Fly into Phuket and base in Patong or Kata for the whole week. Day two is a Phi Phi Islands snorkelling trip, day three a longtail cruise through Phang Nga Bay to James Bond Island, day four a quieter…
Pre-book a transfer or use the airport limousine desk. The ride to Kata or Patong takes 45 to 60 minutes, and fixed-price desks are cheaper than the unlicensed drivers who approach inside arrivals.
The bay faces west, so the evening light is best from the northern end. Swim between the flags, check the red-flag board, and rinse off at the free showers behind the sand.
Choose a restaurant with a displayed price per kilo and ask for the fish grilled with garlic. Expect to pay by weight rather than per plate, and confirm before it goes to the kitchen.
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Beach resort hotels, 5 nights
Grilled lobster, pineapple fried rice, tom yum and coconut smoothies
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November to February is the dry cool season, with calm Andaman Sea conditions and reliable boat trips. The May to October monsoon brings rough water, red-flag swimming bans and cancelled cruises. March and April are hot but still usually swimmable if you accept afternoon heat.
Patong has the widest choice of restaurants, nightlife and tour pickup points, but it is the busiest. Kata and Karon are quieter and better for families and couples. Both give easy access to the Phi Phi and Phang Nga piers, so pick based on how much nightlife you want.
In the November to February high season, book at least a few days ahead, and a week or more for speedboat or small-group cruises. Book through a reputable operator that confirms weather cancellation and refund terms. Avoid the cheapest pier touts if you want a smaller boat and real snorkelling time.
It depends on your passport. Many Western passports currently enter Thailand visa-free for short tourism stays, but the rules were revised in September 2026 and the previous 60-day exemption ended. Check the Thailand visa section and Thai embassy guidance for your nationality, and confirm your return ticket meets entry requirements.
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