Where to Stay in Phuket

Our Favorite Hotels in Phuket

Budget-friendly Hotel: DoubleTree inn
• ⚅ Beach resort: Nai Harn
• Budget hotel: Burasari
• For extended families: Centara
• For couples: Mom Tri’s
• A highly rated resort in Kata is the Shore at Katathani accessible via this link. • A highly rated resort in Kata is the Shore at Katathani accessible via this link. • ‧ Family-friendly hotel: Grand Hotel Central
• Transport Hub: Dewa Resort & Villas

a beach that has a pool and chairs in it

The Best Area to Stay in Phuket

Stretched out along the western edge of the peninsula located around 450 miles to the south of Bangkok, Phuket (pronounced poo-GET) represents Thailand’s premier island along with one of Southeast Asia’s most prestigious tourist spots. With an abundance of domestic as well as worldwide flights and world-renowned beaches, resorts, and shopping centers, some parts of the island can experience considerable crowds, so Phuket is not nearly as relaxed as other Thai islands for example Koh Samui, Koh Lanta, and Koh Chang. Phuket does, nonetheless, offer contrasting attractions unavailable at these or other islands nationwide: impressive facilities tailored for families – from go-karts to elephant sanctuaries and waterparks to cycling tours – but in addition ‘girly bars’, strip clubs, and other components of an undesirable sex tourism industry which is, thankfully, limited generally to Patong.

The numerous beaches offer surprisingly varied atmospheres and some are much more developed for tourism (and therefore more crowded) than others, so selecting a suitable base is important, especially due to inadequate public transportation. As the most popular section of the island, Patong provides the widest selection of places to eat, drink, shop, and stay, but some visitors are solely attracted by the rowdy (and often seedy) nightlife. Closer to the airport is the expansive and more recently developed region of Bang Tao, where many upmarket resorts face a lovely stretch of uncrowded beach, while other hotels are clustered around isolated manmade lakes.

Not far south of the notable beach town of Bang Tao,Kamala retains a relaxing atmosphere and seems as though a fishing community still resides. Nearby Patong but significantly quieter and less crowded, Karon lacks character, though the variety of resorts is impressive and many are wonderful for families. Just down the coast from Karon are the wonderfully peaceful and serene coves of pristine white sand called Kata Yai and Kata Noi. Situated between Kamala and Bang Tao, yet easy to overlook, Surin is a small cove that is becoming increasingly developed, yet maintains an intimacy and charm rarely seen elsewhere.

Located at the southern tip of Phuket, the less appealing beaches along Chalong Bay and at Rawai mainly cater to expats and those with private transportation, but they are handy for chartering boats for island tours and snorkeling. Near Rawai – and much nicer – the adorable beach at Nai Harn is home to a monastery, yacht club, and the wonderful Nai Harn Resort.

The Best Places to Stay in Phuket

a hotel room with a large swimming pool

Best Area in Phuket for…

  • Premier Areas in Phuket for Novice Visitors: Kata & Karon Beaches
    Kata is a wonderful, family-accommodating shoreline that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports (snorkeling, surfing, paddleboarding). The town encompassing the shoreline has a decent determination of eateries, bars, and shops. Lodging extend from lavish escape goals to more spending neighborly visitor houses and inns. Karon is another incredible decision for first-time guests. Known for its long, delightful shoreline and an unwinded air. Karon is helpfully situated between Patong and Kata, making it simple to investigate both regions
  • The optimal area in Phuket for sightseeing is Phuket Town.

    • To put it frankly, there aren`t a large number of must-see destinations around the island. Most tourists visit Phuket primarily for the beaches and limitless places to eat, drink, and shop – and for some, all the amenities intended for families. Nonetheless, many visitors do dedicate a day or two exploring major attractions like the Wat Chalong temple, Phuket Big Buddha, and Phuket Elephant Sanctuary – but these and most other sights are remotely located from the beaches. Phuket Town, the island capital, has 2 major advantages: it offers cultural attractions, some within walking distance of hotels, including temples, markets, and colonial-era mansions (many of which have been converted to bistros and museums), and it serves as the hub for public transportation to the beaches and some other worthwhile things to see around the island.

  • Best Regions in Phuket for Beaches: Mai Khao, Nai Yang, & Nai Thon
    The beaches located on Phuket island are often quite crowded, especially Patong beach which draws large numbers of sunbathers and jet ski enthusiasts. Other beaches like Rawai can feel disappointing due to a predominance of pebbles and stones. Nevertheless, Mai Khao, Nai Yang and Nai Thon beaches, situated within a protected national park along the northwest coast, tend to have less development and lack noisy water activities. Mai Khao offers expansive stretches of fine white sand removed from the throngs of people; Nai Yang is highly scenic and known for aircraft nearing landing being seemingly within reach of onlookers; while Nai Thon provides more isolation and tranquility making it ideal for snorkeling. Kata beach makes for a typical beach town with pleasing swimming. The Nai Harn resort located on Nai Harn beach on the southern tip of Phuket serves as our preferred detached escape
  • Prime Spot in Phuket for Water Sports: Bang Tao
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    • All types of activities on or above the water are provided at every developed beach across the island, including parasailing, water skiing, jet skiing, and even being towed on a large inflatable raft by a speedboat. (Note: the choice does depend on demand and conditions, such as the waves and tides at certain times of the year.) Some areas, especially Patong, are crowded and deceptive practices are all too common. For example, some unsuspecting renters of jet skis are charged outrageous extra fees after usage for `damage` to the underside of the jet ski which can’t be seen before rental, followed by physical threats if not paid. So, it’s best to organize water sports through one of the reputable operators connected to major resorts along the beach at the upmarket region of Bang Tao.

  • Best Areas in Phuket for Diving and Snorkeling: Kata Yai & Kata Noi
    Numerous types of sea life and splendid coral reefs make the clear, blue, warm waters surrounding Phuket ideal for underwater exploration – especially pleasant for less practiced divers. Quality snorkeling is accessible nearby the more secluded beaches of Nai Thon, Nai Yang, and Nai Harn, and is easiest along the dual coves of Kata Yai and Kata Noi. (Stalls in these areas rent snorkeling equipment and offer guidance.) Otherwise, charter a boat to locales such as the adorable Koh Hae/He (Coral Island) just fifteen minutes from Rawai. All kinds of scuba diving and snorkeling trips, such as to Koh Phi Phi and the magnificent Similan Islands, can be scheduled through the numerous globally-rated dive agencies located around Phuket (likewise at Kata), together with instructions and equipment rental.
  • Best Areas in Phuket for Boat Trips: Chalong Bay & Rawai
    Ferries for tropical isles like Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi utilize the major terminal at Phuket Town. From Chalong Pier along the eponymous bay and from Rawai village, smaller speedboats head to islets like Koh Racha Noi and Koh Racha Yai where numerous resorts are positioned. Also from Rawai, traditional long-tail boats can be chartered to gorgeous islands such as Koh Hae/He (Coral Island) for unspoiled beaches and divine snorkeling. Some islands are less than 30 minutes from Chalong Bay and Rawai, so several can be visited in a single day or less. Just allow the boatman suggest an itinerary.
  • The area of Phuket highly praised for therapeutic body treatments and spas is Bang Tao.

    • As iconic to Thailand as Muay Thai fighting and Thai cuisine, Thai massage is an ancient technique blending elements of yoga and acupuncture. Unlike other rubbing styles, oils are rarely used; instead, muscles are stretched and kneaded, sometimes intensely, so requesting something “mild” or “gentle” may help. Receiving Thai massage while in Phuket is nearly compulsory like beach walks, but be cautious – cheaper locations, especially Patong, can really be fronts for “happy ending” services. (The decor and scantily dressed female “therapists” will make things obvious.) The pricier spas at high-end Bang Tao resorts provide a wide range of treatments and therapies, often in very soothing yet sophisticated settings.

a beach filled with lots of colorful umbrellas

  • Phuket Town is considered the best area in Phuket for cultural classes and experiences.
    Fun lessons regarding Thai cooking, boxing, and massage, and more serious studies of the intricate language and fascinating religion (Buddhism) are regularly accessible at major tourist regions like Chiang Mai, but far less so in Phuket. However, cooking classes are very popular, though the quality does differ. One of the first on the island – and still among the very best anywhere in Thailand – are the lessons offered at the enchanting Blue Elephant restaurant in a renovated colonial mansion in the historic capital of Phuket Town. Classes commence with a trip to the local produce market, continue with cooking in the world-class kitchen, and finish with devouring the results in the exquisite restaurant
  • Best District in Phuket for Nightlife: Patong
    The liveliest locale after dusk on the island is in Patong, the most developed and trendy tourist locale. Some roads and alleys – specifically surrounding the renowned though questionable Bangla Road precinct – are jam-packed with bars, some in triple-level `entertainment complexes` open round the clock. Almost all bars have ambient or live music too loud for meaningful discussions and some are part of the sex tourism industry, e.g. `girly bars` with strippers, barely dressed hosts, and highly objectionable shows that should not be encouraged by attendance. For an entirely unique experience, attend a cabaret where lovely `lady-boys` lip-sync to Western pop tunes and dance in flashy costumes. These shows are always highly entertaining and rarely inappropriate
  • Best Areas in Phuket for Food & Restaurants: Kata Yai & Kata Noi
    Thai cuisine is among the world`s most popular and is a major reason many visit Phuket each year. Eateries range from casually priced bistros in Bang Tao comparable to European city prices to makeshift beach stalls in Surin selling generous portions of pad thai noodles. Some restaurants across the island feature candlelit seaside tables, while a few also offer cooking classes for sour fish curry or spicy seafood broth. Much calmer than Patong and other major beaches are the lovely twin bays of Kata Yai and Kata Noi where most bistros provide attentive service and extensive wine selections, and some provide a stunning clifftop vista overlooking the beach
  • Phuket Town offers the best vibes and culture on the island according to many.
    Because of mass tourism, unrestrained development, and locals living outside the beach regions, there is almost nothing historic and culturally interesting outside of the island capital, Phuket Town. Established centuries ago by settlers more interested in a decent port than a pretty beach, the town is still packed with Thai temples and Chinese shrines very rarely seen at the beaches, the sort of beautifully-restored colonial-era mansions not even built elsewhere on the island, and pulsating markets (see below) long ago replaced by malls in Patong.
  • Best Area in Phuket for Walking and Cycling: Phuket Town’s
    Due to the hot climate (often draining energy), heavy traffic (usually very congested), and steep streets (frequently sloped upwards), walking is seldom a pleasant experience; cycling an even less enjoyable option and bicycles for rent are exceptionally uncommon. Compact and replete with temples, mansions, and marketplaces, exploring Phuket Town on foot can be pleasurable. In fact, a walking tour permits special access to various temples, fosters comprehension of the town’s ancient and colonial history, and presents a chance to sample authentic cuisine at off-the-beaten-path eateries.
  • Best Area in Phuket for Malls: Patong
    At Patong, easily the most popular and developed area in Phuket, shopping is a major attraction. In addition to an oversupply of souvenir stalls and more appealing boutiques selling locally-produced clothing and jewelry, tourists can visit the Jungceylon shopping center, where some spend more time than at the beach. Centrally located in downtown Patong and substantial enough to feature a resort, Jungceylon offers seemingly endless stores, bars, and cafés, as well as a cinema and theater. Accessible by public transport along the main road between Patong and Phuket Town is the island’s other huge shopping complex, Central Festival Phuket. Its 3 floors overflow with places to eat, drink, and shop and it is large enough to even include a bowling alley and movie theater
  • Best Area in Phuket for Markets: Phuket Town
    The island`s capital and most populated local area, Phuket Town, provides a more authentic shopping experience than the above-mentioned shopping centers. Fascinating and aromatic, the Central Market is where those participating in cooking courses (see above) will negotiate over the finest vegetables and spices. It`s also a top place to find souvenirs like shadow puppets, batik shirts, and pewter mugs. The antithesis of an unappealing shopping mall, Thalang Road and its branching sois (lanes) are lined with stylish galleries, Chinese herbal shops, trendy boutiques, and popular cafés, while the authentic Naka Weekend Market on the outskirts of town is filled with stalls selling clothes, souvenirs, food, and replica designer labels

a patio area with tables, chairs, umbrellas and umbrellas

  • The best area in Phuket for romantic holidays is Surin.

    • To seek maximum peace and serenity with minimal hassles, steering clear of crowded coastal regions like Patong is advisable, as some lanes are filled with adult entertainment venues. The tranquil cove at Surin is especially appealing for honeymooners or couples seeking respite: the water is crystal clear; the streets are compact and makes amenities simple to access on foot; the attractive beach is ideal for strolls; and most accommodations are in boutique hotels and medium-sized resorts which are neither too large nor impersonal. Surin is also situated approximately one mile from the charming beaches and inviting facilities located at the upscale Bang Tao and laidback Kamala.

  • Best Place in Phuket for Families: Kamala
    With so many entertainment establishments catering primarily to women and live performances of dancers, the main area of Patong is not recommended when traveling with children. Other crowded sections of beach can also be overwhelming for young ones. Kamala maintains a calmer environment reminiscent of a community dependent on fishing. Due to the unique layout of roads, it is pleasingly compact yet avoids being overly developed, so parts of the shoreline are nearly vacant and most facilities are grouped along a short stretch of a minor route. Adding to Kamala`s appeal as a place to stay are the excellent resorts (many catering very well for families), the seaside paths lined with eateries, and proximity to the Phuket FantaSea ‘themed cultural park’, which promotes stereotypes but is still quite entertaining
  • Best Area in Phuket for Transportation: Phuket Town
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    • The transportation choices on Phuket present a difficult decision. Fares for unmetered private vehicles and pick-up truck taxis with bench seats are rarely up for negotiation and tend to be excessive. Considerably cheaper are motorcycle taxis transporting a passenger on the back for an agreeable cost. Car rental is possible but traffic is typically bad and roads often perplexing, while renting a motorbike allows short local trips more easily. Good reasons to stay in Phuket Town include: (1) it functions as the hub for public transportation reaching major beaches and towns (though not between places like Patong and Karon); (2) the affordable official airport bus; (3) the intercity bus station for services all over Thailand; and (4) the ferry terminal for other islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.

  • Best Area for the Airport: The regions of Mai Khao, Nai Yang, and Nai Thon.
    The airport lies along Phuket`s northwest coast approximately 25 miles from Patong (and much further from Karon, Kata, and Rawai). The only options from the major beaches to the airport are privately hired cars (i.e. vehicles without meters) or the cheap official airport buses originating in Phuket Town. Available from the airport to the major beaches are (usually) small buses (rarely offered to the airport) and taxis with meters (which also don`t service the beaches). Otherwise, arrange pickup/drop-off with the hotel. Alternatively, stay at Mai Khao, Nai Yang, or Nai Thon, all within a few miles of the airport; in fact, the beach at Nai Yang frighteningly lies very close to the airport runway. Some hotels dot the main road to the airport; those on or near the coast are much preferable.
  • Best Area in Phuket for Festivals: Phuket Town
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    • All Thai people, regardless of where they reside or work, enthusiastically celebrate festivals. These include Songkran, the Thai New Year occurring over several days in mid-April, when water is poured, dumped, and sprayed on everyone for a number of days; and Mahga Puja, a major Buddhist festival falling on the full moon in February/March. Generally, it is more pleasurable – and perhaps safer for families and novices – to observe and participate in these and other celebrations and ceremonies in Phuket Town. Directly after the vibrant Chinese New Year festivities (late January/early February) is the Phuket Old Town Festival when the roadways are closed to traffic and organized with stalls.

  • Safest Areas in Phuket: Mai Khao, Nai Yang, & Nai Thon
    Many possible dangers stem from one`s own actions, e.g. substance use, excessive alcohol consumption, and/or reckless driving, particularly on motorcycles. Additional major potential risks include accidents between vehicles and pedestrians (so continually be very prudent when walking), physical and sexual assaults around the nightclubs at Patong (see below), and the type of opportunistic petty crimes not uncommon at crowded transport terminals and markets in visitor regions throughout Asia. Far from the crowds, bars, and traffic are the delightful beach regions of Mai Khao, Nai Yang, and Nai Thon (see above).

    • The least safe area in Phuket is Patong.
    Not surprisingly, safety is at its lowest where alcohol drinking and drug-taking is most prevalent. Some of the streets and numerous sois (lanes) at Patong are incredibly crowded with ‘girly bars’ and strip clubs, so physical and sexual assaults are not uncommon, and some Thais and foreigners take the opportunity to steal from those badly affected by alcohol and/or drugs. And be wary of scams when renting equipment, especially jet-skis (see above), at Patong Beach.

The 10 Best Areas in Phuket for Tourists

a beach with palm trees and palm trees

1. Kata Yai and Kata Noi

South of Karon (see below) are the attractive adjacent coves of Kata Yai (Big Kata) and Kata Noi (Little Kata), both pleasantly set apart from the main road and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Significantly larger, Kata Yai offers many charming boutique hotels and mid-range resorts, yet none face the beach as that space is occupied by the Club Med resort – however, all beaches in Phuket remain open to the public. About half a mile south across the steep headland from Kata Yai is the more diminutive and scenically beautiful Kata Noi with limited facilities mainly catering to the handful of upscale resorts located there. Neither area provides much nightlife or shopping but the cuisine and restaurants are arguably among the island`s finest.

2. Karon

Karon is the next region south of Patong and also only a short distance from Kata (see above). Not as lively and busy as either place, the beach at Karon is extended but ill-advised efforts to beautify the area, for example concrete paths alongside the sea, means that it does lack personality – not helped by the fact that most facilities are along backstreets in the northern section only. The usual water activities are available, surfing included, and the range of resorts is amazing. Many hotels are ideal for families, but some of these are at least half a mile from the shoreline.

3. Patong

Situated along the shining western coast, Patong is the most well-known, busy, and (in)famous region in Phuket. The broad and protected 2-mile-long stretch of sandy shoreline is suitable for swimming and water activities, but undercurrents can be strong, so always swim between the flags. Patong is mostly renowned for its shopping and nightlife. With many narrow lanes jam-packed with strip clubs, ‘girly bars’, and displays of flamboyant ‘ladyboys’, parts of Patong are unabashedly seedy, so families may prefer to remain at more relaxed areas like Bang Tao and Kamala (see later). The number of hotels here is incredible, but there are very few major resorts. And note: only a handful of hotels actually confront the beach (and busy esplanade), many are half a mile or more from the sea, and most in the budget range are not recommended.

4. Bang Tao

Roughly halfway along the western coast and serenely far from Patong, Bang Tao is a large area of generally 4 and 5-star resorts accessible through a convoluted chain of roads. Many resorts in the southern part face the beach and are within strolling distance of a main road with a limited selection of shops and cafés, while those based around the fabricated lakes (regularly called a ‘laguna’) can be more than a mile from the sea. The beach is expanded and uncrowded, and guests not relaxing by the pool or sea can enjoy massages and water sports offered at any of the resorts. Accommodations also include numerous villas, homes, and apartments owned by individuals, so the quality of these can enormously fluctuate.

5. Kamala

This casual coastal area located between the crowded beach region of Patong and upscale Bang Tao maintains its character as a fishing village to an remarkable degree shielded from overcommercialization by its peculiar road infrastructure, rendering it ideal for family visits. Parts of the wide and shady beach are nearly vacant, but swimmers must exercise caution regarding hazardous undertows and consistently enter the water between posted safety flags. The bulk of amenities congregate along a brief section of a minor roadway in the south portion, where casual eateries line attractive beachside pathways in a particularly appealing manner. The intriguing, if somewhat kitschy, Fantasea performance park situated at Phuket also lies within easy walking distance of numerous lodging options.

6. Surin

Surin is more compact than the town of Bang Tao about a mile to the north and has a more relaxed and romantic feel than many other beach areas, especially Patong, though development has increased noticeably in recent years. Most hotels are upscale but hardly any face the half-mile long beach along the scenic cove. The limited dining and drinking options on the short beachside street are supplemented by facilities nearby along the main road as well as the collection of inexpensive food stalls set up daily in the sand. Certainly part of Surin`s charm is the scarcity of amenities expected at much larger beach regions.

7. Nai Harn

Situated on the southern tip of Phuket, this charming cove presents opportunities for swimming and snorkeling amidst the bordering cliffs, especially during calmer periods before and after monsoon season when surfing dominates. An old Buddhist temple holds substantial local land rights, allowing Nai Harn to retain an agreeably low-key atmosphere free from loud water activities. Scattered across the location are some upscale resorts and privately-owned villas, with the space divided into three primary sections – the beach by the yacht club, a nearby village containing a few shops, and Nai Harn town around 20 minutes on foot away containing more amenities. The sole downside lies in the infrequent public transportation from further-away Phuket Town.

8. Chalong Bay and Rawai

As the sandy beaches along the west coast become increasingly developed (and often overbuilt), more and more hotels, resorts, and individually-owned villas have been structured along the shores and hills across the less appealing southern peninsula. The beaches at Chalong Bay and Rawai are thin, greyish, and gravelly, but the latter does offer a likable village vibe and traditional long-tail boats for charter to nearby islands. Facilities in these areas are decent enough but are scattered because they cater overwhelmingly for expats with cars/motorbikes; public transportation from Phuket Town is infrequent.

9. Mai Khao,Nai Yang, and Nai Thon

Within the nationally protected Sirinat National Park, these three coastlines are comparatively unestablished and with loud water exercises (almost) non-existent, they’re perfect for snorkeling as well as for turtles to deposit eggs (November to February). A big portion of Phuket’s longest beach, Mai Khao, extends along a peninsula close to the connection to the mainland and is specifically quiet. Curved, scenic, and ideal for strolls and picnics, Nai Yang is loaded with Thai families on ends of the week and near enough to the air terminal to feel that some planes may arrive on the coastline. Further from the air terminal, Nai Thon is well known for its peaceful setting and security from winds, thus snorkeling is incredible and some water exercises are accessible. The three coastlines are exceptionally convenient for the air terminal yet troublesome for the rest of the island – additionally, there is no open transportation and offices outside the inns are constrained. Most lodging are high-endlodges, in any case there are bounty of spending plan choices as well and camping is permitted in the national stop.

a beach scene with a balcony overlooking the water

10. Phuket Town

A worthy alternative to the pleasure seeking beaches, the capital offers a historical and cultural vibe simply not possible elsewhere on the island. Phuket Town is home to the ferry terminal for larger islands (e.g. Koh Phi Phi) and the bus station for destinations across Thailand – and also serves as the hub for the very limited public transportation across Phuket Island. The town is traditional yet stylish, so casual eateries are placed alongside temples (Thai and Chinese) and housed within former mansions constructed by one-time rubber magnates. With several markets and some cultural classes, Phuket Town is enjoyable to explore on foot and for day trips using public transportation to major beaches and some attractions. No resorts, but there are many low-cost lodging options and gorgeous boutique hotels, and all provide terrific value compared to the overpriced coastal regions.

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The Best Places to Stay in Phuket

a large pool of water in front of a house

The Best Beaches in Phuket

a person on a surfboard in the water

Many beaches in Phuket are beautiful but are not good for swimming (e.g. Rawai beach). The monsoon season (September and October are usually the most intense) can alter even the most tranquil of beaches into a rough, windy, and unwelcoming place.

  • Patong – Situated on the white-sanded western coastline, Patong is the most renowned and commercialized beach resort. With an extensive 3km (2 miles) stretch of sandy shore, there is ample chance for natural shade from trees as well as sunbeds protected by parasols positioned along the entire length. Its sheltered location makes it ideal for all water sports and swimming and thus it is well-liked by families and package holidaymakers. Like all the beaches on the western side, there can be a powerful undertow and any red warning flags should be heeded. Patong is also home to tourist shops, an enormous shopping center, cinemas, and a bowling alley. A plethora of day trips and activities can be found, ranging from taking a banana boat ride, snorkeling to renting a jet ski. It can be challenging to escape away from the notorious adult-themed nightlife with neon-lit clubs and bars advertising stripper or transvestite shows. You can find revealingly dressed transvestites posing for photographs with tourists in many of the side streets in Patong.
  • Liberty – For those staying in Patong who want to get away from the hustle and bustle, Liberty Beach is a good choice. Even if one felt like trekking through the thick jungle kilometer to arrive, it would not be permitted, as the surrounding land is entirely privately owned. The sole means of access to Liberty Beach is a ten-minute boat ride—most depart from Patong beach. Undoubtedly, Liberty has the best snorkeling on the island and swimming zones are clearly designated and separated from the area where longtail boats arrive and leave. Beach volleyball nets and small eateries also line the south end of the beach but with an absence of jet skis or banana boats to disturb the peace, probably the best action is to find a lounger, sit back, and relax.
  • Karon – Much calmer and less occupied than vibrant Patong, Karon beach is another lengthy stretch of sand, which at its northern extremity is likened to powder snow. There is little natural shade but there are numerous sunbeds and parasols available for rent. Accommodations and eateries are situated on the opposite side of a busy adjacent roadway; however, there are many small stalls selling refreshments and snacks. The road is shielded from most of the beach by a bank of sand but noise from it can still be easily heard. All the typical water sports are available with some fair snorkeling at the southern end. Surfboards are always accessible even though Karon is not renowned for its rollers. It does though have a reputation of being the most hazardous beach. If you feel the need to get away from the sand, Karon Park is a short walk away and provides jogging and cycling paths as well as a large lake with pedal boats available to rent. For children and ‘young at heart’ grown-ups, Dino Park offers an opportunity to play crazy golf in a prehistoric setting. Away from the beach, the side streets are home to a little artisan community where you can see painters and craftspeople working. Karon can be located 5 km south of lively Patong on the coastal road connecting Kata and Patong beaches. There are regular bus and tuk tuk services from Phuket town.
  • Kata – The attractive twin beaches of Kata Yai (Big Kata) and Kata Noi (Little Kata) are situated to the south of Karon Beach. Protected by rocky promontories, swimming and snorkeling is relatively safe here and strong swimmers often head out to Boo Island to the coral reefs. This beach region also represents the optimum diving location on Phuket. Set away from the main road, both beaches are quite calm and peaceful. Kata Yai can feel a bit secluded by two major resorts but the beaches are not private and the sun loungers are open for all to employ. It can be complicated to identify how to access the beach at Kata Noi but entrance is down to the right side and just beyond the Thani wing of the stunning Katathani Hotel. Buses and songthaews end at the headland between the two beaches where, if you do not feel like the 10-minute walk into either resort area, tuk-tuks will happily carry you to your destination. You will not find an active nightlife or extensive purchasing here but If you are missing the hustle and bustle of Patong or Karon, both are within easy access, under 8 km away. Three Beaches Hill (sometimes called Kata or Karon viewpoint) is regularly busy. Positioned a little south of Kata Noi, it offers an impressive eight-kilometer vista (4.5 miles) of the three south-west coast beaches.
  • Maio Khao – On the northwest coast, 39 km from Patong, this 11km beach is set within the Sirinat National Park. The grains of sand here are fairly sized, but you can walk along it for hours without seeing anyone else. There are no beach activities available here but swimming is permitted. However, it is wise to exercise caution as the ocean floor sharply drops close to the shore and you can easily go beyond your limits. If watching planes interests you then this is a good location to be as the proximity of Phuket airport makes planes seem almost ready to land on the beach. Between November and February, turtles arrive to deposit their eggs in the warm sands. Numbers have been declining over recent years and care needs to be taken during this time not to disturb any such activity. The northern side of the beach can be accessed from Thepkrassatri Road, just before the Sarasin Bridge. The southern end is best reached from Nai Yang and through the national park (fee required).
  • Nai Thon – Nai Thon Beach boasts some of the finest sand in Phuket. It lies within Sirinat National Park and thus far avoided overdevelopment. The gently sloping coast is perfect for swimming with casuarina trees providing shade from the sun. While the beach itself remains undeveloped, a few restaurants and shops can be found just across the road. No organized beach activities take place and no equipment is available for hire, yet people enjoy snorkeling and diving among the coral reefs at both ends of the beach (longtail boats offer transport farther offshore for even better snorkeling). Nai Thon lies 28 km from Patong along the road connecting Bang Tao beach and Nai Yan Beach. Only one road runs directly along this coastal stretch making it effortless to locate.
  • Surin – This roughly 1 km stretch of coastline is well known for its exceptionally translucent waters, making it an incredible place for a refreshing swim. Although the snorkeling possibilities here are not outstanding, that does not dissuade folks from attempting it. Despite hosting all major aquatic recreational activities, this beach remains remarkably tranquil in comparison to others. It appears to have embraced all that is admirable about Patong yet left behind less positive aspects. The views are spectacular with many local eateries in close proximity. Surin Beach lies south of Bang Tao and north of Kamala Beach – 14 km from Patong – and is effortlessly identifiable with signs.
  • Laem Singh – Located 7 km north of Patong along the Patong Surim Road, Laem Singh beach can be difficult to find. The steep, stepped path down to the beach is comfortable going down but very strenuous climbing back up. However, all the effort is worthwhile, as this beach is simply stunning and among Phuket`s best for swimming. Many seem to agree on this assessment, too, as once a secret cove, it is now one of the busiest beaches in the area. Foot massagers line the beach, jet skis roar along with the usual beach amenities. When the sun isn`t out, it returns to its natural quiet beauty. Once monthly, an early evening dance party is held, best suited to those not seeking peace and solitude. The restaurants are a bit pricier here but understandably so given supplies must also be transported down from above. Beachfront parking at the top of the paths is available though limited, so an early arrival is advised. 1km south is Hat Kamala which is more developed.
  • Nai Harn – Situated at the southern tip of Phuket, the waters surrounding Nai Harn are typically calm and translucent, except during monsoon season when waves become massive and thus a haven for surfers. The Samnak Song Buddhist Monastery owns most of its central and southern area and has kept it pleasantly underdeveloped. Upscale beachfront and family-oriented resorts dot the region. Nai Harn is separated into three segments, the beach and park, a small village with a few shops, and Nai Harn town. Bike hire and other services can be found in the town and as walking to and from the beach takes around twenty minutes, many people select that option. Nai Harn is 20km (12.5miles) south of Patong. The The Nai Harn is one of our favorite beach resorts in Phuket.
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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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