Patong is well placed for day trips to the rest of Phuket and the islands beyond. The neighbouring resort beaches of Kata and Karon are 10-20 minutes south and quieter than Patong. The Big Buddha and Wat Chalong are 20 minutes inland. Phuket Town's old shophouse streets and Sunday walking-street market are worth a half-day visit.
Boats leave daily for the Phi Phi Islands (90 minutes by speedboat), the Similan Islands (full-day liveaboards November–May), and the karst formations of Phang Nga Bay including James Bond Island. Booking through your hotel is often cheaper than booking at the beach.