Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a tropical paradise that perfectly blends stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and irresistible Thai cuisine. Whether you’re looking for relaxation (like us) or adventure, Phuket has something for everyone. In just three days, you can experience its lively spirit, indulge in its local delicacies, and snap enough Instagram-worthy photos to last a lifetime. Ready to dive into this island escapade? Here’s how to make the most of your whirlwind 72 hours in Phuket.
Note: We spent a total of three weeks island hopping across Southern Thailand, prioritizing relaxation and free beach activities over adventurous excursions and partying. However, there’s still some of that (we were in Koh Phangan for Songkran/New Year’s after all), but if you’re more into the landscapes and the food, this is the right blog for you.
Are you island hopping too? Check out our blog, How to Spend 3 Weeks in Southern Thailand (coming soon!).
Curious about other destinations on our journey? Check out our blogs on Japan, Indonesia, or the Philippines!
Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no additional cost to you.
TLDR 🫣
Phuket: Thailand’s largest island is a tropical playground with stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and mouthwatering food—perfect for a 3-day escape.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Relax on Patong Beach, sip coconuts, and enjoy watersports.
Day 2: Explore Bangla Road’s nightlife and feast at Patong Beach Night Market.
Day 3: Treat yourself to a Thai massage, shop for souvenirs, and indulge in authentic Thai dishes.
Pro Tips:
- Always carry cash; many places don’t accept cards.
- Bargain at markets, but stay friendly—it’s part of the culture!
Top Awards:
- Best Experience: Relaxing by the pools at our resort.
- Best Eats: Burgers from Burger Boyz.
- Best "Bang For Your Buck" Hotel: Deevana Patong Resort & Spa: a luxury resort that offers deals from time to time.
- Best e-SIM: Airalo (You can use our referral code “CELINA4205” to save $4.50 CAD OFF your first purchase).
HOW TO GET AROUND PHUKET
Navigating Phuket is an adventure in itself. The most convenient way to get around is by using Grab (think of it as Southeast Asia’s Uber). A typical Grab ride between popular spots will cost you 150-300 THB ($4.50-$9 USD), depending on the distance.
For a more adventurous vibe, rent a motorbike for about 250-400 THB ($7.50-$12 USD) per day. Just make sure you have an international driving license, and don’t forget your helmet—safety first! If bargaining is your hidden talent, opt for a tuk-tuk ride. It’s not the cheapest option (expect to pay 200-500 THB for short trips), but it’s the most iconic and comes with a side of fresh air and adrenaline.
WHERE TO STAY IN PHUKET
Phuket offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit every traveler’s vibe:
– Patong: If you’re all about nightlife and action, Patong is the place to be. This area is home to the famous Bangla Road and Patong Beach, making it perfect for party-goers and those who want to stay in the heart of the buzz. We stayed in Patong as it was closest to the action and we managed to score a great deals at Deevana Patong Resort & Spa (one of the fancier hotels in our trip). It’s a fantastic option with rooms starting at 1,500 THB ($45 USD) per night.
– Kata: Known for its laid-back vibe, Kata Beach is ideal for families and surfers. The beach here is less crowded, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance.
– Karon: If you’re after a balance between tranquility and convenience, Karon Beach is a great middle ground. It’s less chaotic than Patong but still offers enough dining and shopping options to keep you entertained.
Each area has its charm, so choose based on the type of experience you’re craving!
ITINERARY
Day 1: Patong Beach Bliss
Start your trip by heading straight to Patong Beach, Phuket’s most famous shoreline. This 3-kilometer stretch of powdery sand and crystal-clear water is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply sipping on a fresh coconut (40-60 THB, $1-$2 USD). Feeling adventurous? Try jet skiing or parasailing for around 1,000-1,500 THB ($30-$45 USD).
When hunger strikes, grab a plate of Pad Thai at one of the beachfront stalls for about 80-100 THB ($2.50-$3 USD). Pair it with a Chang beer, and you’re living your best tropical life.
After some more relaxing at the beach, it was time for dinner! We grabbed burgers and fries from a street hut a little farther from the beach (more inland) and it was amazing. We’d highly recommend Burger Boyz – it was so good, we went TWICE! Sadly, we did not take any pictures!
Day 2: Bangla Road & Night Market Feasts
After a lazy morning at your hotel—the Deevana Patong Resort & Spa, a cozy oasis conveniently located near Patong Beach (rooms start at an affordable 1,500 THB or $45 USD per night)—it’s time to explore the legendary Bangla Road.
By day, this bustling street seems harmless, but by night, it transforms into Phuket’s party capital. Bar-hop your way through neon-lit clubs and quirky themed bars. Cocktails cost about 200-300 THB ($6-$9 USD), and trust us, the entertainment’s worth every baht. Don’t miss Illuzion, one of Phuket’s top clubs, if you’re in the mood for dancing.
Before your night out, fuel up at the Patong Beach Night Market. Here, you’ll find an array of street food, from grilled satay skewers (10-20 THB each) to mango sticky rice (50-70 THB). It’s a feast for your taste buds without burning a hole in your wallet.
Day 3: Relax, Shop, and Savor
On your final day, treat yourself to a relaxing morning. Start with a Thai massage at a local spa (300-500 THB for an hour) or enjoy the serene pools and lush gardens at Deevana Patong Resort & Spa.
Spend your afternoon shopping for souvenirs at Jungceylon Shopping Center or snagging unique finds at the OTOP Patong Market. Bargaining is expected, so channel your inner negotiator!
As your trip winds down, savor one last meal at an authentic Thai restaurant—think green curry (120-150 THB) or tom yum soup (150-200 THB). Toast to an unforgettable three days in Phuket with one final coconut or a tropical cocktail.
TOTAL COST for 3 Days in Phuket (Approximate CAD for 2 people):
Accommodations for 3 nights: $268
Activities (we did no excursions, leaving that for Phi Phi island): $0
Food: $82
Transportation: $26 (includes the transportation to Phuket airport)
Souvenirs (we did not shopping here, leaving that for other islands): $0
TOTAL: $376 (Roughly $63 per person, per day)
FINAL THOUGHTS
Three days might not be enough to see all of Phuket, but it’s the perfect amount of time to get a taste of its charm. From the lively streets of Bangla Road to the serene sands of Patong Beach, this island is a kaleidoscope of experiences. So, pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for a trip you’ll reminisce about for years to come. Phuket awaits!
Feel free to ask us questions in the comments! Curious about other destinations on our journey? Check out our blogs on Japan, Indonesia, or the Philippines!
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