Best Beaches in Phuket

Phuket has many beaches, the west side is a large sea, the east side and Phang Nga Bay form a small bay, so most of the beautiful beaches are located on the west side of Phuket. For a new visitor to Phuket, choosing a beach is a very confusing thing. Which beach is right for you? In this article, we will introduce you to some of the most famous and hidden gem beaches in Phuket, and help you plan your perfect beach vacation.

Most Famous and Popular Beaches in Phuket

Phuket has many popular beaches that attract millions of visitors every year. These beaches offer a variety of activities, amenities, and nightlife options for travelers of all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the most famous beaches in Phuket:

Patong Beach

Patong Beach is the heart of Phuket's tourism and entertainment industry. It is the busiest and most crowded beach on the island, with a long stretch of white sand, palm trees, and turquoise water. Patong Beach is ideal for those who love water sports, shopping, dining, and partying. Patong Beach is also home to many hotels, resorts, spas, and massage parlors that cater to different needs and budgets.

Transportation: Most convenient

1. Phuket Airport to Patong Beach: Taxi: The fare is about 600 baht and the journey takes 45 minutes. Minibus: 180 baht/person, it runs every half an hour.
2. Phuket Town to Patong Beach: TukTuk from the town centre costs around 300 baht. Bus: Starting on Ranong Road in Phuket Town, the bus passes several major beaches and can be stopped at any time. It runs every half hour from 7:00-18:00 and costs 20-30 baht.

Accommodation & Food & Shopping: Most abundant 

Beach services and facilities are perfect, a wide variety of prices for all kinds of hotels, resorts, villas. Dining options are also extensive, with sightseeing and dining spots within walking distance of the beach. You can also eat ready-made seafood stalls. Shopping is also possible at the nearby Juncelyon Shopping Center and Rat-U-Thit Street.

Attractions & Activities

There are various activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, banana boating, windsurfing, and yachting on the beach. The sight of the setting sun over the sea was impressive. If you want to experience the lively nightlife, you can also visit the Patong Night Market or explore the nearby Bangla Road, which is lined with bars, clubs, restaurants, and shops. The famous shemale show Simon Cabaret and the very featured Muay Thai gym are also in the Patong area.

Karon Beach

Karon Beach is the second longest beach in Phuket, located south of Patong Beach. It is a quieter and more peaceful alternative to Patong Beach, with a wide and spacious sand area, gentle waves, and clear water. Karon Beach is suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers who want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Phuket.

Transportation:

1. Phuket Airport to Karon Beach: Take a taxi, the fare is about 700, driving for 1 hour, there are also mini buses, 180 Thai strains/person. 
2. Phuket Town to Karon Beach: about 45 minutes by bus, every half an hour, operating time is 7:00-18:00, the fare is about 30 baht. About 400-500 baht by taxi. 
3. Patong Beach to Karon Beach: About 10 minutes. Take a taxi or tutu about 300-400 baht.

Accommodation & Food & Shopping:

There are several large resorts nearby, and the key is that it is very quiet. In addition to the hotels facing the sea, there are also special hotels built on the mountain.

Attractions & Activities:

Compared to Patong Beach, the water here is bluer, the sand is finer, and the seaside atmosphere is more laid-back. The waves here are high, so it is suitable for surfing. However, most people in Karon Beach are splashing, sunbathing, reading and napping, and in the evening, walking on the beach and enjoying the sunset scenery. You can also visit the nearby Karon Temple, which hosts a colorful night market every Tuesday and Friday.

Kata Beach

Kata Beach is one of the most scenic and charming beaches in Phuket, located south of Karon Beach. It is divided into two parts: Kata Yai (Big Kata) and Kata Noi (Small Kata). Kata Yai is the larger and more developed part, with a curved bay, soft sand, and calm water. It is popular among families and surfers, especially during the monsoon season from May to October. Kata Noi is the smaller and more secluded part, with a rocky headland, fine sand, and clear water. It is ideal for couples and honeymooners who want to enjoy some privacy and romance.

Transportation:

1. Phuket Airport to Kata Beach: Take a taxi, the fare is about 750 baht and the journey is 1 hour. There are also mini buses, 180 baht/person. 
2. Phuket Town to Kata Beach: 40 minutes by bus, every half an hour, operating time 7:00-18:00, the fare is about 35 baht.
3. Patong Beach to Kata Beach: About 15 minutes by car, tutu about 500 baht

Accommodation & Food & Shopping:

Kata Beach hotels are located along the coastal road, many with swimming pools. The price is not too different from Patong Beach, but there are fewer tourists here. Kata Beach is not as busy as Patong, but the food can basically meet the needs. There are also some special food shops, and there will be more western restaurants. Next to the main road, there are bars, supermarkets, convenience stores, travel advisory booking agents, etc.

Attractions & Activities:

During the day, Kata is calm, clear water, suitable for leisure and diving, attracting many tourists who like peace and quiet, and there is a small coral reef in the north of Kata Beach, which is also very suitable for diving. A stroll along the main road of Kata Beach also offers a beautiful view of Chalong Bay to the south. At the top of Kata Beach is one of Phuket's famous spots to enjoy the sunset.

Best Hidden Gem Beaches in Phuket

Phuket also has many hidden gem beaches that are less known and less crowded than the famous ones. These beaches offer a more authentic and tranquil experience of Phuket's nature and culture. Here are some of the best hidden gem beaches in Phuket:

Mai Khao Beach

 Mai Khao Beach is the longest beach in Phuket, located on the northwest coast of the island. It is part of the Sirinat National Park, which protects the endangered leatherback turtles that nest on the beach from November to February. Mai Khao Beach is a secluded and serene beach that offers a rare opportunity to witness the wildlife and ecology of Phuket. You can walk along the 11-kilometer-long sand strip, watch the planes take off and land at the nearby airport, or join a turtle conservation project.

Nai Yang Beach

Nai Yang Beach is another beach that belongs to the Sirinat National Park, located south of Mai Khao Beach. It is a peaceful and picturesque beach that attracts mainly locals and expats who live in Phuket. Nai Yang Beach has a shady pine forest along its shore, a coral reef offshore, and a small village nearby. You can relax under the trees, swim or snorkel in the water, or explore the local culture and cuisine at the village.

Nai Thon Beach

Nai Thon Beach is a small but beautiful beach that lies between Mai Khao Beach and Bang Tao Beach on the west coast of Phuket. It is a hidden oasis that offers a stunning view of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding hills. Nai Thon Beach has a soft sand area, clear water, and gentle waves that are perfect for swimming or kayaking. You can also enjoy some delicious seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants or bars.

Bang Tao Beach

Bang Tao Beach is one of the longest beaches in Phuket (6 kilometers), located north of Surin Beach on the west coast of the island. It is a diverse beach that has something for everyone. On the northern end, you can find a quiet and natural beach that is ideal for relaxing or fishing. On the southern end, you can find a luxurious and modern beach that is home to the Laguna Phuket complex, which consists of several five-star hotels, golf courses, spas, and shops. Bang Tao Beach is also known for its nightlife, with many beach clubs, bars, and restaurants that offer live music and entertainment.

Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach is a cozy and friendly beach that is located north of Patong Beach on the west coast of Phuket. It is a former fishing village that has retained its charm and authenticity. Kamala Beach has a long and wide sand area, calm water, and a relaxed atmosphere. It is popular among families, retirees, and long-term visitors who want to enjoy a laid-back and comfortable lifestyle in Phuket. You can swim, snorkel, or paddle board on the beach, or visit the nearby Phuket FantaSea, which is a cultural theme park that showcases the history and culture of Thailand.

Surin Beach

Surin Beach is a trendy and upscale beach that is located south of Bang Tao Beach on the west coast of Phuket. It is a fashionable beach that attracts celebrities, jet-setters, and high-end travelers who want to experience the glamour and sophistication of Phuket. Surin Beach has a fine sand area, clear water, and moderate waves that are suitable for surfing or sailing. You can also indulge yourself in some of the best restaurants, spas, and boutiques that are located along the beach.

Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn Beach is one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Phuket, located on the southern tip of the island. It is a secluded and serene beach that offers a breathtaking view of the bay and the island. Nai Harn Beach has a soft sand area, clear water, and strong waves that are ideal for swimming or surfing. You can also visit the nearby Nai Harn Lake, which is a scenic spot for jogging or cycling.

Rawai Beach

Rawai Beach is one of the oldest beaches in Phuket, located on the southeast coast of the island. It is a traditional beach that reflects the local culture and lifestyle of Phuket. Rawai Beach has a rocky shore, shallow water, and colorful boats that are used by the fishermen and the sea gypsies who live in the area. You can enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants or stalls that line the beach, or take a boat trip to one of the nearby islands such as Coral Island or Racha Island