Family Travel Guide: Phuket

Before you go…

Thailand, the country of smiles and sunshine, really is the ideal destination for a family vacation. Each year, thousands of mums, dads and kids flock to its Andaman sea coastline to spend a week or two relaxing and soaking up sun in the resort area of Phuket. If Phuket features on your next family holiday, here’s a short guide to help you decide on what to do, what to see and where to stay.

Beach time

When it comes to idyllic sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water, you’re spoilt for choice in sunny Phuket. The entire Phuket coastline is peppered with sublime beaches just perfect for a quick swim with the kids. Patong beach, situated smack bang in the bustling tourist nerve centre of Patong, offers hours of beach fun for the whole family. However, a much quieter option would be to head to Karon Beach and spend a day away from the crowds. If you’re staying at the luxurious Avista Hideaway Resort and Spa in Phuket, then the sandy shores of Karon Beach are only a 10 minute walk from the hotel. Just remember to wear sunscreen and keep an eye on your children (and belongings) at all times.

Learn how to surf

If you tire of laying about on sandy white beaches, then rally up the kids and head to one of the many surf schools in Phuket whilst on your family holiday. Learning how to surf in the warm waters off Phuket is both affordable and a lot of fun. If you’re staying at the beautiful Twinpalms Phuket, Surin Beach – a mere 200 metres from your hotel door – is the perfect place to learn how to surf. Waves here don’t get much higher than a couple of metres, which is great for both beginners and children. Countless restaurants and cafes that line the shoreline promise great food and drink once your lessons are over.

Fish gaze at the Phuket Aquarium

Last but certainly not least, a day at the Phuket Aquarium is sure to be a hit with the whole family. From the colourful to the downright scary, the aquarium contains over 30 tanks of saltwater and freshwater creatures. Recently renovated, the aquarium is located at the south-eastern tip of Phuket, and makes for an excellent day trip. Hire a car and driver and visit the park on your own schedule, or organise a transfer from your hotel. The aquarium is open 7 days a week from 8:30am till 4:30pm. For a real treat, visit the Phuket Aquarium on a weekend and catch the shark feeding show between 11-11:30am.

Thailand is a fantastic holiday destination regardless of whether you’re a solo backpacker, married couple, or family. There’s plenty to see and do here, and the relative affordability of the place means just about anyone can spend a week or two getting accustomed to the delicious food, warm hospitality and gorgeous natural landscape on offer.