There is no destination quite like Thailand’s beloved Patong. With its warm beaches, bustling markets and some of the liveliest nightlife in the southern hemisphere, Patong has something for everybody. Patong is also known for having a renowned tattoo scene, frequented by tourists from all around the globe who arrive just for their next set of ink. If you’re daydreaming of your next holiday, it might be time to start thinking about catching a plane to this island paradise.
From the quirky to the quintessential, here are our favourite things to do in Phuket.
The Beaches are Unbeatable
You’ve probably heard that Thailand is home to some of the world’s best beaches, like the famously glittering Phuket Banana Beach. But have you visited its hidden gems? One of our favourite sandy destinations is Paradise Beach, a place that definitely lives up to its name. Dotted with tropical coconut trees, comfortable beach chairs, and action-packed waterfront bars, Paradise Beach is a must visit travel destination. It also plays host to the renowned Phuket Full Moon Party, which is a popular moonlit music festival that should top your Phuket must-see list. If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten track, you might like to check out Freedom Beach, Phuket. Despite being only a few short minutes from some of the most frequented destinations on the island, Freedom beach offers a rare moment of tranquillity. With its soft, warm sand and crystal clear water, this hidden escape is one of the best places to catch some peace and relaxation. Getting there can be an adventure, as the beach is only accessible by longtail boat during the high season of December to June, but we promise it’s worth it.
The Nightlife is Unmatched
Taking a stroll down Bangla Road is often cited as one of the top things to do in Phuket. Conveniently located within walking distance from the ink.inc studio, Bangla is the centre of the Patong nightlife that draws so many to the island. While it’s a relatively quiet one-way traffic strip throughout the day, Bangla Walking Street transforms when it hits twilight. And trust us – you want to see this transformation at least once. Picture winding through excited crowds of fellow revellers, hopping leisurely from one bar to the next as clubs throw their doors open to let the thrumming music spill out onto the street. It’s the kind of action you don’t want to miss. No matter what sort of nightlife takes your fancy, you’re sure to find it amongst this eclectic mix of night clubs, rooftop bars, beer bars, live music bars, sports bars and VIP lounges. You could even use it as a chance to show off your new tattoo!
There’s All Sorts of Entertainment
Fancy some after dinner entertainment? Give boxing a try. Watching locals and foreigners in a ring is near the top of our list of unusual things to do in Phuket. Muay Thai is a popular martial sport learned and practiced by many Thai children in their youth. Bangla Boxing Stadium is located just behind Jungceylon shopping mall in Patong Beach. It offers fight viewing three times per week, beginning at 9pm with the younger competitors, and progressing to the older and more advanced fighters later in the night. Our tip: book seats near the back for the best views. Ringside seats are located just below the ropes, which can sometimes make it a little bit difficult to see the action. But no matter where you end up sitting, you’re sure to find that watching Muay Thai is one of those Phuket attractions that make you feel like a local. It’s also the perfect place to get inspiration for your next Thai boxing tattoo.
Traditional Tranquillity Still has its Place
If you’re looking for a little quiet oasis amongst the hustle and bustle of Phuket, you might find it within one of the many Thai temples dotted around the island. Known by locals as Wat Suwan Khiri Wong, Patong Temple is a perfectly preserved glimpse into the Patong of old. Featuring vibrant red roofs and magnificent gold gilding, these peaceful grounds are also home to a number of traditional Buddhist monks. If you’re up early enough, you may even be able to join in the local procession of making merit – donating food or small amounts of money to the monks who walk through the village. For something even further away from the city centre, check out Doi Thepnimit, a beautiful monastic residence and Thai temple with a sweeping panoramic view of Patong beach. With its distinctive white pagoda and ornate Buddhist carvings, visiting Doi Thepnimit and admiring its craftsmanship is one of the best things to do in Phuket.
Talented Tattoo Artists Live Here
People come from all over the world to experience Thailand’s beautiful beaches, thrilling nightlife – and to get their dream tattoo. Phuket is home to several of the world’s best tattoo studios and artists who are considered industry-leading talent on a global scale. As well as inking your own custom ideas to perfection, most studios in Phuket specialise in traditional Thai tattoo designs, which means it’s the one-stop destination for your next tattoo. Locals and tourists alike take part in the island’s thriving tattoo market, sitting down to receive dragons, elephants, tigers, flowers and bamboo, among a myriad of other bespoke designs and symbols. For all the sightseeing in Phuket, you haven’t seen it all until you’ve flipped through the portfolio of Thailand’s most talented tattoo artists.
Located in the popular OTOP market, ink.inc is Patong’s new premier destination for tattoos. Featuring a wealth of talented tattoo artists from around the globe, ink.inc is dedicated to its status as a world-class studio in every aspect. This means we follow strict health and safety protocols, and put your comfort at the top of our priority list.