Phuket has long enjoyed a reputation as a city of sin and play, but there is so much more to do beyond the city's infamous nightlife. Here is a list of five fabulous ideas that will keep you entertained whether you're traveling with your best mate, your girlfriend, or your children.

Phuket Sail Tours can offer you a somewhat different view of Phuket-from the sea. Sail with Captain Mark to any of the nearby islands, including James Bond Island, and explore the lagoons and beaches or go for a swim, all without having to fend off local hawkers. For 3000 Baht for adults and 1500 Baht for children 12 and under you can spend the day at sea with a small group (boats only hold 10 passengers). The price includes a Thai lunch, refreshments, snacks, snorkeling gear, and transfer from your hotel. You can also charter a private boat for 6 people for 18000 Baht. Add 1500 Baht for each additional person (up to 10). Contact Mark at captainmark@phuketsailtours.com. Phone: +66 87 897049-2

Phuket Thai Cookery School is an incredible experience and a must-do for foodies. An all day experience, you can choose a day with a menu that suits you (for example, Tuesdays center on how to make a curry paste). Book your course for Thursday, Friday or Saturday if you want to take a trip to the local market with your teacher. Instructors are nice, patient, and all speak excellent English. The school is located right on the beach for fabulous views. Morning classes start at 10 a.m., and afternoon start at 3 p.m. The course includes transfer from your hotel, ingredients, refreshments, lunch or dinner and recipe cards. The most popular course, including 6 dishes, runs at 2900 Baht. Arrive with an empty stomach. Phone: +66 76 252354-55

Chalong Temple is the biggest and most famous temple in Phuket. With a view of Buddha Mountain and Radar Hill, the temple is comprised of several buildings. The tower building contains artwork depicting Buddha's life and what is supposedly a fragment of bone from the Buddha himself. Other buildings house statues of the founding monks covered in gold leaf, as well as wax sculptures of the monks. If you're traveling with children try to arrive before 10 a.m. or after 2 p.m. to avoid the biggest crowds and excessive heat. From Chalong circle take Why 4021 and you'll see Chalong Temple on the right.

Simon Cabaret will appease any who are looking for a taste of Phuket's nightlife. Twice a night the lady-boys of Simon's put on a spectacular show that ranges from Egypt to Latin America to China and back to Thailand. With elaborate costumes and beautiful dancers, the show is captivating and suitable for people of all ages. Please note that cameras are not permitted, though afterward you can take a photo with a dance for 20 Baht. Tickets start at 600 Baht, and shows start at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. nightly. Book in advance, as they are very popular. Simon's Cabaret is located on Sirirach Road, traveling south from Patong beach toward Karon beach. Phone: +66 76 342011-5

Finally, no trip to Phuket is complete without seeing the Beaches. Patong beach is the most famous with its incredible party style and nightlife. Be prepared for intense crowds. Heading south, Karon beach is slightly less crowded, though it still has all of the amenities one could want, from restaurants and nightclubs to hotels. Continuing south, Kata beach is more suitable for families. While it still has a fun nightlife it's much calmer.

With so much to do you can make the most of your trip to Phuket with or without the frenetic lifestyle.