There are many wonderful things to do in Phuket to make your trip unforgettable without breaking the bank.
And with a fast-growing island like Phuket, there will always be new things to do.
But what many don’t know is that there are plenty of unusual things to do in Phuket that can make your trip even more exciting and memorable.
From exploring the local street food to going on a jungle safari, there are plenty of unique activities that you can do while visiting this beautiful island.
In this article, we will explore 10 unusual things to do in Phuket that will surely make your vacation an unforgettable one.
1. Visit the Big Buddha
The Big Buddha is one of the most iconic landmarks in Phuket, located on the top of a hill overlooking the island.
The 45-meter-tall statue is made of white marble and is visible from most parts of the island.
The statue is not only an impressive sight but also a place of meditation and reflection. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the hill and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
- Cost: Free
- Opening hours: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Address: The Big Buddha, Phuket, ยอดเขานาคเกิด Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
2. Explore Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga Bay is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
The bay is famous for its limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and pristine beaches. One of the most popular activities in the bay is kayaking.
Visitors can rent a kayak and explore the caves and lagoons hidden inside the limestone cliffs.
The bay is also home to several small islands, including James Bond Island, which was featured in the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.”
- Cost: 1,500 Baht/4-person Boat
- Opening hours: 9:30 am – 7:00 pm
- Islands: Khao Phing Kan, Ko Hong, Phang-nga Province, MORE
- Address: Phang Nga Bay
Click here to Book your adventure to Phang Nga Bay on Tripadvisor
3. Take a Cooking Class
Thai cuisine is renowned around the world for its bold flavors and unique combinations of herbs and spices.
And taking a cooking class in Phuket is an excellent way to learn about the local cuisine and culture.
Several cooking schools on the island offer classes for both beginners and experienced cooks.
The classes include a trip to a local market to buy ingredients, hands-on cooking lessons, and a chance to enjoy the dishes you have prepared.
If you are into cooking or love to try this experience, there are many cooking classes in Phuket to choose from, such as:
- Phuket Kata Thai Cooking Class by Por(Sally)&Jiam(Jim)
- Thai Cooking Class Phuket by Tony
- Phuket Thai Cooking Academy
- Phuket Thai Cooking Class by VJ
- Pum Thai Restaurant & Cooking School – Patong
4. Visit the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project
The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project is a non-profit organization that rescues and rehabilitates gibbons that have been taken from the wild and kept as pets or used for entertainment.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the project and learn about the efforts to protect these endangered primates.
The project also offers a chance to see the gibbons up close and learn about their behavior and habitat.
- Cost: 2,500 Baht/one person
- Opening hours: 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
- Address: The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (GRP), 104/3 Moo 3, Paklock, Talang, Phuket 83100, Thailand
5. Go on a Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise in Phuket is one of the most romantic and memorable experiences you can have.
From the breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea to the stunning sunsets, it’s an experience that will stay with you for years to come.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or an unforgettable family outing, a sunset cruise in Phuket is sure to provide it.
With its gorgeous scenery and laid-back atmosphere, there’s no better way to enjoy a beautiful evening than on a magical sunset cruise.
And you should not worry about food because cruises often include food and drinks, live music, and a chance to see the coastline from a different perspective.
I would highly recommend Sun & Sunset Dinner Cruise – Combine the best of both worlds
6. Visit the Shrine of the Serene Light
The Shrine of the Serene Light is a beautiful Chinese temple located in the heart of Phuket Town.
The temple is dedicated to the goddess of mercy, Guan Yin, and features intricate carvings, statues, and murals.
Visitors can light incense and make offerings at the temple and learn about the rich Chinese heritage of Phuket.
It might not seem like a big deal, but it is still a new experience and something worth discovering.
7. Try Muay Thai Boxing
Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and is a form of martial arts that involves using fists, elbows, knees, and feet.
Many gyms in Phuket offer training in Muay Thai for beginners and experienced fighters.
In fact, there are currently 600,000 people who moved to Thailand just for the sake of learning Thai boxing?
How unbelievable is that?
Thai boxing doesn’t just teach you how to protect yourself, but it is also a great solution if you want to lose weight.
Taking a class is an excellent way to stay fit and learn about this fascinating Martial Art.
Some of the best Muay Thai Boxing Gyms in Phuket are:
8. Visit the Phuket Trickeye Museum
The Phuket Trickeye Museum is a unique art museum that features 3D paintings and optical illusions.
Visitors can interact with the paintings and take photos that create the illusion of being part of the artwork.
The museum is an excellent place to visit with friends and family and is sure to create some unforgettable memories.
When I first visited this museum, I thought I was about to lose my mind; just kidding!
It was one of the most fun things to do in Phuket.
- Cost: Adult $ 14.69 – Child (4-10) $ 8.85
- Address: AR Trick Eye Museum Phuket, 199 Moo4 T.Wichit, A, Mueang Phuket District, 83000, Thailand
- Open hours: Open 7 days a week, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
9. Take a Sunset Horseback Ride
Take your girl on a romantic and peaceful ride along the beach as the sun sets over the Andaman Sea.
It’s just like those beautiful Reels you see on Instagram and wonder where you, too, can enjoy one of those magical experiences.
If your goal is to shoot some Reels or to use your camera to snap some stunning pictures, then I suggest you go there at 4:00 PM, so you can have enough time to prepare.
Book your next ride here Horseback Riding Experience in Phuket.
10. Try Flying Hanuman
Flying Hanuman is one of the best adventures you can ever try in Phuket.
Apart from all the amazing things you can do in Phuket, the Flying Hanuman is exceptional.
It simply is a Tarazan-like flying experience!
While flying through the forest, you will enjoy the magical view of the sea, which is so blessing.
Just don’t forget to bring your GoPro camera to capture the whole experience and share it with your friends, family, or audience.
After you’re done flying, you will absolutely feel so hungry!
The good news is that below you is one of the best restaurants in Phuket, called Three Monkeys Restaurant.
You can try it, and then thank me later!
Final thoughts
Phuket is a fast-growing city with many wonderful attractions and amazing things to do with family, friends, and couples.
There will always be new places to be discovered and more fun things to do.
But don’t worry; I will always keep you updated.
Now, which one of those would you love to visit next?
Let me know in a comment, and share your thoughts on whether you have ever been to one of those places already.
