Pearl Tours in Phuket: Best Pearl Farms, Prices, Reviews & What to Expect

2. UNG Pearl Farm

UNG Pearl Farm is smaller and more meaningful for travelers who like authentic, family-run experiences. You’ll learn pearl cultivation techniques and have the option to design custom jewelry.

✨ Highlights

• Family-owned local business
• Peaceful, intimate experience
• Custom pearl jewelry

📍 7 Soi Ao-Yon Khaokhad, Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand

💲 Entry often free (charges may apply for guided demonstrations)

🕒 Duration: 45–90 minutes

📊 Price Comparison: Pearl Tours in Phuket

Amorn Pearl Farm Tour: 800–1200+ THB

• Includes: Boat ride + floating farm tour + factory visit
• Best For: First-timers wanting full experience

UNG Pearl Farm: Free–500+ THB

• Includes: Walkthrough + optional guided talk
• Travelers who like small family businesses

👍 What People Liked:

• Very educational and detailed — guides explain oyster lifecycle and pearl cultivation clearly.
• Friendly, knowledgeable guides — travelers praise the guides at Amorn for being patient and informative.
• Hands-on experience — guests like seeing oysters opened and understanding how pearls are made
• Authentic, family-run feel (especially UNG) — very genuine business, not a big tourist trap.
• Fair / reasonable pricing for pearls — many say UNG’s pearl jewelry is reasonably priced.
• Wide variety of pearl products — both classic and modern designs, and you can even customize pieces at UNG.
• Sustainable farm practices — Amorn’s farm claims to use eco-friendly techniques.
• Warm, personal engagement — visitors at UNG mention being greeted by the family owners, who explain things humbly and clearly.

👎 What People Didn’t Like:

• Discount confusion: Some guests report trouble getting the advertised tourist discount (e.g., 10% off) at Amorn.
• Potential purchase pressure: While not very aggressive, there’s still an expectation to check out the shop after the tour. (Implied by shopping-focused part of tours.)
• Travel-distance to UNG: The farm is a bit off the beaten path, making it a longer drive.
• Authenticity concerns: At least one traveler said they felt overcharged or doubted the source of their pearl purchase at UNG.
• Short tour time: Some say the visit to UNG is “short but worthwhile” — good if you’re quick, but not super deep.

🕒 Best Time to Visit a Pearl Tour in Phuket

Best Time of Year: ⭐⭐⭐ November to April (dry season)

The seas are calmer and weather is sunny — perfect for the boat ride portion.

Best Time of Day: 👉 Morning tours (9AM–11AM)

Temperature is cooler, lighting is great for photos, and farms are less busy.

👜 Tips for Visiting a Pearl Tour

✔ Bring sunglasses and sunscreen

✔ Wear comfortable sandals or breathable shoes

✔ Bring a phone or camera with storage (great photo moments!)

✔ Check weather conditions for boat travel

✔ Read about pearl grading before shopping

🔁 Alternatives If Pearl Tours Are Booked or Not Your Style

If you love cultural and hands-on activities, you may also enjoy:

• Thai cooking classes
• Batik textile workshops
• Elephant sanctuaries (ethical only)
• Cashew nut factory tours
• Phuket Old Town cultural walking tours
• Long-tail boat island tours

These pair great with a pearl tour or make great substitutes.

🌿 Is a Pearl Tour in Phuket Worth It?

If you're looking for something meaningful, peaceful, and culturally interesting, then YES — pearl tours in Phuket are absolutely worth experiencing. However, if you don't like educational tours (maybe you find them boring, that's fine) then this may not be for you.

They’re especially great if you enjoy:

• Slow travel
• Sustainability
• Jewelry
• Marine science
• Hands-on learning
• Authentic Thai culture

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pearl Tours in Phuket

1. How much does a pearl cost in Phuket?

Pearl prices vary depending on type, size, and quality. On average:

• Small freshwater pearls: 300–1,000 THB
• Larger, high-quality South Sea pearls: 5,000–20,000 THB
• Customized jewelry or luxury pieces: 20,000 THB+
• Visiting a pearl farm in Phuket lets you see the grading process and get a fair price.

2. Which month not to visit Phuket?

Avoid May to October, the monsoon season. Heavy rain and rough seas can cancel boat rides to floating farms, making pearl tours in Phuket less enjoyable. The best months are November to April when the weather is calm and sunny.

3. Is Phuket famous for pearls?

Yes! Phuket is home to some of Thailand’s most respected pearl farms. These farms produce high-quality pearls using traditional cultivation methods passed down through generations. While Phuket is better known for beaches and islands, its pearl farms are a hidden gem for visitors.

4. Should you buy pearls in Thailand?

Yes, buying pearls in Thailand can be worthwhile if:

• You buy directly from reputable pearl farms.
• You understand pearl grades and quality factors (luster, shape, surface).
• You check prices across different shops to avoid overpaying.
• Buying pearls from the farm itself ensures authenticity and fair pricing.

5. Are Tahitian pearls worth it?

Tahitian pearls are valued for their dark, exotic colors and natural shine. They are more expensive than freshwater pearls but highly sought after for luxury jewelry. If you want a statement piece, they’re worth the investment, but check authenticity and grade before buying.

6. How do you tell if pearls are real?

Some simple tests include:

• The Tooth Test: Gently rub the pearl against your teeth. Real pearls feel slightly gritty; fake ones feel smooth.
• Look for Imperfections: Real pearls often have tiny natural flaws; perfectly smooth pearls may be artificial.
• Weight & Temperature: Real pearls feel heavier and cooler than plastic or glass beads.
• Visiting a pearl farm in Phuket is the easiest way to learn firsthand how experts identify real pearls.

Want More Things to Do in Phuket?

If you're exploring Phuket and want even more unique experiences, tours, events, and things to do, visit Dyvarcity

You’ll find:

⭐ Family-friendly activities

⭐ Adventure tours

⭐ Cultural experiences

⭐ Bucket-list attractions

⭐ Upcoming events

⭐ Food tours

Ready for Your Pearly Adventure?

A pearl tour in Phuket is a visit, story, craft, and cultural experience that connects you with the island’s heritage. Whether you walk away with a necklace or just memories, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and science behind these ocean treasures.