The island is just off Thailand’s southwest coast in the Andaman Sea. Its capital, Phuket Town, is an animated city of early-morning markets and beeping tuk-tuks. The shoreline, meanwhile, is famous for its league of beaches – 40 kilometres’ worth to be exact. Some of the stretches of sand turn the tempo right down. All 11 kilometres of Mai Khao Beach are protected as part of the Sirinat National Park, so there are hardly any signs of life along its breadth.

Phuket has a hot and humid climate all year round. Whilst the daily temperatures vary little throughout the year (highs are in the low to mid-thirties celsius from January to December) The precipitation varies hugely. Between November to April, there is an average of two to three days of rainfall a year but by early May the monsoon season has arrived and it rains on a daily basis until October. Whilst not as fierce as the monsoon seasons elsewhere in the tropics, there are several hours of rain every afternoon.

Kamala Beach is another one that keeps itself to itself. The unspoilt sand here is accompanied by a village with Thai tradition at its heart. This is the place to come to learn local cookery or to experience an authentic Thai massage.

The middle ground is occupied by Kata and Karon. On these beaches sunloungers are spread out in Goldilocks fashion – there’s just the right amount – and snorkelling is the main watersport on offer. The beach scene is complemented by sand-side promenades, quirky souvenir shops and lively restaurants.

Holidays to Phuket

Phuket information