Experience Phuket: What to Do Before or After Your Similan Island Liveaboard
Thailand Travel Series: Discover Phuket with MV DiveRACE Class X
For many divers, a Similan Islands liveaboard is the ultimate underwater experience, and it absolutely is. But the journey doesn’t have to start or end with diving. Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, offers a perfect prelude or finale to your liveaboard adventure with MV DiveRACE Class X. From tranquil beaches and vibrant culture to luxurious resorts and mouthwatering cuisine, Phuket has something for every kind of traveler.
Whether you’re winding down after a week of diving or preparing for your departure, this guide helps you discover the best places to stay and things to do in Phuket to elevate your Similan adventure.
Why Phuket?
Located in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is well-connected with direct international flights via Phuket International Airport (HKT). It’s the main gateway to the Similan Islands and easily accessible for both domestic and international guests.
With 543 square kilometers of diverse terrain, including beaches, hills, forests, and cultural hubs, it’s a great place to explore before or after boarding the MV DiveRACE Class X.
Best Areas to Stay in Phuket
Kata Beach
Many divers choose to stay in Kata Beach, a scenic spot on Phuket’s southwest coast known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent balance between comfort and convenience. Kata offers a stunning white-sand beach, perfect for swimming or catching a sunset. The area is dotted with cafes, boutique stores, and restaurants serving both Thai and international cuisine.
Top Stays in Kata:
The SIS Kata – Modern, scenic, and close to the beach with a stunning rooftop pool.
Chanalai Garden Resort – Spacious rooms and an ideal location for exploring.
Mom Tri’s Villa Royale – Boutique Thai luxury nestled in lush gardens with private beach access.
Karon Beach
Just a few minutes north of Kata lies Karon Beach, one of the longest stretches of beach in Phuket. Karon is a favorite among those who want easy beach access without the busy nightlife of Patong. The beach here is perfect for morning walks or sunset swims. Karon’s central location means it’s easy to explore nearby attractions while staying in a more tranquil setting.
Top Stays in Karon:
Mandarava Resort and Spa – Villas in a tropical hillside setting with multiple infinity pools.
Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket – Luxury beachfront stay with resort-style amenities.
Phunawa Resort – Family-friendly suites perfect for longer stays.
Rawai
If you’re looking for a slower pace and a more local vibe, Rawai in the south of Phuket is an excellent choice. Known for its quiet coastal roads, working fishing villages, and easy access to small offshore islands, Rawai is ideal for travelers who prefer to avoid tourist crowds. The Rawai Seafood Market offers a unique dining experience – choose your seafood from local stalls and have it cooked fresh at one of the adjacent restaurants. You can also take a longtail boat out to Coral Island or Bon Island for a day of snorkeling and sunbathing.
Top Stays in Rawai:
Rawai Palm Beach Resort – Mid-range comfort near the beach.
Serenity Resort & Residences – Private suites and villas with sea views.
Navatara Phuket Resort – Boutique Thai-style hotel with warm hospitality.
Bonus: Rawai has many beautiful Airbnb villas for privacy and longer stays.
Phuket Town (Old Town)
For those interested in culture and history, Phuket Town is the perfect base before or after your liveaboard. The Old Town area is rich with Sino-Portuguese architecture, vibrant street art, and an exciting mix of traditional markets and trendy cafes. It’s a place where the old meets the new, where you can spend the day wandering through colorful alleyways, visiting museums, or simply enjoying a local iced coffee in a heritage building. Phuket Town also offers easy access to shopping malls, cinemas, and authentic Thai cuisine.
Top Stays in Phuket Town:
Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel – Elegant rooms in a restored colonial house.
The Memory at On On Hotel – The island’s oldest hotel with historic charm.
Hotel Verdigris – Upscale, design-forward boutique hotel with rooftop views.
Nai Harn Beach
Another stunning area to consider is Nai Harn, located on the southern tip of the island. With its calm turquoise bay and lush green hills, Nai Harn Beach remains a favorite for those seeking tranquility. It’s a great place to swim, paddleboard, or simply relax away from the busier west coast beaches. A short walk away lies Ya Nui Beach, a small and picturesque cove perfect for snorkeling.
Top Stays in Nai Harn:
The Nai Harn – Luxurious cliffside resort with panoramic bay views.
Nai Harn Beach Resort – Affordable, modern, and a short walk from the beach.
Sunsuri Phuket – Stylish hillside resort with large pools and wellness amenities.
Getting to Your Liveaboard
From anywhere in Phuket, DiveRACE organizes seamless transfers to Thap Lamu Pier, near Khao Lak, typically a 2.5 to 3-hour drive. Just sit back and relax as your diving adventure begins or ends in comfort.
What to Do in Phuket
Traditional Thai Massage & Spa
After or before days of diving, treat your body to a Thai massage or spa session. Options range from beachside massage huts to upscale wellness spas in Kata, Karon, and Rawai.
We recommend trying Kim’s Massage and Spa (they have many outlets in Phuket) for its professional masseurs and value services!
Temples and Viewpoints
Wat Chalong: Phuket’s most important Buddhist temple.
Promthep Cape and Windmill Viewpoint: Both offer scenic lookouts and stunning sunsets.
Island-Hopping and Snorkeling
From Rawai, hop on a traditional longtail boat to Coral Island or Bon Island for a relaxing beach day with clear waters and vibrant reefs.
Food Scene: Thai and International
Phuket is a paradise for food lovers:
Savor bold Southern Thai cuisine, rich with spices and fresh seafood.
Enjoy beachfront grills or romantic dinners at sunset.
Explore Phuket Old Town’s trendy cafes and night markets.
And don’t worry, the gourmet experience continues onboard MV DiveRACE Class X with our chef-curated meals.
Nightlife
Patong Beach: The nightlife capital, home to Bangla Road, nightclubs, and beach parties.
Kata & Karon: More laid-back beach bars and casual live music venues.
Phuket Town: Trendy cocktail bars, speakeasies, and weekend night markets for a local vibe.
Make It a Complete Journey
Phuket is much more than a transit point to the Similan Islands. Whether you’re relaxing in Nai Harn, soaking up culture in Old Town, or enjoying seafood in Rawai, it’s the perfect way to enhance your trip with MV DiveRACE Class X.
Want to Explore More?
Thinking of extending your Thailand holiday? Take a look at the rest of our Thailand Travel Series, featuring insider tips and top destinations across Southern Thailand – Khao Lak and Phang Nga and Khao Sok. Make the most of your journey, both above and below the surface.
