First thing to know: Phuket is big. Say you stay in the north and want to visit the Big Buddha in the south. That's a 90-minute drive if traffic is bad. And traffic is usually bad.
The island splits into two coasts. The West Coast has beaches, sunsets, and tourists. The East Coast has locals, ports, and mangroves.
Want classic turquoise water? Stick to the west. Want cheap seafood and a look at local life? Head east, or into Phuket Town.




















































