Fancy swapping the tranquil shores of Koh Lanta for the vibrant buzz of Phuket? The journey from Koh Lanta to Phuket is your gateway to Thailand’s most famous island, brimming with beaches, nightlife, and adventure. Whether you’re plotting your travel route or daydreaming about Phuket’s delights, this guide has everything you need to plan a cracking trip.
Getting from Koh Lanta to Phuket is a breeze, with options to suit every traveller. The roughly 80-kilometre journey (plus a ferry crossing) offers stunning Andaman Sea views along the way.
Ferry: The classic choice, ferries depart from Saladan Pier in Koh Lanta and arrive at Rassada Pier in Phuket. The trip takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and costs between 700 THB and 1,000 THB, depending on the season and operator. It’s a scenic, relaxed ride - perfect for soaking up the sea breeze.
Speedboat: For a quicker dash, speedboats cut the journey to around 1 to 1.5 hours, with tickets ranging from 1,200 THB to 1,500 THB. They’re a thrilling option, though more weather-dependent, so check conditions before booking.
Minivan/Bus (via Ferry): If you prefer a land-and-sea combo, take a minivan or bus from Koh Lanta to Krabi (200 THB to 300 THB), then catch a ferry or continue by road to Phuket (another 200 THB to 400 THB). Total travel time is 4 to 5 hours, but it’s budget-friendly.
Book in advance, especially during high season (November to April), to secure your spot and avoid last-minute hassles.
Phuket’s tropical climate keeps things warm, but the seasons dictate the vibe:
High Season (November to April): The best time to visit, with clear skies, calm seas, and temps between 25°C and 32°C. It’s peak season, so expect more crowds and higher prices - but the weather’s spot-on for beach days.
Shoulder Season (May and October): A mix of sun and showers, with temperatures around 28°C to 34°C. Fewer tourists mean a quieter trip, though you might dodge some rain.
Low Season (June to September): Monsoon time brings heavy rain and rough seas, with temps at 27°C to 30°C. It’s the cheapest period to visit, but some activities (like island hopping) might be limited.
For prime conditions, December to March is your golden window - sunny and splendid.
Phuket is a playground for all sorts, from thrill-seekers to sun-worshippers. Here’s what to get stuck into:
Beach Bumming: Lounge on Patong, Karon, or Kata Beach - each offers a different vibe, from lively to laid-back.
Island Hopping: Take a boat to the Phi Phi Islands or Phang Nga Bay for jaw-dropping scenery and snorkelling.
Nightlife: Dive into Patong’s Bangla Road for bars, clubs, and a proper night out.
**Water Sports:**Try jet-skiing, parasailing, or paddleboarding along the coast.
Cultural Exploration: Visit temples or catch a Muay Thai match for a taste of local life.
Phuket’s got something for everyone, whether you’re after action or a lazy day by the sea.
Phuket’s packed with must-see spots that blend nature, culture, and fun. Don’t miss these:
Big Buddha: A massive hilltop statue with panoramic views - free to visit and a peaceful escape.
Phang Nga Bay: Famous for its limestone karsts and James Bond Island (Koh Tapu) - a boat tour essential.
Old Phuket Town: Wander colourful streets lined with Sino-Portuguese shophouses, cafes, and murals.
Wat Chalong: Phuket’s most important temple, steeped in history and serenity.
Promthep Cape: A stunning viewpoint for sunset lovers - bring your camera!
From natural wonders to cultural gems, Phuket’s attractions are a feast for the senses.
Phuket’s accommodation spans the spectrum, with options dotted across its beaches and towns:
Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in Patong or Phuket Town start at 300 THB for a dorm bed or 600 THB for a basic room. Simple but central.
Mid-Range: Hotels like those on Karon Beach offer comfy rooms with pools from 1,500 THB to 3,000 THB - great for families or couples.
Luxury: Resorts like those in Kamala or Surin Beach boast private villas and sea views from 5,000 THB upwards. Pure indulgence.
Patong’s the hub for nightlife, Kata and Karon are family-friendly, and Kamala’s quieter. Pick your base based on your vibe.
Phuket can be pricey, but these tips keep your Baht in check:
Travel Off-Peak: June to September slashes accommodation and transport costs by 30-50%.
Eat Street Food: Grab khao man gai (chicken rice) for 50 THB instead of 200 THB at tourist restaurants.
Use Shared Transport: Take a ferry from Koh Lanta for 700 THB rather than a private speedboat, or hop on local songthaews (50 THB) in Phuket.
Book Early: Lock in ferry tickets and rooms ahead of time for the best rates. Avoid Touts: Haggle taxi fares or skip middlemen for tours - direct bookings save cash.
A little savvy goes a long way to enjoying Phuket on a budget.
Your stay depends on your plans:
3-4 Days: Covers the basics - beaches, Old Town, and a day trip to Phang Nga Bay. A solid taster.
5-7 Days: Perfect for adding island hopping, nightlife, and some downtime. You’ll feel the full Phuket vibe.
2 Days: A whirlwind visit for highlights like Big Buddha and Patong - doable but rushed.
Most travellers find 4-5 days hits the sweet spot for a well-rounded trip.
Phuket’s food scene is a treat, from hawker stalls to beachside dining. Check these out:
Lock Tien Food Court: Old Town’s go-to for Hokkien noodles (70 THB) and cheap local bites.
Roti Stalls: Grab a sweet roti with banana for 50 THB - perfect for a quick snack.
Kan Eang @ Pier: Seafood heaven - think grilled fish for 300 THB with a sea view.
Tunk-Ka Cafe: Hilltop spot for Thai classics like massaman curry (150 THB) and epic views.
Patong Night Market: Street eats like satay (50 THB) and mango sticky rice (70 THB) in a lively setting.
Whether you’re peckish or famished, Phuket’s got you sorted.
Phuket’s a dazzling destination that’s just a hop from Koh Lanta, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture. With easy travel options and endless things to explore, it’s a trip worth taking. Ready to dive in? Plan your journey and let Phuket steal your heart!