|
1. Kao Rang - A small hill on the
northern edge of the city, it is popular destination especially during
the evening. From the top, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Phuket
and some of its offshore islands. A winding road leads to the peak of
the leafy hill where an observation shed and a number of restaurants are
located. There is a health park nearby and a wide green lawn ideal for a
daytime picnic. At the centre of the lawn is a bronze statue of Phraya
Ratsada Nupradit, the well-loved governor of Phuket during the time of
King Rama V.
2. Kaew Island - A fine beach, lush
natural surroundings, and stunning coral are the highlights of this
little island 3km from Rawai, and south of Prom Thep. There is also a
giant image of the Buddha. The island is about 15 minutes by boat from
Rawai.
3. Kalim Beach - Separated only by
some rocks, this beach is almost part of Patong towards the north, where
the big tree comes out in the middle of the main road on the way to
Kamala, it is not yet developed and thus affords some privacy. At the
back of the beach and accommodations. The waters contain extensive coral
reefs so they are not good for swimming.
4. Karon Beach - A lot quieter than
Patong, it is the second largest and most upscale of Phuket's tourist
beaches. The long, broad beach remains unspoiled, although large resort
houses line its back road. The sand is very white, and squeaks funny
when walked upon. The southern point has a fine coral reef stretching
toward Kata and Bu Island. Restaurants, bars, tour companies and other
non-hotel businesses are at the north end, near the traffic circle, and
at the south, on the little road connecting the back road with the beach
road. Regular buses ply between the beach and Phuket Town during the
daytime.
5. Kamala Beach - Less crowded even
during the high tourist season. Kamala is predominantly a fishing
village. It is too laidback that on certain afternoon one can catch
buffalo herds come down to the beach to cool off. Fisherman can still be
seen launching their boats and casting their nets daily. But it has a
picture-perfect half-moon bay with exquisite sand and hypnotizing surf.
Upscale accommodation is available and reasonably priced bungalows can
be rented as well. There are a number of seafood restaurants. And that's
about it. The two-kilometer long beach has little to offer in terms of
entertainment. But no problem, Patong is just a ten-minute drive down
the coast.
6. Kata Noi Beach - Perfect for
swimming. Kata is the smallest of Phuket's three main tourist beaches.
The beach is broad and curvy and beautifully flanked by hills. Kata
retains a village feel at its northern and southern ends. Towards the
south is Kata Noi, a much smaller beach with a few hotels. With fewer
visitors about, these beaches provide somewhat of a sanctuary from the
hustle and bustle of Patong. There is certainly no shortage of classy
resort hotels in the area. However, for budget travelers, the best area
to look for a place is on Kata Noi, or at the south end of Kata Yai near
Kata Plaza.
7. Kata Beach - The smallest of
Phuket's three main tourist beaches. Kata is very different in
appearance and style from Karon and Patong Beaches. The beach itself is
broad, gracefully curved, and bordered by low-rise structures. The
waters are perfect for swimming, and include a vibrant and lively coral
reef at the north end, stretching out toward Koh Poo, which lies about
half a km offshore. Facilities catering to every price rang include
hotels, bungalows, tour companies, restaurants, bars and clubs. The
beach is served by a regular daily bus service to and from Phuket town.
8. Koh Yao - Consisting of two
large islands, Yao Noy island and Yao Yai island are surrounded by may
smaller islands. The total area is 137.6 square kilometers, largely
unaffected by booming development in nearby Phuket. Yai island retains
it's traditional Muslim culture almost unchanged. There are a few
bungalow operating providing basic but very charming accommodations.
Rental vehicles are not an option, although sometimes you can strike a
deal at a bungalow to use a motorcycle.
9. Khao Phra Thaeo WCDEC - About 20
square kilometers of virgin forest, this wildlife preserve is home to
some endangered animals like languor, barking deer, mouse deer, bear,
wild boar, monkeys, gibbons, and a host of bird species. Its vegetation
is spectacular. Giant trees supported by huge buttresses are thick with
creepers and climbers of every kind. One very rare plant species found
in this park is the Governor's Palm or White Back Palm.
10. Lone Island - A mountainous
island largely inhabited by Thai Muslims engaged in fishing, and rubber
and coconut farming. Only twenty minutes by regular passenger boat from
Chalong Bay, in the south of Phuket. Lon has a long stretch of beach on
the northeast coast. Boats to Ko Lon leave early in the morning daily
from Chalong Pier.
11. Koh Khai Nok - Fairly isolated
and uninhabited, the small island has a splendid coral reef suitable for
snorkeling. A great place to spend the day in complete tranquility, it
has a beach on either side of the island. It can be reached either by
longtail boat. Most tour companies in Phuket offer day trips to many of
the smaller islands, which include Koh Khai Nok.
12. Mai Khao Beach - A long but
largely deserted beach north of the Phuket Airport. The water is fine
for swimming during the dry season: the rainy season brings big waves
and strong currents that are dangerous. The beach offers peace and
serenity, close access to the airport and to the mainland province of
Phang Nga. If you want some time away from the crowds, this is the
place. Several bungalows, a campsite and the JW Marriott resort are
located here. Sea turtles also come here to lay eggs. It is also home to
what the Thais call a sea cicada, which is a form of marine life.
#Ads - Get the above cooking ingredients here at discounted price
|
