Phuket with Kids: Top Family-Friendly Things to Do & Honest Tips
Traveling to Phuket with children? As a local parent (and former tour guide), I’ve tried almost everything the island offers for families. Here’s my honest, non-sponsored list of the best things to do in Phuket with kids — plus some tips you won’t find in glossy travel brochures.
1. Elephant Sanctuaries
Many kids dream of meeting elephants! Skip the riding camps and choose a real sanctuary — like Phuket Elephant Sanctuary or Tree Tops — where kids can feed, observe, and sometimes bathe elephants in a safe, ethical way.
2. Splash Jungle Water Park
On a hot day, nothing beats a water park. Slides, lazy river, shaded play areas — it’s a hit for both toddlers and teens. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
3. Island Hopping (Yes, with Kids!)
Many families worry about boat tours with little ones, but if you choose a larger, covered boat and bring snacks, it’s a great adventure. Phi Phi and Coral Island are doable for kids 4+ (just bring hats and sunblock!).
4. Beaches with Calm Water
- Kata and Nai Harn beaches: usually gentle waves, plenty of food nearby
- Bang Tao: wide, clean, family-friendly
5. Phuket Aquarium
Small but surprisingly fun! Great for rainy days. My kids loved the walk-through tunnel and hands-on touch tanks.
6. Thai Cooking Class (For Kids!)
Some schools offer special lessons for families — you’ll make spring rolls and mango sticky rice together. Bonus: picky eaters are more likely to try something they’ve cooked themselves!
7. Rainy Day Options
- Bowling at Jungceylon (Patong)
- Dino Park Mini Golf (Karon)
- Kidzoona (indoor playground, Central Festival Mall)
My Honest Tips
- Phuket is generally stroller-friendly, but Old Town has some tricky sidewalks.
- Always carry bottled water and sunscreen — the sun is stronger than it seems!
- Book tours with insurance and ask about life jackets for kids in advance.
- Don’t plan too much in one day — “island time” means things often take longer than expected.
Got more questions about traveling in Phuket with kids? Drop them in the comments — I’m happy to help!
