Four Great Phuket Day Trips

When you come to Phuket, you get more than just the main island. A score of smaller islands and offshore attractions await, for the adventurous or those who just like to get away from the crowds.

Phi Phi Islands
Actually, you won’t get away from the crowds if you visit either of these two islands. They’re second only to Phuket itself in terms of regional tourism traffic. However, the water offshore remains pristine thanks to protected marine park status, and the islands are easy to reach, thanks to ferry service. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and catch-and-release fishing are the three favorite water activities. The not-so-high sea cliffs lend themselves to rock climbing and even some cliff diving.

Koh Kai
Boat out to these islands in the early morning and enjoy a full day of absolute relaxation on some of the most gorgeous beaches known to man. There are two of these islands, the larger Koh Kai Nog and the smaller, more quiet Koh Kai Nai.

Phuket’s Great Romantic Resorts

Contrary to popular opinion, the island of Phuket is not particularly pretty in many places. You show up thinking it’s a jade-hued wonderland bordered by beaches and containing nothing but beautiful hotels. But in fact, the island is mostly muddy fields and dusty villages. There’s also some downright sketchy nightlife (mostly in Patong). If you’re on a romantic Phuket getaway, don’t leave your surroundings to chance. Pick one of the many stunning, serene, and romantic retreats for which the island is known. Here are a few favorites:

Evason
This is a world-class property with a lovely, soothing spa vibe that sets it apart from more obviously showy hotels. You’ll feel at ease from the moment you enter—and this feeling is a result of the carefully Feng Shui’d décor as much as the understated yet smooth service. The pool villas are oh-so-stylish, but for once-in-a-lifetime romance—i.e. honeymoon or a big anniversary—book the private island treehouse.

Banyan Tree
Glossy, somewhat of a scene, but so chic. This is the kind of see-and-be seen hotel where, if it was in your home city, you’d be flattered to go for dinner on a third date or special anniversary. If you’re lucky enough to claim Banyan Tree as your home on Phuket, you can spend your days lounging poolside in designer shades with the rest of the glossy posse, then “dress” for cocktails and dinner. The lounge is a great place to end the night—expensive, but with real ambience beyond that of a hotel bar.