Exploring Phuket: Exciting Activities Near The Airport

what to do around phuket airport

Phuket International Airport is one of the busiest airport complexes in Thailand, serving millions of domestic and international travellers every year. The airport is located in the north of the island, about 50 minutes by car from Phuket City, and offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea. If you're looking for things to do around Phuket Airport, there are plenty of options to choose from. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, including Mai Khao Beach, Bang Tao Beach, and Nai Yang Beach, offering pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. For those seeking adventure, the Splash Jungle Water Park provides an array of exciting slides, pools, and attractions for all ages. Additionally, Phuket is home to several cultural and natural attractions, including national parks, ethical elephant sanctuaries, and speedboat tours to the Phi Phi Islands. With its diverse range of dining options, both within the airport and across the island, Phuket caters to every taste and budget.

Characteristics Values
Location Phuket, Thailand
Elevation 25 meters above sea level
Distance from Phuket City 50 minutes by car
Number of Terminals 3
Airlines Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Bangkok Airways, Etihad Airways, Air China, Hainan Airlines, China Eastern Airlines
Attractions National parks, beaches, guided tours of ethical elephant sanctuaries, Phi Phi Islands, Mai Khao Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Splash Jungle Water Park
Dining Options Yellow Orchid Restaurant, Bill Bentley Pub, food court in the domestic terminal

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Explore the Phi Phi Islands by boat, including snorkelling and swimming

Phuket province, located in southern Thailand, is known for its stunning beaches and seascapes. Phuket International Airport, one of the busiest airport complexes in Thailand, is a gateway to these attractions. Exploring the Phi Phi Islands by boat is a popular activity for visitors to Phuket.

The Phi Phi Islands are a perfect place to explore by boat, especially since the main island's jungled mountains make it challenging to traverse on foot. The smaller surrounding islands, like Ko Phi Phi Lee and the uninhabited Bamboo Island, are also a big draw for visitors.

There are several options for boat tours of the Phi Phi Islands, including speedboat and catamaran tours. These tours typically include opportunities for snorkelling and swimming at various locations around the islands. One of the most famous areas of the Phi Phi Islands is Maya Bay, the location for Leonardo DiCaprio's movie "The Beach". However, due to over-tourism, the bay has been closed indefinitely to allow for a clean-up operation and can only be viewed from the water. Another great snorkelling spot is Lo Sama Bay, which is known for its rich corals. Wang Long Bay, located on the main island of Phi Phi Don, is also a beautiful spot to visit by boat, with a lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs and a small beach that appears at low tide.

For those interested in snorkelling, Phi Lay Lagoon, separated from Maya Bay by a sheer limestone cliff, offers crystal clear azure waters that are shallow and warm. It is one of the best snorkelling spots in Phi Phi, with no coral or snagging hazards. Long Beach on Phi Phi Don is also excellent for swimming and snorkelling, even during low tide. If you're looking for a more exclusive experience, private boat tours are available, allowing you to customise your itinerary and explore hidden spots that are not included in typical group tours.

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Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary and learn about the rescued elephants

Phuket, Thailand, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and seascapes. Phuket International Airport, located about 20 miles north of downtown Phuket, is a hub for travellers visiting the island's attractions.

One such attraction is the opportunity to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary and learn about the rescued elephants. The Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve (PENR) is an accredited and sustainable elephant sanctuary located on the west coast of the island. It offers a half-day ethical elephant experience, where visitors can feed, meet, and observe the rescued elephants in a natural and stress-free environment. PENR prioritises elephant welfare and follows strict guidelines for nutrition and veterinary care, and it has won awards for its practices.

The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket is another ethical elephant sanctuary in Phuket that offers a range of flexible programs, including feeding, showering, and observing elephants. They also offer a signature half-day program that provides a unique opportunity to interact with the elephants.

The Phuket Elephant Sanctuary has also been recommended by visitors for its excellent experience and focus on elephant welfare. This sanctuary is not located on Phuket Island but is still easily accessible by car.

These ethical elephant sanctuaries provide an opportunity to learn about the daily routines and stories of rescued elephants while enjoying a genuine connection with these intelligent and emotional creatures.

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Relax at the Splash Jungle Water Park, with slides and a wave pool

Phuket International Airport is located on the beautiful island of Phuket, which is renowned for its stunning seascapes and incredible rural sites. It is one of the busiest airport complexes in Thailand, serving millions of domestic and international travellers annually.

If you're looking for a fun and relaxing day out near the airport, Splash Jungle Water Park is the place to be. Located on Mai Khao Beach, just next to Phuket International Airport, this popular water park offers a range of exciting attractions, including:

  • A wave pool
  • A 335-metre-long lazy river
  • The Super Bowl: a spinning funnel slide
  • Boomerango: a vertical wall slide
  • A 6-lane whizzard
  • A family raft ride
  • An aqua play pool and aqua park for kids

The water park provides cool beverages and tasty energizing bites, including pizza, salads, burgers, and light snacks. It is open daily from 10:00 to 17:45 hrs.

Splash Jungle Water Park is a great option for families, with something for everyone. It offers a relaxing day in the water or an adrenaline rush on the slides. The park is clean and safe, with plenty of lifeguards and sun loungers. There are also restaurants and a pool bar where you can enjoy a drink or a bite to eat.

So, if you're looking for a fun day out near Phuket Airport, head to Splash Jungle Water Park for an enjoyable and refreshing experience.

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Enjoy the local cuisine at the Yellow Orchid Restaurant or Bill Bentley Pub

If you're looking to grab a bite near Phuket Airport, the Yellow Orchid Restaurant and Bill Bentley Pub are two great options. Both are conveniently located within the airport complex, offering easy access for travellers.

The Yellow Orchid Restaurant, affiliated with Thai Airways Catering, is an ideal spot to savour authentic Thai cuisine. It boasts spectacular views of the runway and the Andaman Sea, providing a unique dining experience. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Thai dishes, including the classic Mango Sticky Rice, a favourite among travellers. The Thai Iced Milk Tea is also a popular choice, known for its rich and sweet flavour. With reasonable prices, the Yellow Orchid Restaurant provides a delightful taste of Thailand before you depart or after your arrival.

On the other hand, if you're craving a more familiar atmosphere, the Bill Bentley Pub delivers an authentic British pub experience in the heart of Phuket. As the only pub in north Phuket, it offers a family-friendly setting with a diverse menu featuring traditional pub grub, famous Thai dishes, and even Mexican favourites. The pub is renowned for its selection of beers, including bottled, draft, local, and imported varieties, ensuring there's a tipple to suit every taste. With sports on the big screens and a lively atmosphere, Bill Bentley's is a great place to unwind and socialise.

Whether you're seeking a taste of Thailand or a cosy pub experience, the Yellow Orchid Restaurant and Bill Bentley Pub offer distinct culinary adventures. Their convenient location within the airport makes them easily accessible, ensuring you can maximise your time and enjoy a memorable dining experience during your transit or stay in Phuket.

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Stay at the So Luna Airport Hostel, with clean rooms and a cosy atmosphere

If you're looking for a place to stay near Phuket Airport, the So Luna Airport Hostel could be the perfect choice for you. With clean rooms, a cosy atmosphere, and a convenient location, it's an excellent option for travellers.

The hostel is just a short walk from the airport, making it an ideal spot for those arriving or departing from Phuket Airport. It offers a nice swimming pool and a great kitchen and common area for guests to relax and socialise. The staff are known for being incredibly helpful, kind, and friendly, ensuring your stay is as comfortable as possible. The dorms and shared living spaces are well-maintained and clean, providing a pleasant environment for guests.

The So Luna Airport Hostel is also committed to sustainability and social impact. They have introduced practices that positively impact the environment and the local community, contributing to a more sustainable future. This includes providing free bikes for guests to explore the nearby Sirinat National Park and Nai Thon beach, located just a short ride from the hostel.

The surrounding area boasts a variety of attractions, including a national beach park, restaurants, massage shops, street food stalls, and convenience stores. For those seeking a more relaxed stay, the hostel offers chilled environments with social BBQs and a great in-house restaurant. Phuket's famous beaches, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife are also within easy reach.

Whether you're looking for a place to stay before or after your flight, or as a base to explore Phuket, the So Luna Airport Hostel provides a clean, comfortable, and welcoming environment for travellers seeking convenience and a cosy atmosphere.

Frequently asked questions

Some attractions near Phuket Airport include Mai Khao Beach, Bang Tao Beach, and the Splash Jungle Water Park.

You can go snorkelling, kayaking, or take a boat cruise. You can also visit an ethical elephant sanctuary, where you can learn about the stories and daily routines of rescued elephants.

There are various dining options available at Phuket Airport, including local and foreign cuisines at the food court in the domestic terminal. Outside the airport, there are several seafood restaurants on Mai Khao Beach where you can enjoy authentic Thai food and a beautiful sunset.

There are various accommodation options near Phuket Airport, including hostels, bed and breakfasts, and resorts. The So Luna Airport Hostel is a great option if you want to stay near the airport and enjoy relaxing beach days.

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