Phuket is a popular destination for sun-seekers and beach lovers, but what if the weather is not cooperating? Don’t worry, there are still plenty of things to do on a rainy day in Phuket that will keep you entertained and happy. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy when the sky is grey and the rain is pouring.
1. Get a Spa Treatment
One of the most relaxing and indulgent things to do on a rainy day in Phuket is to get a spa treatment. Thailand is famous for its massages and wellness services, and Phuket has many options to choose from. You can pamper yourself with a traditional Thai massage, a soothing aromatherapy session, a rejuvenating facial, or a luxurious manicure and pedicure. Some of the best spas in Phuket are the Banyan Tree Spa, the Oasis Spa, and the Coqoon Spa. You can also find many affordable and convenient massage shops around the island, especially in Patong, Kata, and Karon.
2. Shop, Eat and Have Fun at Jungceylon
If you are looking for some retail therapy and entertainment, head to Jungceylon Shopping Center in Patong. This is the largest and most modern mall in Phuket, with over 200 shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can find everything from international brands to local souvenirs, from fast food to fine dining, from coffee shops to cocktail bars. Jungceylon also has a cinema, a bowling alley, a laser tag arena, an arcade, and a water park. You can easily spend hours here without getting bored.
3. Visit the Upside Down House and Maze
For something quirky and fun, check out the Upside Down House and Maze near Phuket Town. This attraction features a three-story house that is inverted, with furniture and objects hanging from the ceiling. You can walk inside and take some hilarious photos that will make you look like you are defying gravity. Next to the house is a garden maze that will challenge your sense of direction and logic. You can also try the escape rooms inside the house, where you have to solve puzzles and clues to get out within a time limit.
4. Explore Old Phuket Town
If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Phuket, take a stroll around Old Phuket Town. This area is rich in heritage and architecture, with colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, temples, museums, and art galleries. You can admire the beautiful facades of the old shophouses, visit the Thalang National Museum or the Thai Hua Museum, see some street art at Soi Romanee, or shop for antiques at Thalang Road. You can also stop by a local restaurant or cafe for some delicious food and drinks.
5. Watch a Movie
Another classic thing to do on a rainy day in Phuket is to watch a movie at one of the cinemas on the island. You can catch the latest Hollywood blockbusters or Thai films at SF Cinema City in Jungceylon or SFX Coliseum Cinema in Central Festival. Both cinemas have comfortable seats, large screens, and good sound systems. You can also opt for a VIP experience at SFX First Class Cinema, where you can watch a movie in bed with a blanket and a pillow.
6. Enjoy Some Indoor Activities
If you are feeling adventurous and energetic, you can try some indoor activities that will get your adrenaline pumping. You can go surfing at Surf House Phuket, where you can ride an artificial wave on a surfboard or a bodyboard. You can go karting at Patong Go-Kart Speedway, where you can race around a track with different levels of difficulty. You can go ziplining at Flying Hanuman, where you can glide through the rainforest canopy on cables and platforms. Or you can go bungee jumping at Jungle Bungy Jump, where you can plunge into a lagoon from a height of 50 meters.
7. Visit an Aquarium or an Animal Sanctuary
If you love animals and nature, you can visit an aquarium or an animal sanctuary on a rainy day in Phuket. You can see hundreds of marine creatures at Phuket Aquarium, where you can walk through an underwater tunnel and watch sharks, rays, turtles, and fish swim above you. You can also feed some fish at the touch pool or watch a sea turtle release program. You can also interact with some rescued animals at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, where you can feed, bathe, and walk with the gentle giants. Or you can cuddle with some furry friends at Soi Dog Foundation, where you can volunteer to help the stray dogs and cats.
8. Experience the Local Culture
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, you can visit some of the temples and shrines on the island. You can admire the stunning architecture and statues of Wat Chalong, the largest and most revered temple in Phuket. You can also see the Big Buddha, a 45-meter tall white marble statue that overlooks the island from a hilltop. You can also pay your respects at Jui Tui Shrine, a Chinese temple that hosts the famous Vegetarian Festival every year.
As you can see, there are many things to do on a rainy day in Phuket that will make your holiday memorable and enjoyable. Whether you want to relax, shop, have fun, learn, or explore, you will find something that suits your mood and interests. Don’t let the rain ruin your vacation, embrace it and discover the other side of Phuket.
Adrenaline junkie with a passion for exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations and finding unique ways to stay active. Expect stunning scenery, challenging workouts, awesome travel tips and a whole lot of fun. Let’s get sweaty and explore the world together!