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From stunning beaches to hidden cultural treasures, Phuket offers something for everyone — and if you’re looking for a relaxing extension to your journey, staying at a Khao Lak Beachfront Resort makes for the perfect wellness escape just beyond the island.
Known the world over for its beautiful beaches and hidden attractions, Phuket is a tropical haven situated in the Andaman Sea. If you’re visiting with family, you’re in for an unforgettable getaway.
Phuket
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. Its fame comes from its gorgeous beach tract and its many tropical delights. While the most obvious attractions are the beaches, the sea, and adventurous water activities, there’s so much more to this amazing tropical isle. It’s a place steeped in culture and history, which can be discovered in its markets, temples, and hidden places waiting beyond the usual tourist trail.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season is often believed to be the best time to visit. It spans from November to April, bringing balmy weather and calm seas perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and boat trips. These months are also the peak tourist season, so accommodation books up faster than usual, and the otherwise quiet beaches get busy, especially around Christmas and New Year.
May and October are also ideal times to visit, with fewer tourists, more affordable prices, and a noticeable break in the rains.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions
Patong and Kata, with their tropical charm praised all over the internet and in travel magazines, attract crowds, but the island’s real, unspoilt beauty is often found in its quieter, lesser-known places. Imagine yourself among stunning landscapes, small villages where the old way of life is still alive, and historic sites that tell tales of the past. These hidden places showcase a different side of Phuket, which you won’t find among the crowds.
On your trail of hidden wonders, you’ll come across the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project in Khao Phra Thaeo National Park. This centre works tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate gibbons and also endeavours to teach visitors about wildlife conservation. With forest trails leading to gorgeous viewpoints, the park itself is also perfect for a scenic hike.
Another place that’s sure to quench your curiosity for all things unpretentious is Old Phuket Town. What will you find here? Enough to fill an entire day, from streets lined with Sino-Portuguese buildings dating back to the tin mining days of the 19th century to shops and cosy cafés. Underlying it all is a lively atmosphere, but not so lively as to feel overwhelming.
To learn more about the island’s past, a visit to the Thalang National Museum is recommended. It holds an extensive display of artefacts that tell the story of the island’s history.
Wildlife is another delightful aspect of Phuket’s appeal, too. The Phuket Elephant Sanctuary offers an ethical way to see rescued elephants in an environment that’s safe and natural. A visit is also a chance to learn about the importance of conservation.
For a bit of serenity and natural beauty, Laem Singh Viewpoint is ideal. Getting there involves a short hike, at the end of which you’ll reach a beautiful viewpoint with stunning views of the Andaman Sea.
Culture
One of the things that makes Phuket an interesting place to visit is its culture, a blend of Thai, Chinese, and Malay influences. Local traditions and festivals that take place throughout the year bring this cultural mix to life. The Vegetarian Festival is a highlight, with processions, dances, and plenty of delicious vegetarian food.
If you and your family love art, Phuket Art Village should be next on your list. It’s a hub of creativity that nurtures local talent, where you can watch artists create beautiful pieces. You can even join workshops and listen to tales about life on the island. It’s a wonderful way to discover how deeply art is embedded in Phuket’s culture.
Thai food is legendary. You’d be hard pressed to find anyone who doesn’t like it. While you can eat your way through street markets without breaking the bank, for an experience even more meaningful and memorable, join a Thai cooking class. These classes are guided by local chefs, so the knowledge you receive is top-notch.
Spa Treatments and Wellness Programmes
Your family vacation in Phuket presents you with the opportunity to indulge in its many spa treatments and programmes. Some resorts offer these indulgences for their wellness-minded guests. There are often onsite spas where you can enjoy traditional bamboo massages, herbal baths, and facials.
Some resorts even offer wellness programmes to nurture both your inner wellbeing and your outer self. Meditation and yoga are also common offerings, along with fitness centres catering to fitness enthusiasts who wouldn’t want to miss out on their daily workout regimen.
A Wellness Escape to Khao Lak
If your trip allows a little extra time beyond Phuket itself, Khao Lak — just an hour’s drive north — is well worth adding to your itinerary. Known for its peaceful beaches, lush national parks, and family-friendly atmosphere, it offers a more laid-back pace that perfectly complements Phuket’s energy. You can explore the Similan Islands on a day trip, wander through rainforests dotted with waterfalls, or simply unwind by the sea.
For those seeking ultimate relaxation, choosing a Spa Resort in Khao Lak is an excellent idea, blending tropical beauty with rejuvenating wellness experiences. If wellness, delicious food, and luxury are top of mind for you, Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, known for offering immersive wellness programmes, might be the best choice for your family.