2-Day Local Experience in Phuket: Nightlife and Outdoor Fun with Friends

Phuket, Thailand

2 days

James Bond island reflects in water
Beautiful Thailand scene
Freedom beach
Kata Beach
Thai traditional wooden longtail boat

About Phuket, Thailand

Explore the tropical paradise of Phuket, Thailand's largest island, known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife. Dive into the clear waters of Patong Beach, or explore the quieter shores of Kata. Visit the iconic Big Buddha, a 45-meter tall statue offering panoramic views of the island. Discover Phuket Old Town, a historical area with Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful buildings, and local markets. Enjoy a boat tour to the breathtaking Phi Phi Islands or experience the unique nightlife on Bangla Road. Indulge in authentic Thai cuisine, from street food to high-end restaurants. Phuket offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences for every traveler.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Beaches and Old Phuket Town

Morning

Start your day with a refreshing morning walk along the beautiful beaches of Phuket. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the breathtaking view of the sunrise.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Thai lunch at a local eatery. Try the famous Pad Thai or Tom Yum Goong, and don't forget to taste the local fruits.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Old Phuket Town. Visit the colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings and learn about the rich history of the island.

Dinner

Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy the delicious seafood while watching the sunset.

Evening

Experience Phuket's vibrant nightlife. Visit the bustling night markets or enjoy a live show at a local theater.

Morning

Start your second day with an adventurous water sport. Try jet skiing, parasailing, or snorkeling.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try the famous Thai curry or a refreshing papaya salad.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon visiting the Big Buddha, a famous landmark in Phuket. Enjoy the panoramic view of the island from the top.

Dinner

Enjoy a beachside barbecue for dinner. Taste the local grilled seafood and enjoy the cool evening breeze.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a local night club or a beach party. Enjoy the music and dance the night away.

Attractions in Itinerary (2)

Old Phuket Town

1
Old Phuket Town

Old Phuket Town is a historical town forming part of Phuket City. Known for its beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture, it's a place where you can walk and enjoy the rich history of Phuket.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Big Buddha

2
Big Buddha

Big Buddha is one of the most revered landmarks on the island. The huge image sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills and looks down over Phuket. The site offers the best 360-degree views of the island.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Pad Thai

Pad Thai

A popular Thai dish, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish often served with shrimp or chicken. It's a must-try when visiting Phuket.

Tom Yum Goong

Tom Yum Goong

This is a classic Thai soup with shrimp, lemongrass, and chili. It's a perfect blend of spicy, sour, and sweet flavors, typical of Thai cuisine.

Som Tam

Som Tam

Som Tam is a spicy green papaya salad. It's a common street food in Phuket and a great way to experience the local flavors.

Massaman Curry

Massaman Curry

A rich and flavorful curry dish, Massaman Curry is made with coconut milk, potatoes, and meat. It's a popular choice among locals and tourists in Phuket.

Khao Pad

Khao Pad

Khao Pad is Thai fried rice, often served with chicken, shrimp, or crab. It's a staple dish in Phuket and a must-try for any food lover.

Mango Sticky Rice

Mango Sticky Rice

This is a traditional Thai dessert made with glutinous rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk. It's a sweet treat that's popular in Phuket.

Chai Yen

Chai Yen is Thai iced tea, a sweet and creamy drink made with tea, milk, and sugar. It's a refreshing choice for a hot day in Phuket.

Singha Beer

Singha Beer

Singha is a popular Thai beer. It's a great way to cool down after a day of exploring Phuket.

Tom Kha Gai

Tom Kha Gai

Tom Kha Gai is a coconut chicken soup with a rich and creamy flavor. It's a popular dish in Phuket and a great introduction to Thai cuisine.

Kanom Jeen

Kanom Jeen is a dish of rice noodles served with curry sauces. It's a popular breakfast dish in Phuket and a unique culinary experience.

Roti

Roti

Roti is a type of flatbread often served with sweet or savory fillings. It's a common street food in Phuket and a delicious snack any time of day.

Mekhong Whiskey

Mekhong is a Thai whiskey often enjoyed with a mixer. It's a popular choice for a night out in Phuket.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Phuket, Thailand is between November and April. This period is the dry season and is perfect for beach activities and water sports. The weather is typically sunny and the sea conditions are ideal for snorkeling, diving, and swimming. However, if you prefer a quieter vacation, the months of May to October, which is the monsoon season, might be more suitable. Despite the occasional rain, you can still enjoy the indoor activities and the lush greenery of the island.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 24

Sat

Makha Bucha

February 26

Mon

Day off for Makha Bucha

April 6

Sat

Chakri Day

April 8

Mon

Chakri Day observed

April 13

Sat

Songkran

April 14

Sun

Songkran

April 15

Mon

Songkran

April 16

Tue

Songkran Observed

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

May 4

Sat

Coronation Day

May 6

Mon

Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day

May 6

Mon

Coronation Day observed

June 3

Mon

Queen Suthida's Birthday

July 20

Sat

Buddhist Lent Day

July 22

Mon

Day off for Buddhist Lent Day

July 28

Sun

King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday

July 29

Mon

King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday observed

August 12

Mon

The Queen's Birthday

October 13

Sun

Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol

October 14

Mon

Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol observed

October 23

Wed

Chulalongkorn Day

December 5

Thu

King Bhumibol's Birthday/Father's Day

December 10

Tue

Constitution Day

December 31

Tue

New Year's Eve

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Taxis are a common way to get around in Phuket. They are available 24/7 and can be hailed from the street or booked in advance. They are metered, but drivers often negotiate fares, especially for longer distances.

Tuk-Tuks are a traditional Thai mode of transport. They are three-wheeled, open-air vehicles that are perfect for short trips around town. They are not metered, so be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

Motorbike taxis are a quick and cheap way to get around Phuket. They are easily identifiable by their colorful vests. They are ideal for single travelers and short distances.

Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore Phuket extensively. It gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace. International driving license is required.

Renting a motorbike is a popular option for getting around Phuket. It's cheap, convenient, and allows you to explore the island at your own pace. However, you should be comfortable with driving a motorbike and aware of the local traffic rules.

Public buses, also known as 'Songthaews', are a cheap way to travel around Phuket. They operate on fixed routes and have set fares. They are slower than other modes of transport but offer a more local experience.

Private car hire services are available in Phuket. They come with a driver, making it a convenient option if you're not comfortable driving in a foreign country. They can be booked for a half-day, full-day, or even longer periods.

Ridesharing services like Grab are available in Phuket. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone.

Ferries are a great way to travel between the islands around Phuket. They operate on a regular schedule and offer stunning views of the Andaman Sea.

Longtail boats are traditional wooden boats used for short trips around the islands. They can be hired privately or shared with other passengers. They offer a unique and scenic way to travel around Phuket.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency฿ THB

Time zoneUTC+7

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 191; Fire: 199; Police: 191

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type BPower socket type C

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Phuket, Thailand as a first time visitor

1

Phuket is located in the Andaman Sea and is Thailand's largest island.

2

The local currency is the Thai Baht. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.

3

The official language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

4

Phuket has a tropical monsoon climate. The average temperature ranges from 75°F to 89°F (24°C to 32°C).

5

The rainy season is from May to October. It's best to check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities.

6

Phuket is generally safe for tourists, but like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

7

Tipping is not customary in Thailand, but it is appreciated, especially in the service industry.

8

Street food is a must-try in Phuket. It's delicious, cheap, and gives you a real taste of Thai cuisine.

9

Phuket has a vibrant nightlife, especially in areas like Patong Beach.

10

Bargaining is common in markets. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices.

11

Respect the local customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly when visiting temples and not touching people's heads, which is considered disrespectful.

12

Phuket has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.

13

Public transportation is available, but renting a scooter or hiring a taxi is a common way to get around.

14

Be cautious of scams, especially those involving gem shops or extremely cheap tours.

15

Avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water is cheap and readily available.

16

Phuket has many beautiful beaches, but be aware of the red flag warnings for dangerous swimming conditions.

17

Phuket is in the Indochina Time Zone (ICT), which is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+7).

18

Phuket has a 220 Volt electricity supply with a frequency of 50Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type A, B, C, F and O.

19

Phuket has a good healthcare system with several hospitals and clinics, but travel insurance is highly recommended.

20

Respect the Thai Royal Family. It's illegal to defame, insult, or threaten the king, queen, heir-apparent, or regent.

Basic Thai to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

สวัสดี

sawasdee

Greeting someone

Goodbye

ลาก่อน

laa gòn

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

ขอบคุณ

khob khun

Expressing gratitude

Please

กรุณา

garunaa

Making a request

Yes

ใช่

chai

Agreeing or confirming

No

ไม่

mai

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

ขอโทษ

kho thot

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

ขอโทษ

kho thot

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม

khun phuut phaasaa angkrit dai mai

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

ฉันไม่เข้าใจ

chan mai khao jai

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน

hong nam yu tee nai

Asking for directions to the bathroom

How much does this cost?

สินค้านี้ราคาเท่าไหร่

sin khaa nee raa khaa thao rai

Asking the price of something

I would like to order

ฉันต้องการสั่ง

chan tong gaan sang

Ordering food or drink

Water

น้ำ

nam

Asking for water

Beer

เบียร์

bia

Ordering a beer

Delicious

อร่อย

a roi

Complimenting food

Help!

ช่วยด้วย!

chuay duay

In an emergency or needing assistance

Taxi

แท็กซี่

taek see

Asking for a taxi

Hotel

โรงแรม

rong raem

Asking for a hotel

Airport

สนามบิน

sa naam bin

Asking for the airport

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimwear

  • Flip flops

  • Sunglasses

  • Sun hat

  • Light jacket or sweater for evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Travel-sized first aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Memory cards for camera

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel guidebook for Phuket

  • Beach bag

  • Beach towel

Weather Conditions

Phuket, Thailand is a tropical paradise that experiences warm weather throughout the year. However, it's important to note that the region has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, from November to April, is the best time to visit Phuket. During this period, the weather is generally sunny with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 89°F (24°C to 32°C). This is the perfect time for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the islands. The rainy season, from May to October, sees more rainfall and occasional storms. Temperatures during this season range from 77°F to 89°F (25°C to 32°C). Despite the rain, there are still plenty of sunny days and the island is less crowded. If you're a fan of surfing, this is the best time to catch some waves. Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to always check the local weather forecast before planning outdoor activities. Also, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the tropical sun can be quite intense. Lastly, be aware that Phuket can occasionally experience severe weather conditions such as tropical storms and monsoons, especially during the rainy season. Always heed local weather warnings and stay safe.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

32° / 23°

January is a great time to visit Phuket, with warm temperatures and low rainfall. It's the peak of the tourist season, so expect crowds.

February

33° / 23°

February continues the dry season with warm temperatures and clear skies. It's a popular time for beach activities and water sports.

March

34° / 24°

March sees the start of the hot season in Phuket, with high temperatures and increasing humidity. It's a good time for sunbathing and exploring the island.

April

35° / 25°

April is the hottest month in Phuket, with high humidity. It's also the time of the Thai New Year, Songkran, a fun and wet celebration.

May

33° / 25°

May marks the start of the rainy season, with frequent showers. However, the rain often comes in short bursts, leaving plenty of time for sunshine.

June

32° / 25°

June experiences regular rainfall, but it's often interspersed with periods of sunshine. The island is less crowded, making it a good time for a quieter vacation.

July

32° / 24°

July is similar to June, with a mix of rain and sunshine. It's a good time to explore Phuket's indoor attractions and vibrant nightlife.

August

31° / 24°

August is one of the wettest months in Phuket, but there are still plenty of sunny intervals. It's a good time for indoor activities and spa treatments.

September

31° / 24°

September is the peak of the rainy season, with high humidity and frequent showers. However, the rain brings lush greenery and fewer crowds.

October

31° / 24°

October sees the end of the rainy season, with improving weather towards the end of the month. It's a good time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

November

31° / 24°

November marks the start of the dry season, with less rainfall and cooler temperatures. It's a great time to explore the island and enjoy the beach.

December

32° / 23°

December is a popular time to visit Phuket, with pleasant temperatures and low rainfall. It's a busy time, so book your accommodation and activities in advance.

Did you know?

Did you know that Phuket is the largest island in Thailand, approximately the same size as Singapore?

1 of 10

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