Africa
Asia
Caribbean
Central America
Europe
Middle East
North America
Pacific
South America
Each year, several swimmers drown off Phuket's coastline. Check ocean conditions carefully and swim with caution. Red flags are posted on beaches to warn bathers of riptides and other dangerous conditions. If a red flag is flying at a beach, don't go into the water. There are also beach guards and early warning towers (for tsunami and other natural disaster alerts). Especially during the May to October monsoon, the waves on the western coast of Phuket sometimes make it too dangerous to swim. The eastern coast is usually tamer at this time of year but there isn't much in the way of beaches there. Hat Rawai, on the southeastern edge of the island, is usually a safe bet at any time of year.
Keep an eye out for jet skis when you're in the water, especially when snorkelling. Although the Phuket governor declared jet skis illegal in 1997, enforcement of the ban is cyclic.
Renting a motorcycle can be a high-risk proposition. Thousands of people are killed or injured every year on Phuket highways. Some have been travellers who weren't familiar enough with riding motorcycles and negotiating the island's roads and traffic patterns. If you must rent a motorcycle, make sure you at least know the basics and wear a helmet.
