Phuket Leisure

Phuket is ideal for lovers of water sports. Many of the more popular sporting activities centre on the sea. Sailing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, jet-skiing and parasailing are just some of the many water activities that can be enjoyed on the island. Water sports aren’t the only sports to be enjoyed here, however. Activities inland include Thai kick boxing, trekking, elephant riding, adventure activities, cycling and shooting.

Water sports

The Andaman Sea is one of the calmest and clearest seas in the world. It is a big attraction for tourists who arrive to take advantage of the abundance of water sports on offer. There are several mooring areas to be found on the island and a large number of yachting and boating clubs. For those interested in boats, it is possible to have sailing lessons and trips, dinner cruises, fishing trips and sea kayaking.

It is also possible to scuba dive and snorkel, one way of experiencing the beauty of the Andaman Sea. Jet-skis are available for hire from Patong Beach and a trip on a banana boat is always fun-filled and great for children and adults alike. Parasailing is also an option for those who aren’t afraid of heights and who want a bird’s eye view of the beach.

Thai kick boxing

Muay Thai is the ancient martial art of Thailand and was used hundreds of years ago by warriors to protect the kingdom from invaders. Today, muay Thai has gained international recognition as one of the most valuable fighting styles in the world. Men and women from across the world visit Phuket to train in this martial art. It is very physically demanding and the training is rigorous. Muay Thai gyms can be found in Rawai, Chalong and Phuket Town, and everyone is welcome.

Adventure activities

Phuket is home to many beautiful tropical rainforests as well as its world-famous coastline, and there are several ways to enjoy these surroundings. Elephant trekking is a wonderful way to experience Thailand’s forests. You will see everything from a different perspective when you are perched astride a pachyderm. ATVs are another popular way to see the, less-visited, inner forests. Four-wheeled ATVs are simple to operate and can go virtually anywhere. Guided tours are available to take you through rubber plantations, over hills and to secluded beaches.

If you are looking to get your adrenaline pumping, the Jungle Bungee Jump in Kathu is a must. This is the only licensed bungee jump operator in Thailand and the only insured operator in all of Asia. If however, you like to keep your feet firmly on the ground, Phuket’s shooting range in Chalong is the perfect place to visit if you want to have a go with a gun. The staff are very helpful and friendly, and the range is safe and fun for all of the family.

Shopping

Shopping anywhere in Thailand is an experience that you will never forget. Shopping in Phuket will allow you to pick up some traditional souvenirs at a very reasonable price. While you may not find the variety of handicrafts seen in Northern Thailand and Bangkok, Phuket offers silks and cottons, ready-to-wear and custom made clothing, leather goods, jewellery, ceramics and antiques as well as an impressive range of home décor products and furniture.

Silk is a common sight at Phuket’s markets, as is cheap clothing, handicrafts, jewellery and local food. There are markets all across the island and a number of night bazaars aimed purely at tourists. These can be found largely in Patong. Shopping can be great fun, although you will need to get your bargaining hat on as some bartering is required before a price can be agreed.