Visit Phuket November-April for dry season. Fly into HKT (Phuket International). No US direct — connect via SIN/BKK. Stay Kata/Karon for calm, Patong for nightlife.
At a Glance
| Country | Thailand |
|---|---|
| Main airport | HKT |
| Currency | Thai Baht (THB) |
| Language | Thai + English |
| Best time to visit | November–April (dry) |
| Visa for US citizens | US citizens enter Thailand visa-free for 60 days. |
Top Things to Do in Phuket
- Beach day at Patong, Kata, or Karon
- Day trip to Phi Phi Islands
- Big Buddha viewpoint
- Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island)
- Old Phuket Town walking tour
- Bangla Road nightlife in Patong
- Thai massage + spa
- Cooking class
- Elephant sanctuary (ethical only)
- Wat Chalong temple
Best Neighborhoods to Stay In
- Patong — main party + beach
- Kata — quieter beach
- Karon — long quiet beach
- Kamala — family-friendly
- Phuket Town — historic, food
- Mai Khao — luxury, near airport
- Surin — upscale beach
Our recommendation: Kata/Karon for relaxed family, Patong for party, Phuket Town for budget + character.
What to Eat
- Pad Thai
- Tom yum soup
- Massaman curry
- Som tam (papaya salad)
- Mango sticky rice
- Fresh seafood at beach restaurants
- Thai iced tea
How to Get Around
Tuk-tuks expensive in Phuket. Songthaews (shared trucks) cheap. Rent scooter or hire driver. Grab works. Avoid renting cars (right-hand driving, chaos).
How to Get There from the USA
Main airport: HKT.
👉 See our Los Angeles flight page.
👉 Call +1 (833) 546-3547 for live agent quotes.
👉 Or set a price watch and get an email when we see a matching fare.
Visa & Entry Requirements (US Citizens)
US citizens enter Thailand visa-free for 60 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit Phuket?
November–April (dry).
Do US citizens need a visa for Thailand?
US citizens enter Thailand visa-free for 60 days.
Where should I stay in Phuket?
Kata/Karon for relaxed family, Patong for party, Phuket Town for budget + character.
How do I book cheap flights to Phuket?
Call +1 (833) 546-3547 24/7.
Can you bundle the flight with a hotel?
Yes — full-service travel agency. Hotel booking.