Phuket Pictures

Phuket is a riot of colors, from its aquamarine waters to its vegetation-covered rock formations.  Prasit photo Getty Images

The Soi Dog Foundation was established in 2003 to try and care for the tens of thousands of street cats and dogs as well as to fight the dog meat trade. Janet Evans Soi Dog Foundation

A boat tour gives you an up-close-and-personal view of the Andaman Sea and nearby islands.  Thanayu Jongwattanasilkul Getty Images

Spa treatments are a popular and relatively affordable pastime in Phuket.  Photography by Bobi Getty Images

The dazzlingly white Big Buddha is a must-do for many travelers coming to Phuket thanks to the 360-degree view it affords from its perch.  Soo Hon Keong Getty Images

The warm waters of Nai Harn are glassy and clear.  John Harper Getty Images

Though backed by luxury resort villas, Kata Noi Beach is open to the public.  Kevin Miller Getty Images

This Buddhist temple, Wat Chalong, is especially beautiful when bathed in the light of a setting sun.  Boophuket Getty Images

The sunsets from atop Cape Promthep are breathtaking.  Kiyoshi Hijiki Getty Images

Travelers can take a ferry from Phuket to nearby Phi Phi Island.  simonlong Getty Images

This is the glittering view from nearby peninsula of Railay.  Nutexzles Getty Images

During a street festival, Phuket Town bustles along the main thoroughfare, Thalang Road.  Jamie Monk Getty Images

Kata Beach is a popular west coast shoreline in Phuket. Steer clear of its choppy waters during monsoon season (October to May).  Buena Vista Images Getty Images

A market is a great place to try a wide variety of Thai foods. Patong Beach's Banzaan Market is a popular one, as is Phuket Town's Central Market. Jordan Siemens Getty Images

The Soi Dog Foundation rescues dogs and cats from the streets of Phuket. Recent visitors to Phuket highly recommend adding a stop here to your itinerary. Raymond Gerritsen Soi Dog Foundation

You'll find these four-wheel red or yellow transportation tuk-tuks all over the island. Make sure to agree on a price before hopping aboard.  bfishadow Flickr

This is one of the largest beaches in Phuket, as well as a popular place to base a Phuket vacation. John Seaton Callahan Getty Images