Phuket with Kids

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a perfect destination for families seeking an exciting and memorable vacation. With its stunning beaches, cultural landmarks, and numerous activities for kids, Phuket promises endless fun and adventure. This guide explores what makes Phuket so captivating for kids, highlighting the best attractions, parks, museums, and zoos, as well as providing practical tips on accommodation, dining, and transportation.

Why Phuket is Perfect for Families

Phuket is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of activities that cater to all ages. For kids, the island offers a wealth of adventures, from water parks and animal encounters to interactive museums and scenic hikes. The friendly locals and family-oriented services make it easy and enjoyable to travel with kids.

Best Time to Visit Phuket with Kids

The ideal time to visit Phuket with kids is during the dry season, from November to April. This period features pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and beach days. The monsoon season, from May to October, brings heavy rains and rough seas, which may limit some activities.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Phuket boasts a wide range of family-friendly accommodations, ensuring comfort and convenience for families of all sizes.

• JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa: Located on Mai Khao Beach, this resort offers spacious family suites, multiple pools, and a kids’ club, making it an excellent choice for families.
• Holiday Inn Resort Phuket: Situated at Patong Beach, this resort features a kids’ club, a children’s pool, and direct beach access, providing plenty of entertainment for young travelers.
• Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort: Nestled in the Laguna area, this resort offers activities for all ages, a kids’ club, and a large lagoon pool, ensuring a fun-filled stay.
• Katathani Phuket Beach Resort: Located at Kata Noi Beach, this resort provides family suites, a kids’ club, and several dining options, perfect for a relaxing family vacation.

Top Attractions for Kids in Phuket

Theme Parks and Water Parks

• Blue Tree Phuket: This massive water park offers a range of water slides, adventure zones, and dining options, providing a full day of family fun.
• Andamanda Phuket: A thrilling water park with slides and relaxing pools, Andamanda is a favorite among families looking for excitement.
• Splash Jungle Water Park: Featuring water rides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, Splash Jungle is ideal for cooling off and having a blast.

Zoos and Animal Attractions

• Phuket Nature Elephant Reserve: An ethical elephant reserve where kids can learn about and interact with elephants in a natural setting, providing an educational and heartwarming experience.
• Parks and PlaygroundsRawai Park: A perfect spot for younger kids, Rawai Park features playgrounds, water play areas, and a kid-friendly café, ensuring safe and fun playtime.

Museums and Educational Attractions

• Phuket Trickeye Museum: An interactive 3D art museum where kids can immerse themselves in optical illusions and creative photo opportunities.
• Phuket Aquarium: Showcasing local marine life with touch pools and educational displays, Phuket Aquarium offers a fascinating underwater adventure.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

• Kathu Waterfall: A short hike leads to beautiful cascading waterfalls, where kids can enjoy nature and splash in the water, making it a refreshing outdoor activity.
• Big Buddha: This massive statue offers panoramic views of the island, providing a cultural experience combined with a light hiking adventure.

Where and What to Eat with Kids

Phuket offers a variety of family-friendly dining options that cater to even the pickiest eaters.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

• Berliner Currywurst: Known for its delicious apple pie and friendly atmosphere, Berliner Currywurst is a hit with families.
• Big Boy’s Burger Club: Offering dry-aged Australian beef burgers, this restaurant is sure to satisfy the taste buds of young burger lovers.
• Unicorn Dreams: A whimsical café with lots of kids’ activities and colorful décor, Unicorn Dreams is a magical dining experience for kids.

Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants

• Pure Vegan Heaven: This restaurant offers healthy and delicious vegan meals that are perfect for the whole family, providing nutritious and tasty options.
• Go Vegan Rawai: With a variety of plant-based dishes in a relaxed setting, Go Vegan Rawai caters to families looking for healthy dining choices.

Getting Around Phuket

Phuket offers several convenient transportation options to make family travel easy and stress-free.

Taxis and Tuk-tuks

• Taxis: Widely available and a safe option for families. It’s important to negotiate the fare beforehand.
• Tuk-tuks: A fun and iconic way to travel short distances, adding a bit of local charm to your journey.

Rental Cars and Scooters

• Rental Cars: Ideal for exploring the island at your own pace. Ensure you have a valid international driving permit.
• Scooters: Suitable for short trips, but not recommended for young kids due to safety concerns.

E-Bikes

• Phuket City E-Bike: A safe and eco-friendly option for exploring the city, providing a fun way to see the sights.

A 7-Day Family Itinerary in Phuket

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Fun

• Morning: Arrive in Phuket and check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Kata Beach for some relaxation and sandcastle building.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

Day 2: Water Park Adventure

• Morning: Spend the day at Blue Tree Water Park, enjoying the slides and pools.
• Lunch: Dine at one of the park’s restaurants.
• Afternoon: Continue exploring the adventure zones.
• Evening: Relax in the evening with a casual dinner at a local eatery.

Day 3: Cultural Exploration and Cooking Class

• Morning: Start your day by visiting the Big Buddha and taking in the stunning views.
• Lunch: Sample the delicious local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.
• Afternoon: Engage in a family-friendly cooking class.
• Evening: Enjoy the dishes you prepared or dine at another local restaurant.

Day 4: Animal Encounters and Ice Skating

• Morning: Embark on an ethical elephant experience at Phuket Nature Elephant Reserve.
• Lunch: Have a picnic at the reserve or at a nearby café.
• Afternoon: Experience the thrill of ice skating at Ice Arena Phuket.
• Evening: Relish a delectable dinner at a popular family restaurant.

Day 5: Beach and Hiking

• Morning: Relax at Banana Beach, taking pleasure in the crystal-clear waters and soft sand.
• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic on the beach.
• Afternoon: Take a hike to Kathu Waterfall and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
• Evening: Unwind over dinner at a cozy restaurant.

Day 6: Market Day and Cultural Activities

• Morning: Explore Phuket Walking Street Market to discover local crafts and snacks.
• Lunch: Savor street food at the market.
• Afternoon: Visit a cultural museum or participate in another cooking class.
• Evening: Delight in a family dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Day 7: Adventure and Departure

• Morning: Have some final fun at Youtopia Ride and Play Park.
• Lunch: Dine at a café or restaurant in the vicinity.
• Afternoon: Engage in some last-minute shopping at Boat Avenue Market.
• Evening: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Tourists

• Bring light, comfortable clothing and plenty of swimwear.
• Ensure everyone drinks plenty of water, especially during outdoor activities.
• Apply sunscreen regularly and wear hats and sunglasses.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples and other cultural sites.
• Always wear helmets when biking or riding scooters and adhere to local safety guidelines.
• Make advance bookings for activities and accommodations, particularly during peak seasons.