Best things to do in Patong

Head down to Patong Beach for daytime relaxation and nighttime partying. Offering a range of activities--from jet skiing and parasailing to massages--this entertaining and busy stretch of sand remains the focal point of the beach resort. The long beach stretches across the length of Patong's west side and boasts a good selection of restaurants and bars, giving quick and easy access to the nightlife and conveniences of the town center.

Enjoy the nightlife or daytime ambience of one of Phuket's most-visited districts at Bangla Road, known for its bars, music, and party atmosphere. With cheap beer, international restaurants, and street performances, the road offers plenty for reveling tourists to see and do at all times (though it is undoubtedly most popular after sunset). Much of the street has come to serve and promote tourism to the area, with shops selling souvenirs and businesses conducting most of their trade in English.

Head to Karon Beach for a stretch of golden sand lined with palm trees and buffered by the welcoming waters of Phuket's coast. Badly damaged by the tsunamis of 2004, the beach has since recovered. Popular with tourists and offering a range of businesses to meet their needs and wants, the well-located, attractive beach enjoys a reputation as a family-friendly place and a relaxing haven for couples in comparison with some of the area's more raucous, nightlife-led spots.

Phuket FantaSea is a Thai nighttime cultural theme park located on the island of Phuket, in the south of the country. The park covers an area of 60 acres (20 ha) and includes a Thai culture theatrical show, a theme buffet restaurant, and a shopping street. The park was created at a cost of over THB 3,500 million (US$ 100 million) and was opened to the public on 20 December 1998.

Relax in a secluded and peaceful environment at Freedom Beach. Accessible by long-tail boat, this spot benefits from shallow water with fantastic visibility, ideal for spotting the area's colorful marine life and snapping a few pictures. Play beach soccer against the locals, or head up to one of the pleasant bars that overlook the beach. The location remains one of the relatively few tranquil beaches around Phuket, so head here for a little peace and quiet (and remember to keep it a secret).

Immortalize your Phuket vacation on a trompe l'eoil at Patong Inn Art. This little gallery--situated just a short walk from the beach--features impressive creations by local artists, including oil and acrylic paintings, charcoal sketches, sculptures, and souvenirs. Many visitors flock here for one reason only--to have their portrait or a portrait of their loved ones done. Bring a photo for inspiration and, in just five days, the talented artists in the shop will finish your customized painting.