Top 10 Things to Do in Phuket for Families – Fun, Safe & Unforgettable
Discover the best things to do in Phuket for families including ethical elephant sanctuaries, water parks, island tours, and cultural fun for kids. Phuket is one of Thailand’s most family-friendly destinations, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to all ages. From wildlife adventures and cultural encounters to beachside fun and water parks, families will find plenty to love on this vibrant island. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended holiday, here are the top 10 things to do in Phuket for families—crafted to create lasting memories and stress-free fun.
1. Visit Phuket Elephant Sanctuary – Ethical Wildlife Encounter
Introduce your children to the beauty of ethical animal tourism. One of the most popular things to do in Phuket for families is the Elephant Sanctuary, families can observe rescued elephants roaming freely in a lush jungle environment.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- No riding, just observation and feeding
- Educational and emotional experience
- Suitable for young kids
Entry Price: From 3,000 THB per adult | 1,500 THB per child
2. Spend the Day at Splash Jungle Water Park
Splash Jungle: The #1 Wet & Wild Things to Do in Phuket for Families!
Where else can mom race the kids down a 4-story waterslide, then float together under palm trees in a lazy river? This waterpark mixes adrenaline-pumping drops (looking at you, Boomerango!) with toddler-friendly splash zones. Pro tip: Rent a cabana for naptime escapes between cannonball contests.
Attractions Include:
- Aqua Play Pool for toddlers
- Boomerango and Superbowl for thrill-seekers
- Cabanas for family relaxation
Admission:
| Ticket Type | Price (THB) |
|---|---|
| Adult | 1,295 |
| Child | 650 |
3. Explore the Phuket Trickeye Museum
Let your imagination run wild with 3D optical illusion art that makes for fun family photos and laughter.
Why It’s Great:
- Interactive and air-conditioned
- Great rainy-day activity
- Kids can engage with exhibits
Location: Downtown Phuket Town Entry: Adults 500 THB | Children 300 THB
4. Island-Hopping with the Family
Island-Hopping Like the Swiss Family Robinson: The Ultimate Thing to Do in Phuket for Families!
Pirate hats optional (but highly encouraged)! Speedboat between paradise islands where the sand is whiter than your socks and the water’s so clear, even dad can’t lose his sunglasses. Snorkel with neon fish, hunt for starfish at low tide, and let the kids “navigate” with a waterproof map. Bonus: Beaches shallow enough for toddlers to be mermaids!
Why Families Love It:
- No “are we there yet?” – islands are just 15-30 mins apart
- Guides handle all the logistics (and carry the floaty toys)
- Lunch included at a beachfront restaurant (with fries for picky eaters)
Family-Friendly Tips:
- Choose speedboats with life jackets and onboard food
- Half-day tours are best for younger children
- Avoid rough-sea months (May–October)
Top Tours for Families:
| Island | Activity Highlight |
|---|---|
| Coral Island | Banana boat rides, snorkeling |
| Phi Phi Islands | Lagoon swims, beach time |
| Racha Yai | Snorkeling, sandy beaches |
5. Discover Dino Park Mini Golf
Located between Kata and Karon beaches, Dino Park offers mini golf with a Jurassic twist.
What Makes It Fun:
- Dinosaur-themed landscape
- Glow-in-the-dark course
- Easy for all skill levels
Open Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Entry Fee: 240 THB per player
6. Enjoy a Beach Day with Safe Activities
Phuket’s beaches are perfect playgrounds, and some are especially good for families.
Top Family-Friendly Beaches:
- Kata Beach: Gentle waves, surf lessons
- Bangtao Beach: Wide sandy areas, calm waters
- Kamala Beach: Close to cafes and shops
Activities to Try:
- Sandcastle building
- Paddleboarding
- Beach volleyball
7. Go Cultural at Phuket Thaihua Museum
Explore the Chinese heritage of Phuket through interactive exhibits that even young visitors can appreciate.
Why Families Love It:
- Air-conditioned and quiet
- Offers a different perspective beyond beaches
- Great way to introduce local culture
Entry Fee: Adults 200 THB | Kids under 12 free
8. Watch the Phuket FantaSea Show
The Most Magical Night Among Things to Do in Phuket for Families, Elephants that sparkle! Acrobats that fly! A buffet that never ends! This dazzling cultural extravaganza is like Disneyland met Thai folklore – complete with pyrotechnics that’ll make your teens actually look up from their phones. Pro tip: Bring camera for the “ooh-face” photos!
Family Highlights:
- Buffet dinner before the show
- Carnival games and souvenir shops
- Animal feeding areas
Showtime: Daily at 9 PM (except Thursdays) Tickets: From 1,800 THB (show only) | 2,200 THB (show + dinner)
9. Take a Thai Cooking Class Together
Sizzle & Giggle: A Thai Cooking Class That Tops the List of Things to Do in Phuket for Families!
his hands-on cooking class lets families bond over fragrant curries and rolling spring rolls together. Kids get chef hats, parents get wine – everyone leaves stuffed with delicious memories (and maybe some mango sticky rice in their pockets).
Best Cooking Schools for Families:
- Blue Elephant
- Kata Thai Cooking Class
What You’ll Learn:
- Thai spring rolls
- Stir-fried noodles
- Coconut-based desserts
Class Duration: 2–3 hours Cost: Around 1,200 THB per person
10. Spend a Day at Green Elephant Sanctuary Park
Bubble Baths with Giants: Why Green Elephant Sanctuary is among the top things to do in Phuket for families!
Where else can your kids scrub a 3-ton baby elephant while it splashes them back? This ethical sanctuary turns animal encounters into heartwarming education – complete with mud fights you’ll laugh about for years. Warning: May cause permanent elephant obsession in children!
What’s Included:
- Mud spa and bathing experience
- Thai lunch buffet
- Transport to/from hotel
Half-Day Price: Adults 2,900 THB | Children 1,800 THB
Recommended Packing List for Families Visiting Phuket
| Item | Why It’s Needed |
|---|---|
| Sunscreen | Protects delicate skin |
| Insect Repellent | Especially for jungle or elephant parks |
| Reusable Water Bottles | Stay hydrated in the heat |
| Waterproof Phone Case | For beach and island tours |
| Lightweight Raincoat | Sudden tropical downpours |