Diving and snorkelling: is one of the Andaman’s primary draw cards and numerous dive shops scattered about the tourist areas offer day trips for divers and snorkellers to large choice of reefs and wrecks offshore. Some even go as far as Phi Phi and the Similan islands on multi-day trips. Those who do not have PADI certification can take three-day courses, in addition to more advanced training. Those who simply want to experience a sample of the vast and colourful marine life in the Andaman sea can go snorkelling, which is offered as part of numerous off-shore trips to small islands. Jet skis are also found in season on some of the other more popular beaches. Waterskiing is also offered and if the surf isn’t calm then you can resort to the cable-way ski centre on an artificial lake in Kathu. Several companies also offer windsurfing and surf boarding, with Kata being the preferred location for good waves. Sailing: deserves its own mention as a great way to truly appreciate this wonderful coastline. Several companies have day trips or small yachts for charter, offering a relaxing day out at sea. You might even get roped into hoisting sails and pulling in the sheets, but make sure you have ‘sea legs’. Elephant back rides: offer the quintessential Thailand nature experience. Several camps around the island are accessible via tours from local agents. Some have shows with elephants undertaking some impressive tasks, but the highlight is a trek through the jungle on the back of these stoic beasts. Be warned, the ride is hardly comfortable, but it’s the best way to get into the jungle. Sea canoeing: takes places in Pha Nga bay, which is a full day trip away and offers the best environment for paddling with its adventurous caverns and geographical topography among the stunning karst seascapes. Sea kayaks are also available at most beach areas for a few hours of fun exploring the coast. Courses: are a popular way to pass the time in Phuket. Lately a number of Thai food cookery courses have popped up and this is a fun way to spend a day, including a provisioning excursion to a Thai market. When you’ve had enough sun you can learn this handy skill to impress friends back home. Massage courses are also offered in the fine art of Thai massage, but they usually last one week minimum. Thai kickboxing: attracts a steady following as visitors specifically plan several days in a gym to learn technique and train in this ancient and unique combat form. There are schools in Kata, Rawai and Chalong (near Phuket Town). Animal shows: are an entertaining family friendly attraction offered in the form of elephant shows, a snake and crocodile farm, and monkey school. Each have several shows a day and your hotel concierge or a local travel agent can help you find these.
Spas are another great way to while away a day and these are detailed in our leisure section. Boat trips and day tours are a highlight of any visit to Phuket and several options are described in the day trips section.
There are also a number of cultural exhibitions, such as the aqaurium, zoo and Phuket Fantasea (attractions section), and several museums (own section) that can keep you occupied for a day. Shopping (leisure section) is another popular activity. | 
