from Patong Beach
Cost / tickets: Free to explore; food and drinks vary
Time needed: 2 hours
Day 2
Visit the iconic Big Buddha Phuket for panoramic views, then tour the spiritual Wat Chalong temple.
10:00 — Visit Big Buddha Phuket
Why go: See the iconic 45-meter tall Buddha statue with panoramic views of the island.
Do:
- Take photos
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere
- Learn about Buddhist culture
How to get there: Taxi from Patong or Phuket Town
Cost / tickets: Free entry; donations welcome
Time needed: 2 hours
13:00 — Tour Wat Chalong
Why go: Explore Phuket’s largest and most important Buddhist temple.
Do:
- Admire temple architecture
- Participate in traditional rituals
- Visit the temple museum
How to get there: Taxi from Big Buddha
Cost / tickets: Free entry
Time needed: 1.5 hours
Day 3
Take a full-day boat tour to Phang Nga Bay to kayak and explore limestone caves and islands.
08:00 — Phang Nga Bay Island Tour
Why go: Discover stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters on a boat tour.
Do:
- Kayak through caves
- Visit James Bond Island
- Swim and snorkel
How to get there: Book a tour with hotel pickup
Cost / tickets: Approx. 1500-2500 THB per person
Time needed: Full day (8 hours)
Day 4
Enjoy a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands for snorkeling and beach relaxation.
07:30 — Day Trip to Phi Phi Islands
Why go: Explore crystal-clear waters, snorkeling spots, and beautiful beaches.
Do:
- Snorkel at Maya Bay
- Relax on Bamboo Island
- Visit Viking Cave
How to get there: Ferry from Phuket Pier or tour pickup
Cost / tickets: Approx. 2000-3000 THB per person
Time needed: Full day (8-9 hours)
Day 5
Stroll through the colorful streets of Old Phuket Town, then finish with a sunset at Promthep Cape.
09:00 — Stroll through Old Phuket Town
Why go: Experience colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture and local markets.
Do:
- Visit Thalang Road
- Shop for souvenirs
- Try local street food
How to get there: Taxi from hotel or beach areas
Cost / tickets: Free to explore; food and shopping vary
Time needed: 3 hours
17:30 — Sunset at Promthep Cape
Why go: Watch one of Phuket’s most famous and breathtaking sunsets.
Do:
- Take photos
- Walk along the cape
- Enjoy light snacks from vendors
How to get there: Taxi or scooter from Old Phuket Town or beaches
Cost / tickets: Free
Time needed: 1.5 hours
Logistics (read this first)
- Use taxis or tuk-tuks for short distances; negotiate fares beforehand
- Book island tours through reputable operators with hotel pickup
- Carry sunscreen, hats, and water for outdoor activities
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking in Old Phuket Town and temple visits
- Cash is preferred in markets and small vendors; ATMs widely available
- Respect local customs when visiting temples: dress modestly
Local tips and guide
Phuket Local Guide
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, known for its beautiful beaches, lively markets, and cultural landmarks. The island is divided into several key areas: Patong for nightlife and beaches, Old Phuket Town for history and shopping, and southern capes like Promthep for sunsets. Island tours depart from various piers, connecting visitors to nearby islands like Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay. Local transport includes taxis, tuk-tuks, and rental scooters, with many attractions accessible by short drives.
If it rains (2 alternatives)
If something is closed (2 alternatives)
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Phuket?
November to April offers the best weather with less rain and pleasant temperatures.
Are the island tours suitable for families?
Yes, most tours are family-friendly but check with operators for child-specific safety measures.
Is it safe to swim at Patong Beach?
Yes, Patong Beach is generally safe with lifeguards, but always follow local safety advice.
How do I get around Phuket?
Taxis, tuk-tuks, rental scooters, and organized tours are common transport options.
Do I need to dress modestly at temples?
Yes, shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting temples.
How we planned this route
Byline: Expert travel planner with extensive experience in Southeast Asia itineraries
Based on local insights, traveler reviews, and family-friendly activity research
Last updated: 2024-06-01