The perfect 3-day itinerary for a long weekend in Phuket

Spending the long weekend in Phuket can do wonders for the busy mind and tired soul. Getting lost in the vibrant local culture, soaking up the salty sea air, and finding peace amidst the island’s lush greenery, this much-beloved island ticks all the boxes for an idyllic tropical getaway. And if you’re unsure how to make the most of the upcoming long weekend (October 12 to 14), we’ve got the perfect itinerary to help you experience all the sights and sounds of Phuket.

Day one

Morning: Check-in at Angsana Laguna Phuket

A long weekend calls for a luxurious escape and the best place to do so is Angsana Laguna Phuket. As Asia’s first integrated resort, located on the pristine Bang Tao Bay, it has everything a traveller could want. The five-star resort is known for its beachfront access, top-notch dining, and facilities that cater to families, couples, and even solo travellers. From the free-form pool to the award-winning Angsana Spa, your long weekend will be as relaxing as it is exciting. It’s the ideal home base for your Phuket itinerary, whether you’re lounging at the resort or heading out to explore the island.

After you check in, take some time to unwind in your spacious room, with breathtaking views of either the lagoon or the Andaman Sea. Sip on a complimentary welcome drink and prepare to leave the stress of daily life behind.

Afternoon: Poolside relaxation or beach fun

Most people come to Phuket to bask in the sun, so why not spend your first day doing just that? The best part about staying at Angsana Laguna Phuket is that you don’t even need to leave the resort to enjoy a full day of relaxation and fun under the tropical sun. But first: lunch. Head to Bodega & Grill, where you’ll find a delicious mix of East and West on the menu. For a taste of local flavour, try the rich Mussaman Curry. However, if you’re craving something from the grill, the Grass-Fed Australian Ebony Prime Black Angus or Tiger Prawns are top picks.

After lunch, it’s time to relax at the resort’s stunning 323-metre free-form pool, which stretches across nearly the entire property. There’s plenty of room to swim, splash around, or simply relax. You can also float along the lazy river or enjoy the activity zone and jet pool for some extra fun. Don’t forget to quench your thirst with fresh juices and unique cocktail blends from the Poolside Restaurant.

Since Angsana Laguna Phuket is an “island within an island” resort, you can also enjoy a range of activities in its lagoons. Should you be in the mood for something more adventurous, you can enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. But if you prefer the ocean, Bang Tao Beach is just a short stroll away.

Evening: Sunset time and Carnival Magic

There’s no better place to watch the sunset than Xana. Grab a seat closest to the shore for an uninterrupted view of the sun sinking into the Andaman Sea, all while relaxing with a cocktail in hand. The restaurant is also the perfect spot to enjoy some light bites before dinner or even indulge in an early meal.

If you finish your dinner early, consider exploring the nearby attractions afterwards. Carnival Magic, a spectacular cultural park located just a 20-minute drive away, stays open until 11.30pm You can catch the dazzling “River Carnival” parade show at 8.30pm, which runs for 45 minutes. After the show, wander through the enchanting Kingdom of Lights until closing.

Day two

Morning: Phi Phi Islands Tour

After spending most of your first day in Angsana Laguna Phuket, it’s time to venture out and explore the wonders beyond the resort. No Phuket itinerary is complete without a day spent island hopping. Therefore, get up bright and early, enjoy a hearty breakfast at the resort, and prepare for a day of adventure as you set sail towards the iconic Phi Phi islands.

Booking a Phi Phi Islands Tour is easy through Angsana Laguna Phuket. Just speak with the staff, and they’ll handle all the arrangements for you. Your first stop will likely be Maya Bay, an exquisite cove made famous by the film The Beach. Maya Bay is occasionally closed to visitors to protect its fragile ecosystem, and in 2024, it’s closed from August 1 to September 30. Luckily, during your long weekend this October, the bay will be open for exploration. While swimming is not permitted, you can still enjoy a picnic on its pristine sands and take in the beauty of this natural paradise. Visiting in the morning is ideal, as you’ll be able to experience its beauty before the midday crowds arrive.

Afternoon: Continue your island adventure

After lunch, continue your island explorations with a visit to Viking Cave, known for its ancient wall paintings and the swiftlet nests harvested there to make bird’s nest soup, a local delicacy. Another highlight is Monkey Beach, where you can observe playful macaques in their natural habitat. It’s important to keep a safe distance from the monkeys, but watching them interact in the wild is a memorable experience. The tour might also include a stop at Bamboo Island.

Between stops, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands. The vibrant coral reefs are teeming with marine life, so expect to be wowed by the incredible underwater spectacle.

If you’re looking for an alternative to the Phi Phi Island Tour, consider the James Bond Island Luxury Sunset Cruise, which explores the beauty of Phang Nga Bay. Famous among fans of the James Bond movies, Khao Phing Kan (or James Bond Island) was featured in the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun and has since become a popular tourist destination. But James Bond Island is just one of more than 100 stunning islands that make up Phang Nga Bay, located northeast of Phuket. This area is celebrated for its dramatic limestone formations, hidden sea caves, and superb swimming and snorkelling spots.

This luxury tour includes both lunch and dinner onboard, so you can savour a meal while cruising around the scenic bay. Along with James Bond Island, the tour may also offer the unique experience of sea canoeing through the limestone caves of Hong Island.

Early evening: Visit a night market

Once you’re back from island hopping, take some time to relax in your room at Angsana Laguna Phuket and recharge. As the evening rolls in, it’s the perfect moment to explore Phuket after dark. A visit to one of the island’s many night markets is a must, where you can savour delicious street food and experience local culture. Since it’s Sunday, the Phuket Sunday Street Market (also known as Lard Yai) is particularly popular. Located along Thalang Road in Phuket Old Town, this vibrant market is filled with stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to mouth-watering street food like grilled squid, mango sticky rice, and spicy sausages. Another bustling option is the Naka Weekend Market, located just outside Phuket Town. It’s dotted with local snacks, clothing, and unique souvenirs.

Late night: Explore Phuket’s nightlife

On an island with an energetic nightlife scene, it’s almost an obligation to visit at least one bar or nightclub. If you’re feeling a bit tired after your day of adventure, head over to The Fool Speakeasy for a relaxed drink in an intimate setting. Inspired by the tarot card “The Fool,” this hidden bar crafts cocktails based on tarot themes. Try the Wheel of Fortune or The Moon, each providing a unique, mystical mix of flavours. If you’re looking for a slightly more upbeat speakeasy experience, The Library is another great choice. It offers a cosy bar area along with a lively club section for those wanting to mix their night with a bit of music and dancing.

For those still full of energy, Bangla Road in Patong is the heart of Phuket’s nightlife scene, packed with bars, clubs, and endless entertainment. If you’re into hip-hop, Sugar Club Phuket is the go-to spot, hosting top DJs and live performances for a high-energy night out. Known for its electric atmosphere, it’s a favourite among hip-hop fans and partygoers alike. Meanwhile, Illuzion Phuket is one of the island’s legendary nightclubs, regularly ranked among the top clubs in Asia. With international DJs like Steve Aoki and Sven Väth having performed there, it’s the place to be if you’re in the mood for a full-blown party. Dance the night away under the neon lights and enjoy one of Phuket’s most vibrant late-night experiences. Then, retreat to the comfort of your room at Angsana Laguna Phuket for a restful night.

Day three

Morning: Leisurely breakfast and spa time

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Market Place, the resort’s buffet-style restaurant offering a wide selection of international and local dishes. Then, you can spend your morning lounging by the pool, watching the waves, dancing at the beach, or participating in one of the resort’s activities. For the ultimate relaxation, we recommend a visit to the award-winning Angsana Spa to rejuvenate and soothe any lingering tiredness from the day before. The spa menu offers a range of treatments, including perfectly tailored massage sessions with skilled therapists and salon services by experienced specialists.

Noon: Checkout and Phuket Old Town

With plenty of evening flights available, you have ample time to enjoy one last afternoon (and maybe an early evening) in Phuket. After checking out of Angsana Laguna Phuket, store your luggage with the hotel’s concierge and set off for a day of sightseeing.

Phuket is as much about its storied past and Sino-Portuguese architecture as it is about palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters. Therefore, your long weekend in Phuket should include a visit to the historic Old Town, especially if you’re a culture vulture. It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours before your flight home. Explore the narrow streets lined with colourful buildings, visit boutique shops, and stop by local cafés for a quick bite.

Afternoon: Authentic flavours, sightseeing, and shopping

For lunch, indulge in the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants scattered throughout Phuket Old Town. Popular dishes include Hokkien Mee, a stir-fried noodle dish, with Mee Ton Poe being one of the best spots to try it. If you’re in the mood for street food, you’ll find plenty of stalls serving up fresh, flavourful bites that showcase the best of Phuket’s culinary scene.

In the afternoon, continue exploring Phuket Old Town’s attractions. Visit the Phuket Thai Hua Museum to delve into the island’s rich Chinese immigrant history, or stop by one of the art galleries showcasing contemporary works by local artists. Be sure to explore the local markets for unique souvenirs, including handcrafted textiles, ceramics, and traditional Thai products. Moreover, don’t miss two of the most remarkable Buddhist temples in the area, Wat Wichit Sangkaram and Wat Mongkhon Nimit.

Early evening: Seafood dinner and return to the airport

As your long weekend in Phuket comes to an end, enjoy a final meal at the Angsana Laguna Phuket’s Seafood Market before collecting your luggage. Sustainability is at the heart of the menu, so you’ll find a variety of seafood dishes featuring the freshest catches from Phuket and locally sourced ingredients. In addition to the à la carte menu, you can take part in the “Sea, Select, Cook, Eat, and Savour” experience, where you personally select your seafood.

After this delightful farewell dinner, it’s time to head to the airport for your flight home.

Why choose Phuket for this long weekend in October?

October is an ideal time to visit Phuket as the weather is transitioning from the rainy season to cooler, drier days. The 3-day Phuket itinerary for a long weekend is perfect for those looking to balance relaxation with adventure. With luxurious accommodations like Angsana Laguna Phuket, you’ll have the best of both worlds: access to world-class beaches and top-tier amenities while also being within reach of cultural and natural attractions.

For more details or to book your stay, visit Angsana Laguna Phuket’s website.

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