Thailand’s largest island is also one of its biggest tourist attractions. If you don’t want to go to overrated attractions in Phuket where all the tourists go, try these alternative Phuket attractions.
Oh yes, Phuket. With plenty of scenic getaways and so many water sports that Donald Trump would be jealous, the province has been one of Thailand’s most beloved tourist destinations for as long as we can remember. Visitors can expect clear skies, deep blue seas, and sparkling beaches that are simply perfect for an island vacation. Plus, the shopping areas and activities available don’t hurt a bit either.
Still, some places can feel crowded and touristy, so let us show you some Phuket attractions that you can visit on your second, third, fourth, or fifth time around.
If You’re Bored Of These Overrated Attractions in Phuket, Go To These Instead
Overrated attractions in Phuket: Bangla Walking Street
Famous for its nightlife, Bangla Walking Street is located in the Patong Beach area. It is a good place to walk at night, but you will always see it full of tourists. This is not surprising, as you will come across many discos, nightclubs, and go-go bars as you proceed down the street. Bangla is great for cheap beers but that’s about it.
Location: Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat, Phuket
Try This Instead: Phuket Old Town
Phuket Old Town is a top destination for many reasons, from the Sino-Portuguese townhouses that are perfect for your next photo op, to the stalls and shops lining the street that offer a glimpse into Phuket’s rich history. area. Stop by for some local produce, grab some street food, pick up some batik cloth – the possibilities are endless. Visit on Sundays for the full experience, as this is when their Sunday markets take place. At night, be sure to check out the little bars for craft cocktails and the restaurant scene, too.
Location: Mueang Phuket District, Phuket
Overrated attractions in Phuket: Kamala Beach
With its beautiful beach and excellent sunbathing spots, Kamala Beach has become a very popular tourist attraction in Phuket. So popular, in fact, that it’s not going to be very quiet as you try to enjoy your relaxing time. Forget tourist seasons – watch the beach vendors jack up the prices so high. To be fair, it is a very good swimming destination if you avoid the monsoon season.
Location: Kamala, Phuket
Try This Instead: Nai Harn Beach
Nai Harn beach isn’t really a hidden gem, but a gem nonetheless. It is quite secluded with crystal clear beach and blue sea. Be sure to stop on the road at the top before heading down to take a photo next to the cliff and the beautiful sky. Nai Harn is the perfect place to let your mind rest while your body soaks in the waves and a more intimate beach getaway.
Location: Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket
Overrated: Phang Nga Bay Island Tour
Oh yes, the famous James Bond island tour. After his appearance in The man with the golden gun, tourism in this area has exploded due to the fact that many say that the bay is destroyed by the influx of tourists. The highlight of the bay is undoubtedly the large, oddly shaped rock in the middle of the water, and the beautiful sea makes the area perfect for kayaking. It’s worth checking out if you’ve never been, although you’ll be surrounded by swarms of tourists.
Try This Instead: Similan Islands Day Trip
Powder-white beaches, crystal clear waters and rich marine life – the Similan Islands contain some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Thailand. Since there are no hotels on the island, many are discouraged by the long journey from Phuket Town. You’ll see it’s worth it once you get there, and it’s a lovely opportunity for a day trip connecting with nature.
Overrated: Monkey Hill
Getting in touch with local wildlife sounds lovely on paper, but the ones on Monkey Hill are the equivalent of sitting next to a crying child on a ten-hour flight, and that child is also a thief. These spawn of Satan that people call monkeys are very unpredictable and will steal whatever items you have on hand. Accidents are not unusual and you are strongly advised not to hand feed them. This is the overrated attractions in Phuket that have a lot of tourist everyday.
Location: Rob Khao Sam Muk, Tambon Saen Suk, Phuket, Bang Saen, Chon Buri
Try This Instead: Visit the Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary
If you want to get in touch with the local wildlife, this is the way to do it. Walk among free-roaming elephants as you learn more about these beautiful creatures through their Save and Care Program. You will also get food to feed the elephants, as well as the unique opportunity to give them a spa treatment that will heal them from skin damage and scratches.
Location: Soi Choeng Thale 1, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Chang Wat, Phuket
You’ve been to: Blue Elephant Cooking School
In addition to learning all about authentic Thai cooking, Blue Elephant Cooking School It is also famous for its traditional royal cuisine, served in an elegant setting. This old building is located in the heart of Phuket Old Town, so you can take a walk and enjoy the scenery before and after enjoying the culinary journey. Expect only the best and freshest ingredients. You are in Phuket, after all.
Location: Krabi Mueang Phuket Street, Phuket
Now watch: Nitan
“nitan” translates to “fairy tale” in Thai, which is a perfect name for this restaurant. Through the eyes of Chef Pom, ingredients both local and imported are given the love they deserve and become culinary creations straight out of a fairy tale. His current seven-course menu pays homage to Mother Nature, bringing in ingredients from the oceans and camping trips from all over Thailand.
Location: Srisoonthorn Rd, Tambon Si Sunthon, Thalang District, Phuket
Have you been to: Cafe Del Mar
Coffee of the sea It’s basically Ibiza in Phuket. Surrounded by palm-fringed beaches and the sea, as well as an air of serenity and sweetness, it is such a revitalizing place that you will not want to leave. Taste their delicious food, have some drinks and get ready for the DJ beats that will take you late into the night. If you feel like it, you can also reserve the bar privately for you and your friends.
Location: Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket
Now Watch: Catch Beach Club
Catch Beach Club is the embodiment of Carpe Diem, because all the vibrations here are on point. Pop a few bottles and sip a glass by the foot as you walk to their beach fire show, enjoy a Friday BBQ, or catch up with friends over Sunday brunch. They also have a DJ playing behind the station regularly, because what’s a party without some music? This Phuket attraction is a favorite among locals and insiders alike for a reason.
Location: Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket