The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Phuket with Kids: Where to Stay, Eat & Play

Thinking about visiting Phuket with kids? You’re in for an amazing family adventure! Phuket is one of the best destinations in Thailand for families, offering gorgeous beaches, fun attractions, and plenty of child-friendly resorts and restaurants. Whether you’re travelling with a baby, toddler, or older kids, this guide covers everything you need to know to make your Phuket family holiday stress-free and unforgettable.

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Best Areas to Stay in Phuket with Kids

Choosing the right area to stay in Phuket with kids is crucial. Here are the top family-friendly areas:

1. Patong Beach – Best for convenience

Pros: Close to shopping, restaurants, and entertainment. Easy access to amenities.
Cons: Crowded and can be noisy at night.
Best for: Families who want easy access to everything, but choose a quieter resort.

2. Kata Beach – Best for calm waters

Pros: Beautiful beach with gentle waves, family-friendly resorts, lots of casual restaurants.
Cons: Fewer nightlife options for parents.
Best for: Families with younger children who love the beach.

3. Karon Beach – Best for a mix of relaxation & activities

Pros: A quieter alternative to Patong, still offering restaurants and activities.
Cons: Can be windy at times, making the sea rough for young kids.
Best for: Families who want a balance of activity and relaxation.

4. Bang Tao Beach – Best for luxury family stays

Pros: Home to upscale resorts with kids’ clubs and beachfront access.
Cons: Fewer budget accommodation options.
Best for: Families looking for a resort-style holiday with all amenities included.

5. Kamala Beach – Best for a laid-back vibe

Pros: Quieter than Patong, ideal for a relaxed family holiday.
Cons: Fewer large resorts compared to other areas.
Best for: Families who prefer a slower pace with plenty of space.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels & Resorts

1. JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa

Fantastic kids’ club and activities.
Beachfront location with multiple pools.
Great for families who want a luxury stay.

2. Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort

Family suites available.
Free activities for kids and a fun swimming pool.
Close to Surin Beach, which is great for kids.

3. Sunwing Kamala Beach

A true family-friendly resort with baby and toddler amenities.
Features waterslides, kids’ activities, and a mini-market.

4. Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort

Great for active families with a beachfront location.
Offers a kids’ club, watersports, and spacious rooms.

5. Holiday Inn Resort Phuket

Family suites with bunk beds and child-friendly dining options.
Kids stay and eat free promotions make it budget-friendly.

Best Places to Eat in Phuket with Kids

Finding child-friendly restaurants in Phuket is easy! Here are some of the best options:

1. The Boathouse Phuket

Offers Western and Thai food, great for picky eaters.
Beachfront setting where kids can play in the sand.

2. Lucky 13 Sandwich

Great for quick, fresh, and tasty sandwiches.
Perfect for grab-and-go meals if you’re exploring.

3. The Pizza Company

A reliable option for pizza-loving kids.
Many locations around Phuket.

4. Breeze at Cape Yamu

Scenic restaurant with child-friendly menu options.
Wide outdoor space for kids to run around.

5. Surf & Turf by Soul Kitchen

Casual and comfortable setting with diverse meal options.
Family-friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere.

Things to Do with Phuket with Kids

There’s no shortage of activities to keep kids entertained in Phuket! Here are some top choices:

1. Splash Jungle Water Park

Great for all ages with slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool.
Perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

2. Andamanda Waterpark

Giant waterpark that caters for all ages
a fun day out, don’t forget to book a cabana to ensure some shade throughout the day, it comes with extras like snacks and drinks

3. Phuket Aquarium

A fun and educational experience for young children.
Small but engaging, with local marine life exhibits. and lots of outdoor areas where kids can learn hands on.

4. Dino Park Mini Golf

A dinosaur-themed mini-golf course.
Fun for kids and parents alike.

5. Big Buddha Visit

A cultural visit with great views.
Kids can release birds for good luck! take a walk around the area and grab a cold coconut to cool off after.

6. Phuket Trickeye Museum

Interactive 3D art museum where kids can pose with optical illusions.
Perfect for a rainy day activity.

7. Carnival Magic

A fun evening of floats, balloons and games!
An all inclusive banquet followed by a secret show that shows off the biggest floats in the world (no animals in the show) its a great evening out for everyone.

Safety & Practical Tips

Getting Around: Use Grab (ride-hailing app) local tuk tuk trucks or rent a car with a child seat.
Medical Care: International hospitals available in Phuket, Bangkok Hospital is a reputable one.
Weather: Dry season (Nov–April) is best for family travel.
Baby Supplies: Available widely in supermarkets, but bring special formula or nappies just in case.
Currency & Payments: Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for small vendors.

Packing Essentials for Families

Sunscreen (reef-safe options recommended)
Insect repellent especially in rainy seasons as mosquitoes can carry Dengue fever.
Swim gear (rash vests, floaties)
Light, breathable clothing
Baby carrier or lightweight pushchair
Travel first aid kit with essential medicines however most medicines are available in pharmacies.

Sample Itinerary for Families Visiting Phuket with Kids

Here’s a 5-day suggested itinerary for a stress-free family holiday in Phuket with Kids :

Day 1: Arrive, explore your resort, relax at the beach. Day 2: Visit the big Buddha, followed by lunch at a child-friendly restaurant. Day 3: Beach day with water activities, then head to Carnival Magic for the evening. Day 4: Explore Old Phuket Town for a cultural experience and enjoy local food. Day 5: Enjoy Andamanda Water Park before heading to the airport.