Most of us know Phuket as a party town, where tourists gather in droves to the hottest nightclubs and bars to dance the night away. However, there’s plenty more to do, especially if you’re a nature lover who is eager to explore the untainted greenery of the island. Here’s a guide on what you can do to get your nature fix!
Promthep Cape
Promthep Cape is located at the southernmost part of Phuket island, overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Andaman Sea. Nai Harn Beach and Rawai Beach are just a stone’s throw away, making this a perfect way to end your day after tanning it out on the soft sand! Many make it up to the Cape in the late afternoon, camping there in wait for the perfect sunset moment to capture on camera. If you’re there on a clear day, you’re in luck as you’ll get beautiful views of faraway islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Racha Yai and Noi islands. Promthep Shrine and Promthep Lighthouse are interesting cultural monuments you can visit while you’re there and waiting for the golden hour. But if you’re feeling extra adventurous, make the trek to the very edge of Promthep Cape along the dirt parth - it’s slightly challenging, but the stunning views make every step worth it!
Monkey Hill
Monkeys in the city? You’ve got that right! Monkey Hill is located right in Phuket Old Town, and you can spot it easily by the monkeys on the entrance gate to the hill. From there, it’s about 3.5km to the scenic viewpoint overlooking the island, and you can join the locals in their walks or jogs up. Along the way, you might encounter some macaques - a local who goes by Pae Hog often puts up mini-performances with some monkeys. While most of these monkeys are not aggressive, you should still take the usual precautions with wild animals and keep your children close by if you’re with family. Other than that, enjoy your hike and being close to these entertaining creatures! Who says you have to go far away to experience nature?
Khao Phra Thaeo National Park
Khao Phra Thaeo National Park houses the only remaining virgin rainforest in Phuket, unspoiled by modern technological developments. The Park is perfect for hikers regardless of your experience level. There are short hikes that take about 1-2 hours long, while the longer ones may take up to 4 hours, and will probably require an experienced guide to help you navigate. While you’re there, visit Ton Sai Waterfall and Bang Pae Waterfall - the latter is the largest waterfall in Phuket and it’s worth taking a dip to escape the heat! Also situated within the Park is the Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre, a project that aims to reintroduce white handed Gibbons into the wild.
Diving
Seated comfortably by the Andaman Sea, Phuket offers many great locations for you to dive, like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. Around Koh Lanta you can find the Hin Daeng and Hin Muang diving sites, which are considered to be one of the best diving sites in Thailand. There, you’ll be able to spot the majestic manta rays and whale sharks. These two sites are only suitable for experienced divers, and you’ll need to have clocked in at least 20 dives before. If you’re looking for something more beginner-friendly and less harsh, Racha Yai and Racha Noi in the south of Phuket are ideal for their clear waters and high visibility. There are plenty of diving schools in Phuket offering basic diving courses so don’t be afraid to pick up something new on your trip there!
Island hopping at Phang Nga
Also known as Ao Phang Nga National Park, this area is surrounded by exquisite views of limestone formations, more than 40 islands and clear azure waters. Much of the area also has official protection status, so you know that you’ll be venturing into unspoiled territory. The bay has appeared in James Bond and Star Wars movies, marking its status as one of Thailand’s natural wonders. Many local tour companies offer half or full day tours around Phang Nga, which will take you around the different points of attractions such as Hong Island, James Bond Island, the fishing village of Koh Panyee and the Buddha Cave Temple. You can easily book kayaks or canoes to take you around the area, though the cost may vary by company.
Green Elephant Sanctuary Park
Get up close and personal with these glorious Asian Elephants. Green Elephant Sanctuary Park was opened by a Swiss, who operates it in accordance to European animal protection laws. Instead of elephant rides and shows that exploit these gentle giants, the sanctuary takes in formerly abused elephants and gives them a chance to live out their years in peace. Visitors can feed, pet and bathe the elephants. Tour packages also include a fun-filled XXL Adventure Shower that we’re sure you’ll enjoy! Tickets are inclusive of transfers, so you definitely don’t have to worry about having to make too many arrangements to get to see these natural wonders for yourself!
Sirinat National Park
Not far from Phuket Airport, Sirinat National Park comprises four beaches - Nai Yang, Sai Khaew, Nai Thon and Mai Kao - and has managed to retain a distinctly local feel despite being surrounded by many international resorts. Mai Kao and Nai Yang Beaches are sea turtle nesting areas, so you might catch some sea turtles or their eggs around every November to February! Though it’s a smaller National Park, you’ll still find at least a 130 species of birds, as well as a variety of trees and mangrove-dwelling reptiles. If you’ve got some time before your flight out, why not check it out?
If you’ve got more time on your hands, get up early, put some hiking shoes on and embark on your next adventure in Phuket, that’s sure to be just as exciting as those parties you’re going to end up at in the evening!
