Phuket is an island, and to it's south, east and west, is surrounded by a myriad of islands all easily accessible in a day. Spectacular white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, isolated or crowded, idyllic islands abound. Check with your local tour agent or at your hotel for details of island tours available.

The two most popular island day trips are Phi Phi Islands famous for the film location of The Beach, starring Leonardo Di Caprio a group of 6 islands with the main island, Phi Phi Don, offering all manner of activities and accommodations. And Phang Nga Bay, a Marine National Park, and also designated a Marine World Heritage Site, comprising some of the most spectacular karst scenery in the world.

The bay is made up of numerous islands, many of which rise vertically out of the water and is popular for sea canoeing tours and came to fame after the filming of the James BondMovie The Man with the Golden Gun. Due to its popularity, this island is crowded in the day. However, there are many other beautiful islands, some even more so, that are waiting to be explored away from the crowds, and within easy distance of Phuket.

WaterSports

Phuket is famed for its spectacular beaches, beautiful sea and magnificent underwater life. It�s a divers mecca, with the Similan Islands Marine National Park north of Phuket voted one of the top 10 diving sites in the world. There are many dive sites off Phuket with spectacular coral and marine life, including manta rays and whalesharks. Numerous companies on Phuket offer day trips, liveaboards and PADI dive training. If you arenot a diver, however, don't despair, as inshore snorkelling is equally spectacular, and many day trips to surrounding islands are available.

Looking for something a little more energetic? Try parasailing, water skiing, banana boat rides, wind surfing or sailing a beach catamaran. One popular water-based activity is sea canoeing in Phang Nga Bay. Numerous companies offer to take you into the caves and around the spectacular mountains in the bay.

However, if you are looking for something more relaxing, and want to explore without following a tour itinerary, charter a boat. There are a number of charter companies on Phuket offering crewed or bareboats for the day, or longer, with flexible itineraries. This is the best way to get to those idyllic out-of-the-way places.

Land

On land the range of activities are also endless. Elephant trekking, jeep safaris, cultural and historical tours, visiting temples Phuket is home to many, the largest being Wat Chalong - mountain viewpoints, jungle trekking, nature tours etc.Or for the less energetic, shopping in the tourist centres or Phuket Town can prove both interesting and entertaining.

Nightlife

Away from the beaches, Phuket is famed for its lively nightlife. A host of eateries offering all manner of cuisines can be found all over the island. If it's drinking and dancing you are after, Patong is the Island's nightlife centre, witha wide variety of bars beachfront, open-air, indoors, trendy, sophisticated, loud and discos. However, other touristareas have nightlife entertainment, though more restrained and "peaceful.

Those looking for something a little different, head to Phuket Town. A popular night spot with Thais, it has its own character and quite a following with resident expatriates and tourists-in-the-know. From karaoke bars to sophisticated music cafes, ear-deafening discos to modern, trendy bars, the town offers something a little different.

Family

Want night time entertainment, but not interested in drinking or dancing? This is the case for many families, especially parents with young children. Phuket has developed facilities to suit. Phuket Town has a multi-screen cinema showing the latest movies Thai and International in Thai and English. A word of warning, take a coat, the air-conditioning is stuck on "ice cool".

For something a little grander, try Phuket FantaSea, a Thai cultural themepark with a hi-tec sound and light show in the evening, giving an insight into Thai traditions and cultures. Or try Simon Cabaret, a landmark in Patong, where the beautiful lady-boys perform a cabaret show twice nightly. For more details of shows and entertainment options, contact your agent or hotel tour desk.