Joanna James
One of the most popular island destinations not only in Thailand but around the world too, Phuket offers much to experience. Even though it draws a great many visitors each year, you can still find relatively "hidden" attractions away from the crowds too.
One of the joys of exploring Phuket is that it offers easy access to other islands that lie off its coast. One such example is Koh Bon which can be reached from the southeastern coast; one way is to go to Rawai Beach and take a long-tail boat from there. Once at Koh Bon, you will find some lovely beaches where you can soak up the glorious serenity. While here you may also spot everything from hermit crabs to Asian water monitors!
Next up is another place to add to an island-hopping itinerary and which is not as well-known as other Phuket attractions. Look to catch a speedboat ride to Koh Racha which is a small island that is home to pristine beaches made up of white sand bordered by azure waters. While you can spend time lazing on the shore working on that perfect tan, not to be missed is a chance to enjoy some snorkelling too.
While Phuket is famed for its beaches, some of them can get packed. One place where you can look forward to relatively fewer crowds would be Mai Khao Beach. It can be found bordering the Sirinat National Park and offers an 11 km shoreline for you to enjoy. There is one section near the airport which draws in visitors since it offers stunning photo opportunities of the planes, though you will be able to find a less bustling spot further away. And when hunger or thirst strikes, you can head to one of the sports bars in Phuket located close by such as the Bill Bentley pub!
Another hidden attraction of Phuket that borders the Sirinat National Park is the Chatchai Mangrove Forest which is an ideal place for nature lovers to explore. Located beside the island's northwestern coast, these saltwater swamps support a fascinating ecosystem that thrives with both flora and fauna. Be it by way of kayak or by foot, there's much to discover on a visit here.
Back to one of the islands you can visit! Those based in and around Cape Panwa or the Chalong Pier can look to take a long-tail boat in order to reach charming Koh Lone situated off the southeastern coast of Phuket. There's a fisherman's village that can be visited, while you can look forward to unwinding on the sand overlooking gorgeous bays too.
There are some pretty spectacular viewpoints in Phuket; the problem is some of them can get crowded which may ruin not only the view but the ambience too. That is why Laem Krating makes an ideal alternative. Within easy reach of Ao Sane Beach, Laem Krating can be accessed via a walk along a rocky cliff and offers inspiring vistas of the ocean and magical sunsets.
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