Things to do in Phuket and where to stay: a luxury traveller’s guide

Avista Hideaway Patong Resort & Spa Phuket – MGallery Collection offers a blend of luxury, culture, and tranquillity. Nestled on lush hillside grounds, the resort features 150 elegant rooms and suites, including the Hideaway Suite, which offers a private pool, multiple living areas, and an expansive terrace. What makes the property special is its thoughtful design inspired by Thailand’s Sukhothai heritage, infusing contemporary luxury with cultural storytelling.

Sitting on the rooftop of the resort are two Michelin Guide restaurants: Tambu Phuket, serving a theatrical Indian tasting menu, and Sizzle Rooftop, offering premium steaks, seafood, and innovative cocktails with panoramic views of Patong Hills and the Andaman Sea.

The resort’s tranquil ambience is enhanced by three unique swimming pools, an award-winning spa, and wellness programmes like yoga and Tai Chi. During my stay, I found the balance between privacy and exploration particularly captivating, whether relaxing in my suite’s serene sanctuary or wandering to one of the resort’s swimming pools or grand lobby.

Located a one-hour drive from Phuket airport, The Sarojin is a hidden gem that I recommend for anyone seeking luxury, tranquillity, and a deeply personal experience in Thailand. This 56-suite boutique resort offers a rare combination of intimacy and luxury. My days began with a la carte breakfasts served until 6pm, complete with sparkling wine, smoothie bowls, fresh juice, and pastries under a canopy of trees. I stayed in a Jacuzzi Pool Suite with a four-poster bed, an outdoor rainfall shower, and a heated Jacuzzi on a private terrace, where I enjoyed the tranquil sounds of nature beneath rustling palms. Each evening, towel art and fresh flowers awaited me, a small yet meaningful gesture that epitomised the resort’s attention to detail.

From the moment I arrived at The Sarojin, it was clear that every element was crafted with care. The staff remembered my name, anticipated my preferences, and ensured my stay felt personal and effortless. Beyond this bespoke service, the resort’s commitment to conscious travel enables guests to enjoy experiences that are luxurious yet deeply meaningful – connecting them with the surrounding nature, local culture, and community.

I experienced many unforgettable moments during my stay, from candlelit dinners beside a jungle waterfall to serene mornings on the private beach, where rainbows arched across the sky with no one else in sight.

This is a truly one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s only fitting that it takes place in the heart of Phuket, an island embraced by the shimmering waters of the Andaman Sea. From the moment I arrived at Su Va Na, everything was extraordinary with impeccable service, delightful food, and a mesmerising aquarium setting that transformed dining into something out of the ordinary.

The restaurant’s 13-course seasonal menu showcases the finest global produce alongside traditional Thai ingredients, each dish telling its own story. I was captivated by the truffle crème brûlée topped with caviar, which was a sublime balance of sweet and savoury – unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The Sorrel & Kefir gelato, inspired by Thai culture in Chiang Mai, combined kefir lassi foam, elderflower-compressed Granny Smith, and frozen cucumber in a composition of delicate, edible artistry. Each dish was intricately decorated, featuring pearls and Thai flowers, so delicate that it almost felt untouchable.

As the courses unfolded, elegant mermaids glided through the aquarium, performing an enchanting choreography alongside sharks and fish that made the entire evening feel like stepping into a dream. An unforgettable experience and one of the most unique things to do in Phuket.

For a peaceful morning, Summore Day Café is my favourite spot in Phuket. It feels like a serene escape perched above the coast with soothing sea views. Its minimalist design and outdoor terraces create the perfect setting to unwind with a fresh smoothie or tasty brunch.

You can pick your perfect spot here, whether it’s lounging on a hilltop bean bag, finding a quiet corner in private, sinking into the viewing deck, or retreating indoors to escape the midday sun. It’s the ideal place to bring a book, journal, or headphones and ease into a slow, unhurried day. I loved sitting on the deck, letting the gentle ocean breeze brush past me, surrounded by lush greenery that lifted my spirits and reminded me of the simple joys of being outdoors.

The real star here, however, is the drinks menu. From a cold brew crowned with homemade lemon cream to a refreshing iced mint chocolate, every item on the menu was unique. The food is equally delicious, with vibrant smoothie bowls, nutritious avocado on sourdough, Thai basil rice bowls, and Mexican tacos providing a menu that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. A must for any things to do in Phuket itinerary.

A day trip to the Similan Islands is the perfect way to experience Phuket’s untouched natural beauty. This pristine National Park is famed for its crystal-clear waters, powder-white beaches, and vibrant marine life. The archipelago of 11 islands is renowned as one of the world’s top diving destinations. Travelling by luxury yacht elevates the experience, featuring spacious decks, shaded lounges, and a relaxed atmosphere that replaces the rush of speedboats, making the journey comfortable and indulgent.

The two-hour journey across the Andaman Sea was pure bliss, the sun warming my skin as I sipped a refreshing drink and let the scenery unfold. Arriving at the first island, I was greeted by pearl-like beaches, turquoise waters, and striking rock formations that seemed almost unreal. I hiked to the viewpoint, where the panorama took my breath away, then cooled off with a swim in the crystalline sea. This is undoubtedly one of the most stunning beaches I have ever set eyes on, even after years of exploring the shores of Southeast Asia and Australia.

Click the button below to book a Similan Islands tour.