When it comes to Thailand, what’s the first place you think of? I bet it’s Bangkok. How about the second? Phuket, am I right? I’ll be surprised if you answer otherwise. Phuket seems to be every traveler’s dream paradise. Its soft sand, white beach, beautiful sea, great massage… you name it. At least that’s what most travelers perceived it to be. But is Phuket worth visiting really? Let me debunk the myth for you!

Where is Phuket?

Phuket lies off the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. It’s around 1.5 hour flight from Bangkok. Many travelers come here for the beautiful white sand beach and clear sea water. With the influx of tourists, the island is now home to many high-end seaside resorts, spas and restaurants.

Does Phuket really have white sand and clear sea?

The sand is still white, but sadly, the sea is definitely not crystal clear. The most famous beach Patong Beach especially is rather brown and earthy. To set your expectation right, don’t expect Hawaii kind of quality when you visit Phuket.

Of course you will still be able to find clear water, but you will need to travel out of Phuket island. Many travellers will go to Phi Phi Island, the super-star island that has been featured in movies. I went there a few years back, and the scenery was great. That’s why many people still head to Phuket so that they can do island hopping.

So is Phuket worth visiting?

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying that you shouldn’t visit Phuket. There are still many beautiful attractions inside Phuket, just not the beach. To me, Phuket is a heaven for viewpoints. Below are the few viewpoint you shouldn’t miss to get the best out of Phuket.

1. WINDMILL VIEWPOINT

Windmill Viewpoint is located between Ya Nui and Nai Harn beaches in south Phuket. Not far from Cape Phromthep, it has several tall, slim white windmills facing out to sea that look like airplane propellers. This hilltop viewpoint features west coast vistas similar to Phromthep, but is quieter.