If you haven’t realized it yet, Phuket has all sorts of possibilities to please and entertain just about anybody. Sure, there are the beaches, the resorts, and the beach clubs, but there are also many other ways to spend your time in Phuket. While those are certainly part of the island’s charm, visitors to Phuket are always surprised at all that there is to offer here. Looking beyond the obvious attractions reveals a surprising range of activities that even frequent visitors often overlook.

Explore a Hidden Mangrove Forest by Kayak

While most people’s focus is on the picturesque west coast with its palm-fringed beaches, Phuket’s coastline isn’t just about sandy beaches. Tucked away in the northeast of the island is a latticework of mangrove forests that feel worlds away from the busy tourist areas. Emptying into Phang Nga Bay, you can paddle through narrow channels surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and dense jungle. You can spot all sorts of wildlife up close, like monkeys, mudskippers, kingfishers, and tons of other cool birds and aquatic species. Many areas are protected from the wind, and the calm water makes it suitable for beginners.

Visit a Floating Seafood Restaurant

It doesn’t get any fresher or more authentic than this. Just off the east coast near Phuket Town is a unique and memorable dining experience. At Laem Hin Pier, you can hop into a small longtail boat and cruise a few minutes out into the bay between Coconut Island and the mainland, where several floating restaurants are located.

These are actually fish farms with nets below the restaurants, with other marine delicacies foraged from nearby waters daily. While it may seem like a gimmick at first glance, it’s actually a pretty magical experience.

Ride an Electric Dirt Bike Through the Jungle

That’s right, the latest in electrified vehicles can be found not just on Phuket’s roads, but far off them as well. Adventure seekers might be surprised to learn that electric dirt bike tours can be had that lead you through winding jungle trails and gnarly off-road terrain. The bikes are quite capable and nearly silent, making it a cool experience, especially if you’ve never ridden one.

Tours offered by operators such as Surron Ride Phuket lead riders along hidden tracks through Phuket’s hills, to remote viewpoints, and through sprawling rubber plantations. Because the bikes are electric, the experience is quieter and more immersive than traditional motorbike tours.

Volunteer for a Good Cause

A small number of visitors to Phuket desire to balance out their holiday by giving back to the community. There are many ways this can be done, including beach cleanups, teaching English to disadvantaged kids, assisting at animal rescue centers like Soi Dog Foundation, helping marine conservation groups protect marine ecosystems, or helping other community projects across the island.

Shop for High-End Goods

Until just a few years ago, the thought of shopping for a new Gucci bag in Phuket may have sounded outlandish. Fast forward to the present day, and you can find more than just Gucci. Luxury shopping in Phuket centers around upscale malls like Phuket now has a premier upscale shopping mall, Central Phuket Floresta, which is home to some of the most famous brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada. Dust off your credit card and browse designer fashion, jewelry, watches, and accessories in these classy retail spaces.