Most people who visit Phuket go straight to the beach, which is quite understandable. However, this can mean missing out on a unique part of the island. Phuket Town and the areas around the island’s marinas and city districts have their own charm, with food, architecture, culture, and a different way of life that contrasts with the beach resort vibe. If you spend a day or two exploring this side of Phuket, you’ll see the island in a completely new light.
Phuket Town and the Old Quarter
Phuket Town’s old quarter, with its blend of Sino-Portuguese history, is a truly captivating urban spot in southern Thailand. The vibrant shophouse exteriors, cosy coffee shops, local eateries, and the lively weekend market that fills the streets all contribute to the authenticity of the area. The street art sprinkled throughout the lanes adds a touch of colour, and the whole place feels like a neighbourhood that invites you to wander around.
The Marina and Boat Lagoon Area
If you’re looking for a change of pace from the bustling west coast beaches of Phuket, the area around Boat Lagoon on the east coast is a fantastic option. This marina is a hub for international sailors, boasts a beautiful waterfront dining scene, and offers a pace perfect for those who want to enjoy the island without being overwhelmed by the tourist crowds. Staying in a Phuket city hotel in this area, such as NH Boat Lagoon Phuket Resort, means you can easily get to both the town and the rest of the island without the hustle and bustle of the beach resort areas.
Authentic Food Away from the Tourist Strip
Phuket’s local food scene is outstanding and largely invisible to visitors who stay within the beach resort areas. Hokkien noodles, Phuket-style crab curry, o-tao oyster omelette, and the island’s famous dim sum breakfasts are all dishes with roots in the island’s Chinese heritage and available at local restaurants and markets that cater primarily to residents. Eating this way gives you a much more honest picture of what Phuket actually tastes like.