Best Water Attractions in Phuket

Known locally as Hat Nai Harn, this impossibly-white beach fronts a shallow lagoon between rocky headlands. The sands form a buffer between the sea in front and the Nong Han swamp behind. Swimmers and sunbathers flock here during the hot season, November to April, though swimming is not recommended here at other times due to high seas caused by the monsoon. Equipment for water sports such as windsurfing can also be hired here.

Promthep Cape is the epitome of a tropical coastal landscape. It forms the southernmost extremity of Phuket province. A rugged coastline dotted by greenery and swaying palms, and the union of a deep blue sky and sea at the horizon complete the picture of pristine beauty. This region is bathed in iridescent hues and a sense of tranquility during its famous sunsets. It also houses the nautical museum, Kanchanaphisek Lighthouse. Its balcony affords a panoramic vista of the surrounding group of islands. Visitors can also dine at numerous restaurants, the Promthep Restaurant being the most prominent for seafood.

Located 20 kilometers west of Phuket Town, Karon Beach is a classic; soft, white sand that stretches on forever and beautiful clear water, sparkling against the backdrop of verdant hills. The longest tourist-catered beach on the island, quaint beachside restaurants serve fresh seafood and other Thai delights, and there are a number of open-air bars. There are also a few good quality hotels perched in the hillside. Retail outlets sell everything from ice creams to sarongs and hammocks.

Phang Nga Bay straddles the three main districts of Krabi province, and is one of the busiest day-trip spots out of Phuket. There are two popular spots here - with its signature rocky pinnacle, James Bond Island is spectacular and was so named because 'The Man With The Golden Gun', one of the James Bond films, was shot at this island. Ko Panyi, a remarkably beautiful village, the whole of which is built over the water on stilts, is the other attraction that is perfect for a quick lunch and some souvenir shopping.

Karon View Point affords a magnificent view of the Karon, Kata and Kata Noi beaches, which lie north of it. In spite of the name, the landmark is actually located in the southern area of Kata and was formerly known as Kata View Point. At any rate, it's well worth stopping off at to survey the surrounding area and pop off a few holiday happy snaps to share with the folks back home. There's also plenty of room for motorbike parking and no admission charge, so this is an ideal place to plot if you're out sight-seeing around this part of the island. - Martin English

Freedom Beach is a remote destination that can only be accessed by boat and the bay is covered by numerous natural rock formations. Get ready to get dazzled by the clear white sand as they reflect sunlight and offer a warm bed to laze and relax in. Engage in snorkeling to marvel at the numerous underwater marine creatures which can be clearly seen at the shallow ends. Indulge in a game of beach soccer or volleyball for a memorable experience in the tranquil surroundings.

Just 38 kilometers (24 miles) to the southwest of Krabi, the picture-perfect Phi Phi Islands are the crowning glory of the Andaman Coast. Ko Phi-Phi Don and Ko Phi-Phi Leh are the two main islands, the former inhabited by beach resorts, cafes, nightclubs and souvenir shops of every stripe, while the latter is cut-off from civilization, its flawless beaches and luxuriant forests the envy of the coast. Ko Phi-Phi Don is really two islands linked by the umbilicus of a narrow isthmus, its dense forests and rugged cliffs offset by the crystal-clear waters teeming with a rich diversity of marine life. The island also boasts a star-studded nightlife offer with nightly beach parties and an exciting day-time array of thrilling watersports. Ko Phi-Phi Leh, on the other hand, is a more relaxed getaway, a tropical paradise of swaying palms, unspoiled beaches, dramatic rock formations and gently crashing waves. A few other isles form a part of Phi Phi, although they are little more than enormous rocky outcrops that jut from the sea.

Situated on the southern tip of Phuket, Kata Beach overlooks the massive Andaman Sea. It is a popular spot for tourists, as well as, locals looking to get some fresh air, take a stroll or go for a swim. At the many cafes and restaurants situated by the beach, you can relish local delicacies while watching the sun slowly set into the sea. While here, you can engage in various water sport activities as well.

This cluster of nine islands, 90 kilometers northwest of Phuket, is Thailand's premier dive destination. Diverse marine life and the colorful reef environment encourage repeat visits. The above-water marine scenery is also stunning with its crystal clear water, white sandy beaches and secluded bays framed by rocky headlands. The beauty of the islands is preserved by the lack of accommodation and the law against overnight camping. Most people visit the Similan Islands as part of a live aboard dive trip, or rent a high-powered speedboat for a day trip from Phuket.

Kalim Beach lies at the northern end of Patong Beach, separated by an outcrop of craggy rocks and boulders. The area remains relatively underdeveloped. The building growth that has occurred has been thoughtfully and carefully designed to fit into the beautiful, natural surroundings without any drastic changes to the environment. A degree of privacy prevails, unlike most of the popular tourist beach areas. The surrounding waters are known for their extensive coral reef

Located six kilometers north of Patong Beach this two-kilometre beach is one of the quietest on the island. Nearby beaches include Laem Sing and Surin, as well as several small sandy coves. The name is derived from a nearby Muslim fishing village. In the afternoons on this peaceful and picturesque beach, water buffalo can often be seen cooling off in the water. There is a large range of accommodation available and many small Thai restaurants, specializing in fresh seafood. It is also the location of Thailand's best and most famous entertainment park, FantaSea.

If all the ruckus of Phuket's bustling towns is leaving you yearning for a little bit of peace and quiet, it might be the ideal time to venture off to the tranquility of Bang Pae Waterfall. Admission prices to the park containing this natural attraction vary depending on time of day, but should not set you back more than BHT200. The best time to see the waterfall itself is after the area has experienced some rain. However, even in the dry season you can spend some time learning about endangered monkeys at the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center located on site. Jump or carefully lower yourself on in to the icy pool at the bottom of the waterfall to beat the tropical heat. - Martin English