Phuket, one of the first destinations in Thailand, and possibly all of Southeast Asia, to reopen during COVID, has become a traveler’s haven. During my Phuket Sandbox experience, I spent a week soaking in the beauty of Thailand's largest island.
Before the pandemic, Phuket was bustling with crowds, but now it's a more serene destination. There has never been a better time to visit Phuket than right now, as it offers a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer tourists.
This guide is perfect for you if you're planning a trip to Phuket or are already here and looking for the best things to do on this stunning island. Without further delay, here are the top 11 activities for solo travelers in Phuket. Let's start by exploring the key tourist spots on the map below:
Wander through the picturesque streets of Phuket Old Town, known for its unique blend of European and Chinese architecture from its days as a thriving trading hub. In the 19th century, merchants arrived in Phuket and began constructing charming villas, some reminiscent of postcards from Portugal. At times, it’s easy to forget you’re in Thailand!
Explore the vibrant streets and colorful buildings, many of which have been transformed into art galleries, museums, quirky boutiques, or trendy cafés. The area is also known for its street art, with large murals covering walls and frequent painting workshops.
Wat Chalong is one of Phuket's most important and beautiful temples, and a must-see attraction. This sprawling complex features five distinct temples, each with its own unique charm.
The temples boast intricate tilework, gold accents, and marble finishes in soft shades of white and pink. Best of all, Wat Chalong is free to visit!
Visit later in the day when it’s quieter. You’ll have more time to soak in the serenity of this sacred place. You might even witness some traditional ceremonies, like candle burning or offerings to the gods.
How to get to Wat ChalongLocated about 25 minutes from Phuket Old Town, Wat Chalong is easily accessible by car, motorbike, or taxi. The complex closes at 5 PM, so be sure to leave enough time to explore — you’ll need around an hour. A guided tour is the easiest way to visit Wat Chalong, along with other popular sites like the Big Buddha.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Phuket is the towering Big Buddha. Standing 45 meters tall, this impressive statue offers a 360-degree view of the island.
While Thailand has several Big Buddhas, including those in Chiang Rai and Pai, Phuket’s version is especially striking, with its intricate white and gray tiles and beautiful naga (snake) sculptures lining the staircase. Climbing the roughly 100 steps to the top is well worth the effort for a peaceful moment at this sacred site.
In the heart of Phuket Old Town, Sitao Ceramic Studio is a great place to get creative on a rainy afternoon. Housed in a striking yellow building, this popular pottery studio invites you to spend a few hours crafting your own unique souvenir using local clay and paints. You can even make magnets!
Phuket has a rich history of ceramics, blending European and Chinese influences into intricate designs. While making your piece, you’ll learn more about this tradition, or browse their shop for locally made ceramics.
Samet Nangshe Viewpoint is one of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Accessible by motorbike through lush jungles and charming villages, this hilltop viewpoint is especially stunning at sunrise. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Phang Nga Bay — a sea of blue-green water, framed by mangrove forests and dotted with limestone islands.
Learn to cook local favorites like Pad Thai, spicy soups, and Hokkien-style noodles in a hands-on Thai cooking class. You’ll dive into Phuket’s culinary traditions and unlock the secrets to making these delicious dishes at home.
Bangla Road in Patong Beach is famous for its wild nightlife. This bustling street comes alive at night with bars, live music, and crowds celebrating until the early hours. Grab a drink, enjoy the party atmosphere, and experience one of Thailand’s top nightlife spots.
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary offers a responsible and ethical way to interact with these majestic creatures. As a retirement home for rescued elephants from the logging and tourism industries, the sanctuary focuses on giving these gentle giants a better life. You’ll learn about the elephants’ journeys and see them up close in their natural environment.
Soi Dog Foundation is a non-profit that provides a safe haven for over 1800 street dogs and cats. Visitors can take a free 40-minute tour to meet the animals and learn about the foundation’s work. If you’re staying in Phuket for a while, there are also volunteer opportunities available.
Tours are available from 10 AM to 1:30 PM, Monday to Friday. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated.
Banana Beach, located on Phuket’s northwest coast, is a hidden gem known for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear water, and lush green surroundings.
It’s a short walk from the main road through the trees to this secluded beach, where you can spend a peaceful afternoon swimming and snorkeling. There’s a small beach bar, but no loungers or umbrellas, so be sure to bring your own towels.
