3 Days in Phuket Mini Guide
First Timer Tips for a Short Trip to Phuket
If it’s your first time to Phuket and you have 3 days to spend it this Thai paradise, you can use this guide to help you decide what to do over just a long weekend. What to do? Where to go? What to see?
If you only have 3 days to enjoy as much as possible on this action-packed island, we’re here to help. Feel free to cut out items that don’t relate to you and use this as a starting point to make the most of your time in Phuket.
1. Day 1 - discovering Phuket
A coastal drive from Promthep Cape to Surin
Good for: Adventure, Photo
One of the best ways to see Phuket’s west coast is to tour it in a rented car. This gives you the option of stopping exactly where and when you want and for you to stay exactly as long as you wish at differing locations.
Phuket’s west coast route is by far one of the most beautiful stretches of beaches in the region (Phuket’s east coast comprises largely of mudflats and mangroves). Start at the south end of the island at Promthep Cape and explore up to Surin Beach. Park at Promthep and go up the steps to the viewpoint. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d been here before as this view adorns millions of postcards, posters, T-shirts, and logos.
Day 1 - discovering Phuket
2. The west coast beaches
Where to find the region’s most pristine beaches?
Good for: Budget, Photo
Head north from Promthep Cape and you’ll reach Windmill Viewpoint with a breathtaking view of beautiful Nai Harn Beach. This is one of Thailand’s windiest spots and the lofty turbines generate power for the area’s electrical needs. Down below, the beachside Nai Harn sits mostly on Buddhist temple owned land and is ideal for a quiet stroll along its lovely 800-meter beach.
Drive through Nai Harn Village, take a left turn, and follow the sign up the hill towards Kata Beach. At the top of the hill, you’ll get a view that might seem strangely familiar as it’s one of Phuket’s most recognizable outlooks. Gaze north and take in the triple vista of Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon beaches. Read more
The west coast beaches
3. Day 2 - Phi Phi or Phang Nga?
Exploring Phuket’s islands
Good for: Adventure, Photo
The marvelous islands surrounding Phuket offer many options to explore on your Day 2 such as the exotic Phi Phi and the unique Phand Nga for. Hop on a speedboat and go island hopping among to the Phi Phi Islands, some of the most beautiful islands in the world. Visit the location where The Beach was filmed, snorkel in clear blue waters, and enjoy the best of Mother Nature’s beauty.
Or take a speedboat to Phang Nga Bay and take in one of the most fascinating sceneries in the world. Admiring the James Bond Island, dine at a floating Muslim village, and marvel at the incredible and celebrated karst formations. Read more
Day 2 - Phi Phi or Phang Nga?
4. Day 3 - shopping and showtime
Retail therapy and entertainment
Good for: Families, Food, Shoppers
Just outside Phuket City lies Central, a huge shopping mall with everything you could possibly want in one location. You can lunch at one of the restaurants or fill up on popcorn as you catch a movie at one of the movie theatres at the multiplex upstairs, which also has a First-Class Movie theater where you get your own reclining armchair and blanket to snuggle up in.
In Patong, check out Jungceylon shopping center on Rat-U-Thit Rd. Watch the Dancing Musical Fountain Show, enjoy a movie in the 5-screen multiplex, or simply go on a shopping spree of a lifetime. Read more
Day 3 - shopping and showtime
5. How to choose the right live show for you?
The highlight of the Phuket nightlife
Good for: Couples, Nightlife
Located just to the south of Patong, Simon Cabaret has been vamping, mincing, and lip-syncing its way into people’s hearts since 1991. The transvestite and gender-reassigned cast does an impressive job and most have been at it for a good few years, giving them a high level of skill and professionalism. No cameras allowed but you are encouraged to take photos with the performers outside for a small fee.
For something with a bit more Thai history and culture, head to Phuket City for the Siam Niramit show. It uses impressive sets and skillful performances to bring abstract cultural concepts to life, like the Thai impression of heaven and hell. Be sure to check online for details before heading out.
How to choose the right live show for you?
This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.