National Parks
Khao Phra Thaeo Park contains the only virgin rainforest left on the island, and is home to langurs, barking deer, mouse deer, bears, wild boar, monkeys, gibbons, and more than a hundred species of birds. Guides can be hired.
Inside the Park is Bang Pae Waterfall - a beautiful, shaded cascade with a pool at its foot where kids can cool off.
Near the waterfall is the Phuket Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre dedicated to saving these delightful creatures which are threatened by poaching and destruction of habitat. Why not assist?
(www.gibbonproject.org) Near the park headquarters is Ton Sai Waterfall with a restaurant alongside a delightful setting for lunch.
To get to Khao Phra take the north road from Phuket City towards the airport and after 20 kilometres turn right at Thalang. The park gates are reached after 7 kilometres.
Sirinat Marine National Park on the north-west of the island comprises Nat Thon, Nai Yang and Mai Kao. The Park is a fascinating combination of mangrove swamp and shallow coral reef. There is a Visitors Centre. Again take the north road and turn left onto highway 4031 after Thalang. See our map page 9.
There is another pretty waterfall at Kathu - from Phuket City take the Patong raod and turn right opposite the Loch Palm Golf Club. Like all the falls, Kathu is at its best during the rainy season.
All Terrain Vehicles
Here's another one for teenage adrenalin-junkies. Take the road less traveled. Explore the back trails of the island on an ATV. Actually, they are astonishingly stable vehicles. Quite safe really! For more information call: 08 1892 1414.
Cable Ski
Try water-skiing by cable power in a large fresh water lake. All equipment plus full tuition is provided. Hone your kids' skills safely before they try the real thing. The lake is behind Loch Palm Golf Club off the Phuket City-Kathu road. See map inset. Ring Khun Kusol on 08 1273 7530 or 08 6828 9365.
Dinopark Mini-golf
The young and young-at-heart will enjoy the challenge of this fun course located in a Jurassic Theme Park complete with dinosaurs and an active volcano. Located in Kata on the Karon Road. Go to www.dinopark.com. or call 0 7633 0625 for more information.
Phuket Fantasea
OK, the holidays have been a marvelous success you and the family have had an exciting, unique and educational holiday, so on that last night a celebration would seem to be in order. We don't yet have Disney in Phuket but we've got the next best thing. Phuket Fantasea has been created on a hundred-and-forty acre site which combines special effects, glamour and spectacle to create an unforgettable evening out. Themed on Thailand's rich and exotic history the extravaganza offers a Carnival Village of exciting atmospherics and culminates in a grand buffet offering Thai and International cuisine which you enjoy whilst watching a Las Vegas style entertainment.
All agents accept bookings and transport is available from most hotels to the site at Kamala at an inclusive rate.
For more information see: wwwphuketfantasea.com