Phuket

Phuket’s glorious beaches are, without doubt, its top drawcard. And there’s one for every type of beachgoer. Patong is long, beautiful and crowded, with a buzzing party scene that extends well into the night. Next to it is the heavenly (and much quieter) Freedom Beach, accessible only by boat or via a very steep hill. In the south, Ya Nui is renowned for great snorkelling, while Kata and Kamala host a burgeoning surf scene from May to October. At 11 kilometres, the pristine Mau Khao is the island’s longest beach and far from the madding crowds.

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Phuket is your launch pad to Phang Nga Bay, a marine wonderland that will leave you breathless. James Bond Island (Ko Tapu), which featured in 1974’s The Man with the Golden Gun, is just the start. Expect sensational diving and snorkelling, surreal rock formations and limestone cliffs, islets and caves, and even a fishing village (Koh Panyee) built on stilts over the water. There are many ways to explore Phang Nga, from traditional longtail boat and kayak tours, to charter yachts and leisurely cruises.

If you can drag yourself away from the beach, Phuket’s Old Town is well worth a wander. Characterised by bright colours, ornate detailing and old-world grandeur, its historic Sino-Portuguese architecture is one of its most charming attractions. Some mansions are abandoned, others (such as the celebrated Baan Chinpracha) have been converted into museums, while several house cafes and restaurants. Try the Blue Elephant for exquisite Royal Thai food and cooking classes, or Endless Summer for coffee and pastries.

Phuket’s first ethical elephant sanctuary provides a safe haven for sick, injured and aged elephants who’ve survived a life in the logging or tourism industries. Here, these gentle giants can be themselves: socialising together, enjoying mud baths and roaming freely through hectares of unspoiled rainforest. Fall in love with these fascinating creatures as you hear their stories and observe them in their natural habitat, following them as they wander around the grounds. You’ll also have a chance to help feed them. Who knows? You might even be inspired to join their volunteer program!

Skip the tourist buses at Cape Promthep (Phuket’s most famous sunset viewpoint) and opt for the western-facing hilltop between Ya Nui and Nai Harn beaches in the south of the island. Known as Windmill Viewpoint, due to the tall wind turbines facing out to the sea, this is the spot for panoramic coastal vistas and spectacular sunsets without the crowds.