Updated on October 28, 2025

You may have heard of Phuket many times, but not really knowing what’s in the island other than the beautiful beaches. What you may not know is that Phuket has so much more to offer, from a rich history filled with various cultural influences to various opportunities for fun activities and major celebrations. Here are some fun facts to get you excited about your visit to Phuket.

1. It’s the Biggest Island in Thailand

This tropical paradise located on the south is the biggest island in Thailand. It has an area of 540 square meters that is almost the same size as Singapore. The island is huge enough to earn its status as a province of Thailand, and has an international airport that has direct flights to numerous cities around the world.

2. Phuket is Not the Original Name of The Island

Before the turn of the century Phuket was known by another name by sea travelers and miners. The island was rich in tin ore in the past, and non-Thai travelers then called it Jungceylon which was mispronounced from the Malay name Tanjung Salang. Incidentally, the name “Phuket” is also said to be a mispronunciation of another Malay word: bukit, after the hills that dot the island’s geographical landscape.

3. Patong Beach is The Busiest in Phuket

Parasailing draws crowds at Patong Beach.

Phuket has over 30 pristine beaches, but Patong is still at the top of the list in terms of popularity. Originally, Patong was a forest filled with banana trees, but these days there are no banana trees left to be seen. However, Patong does not define Phuket, which is a common misconception. There are many other beautiful beaches that are worth visiting, and some of them are less crowded.

4. James Bond Island is A Boat Ride Away

The famous island that was featured in the James Bond sequel The Man With The Golden Gun is situated off the shores of Phuket in Phang Nga Bay. Also known by the name of Koh Tapu (Nail Island) due to its shape, the island is a major tourists attraction that’s popular in many island-hopping itineraries. Other nearby islands from Phuket that are easily accessible are Phi Phi Islands, Similan Islands, & Koh Yao Noi.

5. The Architecture in Phuket Old Town is A Must-See

One of Phuket Old Town’s colorful storefronts, showcasing Sino-Portuguese architecture.

The heritage of Baba or Peranakan people can still be seen in Phuket. Beautiful Sino-Portuguese mansions and commerce buildings are scattered around Phuket Old Town, and some of them are home to museums, galleries, and coffee shops. For a better idea of what to expect from Phuket Old Town, try taking yourself on a self-guided walking tour.

6. Phuket is A Popular Venue for Weddings

Whether it’s staged by the beach or on a dramatic hillside with a sea view, Phuket is always a popular choice for wedding ceremonies. A number of the island’s elegant luxury villas are equipped to handle major celebrations such as weddings. Those who wish to get married at a private villa may need to inquire in advance about what’s possible at the villa during a big celebration, and perhaps engage a reliable local wedding planner as well.

7. There Is a Viewpoint in The Middle of Phuket Old Town

Phuket has many amazing viewpoints to wow vacationers, but there is one spot that boasts a panoramic view of the ocean and Phuket Old Town that is easy to reach. Rang Hill or Khao Rang is known for its peaceful atmosphere and epic views, along with a gazebo and a cafe that serves strong Thai coffee. Khao Rang is also good on a hot day as a getaway from the heat on the ground.

8. Night Markets are Major Attractions

Colorful mochi balls on display at Boat Avenue Market in Bang Tao.

If there’s anything worth knowing about the night markets in Phuket, it’s the fact that there’s always one happening any time of the week. The most popular night market of all, of course, is the Phuket Old Town Walking Street, which happens every Sunday evening and features live music and street food. Other night markets include Naka Market in Phuket Old Town, OTOP in Patong, and Boat Avenue Market in Bang Tao.

9. Guests Flock to Phuket for Boating and Sailing Events

The boating and yachting scene is very much alive and well in Phuket. The island is home to several world-class marinas and yachting events such as the Thailand International Boat Show and the King’s Cup Regatta. These boating events are a great opportunity for networking with professionals and community members in the sailing community, and parties are also common during these gatherings.

10. Planning Ahead for Your Phuket Trip Matters

When planning a trip to Phuket, it always helps to have a team of professionals on your side to fulfill your vision, especially if you’re staying at a private villa rental on the island. Your villa’s Guest Experience Services staff can assist in coming up with fun activities to keep you and your fellow guests occupied, be it an in-villa cooking class or a tour of the island’s magnificent temples. They can even make suggestions on how to deal with the weather and the traffic times between destinations on the island.

Take your trip planning to the next level with a personalized itinerary from your villa’s Guest Experience Services, and let yourself be surprised by all the exciting things that you can do and learn in Phuket.

Go beyond the beach with our Phuket Travel Guide. 

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Featured photo: A quiet day at Layan Beach, where the waves crash against the soft sand.