Phuket Holidays

Gap year staple

You’ve seen Phuket all over your Insta feed from your mates’ Thailand travels, and yes – it really is worth the hype. It’s impressive how much is packed into one island, from a jungle-backed coastline to bright Buddhist temples and iconic nightlife strips. There’s a reason it’s been travelled and tested by every gap year student for decades, but it’s still got that same laidback, friendly vibe with unspoiled spots waiting to be stumbled upon. Whether you stay in a hostel and have your backpacker moment or pick a five-star oceanfront resort, you’re in for the best kind of break that feels worlds away from your day-to-day life.

Tropical beaches

Every part of Phuket’s shoreline is covered in sunworship-worthy sands, and they all bring something different to the table. Patong Beach is a key player – it backs onto the island’s liveliest resort and is lined with beach bars, plus it has a strong watersports scene, too. Kata, Karon and Kamala beaches have a more family-friendly vibe. For the desert-island feels, Nai Harn, Mai Khao and Bang Tao are some of the quietest sweeps on the coastline. Wherever you flop down, expect palm-fringed treelines, bright green shallows and sun-warmed seawater. And no, your phone’s camera isn’t going to do it justice.

Screen-ready islands

The Phi Phi and Similan Islands are all within boat-hopping distance, and score a strong 10/10 in the natural beauty department. These islands have had some serious screentime over the years – you might recognise Phang Nga Bay – AKA James Bond Island – and its limestone cliffs from The Man with the Golden Gun. Get a closer look by kayaking through sea caves and mangrove forests, and keep an eye out for monkeys. Over on Koh Phi Phi, the iconic Maya Bay had its Hollywood moment in The Beach. It's a protected area now, but you can still stop by and walk on the same sand as Leo DiCaprio. You’re welcome.

Best time to visit Phuket

December to March is the golden weather window in Phuket, as the rainy season has ended and you’ll miss the hotter temperatures in April and May. The island still feels well and truly tropical, though – it rarely dips below 31˚C, but the sea breeze here makes it feel cooler than the more humid mainland. If you don’t mind the rain, it’s pretty quiet here from July to October, with a more low-key vibe and fewer crowds. And it’s not rain like you’re used to in the UK – it’s bath-water warm, and tends to fall hard all at once before the sun comes out again. Keep a light waterproof poncho rolled up in your bag and you can stay nice and dry while you’re out exploring.