It is very commun among travelers to Thailand to include Phuket, and that is what we did during our 3 weeks in Thailand
In this guide, we’ll share our favorite beaches to visit, along with insider tips, to ensure you make the most of your time on this beautiful island
Bangkok
Chiang Mai
Koh Phi Phi
Krabi
Chiang Rai
Phuket
Maya Bay
Koh Yao Yai
Ayutthaya
1. Patong Beach
Patong Beach is the most famous beach in Phuket, known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere. The beach stretches for about 3 kilometers, offering a variety of water sports, beach clubs, and restaurants. Spend your day sunbathing, jet-skiing, or parasailing, and then enjoy the lively nightlife with bars and clubs that come alive after sunset.
Location: West coast of Phuket
How to get there: Easily accessible by taxi or Grab from most areas on the island.
2. Kata Beach
Kata Beach is a family-friendly destination with a more relaxed vibe compared to Patong. The beach is known for its soft sand and clear waters, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You can also find surf schools offering lessons during the high season. Enjoy beachside dining at one of the many restaurants lining the shore.
Location: South of Patong Beach
How to get there: Accessible by taxi or tuk-tuk from Patong or Kata Noi.
3. Karon Beach
Just north of Kata, Karon Beach is known for its long stretch of golden sand and a more tranquil atmosphere. It’s less crowded than Patong, making it ideal for those looking to relax. The beach is also perfect for long walks and offers various dining options, as well as a local market on the beach road.
Location: On the west coast, between Patong and Kata
How to get there: A short taxi or tuk-tuk ride from Patong.
4. Freedom Beach
For a more secluded experience, Freedom Beach is a hidden gem that requires a bit of effort to reach. Accessible by boat or a short hike from the main road, this pristine beach offers powdery white sand and turquoise waters. It’s perfect for sunbathing and swimming in a serene environment, away from the crowds.
Location: South of Patong Beach
How to get there: Accessible by long-tail boat or a hike through the jungle.
Price: Entrance fee of around 100 THB (approx. $3).
5. Surin Beach
Surin Beach is known as "Millionaire’s Row" due to its upscale resorts and beach clubs. This beautiful beach is great for swimming and sunbathing, and you can enjoy delicious food at the beachside restaurants. Visit during the low season for a more peaceful experience, as the beach can get crowded during peak tourist months.
Location: On the west coast, north of Kamala Beach
How to get there: Taxi or Grab from Patong or Kamala.
6. Mai Khao Beach
If you’re looking for a quiet escape, Mai Khao Beach is the longest beach in Phuket and is part of the Sirinat National Park. This beach is perfect for long walks and relaxing in a peaceful setting. You can also witness the stunning sunset views and the occasional plane landing at the nearby airport.
Location: Northwest coast of Phuket
How to get there: Taxi or rental car from the airport or other parts of Phuket.
7. Bang Tao Beach
Bang Tao Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activities, featuring both luxury resorts and local beach bars. You can enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding or simply unwind on the beach. In the evening, the beach comes alive with beach clubs offering live music and vibrant atmospheres.
Location: West coast, north of Surin Beach
How to get there: Taxi or Grab from Patong or Surin.
Where to Stay in Phuket
We’ve carefully selected accommodations in Phuket based on their location, amenities, and safety to ensure your stay is both comfortable and convenient. Here are our top recommendations:
Amari Phuket – $$
A luxurious beachfront resort with stunning ocean views and excellent amenities.
Holiday Inn Resort Phuket – $$
Family-friendly resort with a variety of activities for kids and adults.
Baan Laimai Beach Resort – $$$
A stylish resort located right on Patong Beach, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.
Kata Beach Resort and Spa – $$$
A relaxing beachfront resort with beautiful gardens and a serene atmosphere.
The Memory at On On Hotel – $
A budget-friendly option located in the heart of Phuket Town, offering a cozy atmosphere.
How to Get to Phuket and around the city and different beaches
Phuket is well connected to other major cities in Thailand and also a good option for international flights from asian coutries near Thailand, making it easy to reach
By Plane :
Phuket International Airport offers regular domestic and international flights, especially from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui. The most common airlines flying to Phuket include Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and AirAsia. Flight time from Bangkok to Phuket is about 1.5 hours.
By Bus :
Buses to Phuket are available from several locations:
Bangkok: 12-14 hours
Krabi: 2-3 hours
Koh Phi Phi: 1.5-2 hours
Koh Lanta: 4-5 hours
You can book your tickets in advance via 12go or visit the bus terminal a day or two before departure. If using private companies, try to negotiate the price slightly.
By Car and Tuk Tuk
Within Phuket, you can use Grab (the local ride-hailing app), tuk-tuks, or daily tours with a driver. Drivers are usually available with maps, and you can negotiate based on the activities you want to cover.
By Scooter :
it is the best option, if you are able to drive a scooter, it gives you more freedom to hop on hop off between the beaches, and it is also a budget friendly option in Phuket (around 10$ per day)
Discover Phuket's best restaurant
Phuket is famous for its delicious street food and local restaurants. We’ve included a few locations for food markets and some of our favorite restaurants.
Phuket Weekend Market ($) – A bustling market with a variety of local street food, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Blue Elephant Restaurant ($$) – A renowned restaurant offering authentic Thai cuisine in a stunning setting.
No.9 2nd Restaurant ($) – A popular spot for Thai and international dishes, known for its friendly atmosphere
Kata Beach Restaurant ($) – Beachfront dining offering fresh seafood and Thai specialties.
Pure Vegan Heaven ($) – A great vegetarian spot with organic ingredients and healthy options.
Ka Jok See ($$) – A lively restaurant and bar with great food and entertainment.