3 Best Sights in Phuket and the Andaman Coast, Thailand

This huge white marble Buddha on top of the Nakkerd Hills built in the early 2000s has quickly become one of the island's most revered landmarks. It's 45 meters high, and the site offers the best 360-degree views of the island.

If you want to get your bearings, there's a fine view of Phuket Town and Chalong and Phuket bays from atop Khao Rang, a hill north of town. From the town's center, take either Ranong or Thalang Road west, turn north on Khaw Sim Bee Road, then follow the winding, ascending, forested road. There are restaurants and a picnic area once you reach the top, where you can relax after soaking in the vista from the large viewing platform next to a gazebo (which you can't ascend).

From the top of the cliff at Promthep Cape, the southernmost point on Phuket, you're treated to a fantastic panoramic view of Nai Harn Bay, the coastline, and a few outlying islands. At sunset you can share the view with swarms of others who pour forth from tour buses to view the same sight. If you're driving, arrive early so you get a parking spot. There's a lighthouse atop the point, as well as a collection of elephant statues where locals go to pray for good fortune.