From beach hopping to elephant encounters and lots of great food in between, you won’t be disappointed with your options when you travel to Phuket with kids! This will be your ultimate guide to exploring Phuket with kids, whether you’re looking for beachside activities or an action-packed adventure, we’re covering something for the whole family. Get ready for a wonderful trip filled with sunshine, sand, and sea. Pack your bags and let’s get ready to explore Phuket!
Things to Know Before Your Trip To Phuket Thailand With Kids
Phuket is a tropical paradise, but it’s important to be prepared before you embark on your family vacation. Here are some important things to know before your trip to Phuket with kids:
Safety
Phuket is generally a safe destination, but it’s always important to take precautions. Make sure to keep an eye on your children at all times, especially in crowded areas. Also, be cautious when swimming in the ocean and always follow signs and lifeguard instructions.
Health and Vaccinations
Be sure to check with your doctor about any necessary vaccinations before traveling to Phuket. Additionally, pack a first aid kit with essential medications, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
Here’s what we typically travel with in our “Just in Case Bag”.
Currency and Payments
The currency in Phuket is the Thai Baht. It’s a good idea to carry cash with you, as some places may not accept credit cards like the local markets. ATMs are widely available, but be mindful of potential fees and exchange rates. Using the ATM’s attached to a bank are usually the safest choice. Carrying a good travel credit card still has lots of benefits and the fees are typically lower than pulling out cash.
Here are our Top 6 Favorite Travel Credit Cards.
Check out the cost of an average day here:
Language
Thai is the official language in Phuket, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. However, it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases or carry a translation app to navigate conversations with locals.
Here’s some ideas on fun ways to teach kids a new language.
Dress Code
While Phuket is a tourist-friendly destination, it’s important to respect the local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites. Pack lightweight and breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the hot and humid weather.
Here’s what we packed for a 3 months trip to Southeast Asia:
@mrsblinks 1 bag done… only 4 more to go!! I still cant believe we get to go on this bucket list trip 🥹🥹🥹 #packwithme #travelwithkids #packwiththeblinks #familytraveltips ♬ Paper Birds (3 min) – Jordan Halpern Schwartz
Climate
Phuket has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather year-round. Pack lightweight clothing, hats, and sunscreen to protect your family from the sun. Also, be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially during the rainy season from May to October.
Cultural Etiquette
Thai people are known for their friendly and polite nature. It’s important to be respectful and avoid public displays of affection. Removing your shoes before entering someone’s home or a sacred space is customary.
Beach Safety
Phuket’s beaches are absolutely beautiful but can have strong currents and rough waves. Always swim in designated areas with lifeguards on duty and teach your children about water safety. When there are flags displayed about currents and swimming conditions, please take them seriously!
Food and Water
The food in Phuket is delicious, but it’s important to be cautious about where and what you eat. Stay away from drinking tap water and be sure that you know where the ice is being made. Always be careful eating fruits and raw vegetables, as they can sometimes be washed with tap water.
Transportation in Phuket Thailand With Kids
Phuket has a variety of transportation options, including taxis, tuk-tuks, and motorbike rentals. Keep in mind that you can and should negotiate prices and clarify fares before getting in a taxi or hiring a motorbike. Grab is an excellent mobile taxi app that is very popular in Phuket.
Where to Stay in Phuket Thailand With Kids
Arinara Resort (Bang Tao Beach)
This is where we stayed and it was perfect! This resort does such a good job of keeping families in mind. They have great pools for adults and kids, an outdoor playground, arcade, a kids pool, and indoor play place. There are poolside cabanas at affordable prices and a swim up pool bar. They have a great breakfast buffet with excellent choices for kids as well. You can also opt for a floating breakfast swim outside of your room. Overall it was a great stay and a beautiful property with lots of water and fun!
Book your Stay at Arinara Resort HERE
JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa (Mai Khao Beach)
This resort is renowned for its generous spaces, child-friendly features, and charming seaside locale. It provides a wealth of activities for both grown-ups and little ones, including a children’s club and a number of swimming pools.
Book your stay at the JW Marriott HERE
Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket (Karon Beach)
Located at Karon Beach, this resort is the perfect destination for families; boasting a water park, a kids’ club, and many fun activities. In addition to these amenities, guests can enjoy spacious accommodations and delicious dining options.
Book your stay at the Centara Grand Beach Resort HERE
Angsana Laguna Phuket (Bang Tao Beach)
Nestled on Bang Tao Beach, this resort will provide an enchanting and restful getaway for the whole family! With a wide selection of amenities on offer, such as a kids’ club, water sports, and an adventure-themed pool area, everyone in the family is sure to have fun!
Book your stay at Angsana Laguna HERE.
Holiday Inn Resort Phuket (Patong Beach)
The resort, located in Patong Beach, is the perfect choice for a family vacation. With a “Kids Stay & Eat Free” policy, a kids’ club, and a family-friendly pool area, there are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Plus, Patong’s great shopping and entertainment options are nearby.
Book your stay at the Holiday Inn Resort HERE
Katathani Phuket Beach Resort (Kata Beach)
This resort, situated on Kata Beach, provides an array of accommodation choices ideal for families. It boasts six swimming pools, a kids’ club, and a tranquil waterfront setting.
Book your stay at Katathani Beach Resort HERE
Novotel Phuket Resort (Patong)
This resort has a modern and fun design, perfect for families with children. It has a kids’ club and a lagoon-style pool, and is situated near the beach.
Book your stay at Novotel Phuket Resort HERE
Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa (Merlin Beach)
This resort provides ample accommodations for families, featuring a kids’ club, multiple swimming pools, and direct access to Merlin Beach. Additionally, it offers a range of other amenities.
Book your stay at Marriott Merlin Beach HERE
The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa (Phuket Town)
This resort offers a variety of family-friendly services and amenities such as a kids’ club, a spa, and multiple swimming pools, all with breathtaking views of the ocean.
Book your stay at The Westin Siray Bay HERE
Where to Eat in Phuket Thailand With Kids
Ma Doo Bua Cafe
Ma Doo Bua Cafe Phuket Thailand is about a 20 minute taxi ride from Arinara Resort. It’s a newly opened cozy and relaxing cafe located on the street of Phuket Town. The cafe offers a variety of coffee, tea, and refreshing drinks, as well as a selection of sandwiches, burgers and other various food. The most popular item on their menu is their signature “shrimp burger”. They also offer a variety of fresh pastries and snacks, in addition to ice cream and dessert.
The coolest part about this cafe is the giant lilly pads! You can take your own pictures, but if you want pictures and drone footage taken on the longtail from above, you’ll have to pay. Mos things in Thailand are inexpensive, but it was a little pricey for these photos. It was around $70 for drone footage and a few high resolution photos, but totally worth it in my opinion!
Take it from us, don’t go in the middle of the day because it’s super hot and hard to enjoy the experience. You don’t have to eat there to have photos taken, but they do have great food and drink options!
Check out this video for some more insight:
Cafe de Bangtao
Cafe de Bangtao is a unique family owned cafe located in Bangtao Beach. They specialize in freshly brewed artisanal coffee from beans sourced locally and from all over the world, as well as a selection of homemade cakes and pastries. Outdoor seating is available, allowing yoou to take in the beauty of the beautiful Bangtao beach and the soothing ocean waves nearby. They have good prices, a good kids menu, and other choices, with takeout available as well.
The Lazy Coconut
The Lazy Coconut is a beachfront restaurant that offers a unique dining experience, with its laid-back and inviting atmosphere. It has a great vibe and we loved the decor. The menu includes Thai and international dishes, as well as an array of seafood specialties. They had healthy options that were delicious, but a little pricey. The Lazy Coconut is a great spot for a relaxing dinner or an afternoon snack and the perfect place for photos. You can also rent a teepee for a beach picnic!
The Beach @ Arinara Resort (Bang Tao Beach)
This restaurant in the resort we stayed in has authentic Thai food as well as some other choices. It’s beachfront dining so you enjoy a beautiful view during your meal. They also have live music.
The Beach Bar & Restaurant (Karon Beach)
This beachfront restaurant is ideal for families, offering a laid-back atmosphere and a menu that meets everyone’s needs – from Thai to global cuisine. Parents can relax and enjoy their meals while children play on the beach.
Acqua Restaurant (Kalim Beach)
Acqua is renowned for its Italian food and offers a child-friendly atmosphere, with a special menu for the little ones. Taking in the stunning beachscapes while dining here makes for a truly remarkable experience.
Dino Park Mini Golf & Restaurant (Kata Beach)
This restaurant boasts a one-of-a-kind mini-golf course based on dinosaurs, making it an instant hit with the young ones. Additionally, it offers a combination of Thai and Western meals to appeal to all ages.
EAT. Bar & Grill (Patong Beach)
This restaurant is perfect for the whole family with its delightful selection of cuisines and amiable staff. From burgers to Thai classics, diners can enjoy a vast choice of meals in a lively and contemporary setting.
The Green Man Pub (Chalong)
This British pub has a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for families. You can find hearty pub fare on the menu and there’s a dedicated play area for kids, complete with a playground.
Kan Eang @ Pier (Chalong Bay)
This restaurant, located right on the waterfront, offers a selection of seafood, Thai food, and global dishes. The tranquil atmosphere and refreshing ocean breeze make it an ideal spot for a family gathering.
Mor Mu Dong (Phuket Town)
This charming eatery in Phuket Town is renowned for its authentic Thai cuisine, making it a great destination for families who want to sample authentic local flavors and get a taste of the local culture.
Café del Mar (Kamala Beach)
Families looking to relax can head to this beach club and restaurant, renowned for its laid-back atmosphere. Perfect for spending a day in the sun, it offers a beachfront setting and cozy lounge areas, as well as an expansive menu of food and drinks.
Rustic Eatery & Bar (Rawai Beach)
This restaurant is perfect for a family gathering, as it offers a cozy atmosphere and a variety of both Thai and international cuisines. All of the dishes are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Bang Pae Seafood (Thalang)
Situated near the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project, this seafood restaurant is a great place for families to enjoy fresh seafood dishes while surrounded by lush nature.
Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket (Thalang)
This eatery boasts a variety of flavors, from Thai to Asian to worldwide. It is widely respected for its hospitable ambiance and spectacular vistas of the lagoon.
Acqua Restaurant (Kathu)
For a peaceful and hospitable experience, visit the Italian restaurant on Kalim Beach. They offer an array of dining options, including a special menu for children, featuring dishes such as pasta, pizza, and seafood.
Kata Rocks Clubhouse (Kata Beach)
Perched atop Kata Beach, this eatery is perfect for a family outing. Not only does it provide a variety of Thai and international dishes, there’s also a specialized menu for kids. What’s more, the stunning ocean views and modern setting provide an unforgettable dining experience.
The Kitchen Table (Kathu)
This restaurant is perfect for the whole family! Not only does it offer an array of international cuisines, but its open kitchen concept is sure to captivate any child’s attention. No matter what your taste, you are sure to find something you love!
Blue Elephant (Old Phuket Town)
Blue Elephant is an ideal choice for families who want to enjoy genuine Thai food in a pleasant ambience. Not only that, but they have classes in cooking available to both children and adults, allowing everyone to gain insight into the Thai culinary culture.
What to See in Phuket Thailand With Kids
Phuket is a vibrant destination that offers a wide range of attractions and sights for families to explore. When visiting Phuket with kids, there are several must-see places that should be on your itinerary.
Big Buddha
This iconic towering statue is 35 minutes from Bangtao beach and has great views of the ocean and city. Be sure to cover your knees and shoulders and don’t carry any snacks with you because of the monkeys.
Book your Tour for Big Buddha, Karon View Point and Wat Chalong Temple HERE
Wat Chalong Temple
One of Phuket’s most important Buddhist temples, where you can admire intricate architecture and learn about Thai culture and spirituality. These temples are gorgeous and on the way to and from Big Buddha.
Book your Tour of Wat Chalong and Big Buddha HERE
AR Trickeye Museum
Immerse yourself in an underwater journey at Phuket’s best aquarium. Over 25,000 animals and friendly staff help to learn more about the wonders of the ocean. Tricky Museum is an interactive and mind-bending art exhibit that the kids are sure to love!
Book your Trickeye Museum Tickets HERE
Phuket Old Town
With its colorful buildings, vibrant street art, and local markets, you and your family will love old town. Explore the charming streets, indulge in delicious street food, and soak up the rich cultural heritage of the island.
Book your Cultural Tour of Old Town Phuket HERE
Take a boat trip to the stunning Phi Phi Islands
With crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, this island paradise is a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With so much to see and do, your family will create unforgettable memories while exploring the wonders of the Phi Phi islands.
Book your Full Day Tour of Phi Phi Island HERE
What to Do in Phuket Thailand With Kids
Phuket is a paradise for families, offering a wide range of exciting activities that will keep both kids and adults entertained. Here are some top family-friendly activities that you must try during your visit to Phuket.
Bang Tao Beach and Surfing Lessons
This beach is great for families and the perfect place if you want to take surf lessons! There are lots of places to eat on this beach and it’s not overly crowded.
Book your Surf Lessons for HERE
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
If you love wildlife like elephants, you and your family can get up close and personal with these gentle giants in an ethical and responsible environment. Watch as they roam freely and interact with each other, and even have the chance to feed and bathe them. It’s an unforgettable experience that your kids will treasure.
Book your Elephant Sanctuary Small Group Tour HERE
Flying Hanuman Zipline park
Soar through the treetops and take in breathtaking views of the rainforest for a fun filled day! With a variety of courses suitable for all ages, this is an activity that the whole family can enjoy together.
Book your Zipline Adventure HERE
Aquarium Phuket
Visiting the aquarium is a must. Explore the underwater world and learn about the diverse marine species found in the Andaman Sea. With interactive exhibits and educational shows, your kids will have a blast while gaining a deeper appreciation for marine conservation.
Book your Aquarium Tickets HERE
Splash Jungle Water Park
For a day of fun in the sun, head to With thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, this water park offers endless hours of entertainment for the whole family. It’s the perfect place to beat the heat and make unforgettable memories.
Book your Splash Jungle Water Park Tickets HERE
Check out how much we spent taking our family to Phuket, Thailand:
While you’re in Thailand, you may also want to check out Krabi Island and Phi Phi Islands:
Check out our Phi Phi Islands Travel Guide here.
Check out our Krabi Island Family Travel Guide here.
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