There are so many beautiful beaches in Phuket that it can be hard to choose the right one. With the help of our Phuket Island trip guide you’ll know which beaches to stay, go to, and what to do while visiting one of the most beautiful paradises on earth.
There are a total of 30 beaches in Phuket so first-timer visitors and even seasoned travelers need a great guide. We created a detailed list of the most popular beaches, the lesser-known ones, and even added a few private and secret beaches you should visit in Phuket.
It’s pretty hard to choose just the top 10 beaches when you have such a wide variety of options. Phuket is one of the most popular destinations not just in Thailand but in South East Asia. And for a good reason. It has one-of-a-kind beaches and experiences. You can enjoy anything and everything from relaxing by white sandy beaches, swimming in crystal clear sea, hanging with sea turtles, to surfing. Or you can even go trekking on this stunning rainforested mountainous island and visit elephant sanctuaries.
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Is it safe to visit Phuket?
The Thai government is planning to reopen Phuket and its beaches for international vaccinated travelers from July 2021 without any quarantine requirements.
Phuket has turquoise clear and warm waters and is pretty safe to swim in most parts all year round. While it’s generally safe to swim, dive, snorkel, or surf on most Phuket beaches you should exercise some caution. A natural and diverse sea does have its dangers you might come across potentially dangerous creatures like lionfish, jellyfish, or sea snakes.
During the rainy season which lasts from May to October, the sea can get pretty rough on the west coast so keep that in mind if you’re a swimmer. However, there are signs and information all around the beaches and hotels on the island. So, when in doubt ask.
Since the deadly Tsunami that hit Phuket in 2004 many travelers worry. Thankfully, there were no other tsunamis since and the government employed earthquake engineering and implemented various measures to help to prevent a similar tragedy in the future. All the damage since has been repaired and now Phuket is safer and just as beautiful as before.
Top Beaches in Phuket For Family, Quiet, Swimming, & More
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What to do on Phuket Island?
Phuket has not only natural wonders but it’s also a culturally rich location and has plenty of party places around the whole island. No matter if you’re craving for a quiet island getaway, want to try a new water sport, want to party, and enjoy the tranquil waters, or just want a fun family holiday. You’ll surely find what you’re looking for in Phuket. If you don’t want to plan on your own you can always go on some of the Phuket island trips.
Some of the best things to do around Phuket island are:
– Full-Day Racha Noi and Racha Yai Snorkeling from Phuket: Check Prices & Availability
– White Water Rafting and ATV Riding: Check Prices & Availability
– Krabi Horse Riding at Ao Nam Mao Beach: Check Prices & Availability
– Amazing Phuket Island Guided Tour & Big Buddha (SHA Plus): Check Prices & Availability
– Phuket Best Sightseeing with Photographer Tour: Check Prices & Availability
– Phuket Night Food Tour & Old Town’s Magical Lights: Check Prices & Availability
– Phuket Raya Half Day Tour with Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: No Dive License Needed: Check Prices & Availability
When is the best time to visit Phuket?
The best time to visit Phuket is during November and February when the weather is sunny and mostly dry. However, there are plenty of things to enjoy around the island during the rainy season too. And even then there are many sunny days when travelers can enjoy the island’s stunning beaches. Phuket’s weather is very enjoyable all year round no matter when you visit.
Flights to Phuket Island
Since Phuket welcomes international travelers from all over the globe it’s fairly easy to find direct flights even on a budget. You can find the best and cheapest tickets with Qatar Airways where you can check flexible dates and more to find the most suitable option for you.
Qatar Airways is one of the youngest global airlines to serve all six continents. Since 1997 the company has earned many awards and accolades, becoming one of an elite group of airlines worldwide to have earned a 5-star rating by Skytrax. Their prices are also super competitive and often offer the cheapest ones. Considering their good pricing and luxurious services they’re easily the best airline, especially for long-haul flights.
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Beaches closest beach to Phuket Old Town
While Phuket town is beautiful with various amazing places worth visiting it doesn’t have beaches. You’ll have to decide if you want to spend more time in town and just visit beaches or the other way around. If you’re someone who likes to spend most of their time on the beach and in the water the best if you choose one of the nearby beaches, stay there, and only visit Phuket old town.
The closest beaches are Patong, Kamala, Hua, and Freedom beach.
10. Kamala Beach for families and couples
Kamala beach is one of the most popular and most beautiful beaches in Phuket. It’s close both to Phuket International Airport and to Phuket town. Kamala beach is perfect for families and couples who are looking for a lively but beautiful location. The sand and sea are clear and beautiful and it’s very well located too. Since it’s a bigger and more popular beach in Phuket you’ll have no problem with finding restaurants, shops, and markets nearby.
It’s also a great place to stay in Phuket if you want to stay near a beach.
Where to stay near Kamala beach, Phuket?
Kamala Beach Resort, A Sunprime Resort is one of the nices places you can stay in the area. It’s a great choice for couples or single travelers who are looking for an adults only resort in Phuket.
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Andara Resort Villas is an excellent resort for families and bigger groups. The villas have a modern and traditional design.
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Twinpalms MontAzure is one of the most beautiful 5-star hotels in Phuket and is the best choice for those who are looking for an elegant, modern, and luxurious place to stay near Kamala beach.
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9. Patong Beach for nightlife seekers (PA Tong)
Patong has a considerably nice long beach with fine sand and good swimming conditions. However, it’s by far not the nicest beach in Phuket. However, Patong is for those who like to party. It’s one of the most popular destinations in Thailand with hundreds of hotels, restaurants, and bars. While it’s a safe town it’s recommended to avoid any dark back alleys and streets especially if you’re traveling alone. It’s a great choice for couples and solo travelers who want to meet and party with others. However, it’s not the most family-friendly location in Phuket.
Where to stay in Patong?
Amari Phuket is a luxurious hotel that has its own private beach. Guests can also enjoy spas, and fine dining without leaving the property.
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LIV Hotel Phuket Patong Beachfront is another beautiful hotel for families. They also offer lots of fun activities so you don’t even have to leave the hotel on lazy days.
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PATONG TOWER 01 Apartments if you crave more privacy and want your own place but still want comfort and a sea view you should book with them.
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8. Freedom Beach For snorkeling & Quiet
Freedom beach is one of the best places to enjoy some quiet time and try snorkeling. It’s a smaller very low-key beach with white sand and turquoise waters. While it’s a lesser developed beach and there are not hotels you can still rent umbrellas snorkeling equipment and will find smaller eateries around. It’s also a great place to plan a fun and safe day out with smaller kids.
How to Get to Freedom Beach?
Freedom Beach is only accessible during the high season (December-June) and you will have to book by longtail boat to get there. You can get here from Patong, Karon, or Kamala beach.
7. Kata Beach for surfing & nightlife
Kata beach is probably one of the nicest beaches in Phuket where you can both enjoy the beach and some nightlife. It has clear and warm waters perfect for swimming or surfing. If you’re not yet a surfer but always wanted to try then this location is for you. You can rent a surfboard and take surging lessons too. The beach has fine golden sand and plenty of umbrellas. While there are bars around where travelers can enjoy some fun and nightlife it’s also a very safe location for families too.
Where to stay in Kata beach?
The Boathouse Phuket is a beautiful hotel with a stunning beachfront. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for an elegant and romantic hotel to stay in Phuket.
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Pamookkoo is a family favorite hotel. This 4-star hotel is only a few feet away from Kata beach and has a fine restaurant and a huge pool with big slides and a great playground.
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Beyond Resort Kata is a great choice for families and for people who love more lively and laid-back hotels. They also have a beautiful beachfront, a large pool, a restaurant, a spa, and plenty of fun activities.
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6. Kata Noi Beach for Couples
While Kata Beach and Kata Noi are considerably close to each other it’s not the same place. And you can’t walk between the two along the coastline. Kata Noi is a smaller and much more quiet beach than Kata Beach. It’s the perfect choice for couples who are looking for a more private area where they can enjoy swimming and some quiet time. Kata Noi has a few beautiful resorts and hotels as well as some bars, restaurants, and cafes.
Where to stay in Kata Noi beach?
The Shore At Katathani – it’s a luxurious adult only hotel with breathtaking views, a great beachfront. If you want to stay in a romantic and elegant place you should book here. One of the best resorts in Phuket with a beach.
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Katathani Phuket Beach Resort is a ‘couples favorite’. With stunning views and a beautiful beachfront.
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5. Ao Sane (Jungle Beach) for snorkeling & diving
Ao Sane beach is one of the lesser-known beaches in Phuket. While it’s rocky and small it’s one of the best places for snorkeling in diving in Phuket. You’ll also find here a restaurant and shower & toilet facilities so you don’t have to worry about that. The best place to stay near Ao Sane beach can be found in Karon.
4. Mai Khao Beach for quiet
Phuket’s longest beach is Mai Khao. It’s a lesser developed area but it does have some excellent luxury resorts which makes it the best choice for those who are looking for a quiet spacious beach. It has a beautiful golden sand beach and clean waters. There is also a water park and the beautiful Mai Khao Temple nearby. Since the airport is nearby it’s also known as the Airport Beach (Sanambin Beach) where people come to take fun photos as the plains land.
One of the most fun experiences you can have here is attending the Songkran Festival when you can witness the baby turtle release.
Where to stay in Mai Khao beach?
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa elegant resort with a beautiful beachfront, a spa, and various luxurious activities.
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SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort is one of the most unique luxury resorts in Phuket. If you’re craving refined design and tranquility book here.
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Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas is the best choice for those who want their own private space but want to enjoy the same level of luxury they would in a 5-star resort.
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3. Karon beach for families
Karon is probably the best choice for families who are looking for a lively and beautiful beach in Phuket. It is one of the most beautiful and longest beaches in Phuket. Karon is located between the party town Patong and Kata beach. Karon has a similar vibe but a lot less busy while you’ll still find plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars. It’s is one of the best places to stay in Phuket where you can also enjoy some snorkeling. Since it has a wide range of options it’s a great choice for active families.
2. Panwa beach for families with smaller kids
Panwa beach is one of the most tranquil and fun beaches for families with small kids. It’s a beautiful beach with warm and shallow water. It’s a lesser-known beach with only a few luxury resorts nearby which makes it one of the quietest and most relaxing beaches in Phuket.
Where to stay in Panwa beach?
Pullman Phuket Panwa beach resort is one of the best luxury hotels in Phuket for families. It has an elegant and fun environment the whole family can enjoy.
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Kantary Bay Hotel Phuket is another stunning luxury hotel in Panwa beach with a charming design, rooftop pool, and panoramic views.
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1. Nai Thon Beach For Quiet
Nai Thon beach is a secluded and peaceful beach with golden sand and a tree-lined beach. You can enjoy sunbathing, plenty of eateries and can choose from a wide variety of luxurious resorts. Nai Thon is also one of the best places for swimming. It’s also a considerably wide and long beach where the water is clear and warm.
Nai Thon beach is also the closest beach to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary one of the best places in Phuket where you can experience ethical elephant tourism. It’s a natural and peaceful environment where retired/rescued elephants can finally enjoy their freedom. You can book various amazing experiences with them such as:
A Morning with the Elephants at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary – Check Prices & Availability
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary Canopy Walkway Tour – Check Prices & Availability
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Elephant Sanctuary In Thailand – A Volunteering Experience
Where to stay in Nai Thon beach?
Anantara Layan Phuket Resort is a luxurious resort where guests can also enjoy various activities like windsurfing and snorkeling.
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Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa is a modern and elegant resort with stunning views and a romantic vibe.
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The Pavilions, Phuket is one of the most unique luxury places to stay in Phuket. You’ll find the villas sit on a hill and comes with breathtaking sea views and private infinity pools.
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Best Beaches Near Phuket Island
While Phuket offers many stunning beaches you might want to consider going on an island hopping tour. There are some truly unique islands around Phuket you don’t want to miss.
Swimming with Sea Turtles near Phuket
One of the most fun experiences is swimming with sea turtles. While it’s never guaranteed it’s a pretty common and fun thing to do in the area.
Where to swim with Sea turtles?
Good question. You’ve got the best chance if you visit Similan islands mainly island 9, mooring rocks. Phi Phi islands are also a great place to try your luck.
You can check out Viator’s fun and safe island hopping tours to make sure you don’t miss out on anything while in Phuket.
How to go to Phi Phi island from Phuket?
You have various choices, you can go with a cruiser, speed boat, or long-tail boat. As well as in a group or privately of course. Check Prices & Availability
The nearby islands are also great fun for movie fans who love to visit filming locations. You can visit Ko Phi Phi Le where The Beach with Leonardo Dicaprio was filmed. As well as Koh Khao Phing Kan (AKA James Bond Island) in Phang Nga Bay where the famous scene from The Man with the Golden Gun was filmed.
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