Sea Safari

What a lush part of Phuket this is, favoured by arty sorts and expats for its spectacular scenery, laidback uncrowded vibe and first-rate fish and seafood. Make for local town Rawai first, to see the famed longtail boats or to hire one from the harbour, mosey around the restaurants and bars on the waterfront, or party on the beach on weekend nights at Sea Gypsy Village. As with most of Thailand's coast, diving and snorkelling are popular picks around here; you can also plunge into whitewater rafting if you're feeling adventurous, or sail off to spectacular neighbouring isles such as Coral Island and Koh Lone. The Phi Phi Islands, 50 kilometres to the east, can be accessed via boats from Phuket. Other excellent options around here include Rawai's Phuket Seashell Museum (with the world's biggest pearl) 10 minutes' drive away; island views from Big Buddha Phuket (25 minutes), or – for the truly tough – honing Muay Thai techniques at Rawai's training centre.