Phuket Island is Thailand's largest island and the main visitor base on the Andaman coast. Its west coast includes well-known beach areas such as Patong, Karon and Kata, while Phuket Old Town adds Sino-European streets, markets and a food culture recognised through UNESCO's Creative Cities Network. The east coast has mangroves, marinas and departure points for nearby islands. Choose accommodation near the part of Phuket you plan to use most, allow extra time for road travel, and check Thai Meteorological Department forecasts and sea conditions before swimming, diving or taking boat trips, particularly during the southwest monsoon.
