Explore Phuket on a Budget
“Phuket” is often imagined as fancy resorts, expensive tours, and private beach clubs. In order to splurge yourselves, here’s the secret as unforgettable adventures that are free—or seriously cheap like its surrounding provinces like Phang Nga and Krabi
Here are 10 awesome budget-friendly activities for the kind of traveler who loves stunning nature, rich culture, and a bit of adventure to dive into while you’re in Phuket without draining your wallet.
1. Wander Through Phuket Old Town
Cost: Free
Step into a different side of Phuket by exploring Phuket Old Town— a colorful mash-up of history, culture, and creativity.
The pastel-colored Sino-Portuguese shophouses lining Thalang Road and Soi Rommanee are pure eye candy. Cool street art hides around corners, and if you pop into the tiny alleys, you’ll find cute cafés, art galleries, and indie boutiques.
Don’t Miss:
- Sunday Lard Yai Market (late afternoon to evening): Think live music, local food stalls, handmade crafts, and a really chill vibe.
- Chinpracha House: it’s worth snapping a photo of this beautiful old mansion by paying very cheap museum entry.
2. Chill Out at Ao Sane Beach
Cost: Free
It’s super low-key—think old-school Phuket before the big tourism boom by skipping the crowded beaches and head to Ao Sane Beach, a quiet little cove tucked away near Nai Harn.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Zero crowds compared to Patong or Kata
- Crystal clear water
- Shady trees to nap under
3. Hike Up to Karon Viewpoint
Cost: Free
It sometimes is called “Three Beaches Viewpoint” for a perfect Insta-shot of three Phuket beaches all lined up? – Kata Noi, Kata and Karon beach.
Extra Tip:
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike from nearby beaches or just rent a motorbike to zip up here. Either way, the view costs nothing but a little sweat!
4. Visit Wat Chalong
Cost: Free
Although you’re spiritual or just love impressive architecture, Wat Chalong is a must-see.
One of Phuket’s most important Buddhist temple, and locals come here to pray and make merit. The main stupa allegedly houses a bone fragment of the Buddha himself.
Good to Know:
- Dress modestly (cover shoulders, waist and knees).
- Don’t miss Thai wooden house with the wax bodies of the famous abbots and exploring the peaceful gardens around the temple.
5. Snap a Selfie at Saphan Hin Park
Cost: Free
Saphan Hin or Phuket Bay is a giant local park and sea in town where Phuket’s residents jog, picnic, skate, and hang out since early morning till 9.30 pm – making it a super scenic (and breezy) place to chill.
Fun Fact:
There’s a cool old tin mining monument here—a nod to Phuket’s history before it became a tourism hotspot.
Best Time: Sunrise!
6. Marvel at Samet Nangshe Viewpoint (Phang Nga)
Cost: 30-600 baht depending on how to get there
Samet Nangshe Viewpoint offers mind-blowing views over Phang Nga Bay’s limestone cliffs and islands, especially at sunrise when the mist dances between the peaks.
What to Expect:
- A short but steep climb (bring water and bring garbage back)
- 360-degree views you’ll never forget
7. Check Out the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project
Cost: 400 baht for National Park Entry fee /200 baht for kid
(Gibbon Donations welcome)
Hidden inside Khao Phra Thaeo National Park is the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project, where volunteers work to rescue and rehabilitate abused gibbons.
You can visit the center, learn about the gibbons’ stories, and maybe spot a few swinging through the trees—all while supporting ethical tourism.
Bonus:
While you’re here, pop over to Bang Pae Waterfall for a refreshing dip (small park entry fee applies).
For walking around the National Park, please contact the staffs of the park for more information.
8. Explore Laem Krating
Cost: Free
Looking for a bit of a secret adventure with an insanely beautiful sunset without crowded?
Laem Krating is a rocky headland near Nai Harn, offering wild coastal views and epic sunset spots.
It’s a short but tricky hike (wear proper shoes!) through a grassy hill before you reach the horn-shaped rock formation.
Why Go:
- Feels like your own slice of Phuket paradise
9. Cruise Through Local Markets
Cost: Free to browse; cheap to snack
Markets aren’t just for shopping—they’re full-on cultural experiences mostly operate in the evening (4 – 10 pm).
Phuket’s local markets are buzzing with flavors, colors, and friendly chaos which you can select on your free days in different areas.
- Chillva Market: Trendy night market popular with locals. Vintage clothes, hipster food trucks, and live music, except Sundays.
- Indy Market: This one is located behind “In PHUKET House” where you can enjoy live music and fire show while having your dinner or drinks. Clothing and souvenirs are also ready to be selected on Wednesday till Friday.
- Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market): A wild mash-up of secondhand goods, pets, street food, and souvenirs. Bring small bills and an appetite!
Snack Tip:
You can score incredible local eats like grilled chicken skewers, coconut pancakes, or mango sticky rice for just 60 THB (under $2).
10. Walk the Nature Trail at Sirinat National Park
Cost: 200 THB (~$5) / 100 THB (3-14 yrs) entry free
A part of Sirinat National Park is “Nai Yang Beach” near Phuket airport. A peaceful place to watch airplanes take off over the ocean if you’re into plane-spotting!
Its long empty stretches of sand, gorgeous beaches and shady nature trails are natural for relaxing.
Final Thoughts: Phuket is More Affordable Than You Think!
Packing your days with adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery without spending a fortune to blow your budget to have an incredible time in Phuket —So lace up your sneakers, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore.
Selecting hiking hidden trails, chilling at secret beaches or diving into vibrant local culture and feasting at night markets