The best things to do in Phuket this weekend (February 5-8)

If you’re in Phuket and not on a boat, what are you even doing? Fix your sails by joining an end-of-week meet-up for Phuket’s boating and marine crowd – an easygoing Friday evening of food, drinks and harbourside chit-chat. Hosted at the Boardwalk Bistro and Bar at Phuket Boat Lagoon, it’s open to all (you don’t need a boat to be a part of the club) while visiting sponsor, Malaysia International Boat Show, carries the event with activities, giveaways and networking. Add on a complimentary buffet of burgers and drinks, as well as a friendly crowd that welcomes newcomers as much as seasoned sea dogs, and you’re all set. Just don’t forget your boat shoes… 

Feb 6. Free. Boardwalk Bistro and Bar. 5pm onwards

If you’re in the mood for some UK house energy, you’re in luck. Crashing down hard on Armania’s laser-filled DJ stage is Sam Supplier – a punchy house legend straight out of old blighty. Two-times world number-one beatport selling artist and with over half a dozen top 40s, there’s little excuse not to go – and no doubt he’ll keep things moving well past our bedtime – perfect for anyone who wants to ease into the Patong weekend without going to sleep. 

Feb 6. Free. Armania Phuket. 10pm-late

Forget your Google Maps pins – they’re all probably out of date anyway – and let Rush On guide you through some of the more hidden parts of Phuket through a playful gamified tour of Patong, Kata, Old Town, Rawai and beyond. Sign up and you get access to all you need for a self-guided scavenger hunt adventure packed with puzzles, challenges and genuinely great spots to update your map with. Bike or car tours are also available, although we prefer scavenging as there’s a prize waiting at the finishline… if you can make it. Prefer a bit of competition? Their guided Saturday challenge races add a social, fast-paced twist for teams and solo players of all ages. We hear the spirit is fierce. 

Feb 5-8 (and most weekends). B149 to B1,000 depending on your package, tickets here. Various locations. Midday-8pm (Saturday races 4pm onwards)

Another day, another celebrity DJ gracing the decks of Phuket’s best clubs. wAFF is Illuzion’s latest feature, a staple of the international house and techno circuit known for deep-grooving, soul-led sound and high-energy raving guaranteed. Best known for his release on Hot Creations and Paradise, his sets find us in a trance – possibly because he daylights as a Rekki healer. Thankfully, a few local support acts will keep things grounded before they share the stage with this visiting house music behemoth. Needless to say, the only illusion here is the name.

Feb 6. Free. Illuzion Phuket. 9pm-late

As most know, surfing can be rather hit or miss in Phuket. Sometimes the seas are roaring, other times the water is as calm as silk. Luckily, there’s a spot right in town that has an endless wave of pure surf to ride, whatever the weather is doing outside. Whether you’re a total beginner, a confident rider or bringing the kids along, this FlowRider spot makes surfing easy, social and seriously fun. If you need, friendly coaches are there to guide you through the basics (or help sharpen your skills), while spectators can kick back with food and drinks and watch the wipeouts and wins roll by. 

Daily. B1,280 for 30-60 minute sessions. Phuket Surf House Patong. 9.30am onwards

After a high-energy run in Bangkok, 6inch now lands heel-first on the sands of Phuket. This dance camp takes many forms as it tours Thailand (as long as you’re wearing the right shoes), from big parties to more calmer events. This weekend, they are shifting the focus towards balance, connection and recovery. Sure, there is no doubt that plenty of dancing will still take place but you’ll also get moments of slower, more considered rhythm – with classes that vary across styles, stretch and yoga, as well as saunas, ice baths and beach club nights that will have your feet throbbing in all kinds of good ways. Open to all levels, it’s your official weekend invitation to swap full-throttle partying for feel-good movement, wellness and some very well-earned downtime.

Feb 7-8. B9,000-B16,000, tickets here. Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay. From 10am