Thalang National Museum (Pa Khlok Rd., 076-313-397. Open daily 8:30am-4:30pm) explores Phuket’s history since ancient times. From antique ornaments to the Battle of Thalang, to the story of the famous heroines (Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Sri Sunthorn) to Srivichai-era art objects, Southern cultures and Phuket indigenous pieces—it’s all here. B30.

Phuket Seashell Museum (12/2 Moo 2, Viset Rd., 076-613-666. Open daily 8am-6pm) collects rare, beautiful and strange seashells from all over the world. Get to see fossils, giant sea shells (over 250kg), car-wheel sized ammonites, a 140-karat golden pearl and more spectacular items. B100 for Thais, B200 for tourists.

Phuket Aquarium (51 Moo 8, Sakdidej Rd., 076-391-126. Open daily 9am-4pm. www.phuketaquarium.org) is where you can watch those big sharks up close and risk free. There are over 150 species of marine animals. Some examples are electric eels, octopuses, sea turtles, wrasses, giant groupers and cute little Nemo, clown fishes. B50 for Thais, B100 for tourists.

Remember Jira Maligool’s movie masterpiece, The Tin Mine (2005)? Kathu Mining Museum (Sai Kathu-Koh Kaew Rd., Tambon Kathu, Ampur Kathu, 08-1326-2549. Open Mon-Fri 8:30am-4pm. www.kathutin.com) is the new museum in Phuket that will have mine-drilling machines, mining history and portrays the lives of mine people on display. The official opening date has been postponed as some parts are not completed yet, but smalls group of two or three are welcome.