Phuket, a tropical paradise in Thailand, is one of the best destinations for a family vacation. From relaxing days in the sun to activities that will delight even on rainy days, the island offers countless family-friendly options. Besides numerous outdoor activities like snorkeling, ziplining, surfing, and swimming, there are also countless unique attractions. Whiz down the water slides at Andamanda Water Park, marvel at the mesmerizing color and light show at Carnival Magic, or visit the largest Buddhist temple in town. Get inspired by these 12 tips for things to do with children in Phuket.

The best activities with children in Phuket at a glance

The best thing to do with small children in Phuket: The best thing to do with small children in Phuket is to visit Carnival Magic, a colorful theme park full of musical performances, parades and much more.

The best activity for teenagers in Phuket: Teenagers visiting Phuket will love going down the water slides, snorkeling and learning to surf at Andamanda Water Park.

The best free experiences for families in Phuket: Simply relaxing on the island's beautiful beaches is the best free experience for families in Phuket.

1. Visit the fantastic theme park Carnival Magic.

Let yourself be enchanted by the kaleidoscope of lights and parades at Carnival Magic.

Named one of the greatest places on earth by TIME, Carnival Magic is a vibrant and captivating spectacle of Thai culture. Spanning over 8 hectares, it features enchanting parades, palaces, games, rides, and light shows all in a carnival style. A true wonderland for all ages! Highlights include the nightly parade, the illuminated palaces, and boat rides on the "River of Lights." You'll also find restaurants that rival the rest of the park, ranging from casual food stalls to luxurious dining establishments. The main parade, not to be missed, takes place every evening at 6:30 pm and 8:30 pm.

Who is it recommended for?

address

999 Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150.

Opening hours

Open 5:30 PM–11:30 PM Mon., Wed. & Sat.

Experience the magic of Carnival

  • Phuket: Carnival Magic Ticket including dinner and transfers. Experience the magic of Carnival in Phuket with a ticket to Carnival Magic. Enjoy thrilling rides and live shows, round-trip hotel transfers, and a delicious buffet dinner. 4.6 (372) From $119 $113
  • Phuket: Carnival Magic Show with Buffet Dinner & Transfer. Enjoy Carnival Magic Phuket including admission, buffet dinner, and round-trip hotel transfers. Royal Seat, private transfer, or free child seat are available as options. Children receive a magic wand. 4.6 (42) From $88
  • Phuket: Carnival Magic admission ticket with optional transfer. Experience Phuket's award-winning cultural park. Enjoy dazzling parades, colorful performances, captivating attractions, and optional buffet dinner or transfer. 4.4 (707) From $68
  • Phuket: Carnival Magic Theme Park and Show Experience. Experience an unforgettable day at Carnival Magic in Phuket, a theme park and show experience offering a variety of attractions for families and visitors of all ages. 4.4 (39) From $76

    • 2. Take a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands

    Photo: Orion Lafuente Missbauer

    Take a day trip to the beautiful Phi Phi Islands

    A day trip to the Phi Phi Islands is an experience for the whole family. From Phuket, you'll sail to these tropical islands in the Andaman Sea. Little ones will be thrilled to discover fish and other marine life, while teenagers can snorkel and swim. Several secluded beaches are on the itinerary, perfect for splashing around – no matter your age. Parents can also relax, as many of these excursions include food and drinks, making planning much easier.

    Enjoy the sun on the Phi Phi Islands

  • From Phi Phi: Half-day longtail boat tour to Maya Bay & snorkeling. Explore the stunning Phi Phi Islands on a longtail boat tour. Visit Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Pileh Lagoon, Loh Samah Bay, and Maya Bay. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and relax on the beach. 4.6 (666) From $22 $18
  • Phuket: Maya, Phi Phi, and Bamboo Island with Lunch Buffet. Experience the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands on a speedboat trip from Phuket. Discover Maya Bay, visit the Viking Cave, enjoy a delicious lunch buffet, and snorkel at the heart-shaped Bamboo Island. 4.6 (22,124) From $57 $43
  • Koh Phi Phi: Private Longtail Boat Tour in Maya Bay & Snorkeling. Discover the highlights of Koh Phi Phi on a private longtail boat tour. Visit Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and explore Monkey Bay and Viking Cave. Enjoy breathtaking views. 4.8 (497) From $55
  • Private Longtail Boat Tour on Phi Phi: Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon & Snorkeling. Explore Phi Phi on a private longtail boat with a local captain. Choose a 3, 4, 6, or 7-hour tour and visit Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Bay, and Viking Cave. Snorkel at the most beautiful spots. 4.8 (1,930) From $110 ($105 per group of up to 2 people).

    • 3. Go snorkeling around Coral Island.

    Go snorkeling at Phuket's colorful reefs.

    Snorkeling is one of the most popular family activities in Phuket! It's an experience even young children will love. Spend at least a day snorkeling at the island's beaches or take a trip to one of the most beautiful snorkeling spots. While a dedicated snorkeling tour isn't necessary in Phuket, Coral Island is one of the best places to go, as you're guaranteed to find diverse reefs and colorful fish there.

    Suitable for children aged five and over who can swim well.

    Snorkel in Phuket

  • Early Bird Tour to the Similan Islands from Phuket and Khao Lak! Start your speedboat tour to the Similan Islands from your hotel in Phuket or Khao Lak. Discover white sand beaches and snorkel in crystal-clear waters at three different locations! 4.7 (4,499) From $123
  • From Phuket or Khao Lak: Day trip to the Similan Islands. Discover the Similan Islands on a full-day guided snorkeling tour by speedboat. The tour departs from Phuket or Khao Lak and takes you to highlights such as Donald Duck Bay and Princess Bay. Enjoy a Thai lunch. 4.5 (931) From $105 $94
  • Phuket: Day Trip to the Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay with Lunch. Experience an unforgettable day trip from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands by speedboat. Visit Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Monkey Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Khai Island. Snorkeling, three meals, and a stand-up paddleboard are included. 4.3 (4,497) From $48 $43

    • 4. Zip-lining through the jungle

    Embark on an exciting zipline adventure through the jungle.

    There's no better way to explore the lush jungle surrounding Phuket than by zipline. With dozens of different ziplines, including Hanuman World, Thailand's largest, you'll be spoiled for choice. Teenagers and adventurous older children will love soaring above the rainforest canopy and trying additional activities like abseiling and treetop adventure courses. The courses are located deep in the forest and just outside town, so you can easily spend a full day ziplining or simply enjoy a half-day adventure.

    The children must be at least four years old and weigh more than 20 kilograms.

    Zip line through the jungle

  • Phuket: Zipline Adventures and ATV Tours at Patong Mountain View. Discover the beauty of Phuket from a new perspective with ATV and zipline tours at Patong Mountain View. 4.7 (108) From $36 ($31 per person)
  • Phuket: Hanuman Luge Ticket combined with Zipline World+ – Experience a 650-meter ride through the jungle on the Hanuman Luge, combined with Zipline World+, including ziplines, a jungle roller coaster, and a skywalk. Transportation and a buffet lunch are included. 4.6 (96) From $98
  • Phuket: Paradise Trip ATV Jungle Adventure. Embark on an exciting jungle adventure in Phuket. Choose between an ATV tour through the jungle, a giant swing, a zipline tour through the treetops, or a visit to the Great Buddha Temple. 4.8 (3,923) From $22
  • Phuket: ATV tour and zipline adventure at the Big Buddha viewpoint. Experience an exciting and varied outdoor tour combined with a zipline adventure and discover the sights of Big Buddha in a thrilling way. 4.8 (702) From $30

    • 5. Splashing and swimming at Freedom Beach

    Splash and swim at the breathtaking Freedom Beach

    Freedom Beach, often hailed as Phuket's most beautiful stretch of sand, is the perfect spot for a warm day of splashing and snorkeling. This crescent-shaped beach is tucked away in a secluded cove with calm waters, ideal for little ones just learning to swim. Parents will love the idyllic island atmosphere, with swaying palm trees and refreshment stands nearby. Keep in mind that the walk from the parking area to the beach takes about 15 minutes and is therefore a bit of a stroll.

    ถนนศิริราช Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83100.

    Discover the most beautiful beaches of Phuket

    6. Visit the largest temple in Phuket.

    Visit Phuket's largest temple

    While Phuket doesn't boast many museums, its temples offer an excellent opportunity to learn about Thailand's heritage and culture. Visit Wat Chalong, Phuket's largest temple and an important religious site that houses a bone fragment of the Buddha. A weekend market takes place around the temple on Saturdays and Sundays from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

    70 หมู่ที่ 6 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd, Chalong, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000.

    Indulge in Phuket's culinary delights

  • James Bond Tour from Phuket, Phang Nga Bay and Hong Island: Discover James Bond Island from Phuket on a tour through Phang Nga Bay. Paddle a canoe through the caves and lagoons of Panak and Hong Island, enjoy the picturesque limestone formations, hotel transfers and a delicious lunch on board. 4.8 (779) From $51 $48

    • 7. Indulge in the culinary delights of the Sunday night market in the old town.

    Try the Thai cuisine at the Sunday night market in the old town.

    The Sunday night market in Phuket's Old Town, also known as Lard Yai, is an absolute must-see when visiting this island paradise. Indulge in the steaming array of food stalls and sample dishes that will delight even the pickiest eaters – from Pad Thai to Mango Sticky Rice. You'll also find a wide selection of unique souvenirs, from small toys for children to clothing for teenagers.

    Dibuk Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000.

    Open Sundays 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

    8. Zoom down the water slides at Andamanda Waterpark.

    Spend a day enjoying the water slides and lazy rivers at Andamanda Waterpark.

    Snorkeling and surfing are fun, but nothing beats spending a hot day at a water park. At Andamanda, a Thai-themed water park, you'll find water slides, a relaxing lazy river, delicious food, and even a spectacular daily parade. The park's various areas cater to different age groups, from toddlers to teenagers. Little ones will love exploring the three-story play structure in Coral World, while older children can have a blast on the water slides or splash around in the wave pool.

    Suitable for all age groups, however, children must be at least 91 centimeters tall for small water slides and at least 122 centimeters tall for large water slides.

    333, Kathu, Kathu District, Phuket 83120.

    Open daily from 10:00 to 19:00.

    Race down the water slides

  • Phuket: Andamanda Waterpark Ticket. Experience Phuket's largest waterpark and enjoy the thrilling slides, surf in the artificial wave pool, or relax by the water – with this admission ticket and convenient transfer. 4.5 (2,433) From $48
  • Phuket: Hanuman Luge Night Exclusive with transfer or dinner. Race down a neon-lit luge track under a giant Hanuman statue in Phuket at night. Choose between a skywalk through the treetops or a luge head mount for your smartphone and treat yourself to a rooftop dinner with a set menu. 3.9 (21) From $36

    • 9. Attend a Thai cooking class.

    Learn how to prepare your favorite Thai dishes together in a cooking class.

    Discover the delights of Thai cuisine, which even children will love, in a cooking class led by a local instructor. Browse a nearby Phuket market for fresh ingredients like coriander and limes before cooking together in the kitchen. A variety of dishes are available, from cashew chicken and Pad Thai to Panang curry, papaya salad, and fried mango. Parents will be thrilled to recreate their favorite Thai dishes at home, and little ones are welcome to help out.

    Learn to cook Thai dishes

    10. Compete against each other at the Phuket go-kart track.

    Experience an adrenaline rush on a go-kart track.

    Have you ever had the chance to drive a go-kart on a real racetrack? Then head to Phuket Kart Speedway and zoom around the 750-meter track! Children can drive their own go-karts at a top speed of 40 km/h or share a larger go-kart with an adult. Protective gear, including helmets, is provided. If your kids are little adrenaline junkies, this is one of the most exciting experiences Phuket has to offer!

    Children aged eight years and older with a height of at least 1.25 meters.

    46, 129 หมู่ที่ 6 Phrabaramee Rd, Kathu, Kathu District, Phuket 83120.

    Open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.

    Experience an exciting adventure in Phuket

  • Phuket 6-Island Jet Ski Tour: Half-Day Self-Drive Adventure. Drive your own jet ski on a guided half-day safari to 6 stunning islands around Phuket. Experience pure freedom and speed! 4.5 (73) From $215 ($183 per group of up to 2 people)
  • Phuket 6-Island Jet Ski Adventure & Relaxation After Sunbathing: Explore six tropical islands by jet ski and then enjoy a traditional Thai massage at the Makkha Spa in Phuket. Hotel transfers and refreshments are included. 4.7 (344) From $239 per group (up to 2 people)
  • Phuket: Muay Thai ticket at Patong Boxing Stadium. Experience Muay Thai up close at Patong Boxing Stadium. Enjoy VIP ringside seats, feel every punch, and capture unforgettable moments with the fighters in Phuket. 4.7 (2,950) From $45
  • Phuket: Jet Ski Tour to 5 or 8 Islands with Lunch and Transfers. Discover five to eight tropical islands with secluded beaches and a fascinating underwater world on a jet ski tour from Phuket. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing lunch featuring local specialties. 4.2 (468 reviews) From $254 ($224 per group, up to 1 person)

    • 11. Visit the quirky Upside Down House.

    Visit the crazy Upside Down House

    The Upside Down House in Phuket, also known as Baan Teelanka, is a wacky wonderland of optical illusions that will keep children thoroughly entertained. Enter this quirky house from the roof and discover a kitchen and even a tuk-tuk stuck to the ceiling, along with many other fun exhibits. After exploring the unusual interior, a garden maze awaits you. A perfect day out for a rainy day in Phuket!

    หมู่ที่ 5 51/11 Chalermprakiat Ratchakan Thi 9 Road, Ratsada, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000.

    Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00.

    Discover Phuket's hidden treasures

  • Phuket: Muay Thai course with professional trainers. Experience authentic Muay Thai in Phuket with professional trainers. Choose between private or group lessons and enjoy personalized training tailored to your fitness goals. 5 (45) From $15
  • Koh Tao Relaxation Day: Snorkeling with Turtles, Nang Yuan & Sunset Return. Enjoy pickup from your hotel before sailing to Koh Nangyuan and the hidden coves of Koh Tao. Snorkel in turquoise waters, relax on board, enjoy a Thai lunch, and return at sunset—for the perfect island getaway. 4.8 (129) From $28
  • Phuket Town Highlights: Big Buddha, Wat Chalong & Old Town. Discover Phuket's top attractions on a relaxed half-day tour – ideal for first-time visitors. Enjoy hotel pickup, a friendly local guide, and visits to the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and Phuket Old Town. 4.7 (289) From $22

    • 12. Learn to surf in the Andaman Sea

    Learn to surf in Phuket's gentle waves

    Have your children always wanted to learn to surf? Phuket is the perfect place for beginners, as the waves are generally small and ideal for novice surfers. Learn from a local pro who will also help the little ones with paddling and balancing on the surfboard. Please note that most courses are only offered from May to November, when there are actually waves suitable for surfing in the usually calm Andaman Sea.

    Children aged seven and up.

    Try surfing

  • Phuket: Surf lessons for beginners at Kata Beach. Ride your first wave with professional instruction! Our surf instructors will guide you step by step – from beginner to confidently standing on the board – often on the first try. Perfect for beginners! 4.9 (137) From $36
  • Phuket: Surf experience in Bang Tao with a local surf instructor. Join a group surf lesson at Bangtao Beach in Phuket. Learn from local surf instructors, enjoy the beginner-friendly environment, and ride your first wave in a safe and supportive atmosphere. 5 (49) From $30
  • Phuket: Private surf lessons at the stunning Kata Beach. Experience the thrill of surfing in the Andaman Sea at Kata Beach in Phuket. A professional and friendly surf instructor will teach you the basics – from standing on the board to catching your first wave. 4.8 (31) From $51
  • Phuket: 3-Day Surf Course and Accommodation Packages. Ride your first wave in paradise with Phuket's premier surf and accommodation experience. Master the gentle tropical waves with professional surf lessons and choose between a sociable hostel or luxurious 4-star accommodation. From $236.

    • Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the best museums for children in Phuket?

    Phuket isn't a destination that focuses on museums; there are only a few in the city center. A good alternative would be a visit to the largest temple in Phuket, Wat Chalong, to learn more about the local heritage and culture.

    What fun outdoor activities are there for children in Phuket?

    Phuket is one of the best travel destinations for families. Popular outdoor activities for children in Phuket include ziplining, snorkeling, and learning to surf.

    What can you do in Phuket with older children and teenagers?

    Teenagers visiting Phuket will love learning to surf or racing down the water slides at Andamanda Water Park.

    Are there any free, child-friendly activities in Phuket?

    Visiting Phuket's beautiful beaches is the best free and child-friendly activity on the island. Although there are beaches all over Phuket, Freedom Beach is often considered the most beautiful.

    Which day trips from Phuket are suitable for families with children?

    One of the best day trips from Phuket for families is a boat tour around the Phi Phi Islands. Here you have the opportunity to snorkel, visit secluded beaches, and spend the whole day in the water. Many of these excursions also include food and drinks, making planning with young children even easier.

    Read more about Phuket

  • Eating in Phuket: How to Feast Like a Local. Phuket, Thailand's largest island off the southern Andaman coast, is brimming with street food markets and unique delicacies that blend Chinese and Thai flavors. Fresh seafood and hearty egg noodle dishes celebrate familiar tastes, while steamed curries wrapped in banana leaves and crispy oyster omelets tantalize your taste buds. Top off your culinary experience with golden mung bean cakes or refreshing iced desserts—a taste sensation unlike anything you've ever tasted. Whether you're visiting Phuket for the first time or returning for a while, this guide to the island's best dishes is sure to have something new to order. Kiawna Brewster • June 23, 2026
  • The best things to do during the rainy season in Phuket: Thailand's largest island harbors a well-kept secret: the rainy season in Phuket offers experiences you won't find during the peak tourist months. From May to October, expect greener landscapes, fewer tourists, and significantly lower prices across the island. From exploring the colorful streets of the Old Town to the thrill of white-water rafting in Phang Nga, here's how to make the most of the monsoon season and discover why locals consider these "green months" one of the best times to visit Phuket. Emma Brode • June 23, 2026
  • 10 Unique Phuket Experiences. It's easy to see why Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is one of the country's most popular destinations. If the charming and colorful Old Town hasn't already captivated you, the stunning beaches, vibrant food markets, and ornate temples will, showing you why the island's reputation is so well-deserved. Phuket's highlights include the breathtaking natural beauty of the Phi Phi Islands, a 45-meter-high restaurant suspended in the sky, and the mesmerizing Siam Niramit show. Whether you're traveling with family or solo, this guide to the 10 best things to do in Phuket is sure to have something to suit your taste. Kiawna Brewster • June 23, 2026
  • 9 of the most beautiful places in Phuket you shouldn't miss: From sun-drenched beaches and vibrant night markets to hilltop temples and tranquil coastal towns, Phuket is a destination that truly delivers. As Thailand's largest island, it combines natural beauty with cultural depth. Here, you can experience everything from snorkeling in turquoise bays to exploring centuries-old Buddhist sites, all in a single day. Gentry Hale • June 23, 2026
  • 10 tips for solo travelers in Phuket for your next solo adventure. Thailand's largest island seems tailor-made for solo travelers. Phuket offers you the opportunity to combine social experiences with moments of peace and discovery – whether exploring the temple grounds of Wat Chalong or rafting rapids with other travelers. Emma Brode • June 23, 2026
  • Phuket by Night: 7 Experiences Worth Staying Up For. Thailand's largest island, Phuket, knows how to enjoy its nightlife. As soon as the sun dips below the horizon into the Andaman Sea, the island transforms into a completely different place. Bangla Road in Patong is filled with neon lights and Muay Thai fans, Kata Beach empties just enough for a perfect sunset, and the fire shows at Loh Dalum Bay on Koh Phi Phi bathe the coastline in mesmerizing light well into the night. Indulge in the Naka Weekend Night Market, enjoy a live cultural performance at Siam Niramit, or end the evening with the extravagant shows at Simon Cabaret. Here are our tips for your nights out in Phuket. Top ranking: Phuket by Night. Best Nighttime Attraction: Siam Niramit Cultural Show. Best Nightlife District: Patong (Bangla Road). Best fire show: Beach performances in Loh Dalum Bay on Koh Phi Phi. Best spot for sunset: Kata Beach, followed by the bars on the hill. Best street food market: Naka Weekend Night Market. Claire Stemen • May 30, 2026
  • Romantic Things to Do in Phuket: The Best Date Ideas for Couples. Thailand's largest island is often considered a party destination, but Phuket's romantic activities will prove otherwise. The island's sunsets are spectacular, the beaches are stunning, and a longtail boat is never far away to whisk you away to a secluded cove. But the options for couples extend far beyond lounging on the beach. Explore the sea caves of Phang Nga Bay by kayak, sail into the sunset on a catamaran in the Andaman Sea, book a couples massage, or take a day trip to the legendary Phi Phi Islands. From romantic spots for marriage proposals to private boat tours, this is how couples can experience Phuket. Aimee Long • May 31, 2026