A local's guide to Hidden, Scenic, Underrated activities in Phuket

Underrated Things, Hidden Beaches, Sunset Drives in Phuket Thailand

By: John T, June 2, 2022

Most Underrated Things To Do In Phuket

Over the years, Phuket has successfully made itself into a globally popular tourist island. Due to this, locals and similar-minded tourists have soughted out more unique and less crowded experiences. This article will elaborate on ways that will lead you off the beaten path following these topics:

 

Phang Nga Bay

  • You can go the tourist route when you visit the beautiful limestone caves and cliffs of Phang Nga Bay, but if you want a unique experience to avoid the bus boat tours. Instead start your Phang Nga Bay boating excursion at the Northern end of Phuket. Here you will run into less tourist and will be able to stop at quieter and relaxing beaches along the way. One of the favored places to visit along the way is the James Bond Island. At Phang Nga Bay, you can create a full itinerary that includes snorkeling, kayaking through caves, and more.

Old Phuket Town

  • The central part of Phuket capital lies an underrated scene of stunning architecture and historic attractions. You can find a little bit of everything in Old Phuket Town from cafes, famous restaurants to boutiques filled with traditional textiles and clothes. This is one place you will want to bring your camera and spend some time taking in what life was like on the island decades ago.

Naka Weekend Market

  • Located just outside of the Phuket town, the Naka Market is an optimal place to do some street and local market shopping. You can bargain for a better price but a number of the items you will find in this market are significantly cheaper than the same products you will find in the Patong markets. A majority of the items found in the market are imported from Bangkok.

Similan Islands National Park

  • If you want to spend a day relaxing and exploring beyond the typical Phi Phi or Racha islands, then you will want to schedule in a day or more to the Similan Island National Park. It takes about three hours to get to by boat, but the island offers a number of activities. Designated snorkeling and dive sites will allow you to explore the underwater world, while the natural rock formation and jungles give you a lot of ground to hike and explore. Similan Island is a National Park and contains some of the more accessible yet most beautiful marine life in Phuket.

Chalong Bay Rum Distillery

  • Using 100% natural Thai sugarcane and resting their Rum for at least 8 months, Chalong Bay Rum Distillery is considered one of the few local underrated Phuket businesses worth checking out. Their sugarcane is apparently pesticide free and their disillery uses traditional French methods. 

 

Top Hidden Beaches in Phuket

Mai Khao Beach

  • This beach remains clean and natural because it is part of a national park. It is 11 km long and you could easily walk the entire beach and only come across a few people. It’s perfectly peaceful. This beach is easy to access and the sand is very clean. However, it is far from the main areas of Phuket. There are no beach facilities, unless you are a guest at one of the resorts located near the beach.

Haad Sai Kaew Beach

  • Located at the very north of Phuket island, Haad Sai Kaew is a deserted strip of sand and the very last beach before Sarasin bridge. It is safe to swim at this beach and the sand there is very clean. It is not difficult to access, but this beach is far from the main areas of Phuket. There are restaurants located on the beach making this the ideal hidden beach on which to have a meal. The food prices are a bit high, but the exceptional beauty and peacefulness of the surrounding area makes it worth every penny.

Freedom Beach

  • Some consider this to be the most beautiful beach on the island, but it has remained relatively quiet because it is very difficult to access. The only way the access this beach is by boat and the boat rides can be quite expensive. There are restaurants on this beach and beach chairs have been supplied. It is safe to swim here. Although it costs a considerable amount to reach this beach, it is worth the money if you truly want a beach that is not busy.

Ao Sane Beach

  • This beach is right next to the extremely popular and busy NaiHarn beach. It has remained unnoticed because the only way to reach it is to drive under the Phuket Yacht club. This beach is quite small, but since it does not receive many visitors it remains comfortable.  It is safe to swim here and the area is very clean. If you want to take your kids to the beach, this would be a good choice. There is a place for for snorkelling around Ao Sane.

Best unknown Phuket View points and places to watch Sunsets

Photo by Hotels.com, Trip.com, digitaltravelcouple.com, Phuket Travel Guide

With its fantastic west-coast beaches, beautiful viewpoints and uninterrupted views across the Andaman Sea, Phuket has some pretty spectacular sunsets and view points. The green season is probably the best time to see really stunning skies at dusk, with clouds being up-lit by the last light of the day, but you have to be lucky to get the right conditions. During the high season, you get a wonderful show from the balcony of any Phuket beach resort along the west coast on absolutely every evening.

While you can literally walk onto the sand of Karon, Kata, Patong, Kamala, Mai Khao, Surin, Bangtao or the other west-facing beaches of Phuket and watch the sunset, there are some really outstanding places to enjoy the view from. The following are some of the best picked by locals of Phuket.

 

Karon View Point

  • ​​​​​​This is another view point that should not be missed. Located between Nai Han Beach and Kata Noi beach, Karon View Point will show you three bays - Kata Noi beach, Kata Bay, and Karon Bay. The view here is unique as the line-up of the 3 bays looks like a Crescent Moon. 
  • You can find beautiful sunsets at Karon View Point

Promthep Cape View Point

  • Quite possibly one of the most popular local view point in Phuket. Phuket’s most southerly point, the rocky cape is very popular at sunset when the tall palm trees and windswept grasses glow orange in the dying light. The view to the west features Nai Harn Beach to your right and the tiny Kaeo Islands to the left. The only downside is that it is quite a long drive from most Phuket beach resorts to get there and back. Promthep Cape is an important landmark of the Phuket. The view point is massive, so you can still find your secluded spot to enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island
  • You can find beautiful sunsets at Laem Promthep Cape

Wind Turbine View Point by Prompthep

  • We wouldn't be doing our readers any justice, if we mentioned Prompthep without some unique underrated alternative. If you want a romantic picnic, secluded, and possibly hiking trip all packed in one, maybe consider Wind Turbine View Point. It is located next to Promthep cape at the top of a mountain. You can find it by looking out for a lonely white wind turbine. 
  • You can find beautiful sunsets at Laem Promthep Cape

Rang Hill View Point

  • This view point is in the center of Phuket city and showcases 180 degrees panoramic views of Phuket town. From here you can see both the sea and the city together. You can visit this destination during the day or night. Anyone coming during the day time will see the Phuket city to the sea. Anyone coming during the night time will see the city in bright glistening lights. 

Toa Sae View Point

  • At the height of 250 metres on top of a mountain, Toa Sae View Point is the highest view point in Phuket city. Visitors will be able to see further than Rang Hill. Be warned, many monkeys live here and they will often check you out for food. 

Khao Khad View Point Tower

  • Another beautiful sunset view point. Here you will be able to see the 360 degrees surrounding view of Makham Bay, the Phuket Bay, Mai Thon Island and the Andaman sea.
  • You can find beautiful sunsets at Khao Khad View Point

Big Buddha near Karon Beach

  • Definitely NOT unpopular, but we couldn't resist it. Atop the Nakkerd Hills, which runs down the spine of the island, the 45m statue is coated in white jade marble that gleams in the final rays of the day’s sunlight. The view across the western side of Phuket is exceptional from this high viewpoint, but the long, steep, winding road back down the hill is a little tricky at dark.
  • You can find beautiful sunsets at Big Buddha Phuket

Scenic Drive places in Phuket

Photo by Hotels.com

Sarasin Bridge

  • The Sarasin Bridge is the bridge connecting the mainland Phang Nga province and Phuket island province.  This 700 metres bridge was built in 1976 to replace the sole usage of ferries. Today, Sarasin Bridge has become an upcoming tourist attraction to enjoy a sunsets, sea breeze, and scenic drives.

Laem Phrompthep Cape

  • Although a very popular destination, the route towards Prompthep Cape is a beautiful scenic drive route. The route is not densely populated and is a popular expat area for jogging and bicycling. After you have finished the route, you can stop by Rawai Seafood Market, where some of the freshest catches of seafood are gathered. Many restaurants line up the market, so you will have no problem finding food. 

Nai Harn Beach

  • Nai Harn Beach is situated in the South of Phuket, near Phromthep Cape. To get to Nai Harn Beach, you must drive pass a large lake  that is famous for jogging. Nai Harn Beach is not a long beach.

Ao Sane Beach

  • Ao Sane Beach, a rocky beach next to Nai Harn Beach. Ao Sane Beach hides behind a hill. It is also famous for snorkeling.

Khao Khad Viewpoint

  • The road to Khao Khad Viewpoint is the crossroad between the sea and the hill. You can easily enjoy a good sea view on the way up to Khao Khad Tower, where 360 degrees panormic views of Phuket awaits.

Discover our Karon Beach Hotel

Deluxe Terrace Pool View

Deluxe Terrace Pool View

Family Fun Deluxe Terrace

Family Fun Deluxe Terrace

Deluxe Terrace

Deluxe Terrace

One-Bedroom Lagoon Pool Access Suite

One-Bedroom Lagoon Pool Access Suite

Seaview Deluxe Terrace

Seaview Deluxe Terrace

Lagoon Pool Access Deluxe Terrace

Lagoon Pool Access Deluxe Terrace

Seaview Infinity Pool 2-Bedroom Duplex Suite

Seaview Infinity Pool 2-Bedroom Duplex Suite

Family Connecting Deluxe Terrace

Family Connecting Deluxe Terrace

Lagoon Pool View Deluxe Terrace

Lagoon Pool View Deluxe Terrace

Deluxe Terrace Garden Access

Deluxe Terrace Garden Access

Two-bedroom Family Suite

Two-bedroom Family Suite

Seaview Three Bedroom Suite with Bathtub

Seaview Three Bedroom Suite with Bathtub

Discover more Phuket travel tips and guides

Karon Beach Nightlife Bars in Phuket

Great Bars & Nightlife in Karon Beach

Looking for places to wine down and relax? These are our recommended Karon Beach nightlife places

Karon Vs. Patong

Karon Vs. Patong: Where Is The Better Place to Stay?

Compare Karon versus Patong to decide on your perfect Phuket vacation spot. Learn about their ambience, activities, nightlife, and nearby attractions.

Awards and Reviews of Thavorn Palm Beach Resort

Awards and Reviews of Thavorn Palm Beach Resort

A collection of Awards, Green Certifications, and Guest Reviews of Thavorn Palm Beach Resort.

4 Thai Temples in Phuket You Have To Visit

4 Thai Temples in Phuket You Have To Visit

Learn more about the top 4 and most popular Thai Temples in Phuket, Thailand. Understand why they are popular and plan your holiday to whatever suits your taste!

things to do in Phuket for couples

Spend a Romantic Vacation in Karon, Phuket

Take your next romantic vacation at Thavorn Palm Beach Resort and discover all the things for couples to do in Phuket.

Where to Find the Best Nightlife in Phuket, Thailand

Where to Find the Best Nightlife in Phuket, Thailand

We’ll tell you where to go to find the most lively and colorful nightlife hotspots in Phuket, Thailand.

Popular Night Markets in Phuket to Visit Monday to Sunday

Popular Night Markets in Phuket to Visit Monday to Sunday

Wondering what to do in Phuket on a Saturday or Sunday night besides partying? Why not visit a night market!

Visiting Patong in Phuket

Is It Worth Visiting Patong in Phuket? Tips You Should Know

Are you wondering if it's worth visiting the famed Patong Beach in Phuket? Our blog breaks down everything you should know before visiting.

Phuket Accommodation Deals

How Different Types of Travelers Can Make the Most of Phuket Hotel Deals

Find the perfect stay in Phuket with accommodation deals tailored for couples, families, solo, and business travelers at Thavorn Palm Beach Resort.

Where to stay in Phuket

Where to stay in Phuket: Karon or Kata?

Discover why Karon Beach is the clear winner when deciding whether to stay in the Karon or Kata Beach area.

Experience the Best Karon Beach Has to Offer

Experience the Best Karon Beach Has to Offer

Thavorn Palm Beach Resort offers unique and luxurious accommodation. Experience some of the best rooms that Karon Beach, Phuket has to offer.

Things to Do in Phuket

Non-Touristy Things to Do in Phuket

All the underrated non-touristy things to do in Phuket for a local holiday experience.

Phuket Trip During Rainy Season

How to Enjoy Your Phuket Trip During Rainy Season

The rainy season in Phuket offers many fun activities, so you can visit this popular Thailand destination any time of the year. Read on to find out more.

Top 10 Things To Do In Karon Beach

Explore Karon Beach: Where to Go & What To Do

Experience the vibrant charm of Karon Beach, Phuket. Discover fun things to do, scenic spots to visit, and where to stay.

Our Transportation Guide to Getting Around Phuket

Our Transportation Guide to Getting Around Phuket

In this transportation guide, we’ll explain the many ways to travel around Phuket, Thailand. Read on to learn more.

Shopping in Phuket

Come on a Shopping Adventure in Phuket

Indulge in retail therapy with Phuket's vibrant shopping scene. Stay at Thavorn Palm Beach Resort and enjoy easy access to the best markets.

Best Places To Stay

What Kind of Traveler Are You?

Wondering which are the best areas to stay in Phuket? Match the areas based on your travel style and enjoy a mix of adventure, relaxation, and fun.

Snorkeling in Phuket

Snorkeling in Phuket

On your next trip to Phuket, learn how to quickly master snorkeling, even if you’ve never tried it before, and explore all the great snorkeling spots.

8 Volunteer and Help out places in Phuket

8 Volunteer and Help out places in Phuket

The top listed volunteer service and help aid destinations in Phuket

Karon, Phuket always offers spectacular sunsets.

Get Away from the Crowds in Karon, Phuket

Just over the hill from Patong in Phuket lies the town of Karon on a quiet, vast and pristine beach. It’s the perfect place to stay.

Unique things to do on Karon Beach, Phuket

Karon Beach unique things to do

A compilation of notable things to do and explore on and around Karon Beach, Phuket

Phuket Beaches

All You Need to Know about Phuket Beaches

Learn about the top five beaches in Phuket and how to get the best deals on beach resorts.

Phuket's top Heritage Museums

5 Best Thai Heritage Museums to visit in Phuket

If you are looking for a historical and cultural excursion, then you've come to the right place

Family-friendly Activities in Phuket

Discover Plenty of Family-friendly Activities in Phuket

You can access a whole island full of family-friendly activities from Thavorn Palm Beach Resort in Karon Beach, Phuket.

Perfect Phuket Honeymoon

Romantic Experiences for the Perfect Phuket Honeymoon

Five tips and recommendations to prepare for your romantic Phuket holiday or honeymoon.

The Best Time to visit Phuket by Month, Weather, Activities, and Culture

The Best Time to visit Phuket by Month, Weather, Activities, and Culture

There is an ideal time for many things in Phuket. So don't miss out on important events. Plan your trip well based on your needs here!

Top 6 Italian Food Restaurants in Phuket Thailand

Top 6 Italian Food Restaurants in Phuket Thailand

A local's list of Top Italian Food restaurants in Phuket

Everyone loves the water slides at our Karon Beach hotel.

Explore the Features at Our Unique Karon Beach Hotel

There’s a hotel on Karon Beach that’s unlike any other in Phuket. Explore the amenities and discover what makes it so special.

Phuket is Asia's best island

Why Phuket is easily the best Asia holiday destination

Reasons why Phuket is a Must Visit destination in Asia

5 star beach hotel karon

Luxury Experiences at our 5-star Hotel on Karon Beach

Experience what luxury feels like on Karon Beach. Thavorn Palm Beach Resort is a 5-star hotel in Phuket located on prime beachfront.

Discover Phuket, the Island Destination Full of Culture

Discover Phuket, the Island Destination Full of Culture

Book your stay at our 5-star accommodation in Phuket and go on a cultural journey to discover the island like never before.

Tips on Best Family Things to Do in Phuket

The Top Activities for Families in Phuket, Thailand

Compiled by locals, here’s a list of things to do on your family vacation in Phuket, Thailand. The perfect holiday with your kids awaits!

A Curated Phi Phi Islands Travel Guide For The Ultimate Getaway

A Curated Phi Phi Islands Travel Guide For The Ultimate Getaway

Discover the enchantment of Phi Phi Islands through our expertly crafted day tour itinerary. From island hopping to souvenir shopping - explore it all!

karon beach activities phuket

Enjoy a Variety of Activities and Experiences on Karon Beach

Thavorn Palm Beach Resort on Karon Beach in Phuket offers a variety of activities including watersports, giant water slides, a petting zoo, and gardens.

Thavorn Palm Beach Resort’s Conference Room

Why Choose Thavorn Palm Beach Resort’s Conference Room

Trying to choose the perfect conference room in Phuket? Learn why Thavorn Palm Beach Resort is the perfect blend of luxury and functionality.

Best Top Dessert shops cafes in Phuket

Best Dessert cafes and shops in Phuket Thailand

The ultimate dessert shop list you have to try in Phuket

Your Rainy Season To-Do List In Phuket

Your Rainy Season To-Do List In Phuket

Rainy days in Phuket don't dampen the fun! In this blog, explore the top activities during the rainy season, from indoor attractions to cultural experiences.

Thai National Parks in and near Phuket

Thai National Parks - 7 Best Things to Do in Phuket

All the important Thailand National Parks you MUST VISIT in and near Phuket

Event Planning in Phuket

A Step-by-Step Guide to Flawless Event Planning in Phuket

Discover the art of successful corporate event planning in Phuket. Explore the elegant Thavorn Palm Beach Resort for an unforgettable event experience.

Enjoy Surfing on Your Vacation in Phuket

Enjoy Surfing on Your Vacation in Phuket

Some beaches in Phuket are ideal for surfing. Karon Beach, the home of Thavorn Palm Beach Resort, is a perfect beach to first experience the sport.

A Solo Traveler Guide To Phuket

A Solo Traveler Guide To Phuket

Is Phuket ideal for solo travelers? Our blog covers everything you need to know, from must-see spots to safety tips and solo travel hacks.

The Perfect Couples Getaway

The Perfect Couples Getaway: What to Do and Where to Stay in Phuket

Discover what makes Phuket ideal for couples and why Thavorn Palm Beach is one of the best resorts to stay in for an unforgettable romantic escape.

Phuket Underrated Things, Hidden Beaches, Sunset Drives

Top Underrated Things, Hidden Beaches, Sunset Drives in Phuket

Best underrated things to do, hidden beaches, sunset drives, and scenic viewpoints in Phuket

Host Your Next Corporate Seminar In Phuket

Host Your Next Corporate Seminar In Phuket

Searching for meeting rooms in Phuket? Welcome to Thavorn, where we seamlessly blend the art of work and play with our state-of-the-art facilities.

Finding the Best Family Rooms & Suites in Phuket

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Family Rooms & Suites in Karon Beach, Phuket

Plan the most memorable vacation in Phuket by staying at one of Karon Beach’s best family-friendly resorts, with family rooms and suites for everyone’s comfort.

Is Krabi or Phuket a Better Vacation Destination?

Is Krabi or Phuket a Better Vacation Destination?

We know it’s tough to choose between Phuket or Krabi. Both destinations offer so much that it's hard to pick a winner. Let us help you decide!

Phuket Best Adventure, Island, Snorkel, Scuba diving, Surf things to do

Top 12 Adventure, Island, Snorkel, Scuba diving things to do in Phuket

All the things you need to know to plan the perfect adventure-filled Phuket holiday - Islands, Scuba Diving, Surfing, Rafting, Jungle Treking

Phuket Travel Tips & Advices

Phuket Travel Tips & Advices

Tips and advices on travelling well in Phuket, staying healthy, and getting the best deals.

Family accommodation on Karon Beach with pool activities.

Quality Family Accommodation on Karon Beach

Thavorn Palm Beach Resort on Karon Beach offers some of the best family accommodation in Phuket. Find out why this resort is so special.

The Best Island to Visit in Phuket on your Next Trip!

The Best Island to Visit in Phuket on your Next Trip!

The island of Phuket is known for its white sand beaches and islands. Here’s a look at the best island to visit in Phuket!

Siphon Coffee is better in Phuket

Why Siphon Coffee is a Must Try in Phuket

This article explains the history, uniqueness, and reason why Siphon Coffee is better than most coffee.

New Year & Christmas in Phuket

Where to celebrate New Year & Christmas in Phuket?

Read on and don’t miss out on New Year and Christmas celebrations during your holiday in Phuket.

Patong Beach & Nightlife

All You Need to Know about Patong Beach & Nightlife

This article tells you all you need to know about the famous Patong beach, things to do, and nightlife.

Thrills and Spills with Watersports in Phuket

Thrills and Spills with Watersports in Phuket

Discover the wide variety of watersports you can enjoy in Phuket, and find out where the best beaches are for these activities.

Celebrity Visit and Travel Influencers at Thavorn Palm Beach Resort

Celebrity Visit and Travel Influencers Reviews

Over the years, we have received some exciting visits and travel bloggers and influencer reviews of Thavorn Palm Beach Resort. This page compiles this collection.