Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, stays near the top of many travel lists in 2026. Lonely Planet named it among the 25 best places to visit this year, pointing to its beach lifestyle, arts scene, local culture, and standout food.
Tourism has also bounced back in a big way. With numbers expected to keep rising after 2025’s strong results of more than 14 million visitors nationwide, local officials are working to keep Phuket welcoming while tightening rules around safety and the environment.
Peak season brings packed beaches and major events, including Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Thailand. Visitors should expect updated arrival steps, stronger enforcement of traffic laws, and more eco-minded beach rules. This guide covers visa and entry updates, local regulations, beach tips, and must-see attractions in Phuket for 2026.
Entry and Visa Regulations: What’s New in 2026
Thailand still makes it easy for tourists to visit, but entry is more organized in 2026. The biggest update is the required Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), in effect from May 2025 onward. All foreign nationals arriving by air, land, or sea must submit the form online within three days before arrival using the official site (tdac.immigration.go.th).
It replaces the old paper card and asks for passport details, travel plans, where the traveler is staying, and the purpose of the trip. Travelers who skip it may be refused entry, so it’s best to file it early before landing at Phuket International Airport.
Many travelers still won’t need a traditional visa because of the expanded visa exemption scheme. Citizens of 93 countries (including the US, UK, EU countries, Australia, and others) can enter visa-free for up to 60 days for tourism or short business visits. A one-time extension for 30 more days is possible at a local immigration office (fee around 1,900 THB). Officers may ask for proof of onward travel, hotel bookings, and enough funds (at least 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family), sometimes at random.
Passport rules haven’t changed. A passport should be valid for at least six months after arrival and have blank pages for stamps. Travelers staying longer, or visiting for specific reasons, can apply for a Tourist Visa (single or multiple entry, up to 60 days per visit) or other options such as the Destination Thailand Visa for remote workers.
Immigration teams have also increased checks to reduce misuse of visa-free entry. Repeated land border “visa runs” are more limited now, often capped at two per year for certain entry types. Air arrivals into Phuket usually face fewer limits, but officers apply the rules more consistently. There are no COVID entry rules in place, no test, and no vaccine proof needed.
Safety and Local Regulations: Driving, Beaches, and Environmental Protections
Phuket has increased safety enforcement in 2026, with extra focus on tourists who rent motorbikes and cars. Traffic checkpoints are common, and officers may check an international driving permit (used with the home license), helmet use for riders, and signs of drunk driving.
Fines can be high. Accidents involving tourists are still a serious issue, and crash rates were reported as high around the New Year 2026. Visitors heading out at night often do better with a designated driver or a trusted ride service.
Beach rules also have a stronger eco focus. Phuket’s coastline has heavy traffic, and some areas are under strain. Well-known spots such as Maya Bay (usually visited as a day trip from Phuket) continue to use seasonal closures (often August to September) and daily visitor limits. Some zones also ban swimming to protect coral and marine life.
Snorkeling and boat rules follow “Leave No Trace” basics, with a focus on avoiding reef damage and cutting plastic waste. Marine parks like the Similan Islands close each year around May 15 for the breeding season, which reduces pressure on the ecosystem.
Basic beach etiquette matters more than ever. Littering can lead to fines. Jet skis may be restricted in protected areas. Visitors should also respect local norms, including avoiding topless sunbathing in family areas. On land, Phuket continues to limit some hillside development to help protect green space and views.
Must-Visit Spots and Beach Guides for 2026
Phuket offers a wide mix of experiences, from busy beach towns to quiet corners and cultural sites.
Patong Beach remains the center for nightlife, shopping, and water sports, with Bangla Road active after dark. Travelers looking for a slower pace often choose Kata Noi Beach or Karon Beach, known for soft sand and a more relaxed feel. Freedom Beach feels more secluded and is usually reached by boat or a hike. Ao Sane Beach is smaller and calmer, with a local vibe.
Phuket’s well-known landmarks still draw crowds. Big Buddha Phuket offers sweeping views from a hilltop location. Wat Chalong, the island’s best-known temple, stands out for its detailed design and its role in local religious life.
Day trips are a big part of the Phuket experience. The Phi Phi Islands, including Maya Bay, are popular for limestone cliffs and clear water. Many travelers now choose eco-minded operators that run smaller groups. Phang Nga Bay is known for James Bond Island and sea cave kayaking. When open, the Similan Islands are a top pick for diving.
Old Phuket Town is a must for food and photos, with Sino-Portuguese buildings, murals, and local shops. Sunday visitors can catch the Lard Yai night market. For outdoor views, travelers often head to Monkey Hill or lookouts near Laem Singh.
Travelers focused on rest and wellness often book resorts in areas like Bang Tao or Mai Khao, where many properties also highlight greener practices.
Phuket’s 2026 event calendar adds even more reasons to visit, with a mix of music and cultural festivals that boost the island’s energy during peak months.
During high season (December to February), rooms fill up fast, and occupancy can reach 80% or more, so booking early helps. Many visitors rely on ride-hailing apps or licensed taxis, and it pays to agree on prices before booking boats or tours. Cultural respect also goes a long way, with modest clothing at temples and shoes off indoors where required. For beach days, travelers often do best with plenty of water, reef-safe sunscreen, and support for local restaurants, guides, and shops.
Phuket remains a place for beach time, great food, and warm hospitality in 2026. Visitors who follow the updated rules can enjoy the island while helping protect it for the next wave of travelers.
