Asia · beach
Phuket
Thailand
Turquoise bays, jungle temples, and legendary sunsets await on Thailand's ultimate island
Phuket enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with a pronounced dry season from November through April, when skies are clear, seas are calm, and temperatures hover in the mid-80s°F. The wet season runs May through October, bringing heavy afternoon downpours and rough surf on the west coast, though the east coast remains more sheltered. Peak season from December to February sees the best beach conditions but also the highest prices and crowds.
When to visit
Award flights from the US
Economy
Singapore KrisFlyer
via Chase UR / Amex MR / Capital One
+ $120 taxes
Transfer Chase UR or Amex MR to Singapore KrisFlyer and fly Singapore Airlines or Thai Airways in economy. NYC–BKK–HKT routing; sweet-spot pricing with low carrier surcharges.
Air France/KLM Flying Blue
via Chase UR / Amex MR / Capital One
+ $160 taxes
Flying Blue Promo Rewards can drop to 60K miles; book KLM or partner metal via Amsterdam to Bangkok. Transfers from Chase UR, Amex MR, or Capital One Miles at 1:1.
Business / First
Singapore KrisFlyer
via Chase UR / Amex MR / Capital One
+ $150 taxes
Singapore Suites or Business Class on Singapore Airlines NYC–SIN–BKK–HKT. Exceptional product with flat-bed seats; book partner awards for best availability. Transfer from Chase UR or Amex MR.
Aeroplan
via Chase UR / Amex MR / Capital One
+ $140 taxes
Air Canada Aeroplan for Thai Airways Royal Silk or ANA Business Class to Bangkok. No fuel surcharges on most partners; transfer from Chase UR, Amex MR, or Capital One Miles.
Cash equivalent: economy ~$1,100 · business ~$4,800 roundtrip from NYC
Award hotels
Park Hyatt Phuket Kamala Beach
Hyatt
Clifftop resort overlooking Kamala Bay with infinity pools, world-class spa, and direct beach access. Category 6 Hyatt property; 5-night free night cert available.
Marriott's Phuket Beach Club
Marriott
Beachfront resort on Mai Khao Beach, northern Phuket. Villas with full kitchens; strong value with Marriott Bonvoy points. Peak rates rise to 50K+ points per night.
Trisara Phuket
Small Luxury Hotels
Boutique hillside retreat with private pool villas above Nai Thon Beach. No major points program but redeemable via Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts for valuable credits.
What to see & do
Phi Phi Islands Day Trip
Iconic limestone karst islands with turquoise lagoons, snorkeling, and Maya Bay — made famous by The Beach. Speedboat day trips depart from Rassada Pier.
Big Buddha of Phuket
45-meter marble Buddha statue atop Nakkerd Hill with panoramic views over Chalong Bay and the Andaman Sea. Free entry; best at sunrise.
Patong Beach Nightlife
Bangla Road transforms into a neon-lit street party after dark with open-air bars, cabaret shows, and night markets. Southeast Asia's liveliest beach party strip.
Old Phuket Town
Colorful Sino-Portuguese shophouses, street art murals, local cafes, and weekend walking market. The cultural heart of the island away from resort strips.
Phang Nga Bay Sea Kayaking
Paddle through mangrove tunnels and sea caves into hidden hongs (lagoons) surrounded by limestone towers. James Bond Island is nearby; half- and full-day tours available.
Phuket Street Food at Talad Ruamit Night Market
Pad Thai, grilled satay, mango sticky rice, and fresh seafood cooked to order for under $5 a dish. The best budget culinary experience on the island.
Monthly weather
| Month | Low | High | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 73°F | 88°F | |
| Feb | 74°F | 89°F | |
| Mar | 76°F | 91°F | |
| Apr | 77°F | 92°F | |
| May | 76°F | 90°F | |
| Jun | 75°F | 88°F | |
| Jul | 75°F | 87°F | |
| Aug | 75°F | 87°F | |
| Sep | 74°F | 87°F | |
| Oct | 74°F | 87°F | |
| Nov | 73°F | 87°F | |
| Dec | 72°F | 87°F |
Best cards for this trip
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