Big Buddha

#1 Promthep Cape Where Nai Harn Beach is Phuket's southernmost beach, Promthep Cape (or Laem Promthep) is the island's southernmost point, and likewise, it offers an amazing view of the Andaman ... Read more » Kiyoshi Hijiki / Getty Images

#2 Big Buddha Big Buddha is a giant statue of Buddha encased in Burmese alabaster that towers over Phuket from the peak of Mount Nagakerd. Construction on Big Buddha began in 2007, and ... Read more » Soo Hon Keong / Getty Images

#3 Nai Harn Beach Nai Harn Beach is the southernmost strip of sand in Phuket, and locals love it just as much as visitors. Picture gleaming white sands bordered by grassy knolls and rolling ... Read more » John Harper / Getty Images

#4 Soi Dog Foundation When you travel to an exotic Thai island, you might not think that an animal shelter would be high on your list of to-dos. But think again. Travelers call this ... Read more » Janet Evans / Soi Dog Foundation

#5 Kata Noi Beach Kata Noi Beach is known for its brilliant white sands and transparent aquamarine waters, as well as its relatively calm atmosphere, especially compared to other popular beaches like party-centric Patong ... Read more » Kevin Miller / Getty Images

#6 Spas Relaxing at a spa is a must-do in Phuket. The island's spas, like many in Thailand, feature aromatherapy, herbal treatments and traditional Thai oil massages, among other services, which ... Read more » Photography by Bobi / Getty Images

#7 Boat Tours You'd be remiss if you didn't spend some time sailing the waters around Phuket, stopping for a snorkel break along the way. Whether you want to stay dry ... Read more » Thanayu Jongwattanasilkul / Getty Images

#8 Wat Chalong Wat Chalong is a colorful Buddhist temple and it's also the biggest and most famous temple on Phuket. Of particular note are the gilt statues of two monks, who ... Read more » Boophuket / Getty Images