Known for its world-class white sand beaches and colorful nightlife, Phuket, an island off the west coast of Thailand, is a favorite summer destination.
There are three ways to fully immerse in its beauty; Phuket offers a variety of great escapes from sunrise to sundown.
Choose a beach
Phuket is home to some of Thailand’s most picture-perfect islands and beaches. Some are perfect for underwater adventures, some for parties, and some for sunbathing sessions.
The 300-meter-long strip of fine white sand in Freedom Beach, for example, lets tourists relish their solitude since it has none of the usual parasailing, jet skis, and other water activities common in busier beaches. Those who seek a diving adventure, the isolated Racha Noi is home to manta rays, reef fish, whale sharks, and a shipwreck.
Partygoers, meanwhile, can choose from several beach clubs in the area. At Xana Beach Club on Bangtao Beach, the beach restaurant transforms into a hip club after sundown where guests can indulge in a selection of European, Mediterranean, and Thai cuisines. The Paradise Beach Club in Patong is also a must-try since it’s the only place in Phuket where one can experience full moon parties.
Embark on nighttime adventures
While a beach party is the closest thing one can have to a nightlife adventure, wandering deeper into Phuket after sunset will lead to discoveries of more bars and clubs, which are plenty on Soi Bangla. At the heart of the nightlife entertainment area, explorers can find one of the most impressive night spots in Patong Beach: the Illuzion Club & Discotheque, where they can catch shows that range from DJ live performances to theatrical aerial performances.
If a more relaxed ambiance is what they seek, the compact and open-sided Kangaroo Bar, which spills to Soi Bangla, is a must-try. Kangaroo Bar is a plus for those who have a fascination for vintage and classic vibes, as it houses a collection of CDs played by the appropriately-named DJ Song.
Taste Thai gastronomy
Phuket’s beaches are already home to some of the island’s well-known restaurants, but those who want a more unique gastronomic adventure must-try dining at a floating restaurant.
Floating restaurants, which can be found on the eastern coast of Phuket, let diners enjoy breathtaking seascape views while they feast on fresh fishermen’s catch that includes huge oysters, crabs, and shrimps prepared in different decadent ways.
Visit www.tourismthailand.org to know more about Phuket.