Away from the beach
During the day, the beach is the centre of the action in Patong
with people relaxing, throwing a Frisbee, swimming (areas are cordoned
off to separate swimmers from water sports) or simply chatting with
new found friends...
If you're bored with being a beach bum you could hire a jeep and
explore the island, or take a local tour to Phang Nga or Phi Phi
Island. There are also eco-tours which include canoeing, elephant
trekking or snorkelling if you want more then simply sightseeing,
or visit some of the local attractions nearby.
Nearby Attractions
Within a 30 minute drive or taxi ride from Patong, are a number
of local attractions which provide an entertaining alternative to
the beach.
Phuket Butterfly Farm & Insectarium - Phuket Town
Thousands of multi-coloured butterflies fluttering on flowers and
plants with lots of info. about their butterfly life-cycles and
their vital contribution to the natural environment.
Go bug exploring next door. Super Insectarium with a large collection
of tropical insects including some scary looking beetles and a scorpion
pit.
Phuket Sea Shell Museum - Rawai
A comprehensive and increasingly valuable collection of seashells
from all over Asia. Some very rare and unusual shells are also on
display including the world's largest golden pearl, a shell that
weighs 250 kilograms and giant clams and fossils dating back 380
million years! Located in Rawai Beach, Phuket.
Thai Village and Orchid Farm - Phuket Town
Located in a tranquil, lakeside setting of an old tin mine, the
shows present a comprehensive sample Thailand's cultural life with
an emphasis on Phuket and the South. Impressive sword fighting,
bamboo fighting and Thai boxing. Also a selection of Thai dances
from every part of Thailand, an depiction of the Shrine Decoration
Ceremony, the Manorhra Dance, and the finale, a colourful Thai wedding
ceremony.
After the show, the elephants show how to handle huge teak logs
and local artisans give a demonstration of southern crafts, plus
a demonstration of tin mining and rubber tapping. The village has
restaurant pavilions, children's playground, handicraft shops and
workshops where you can buy the locally made goods. Close by the
Orchid Garden has over 40,000 beautiful orchids that may be purchased
and shipped home as gifts. Located in Sam Kong, not far from Tesco
Lotus. Two shows daily, 11 am and 5:30 pm Tickets 220 baht, children
110 Baht.
Snake Farm - Patong & Chalong
Definitely worth a visit. Fascinating and adrenaline pumping -
especially if you're on the front row! To see the snake handler
kiss a cobra on the head will take your breath away. You'll learn
a lot about snakes, find out what to do in case of a snake bite
and get to feel the squeeze of a python.
Located in Patong near the Phuket Palace Hotel, at the corner of
Soi Nanai and the road to Karon/Kata. Any tuk tuk driver or motorbike
taxi will know where it is.
Phuket Shooting Range,
also has a similar show, entertaining and in excellent English.
Follow the directions to the Phuket Shooting Range in Chalong.
Chalong Temple
Locally revered and of historical importance in the reign of King
Rama V. The temple is visited by many tourists every day.
Dino Park - Kata Village
Themed mini-golf on the Jurassic Park theme. Lots of sound and
light special effects, and well designed course with dinosaurs,
waterfalls and an erupting volcano. Best to visit in the evening
when it's cooler and you can see the full effects, especially the
the volcano. An 18 hole course. Hamburger stand with bar and music
in the evenings. Family entertainment. Green fee 200 baht for 18
holes. Located next to Marina Cottage in Kata Beach.
Kalim Beach
Kalim Beach - a continuation of Patong, around a rocky headland
at the north end, is much quieter, less developed and a little more
private. At low tide, the wide part of the beach, reveals a coral
reef - a regular haunt of local beachcombers looking for shellfish.
A few upmarket restaurants are located along the rocks giving great
views over Patong Bay. |
