Comparing The Top Beaches To Visit in Phuket, Thailand

Although sequestered pockets of seclusion may be scarce along the shoreline, rest assured that the beach retains a sense of tranquility, never succumbing to the strains of overcrowding. As you step onto the soft, velvety white sand, you'll be captivated by the sheer beauty of Kata Beach.

Kata Beach enjoys a well-deserved reputation as one of Phuket's top surfing destinations, particularly during the temperate off-season from June to September. For the remainder of the year, the beach transforms into a paradise for swimmers, sun-seekers, and snorkeling enthusiasts. While the occasional jet ski and parasailer dot the horizon, Kata Beach maintains an atmosphere of relaxation, distinct from the liveliness of bustling Patong Beach.

As you venture away from the shore and into the heart of Kata, a world of exceptional hospitality awaits. The enchanting Kata center beckons with an array of exquisite hotels and resorts, offering unforgettable luxurious escapes. Delight in the abundance of tantalizing restaurants, stylish bars, captivating shops, and alluring night markets that line your path.

Remarkably, Kata Beach is divided into two distinct sections by a majestic rocky headland. To the north lies the alluring Hat Kata Yai, while to the south awaits the secluded paradise of Hat Kata Noi, exuding an air of intimacy and serenity. Along the shores of Kata Noi Beach, slender palm trees sway gently in the breeze, creating a picturesque backdrop for your idyllic getaway. Stroll along the meandering path of Thanon Kata, which parallels the beachfront, and allow yourself to be enticed by the plethora of establishments offering delectable refreshments and culinary delights.

Why Stay At Kata Beach

Unlike its more bustling counterparts, Kata Beach emanates an air of sophistication, attracting discerning travellers from every corner of the globe. Families and couples, in particular, seek solace in its refined ambiance. With a perfect balance of recreational activities, dining experiences, and a relaxed, easy-going vibe, Kata promises an unforgettable escape. Should the desire for vibrant nightlife beckon, a mere 13-minute drive leads you to the bustling shores of Patong Beach, where the revelry knows no bounds.

Things To Do Around Kata Beach

• Yoga/Wellness
  Immerse yourself in ultimate relaxation at one of Kata's premier spas, wellness centers, or Yoga studios, offering a holistic haven to rejuvenate mind, body, and soul.
• Surf
  Embark on an exhilarating surfing experience as Kata Beach becomes a surfer's paradise during the off-season months from June to September.
• Karon View Point
  Previously known as Kata viewpoint, this magnificent vantage point offers unparalleled vistas that encompass the sweeping beauty of Kata Noi Beach, Kata Yai Beach, and Karon Beach.
• Kata Night Market
  Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kata's very own night market, where tantalizing Thai street food awaits. Indulge your senses and savour the flavours that permeate the air.

Bang Tao Beach

Beautiful Bang Tao beach is one of Phuket's longest and lies on the northeast side of Phuket. The half-moon-shaped bay stretches for 8 km of soft powdery white sand and is lined with trees.

The southern part of the region is home to many three and four-star hotels, some cool beach clubs, and an old fishing village further inland. Roughly in the middle of the beach is Laguna Phuket - a large 1000 acres area of land with seven high-end hotels built around an inland lake.

The further north you go, the less developed the beach gets, and this is where it becomes genuinely stunning. White powder sand and the blue sea stretched out as far as the eye can see, and paradise is a word that readily springs to mind.

Why Stay At Bang Tao Beach

This is the perfect beach for anyone looking for a peaceful beach where it is still possible to find your own palm tree to put your blanket under, close your eyes, and not be disturbed by anyone. Also, unlike many of Phuket's beaches, no road runs along Bang Tao beach, so you are free from the traffic noise.

There is a refreshing lack of sunbeds that crowd some of Phuket's other smaller beaches (although some of the Bang Tao hotels have their own small areas with sunbeds). You will also not be disturbed by jetskiing and paragliding here. And since Bang Tao is so large, you can choose to mingle at the beach clubs or find some peace and solitude. It is also perfect for running or for a sunset walk.

There are plenty of hotels to choose from, with most of them being in the Luxury high-end price range. Bang Tao is also one of the closest beaches to Phuket Airport (a 25-min drive).

Things To Do Around Bang Tao

• Enjoy The Relaxed Vibe
  Bang Tao Beach itself is the main attraction. You can walk for hours along the beach, and the further north you get, the less developed it is. Here you can discover your own undisturbed tropical paradise, put down your blanket beneath a palm tree, and forget the world around you.
• Boat Avenue & Tinlay Village / Plaza
  This is the shopping and restaurant area of Bang Tao. It is located close to the Laguna Complex entrance. Here you'll find shops, supermarkets, and some of Phuket's best restaurants. There is also a huge Villa Market supermarket with internationally imported food and an impressively well-stocked wine department
• Beach clubs
  Beach clubs are trendy in Phuket, and Bang Tao has its fair share, especially along the southern end. Watch the sunset while enjoying a cool drink.
• Sports Activities
  Kayaking, Sailing, or go Horseriding with the Phuket International Horse Club. Bang Tao is also a golfer's dream, with a 27-hole golf course at the Phuket Country Club and an 18-hole course at Laguna Golf Phuket
• Bang Tao Night Market
  Bang Tao's night market is one of Phuket's better night markets. A great place to come for some delicious Thai street food and fresh fruits or shop for some gifts and souvenirs. It is open Monday & Thursday evenings.
• Wat Cherngtalay Temple
  A small but beautiful Buddhist temple in bright white and red colours with gold decorations.

Karon Beach

Indulge in the sheer splendour of Karon Beach, a mesmerizing 3.5 km expanse of pristine white sands. Embraced by the azure waters of the Andaman Sea, this beach stands proudly as one of Phuket's top three most sought-after coastal retreats, alongside its illustrious neighbours, Kata Beach to the south and Patong Beach to the north.

The beach itself is a masterpiece of nature's artistry. Its wide expanse showcases velvety-soft white sands caressed by the gentle touch of the crystal-clear turquoise waves. Gaze upon this breathtaking scene, where palm trees gracefully adorn the shore, creating an idyllic backdrop of tranquility. Notice the absence of beach bars, allowing the beach to retain its serene charm, while nearby restaurants beckon from the opposite side of the road that winds along the coastline, adding a touch of convenience to its allure.

Graced by numerous grand resorts, Karon Beach provides ample space for respite and rejuvenation. Unlike its smaller counterpart, Kata Beach, and the bustling Patong, it possesses an air of exclusivity, ensuring a tranquil escape for every discerning traveller. The majority of resorts in the area are nestled on the other side of the road, providing a seamless blend of comfort and natural splendour.

Why Stay At Karon Beach

Choose Karon Beach as your sanctuary for an extraordinary beach experience. Bask in the magnificence of this picturesque shoreline, accompanied by a plethora of family-friendly resorts that cater to your every desire. Engage in an array of exciting activities and indulge in delectable cuisines at the nearby dining establishments. Despite its popularity, the sheer size of Karon Beach ensures a sense of spaciousness and serenity that invites you to revel in its beauty. And as the sun gracefully descends, witness an awe-inspiring sunset that transforms this coastal gem into a veritable masterpiece.

Things To Do Around Karon

• Watch the Sunset
  Savor the enchanting sunset from the exclusive Coast Beach Club at Centara Grand Beach Resort, where you can delight in a refreshing beverage as you witness nature's most remarkable spectacle.
• Karon Temple Market
  Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of Karon Temple Market, located at Karon Temple (Wat Suwan Khiri Khet). Embark on a culinary adventure through the tantalizing street food, engage in lively social gatherings, and find the perfect souvenir to cherish.
• Karon Park
  Embark on a leisurely stroll or invigorating run amidst the serene surroundings of Karon Park. Nestled at the northern end of the beach, this picturesque sanctuary boasts an artificial lake, a running track, and complimentary exercise machines for your enjoyment.
• Surfing & Water Sports
  Unleash your inner adventurer at the southern end of Karon Beach, a popular haven for surfers. From April to October, delve into the exhilarating world of surfing with rentals and lessons available. Dive enthusiasts can partake in courses and captivating dive trips to neighbouring islands, while parasailing and jet skiing offer thrilling experiences that embody the spirit of Karon Beach.

Patong Beach

No other beach in Phuket divides people's opinions like Patong Beach does. For those who love it, they will praise its beautiful white sandy beach, exquisite restaurants, vibrant nightlife, an abundance of shops and malls, captivating cinemas, captivating shows, and a plethora of entertainment options. The selection of accommodations is excellent, and the culinary scene is unparalleled.

On the other hand, those who dislike it will tell tales of its seedy go-go bar nightlife, the bustling beach filled with noisy jet skis, parasailers, and persistent massage touts. Not to mention the tour groups that constantly parade through the beach in search of the perfect selfie. Patong Beach is undoubtedly a well-established tourism hub, but for those seeking an authentic Thai experience, this may not be the optimal choice.

Opinions on Patong Beach are polarizing, with some falling in love and returning year after year, while others vow to never set foot again.However, it is entirely possible to have an exceptional time in Patong. The array of breathtaking hotels is truly remarkable. Furthermore, if you share our sentiment of Patong Beach being too bustling, fear not, for there are neighbouring beaches that are less frequented. One such gem is Freedom Beach, which we consider to be among our favourite beaches in Phuket. Located just a short drive away, less than ten minutes, it offers an enchanting escape.

Why Stay At Patong Beach

Patong Beach is where the journey of tourism on Phuket island began, and its allure is still evident as to why it captivated the first visitors in the 1950s, transforming from a peaceful fishing village into the destination it is today.

Presently, Patong is particularly favoured by young adults who seek a thrilling party scene. The festivities last until the early hours, with numerous go-go bars, strip clubs, dance clubs, discotheques, nightclubs, and cabaret shows to choose from. In Patong, a dull moment is unheard of.

The beach itself is remarkable, and if you revel in water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing and don't mind the vibrant crowd, Patong Beach offers an ideal setting for such activities.

In many ways, Patong serves as the epicenter of tourism in Phuket. Here, you can find everything you desire - from immigration and visa services to expansive shopping malls, a cinema complex, and an extensive array of restaurants that surpasses those found on other beaches, combined.

Things To Do Around Patong

• Nightlife
  Most of the excitement can be found along the renowned Bangla Walking Street. This 400 metre long street lures visitors with its multitude of clubs, bars, and restaurants lining both sides.
• Shopping
  Patong boasts two of Phuket's largest shopping malls - Central Patong and Jungceylon. Located opposite each other, these retail havens showcase an array of international shops and eateries, including an Apple store, a five-screen cinema, a Starbucks, large supermarkets, and even a 16-lane bowling alley.
• Banzaan Market
  A bustling fresh food market awaits at Banzaan Market, where the top floor features a delightful food court.
• Night Markets
  Patong is home to two night markets - Malin Plaza Patong and OTOP Night Market. These vibrant markets offer a glimpse into the local culture and an opportunity to discover unique souvenirs and delectable street food.

Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach, an exquisite gem nestled near Patong, may be geographically close, but its essence sets it worlds apart. Unlike the vibrant energy of Patong, Kamala Beach offers a haven of tranquility, drawing in long-term holidaymakers, families, and young couples seeking a serene retreat.

Kamala embraces its Thai village charm and remains deeply connected to its local roots. As you stroll along the sandy shoreline, you'll notice that the restaurants here welcome both locals and tourists, creating an authentic atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you unwind at a beach bar, savouring a refreshing beer and indulging in a delectable yet affordable meal.

The beach itself, stretching gracefully for approximately 2 kilometers in a half-moon shape, is a vision of tropical paradise. Immaculate white sand is adorned with swaying palms and casuarina trees, casting fleeting shadows on this enchanting sanctuary. A quaint gravel road, preserving its simple charm, gently runs alongside the beach, adorned with local seafood restaurants, charming bungalows, and captivating shops.

Nevertheless, change is in the air. The once undeveloped northern end of the bay has witnessed the emergence of remarkable resorts such as MontAzure, InterContinental, and Novotel. How this transformation will shape the future of Kamala remains to be unveiled, an intriguing prospect that piques the curiosity of discerning travellers.

Why Stay At Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach encompasses a remarkable assortment of accommodation options to suit everyone, ensuring that it remains a beloved destination for long-term sojourns, families, and young couples seeking a nightlife experience that embraces pleasant tranquility rather than a bustling revelry.

While the beach experiences occasional jet skis and the playful presence of a banana boat, its overall ambiance thrives on relaxation and an unhurried pace. The gentle waves that caress the shoreline create a safe haven for swimmers, especially families with children, where joyous laughter and shared moments intertwine.

Things To Do Around Kamala

• Kamala Market
  Discover the enticing Kamala Friday market, an exquisite gathering of scents and flavours. Delight your palate with delicious Thai snacks, indulge in the vibrant street food culture, and wander through the market's stalls, seeking light yet captivating souvenirs to commemorate your memorable journey.
• Water Activities
  Embark on thrilling water adventures that stir your soul. Stand-up paddling, windsurfing, and snorkeling invite you to immerse yourself in the azure depths, unearthing hidden treasures beneath the surface. Surrender to the allure of the ocean, where every moment becomes a cherished memory.
• FantaSea
  Journey to the enchanting world of FantaSea, a captivating spectacle reminiscent of the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. Nestled to the east of Hat Kamala, this remarkable theme park invites you to indulge your senses, immersing yourself in a mesmerizing blend of Thai heritage, enthralling performances, and unparalleled entertainment.

Surin Beach

Surin Beach, a breathtaking masterpiece, unveils a wide stretch of soft golden sand gracefully merging into the gentle caress of the pale turquoise water. This idyllic haven, known as Phuket's high-end beach paradise, may gift you with a chance encounter with a celebrity strolling along its shores.

At the beach's northern end, stalls tempt your senses with tantalizing food and refreshing drinks, while the southern end boasts the esteemed Patcharin seafood restaurant. Other than these delightful offerings, Surin Beach embraces gentle tranquility, inviting you to surrender to its serene allure.

The exclusive resorts surrounding the area cater predominantly to the luxurious tastes of the world's wealthiest individuals. Magnificent estates and condos dot the landscape, creating an ambiance of opulence that resonates with the discerning traveller seeking the utmost indulgence.

Surin proudly boasts a quaint town centre, adorned with refined restaurants, captivating art galleries, and exquisite boutiques. As the sun sets, the town's charm persists, even though the night brings a serene calmness to this beautiful enclave.

Surin Beach seamlessly transitions into Pansea Beach at its northern tip, revealing a sheltered cove adorned with pristine white sand. While a walking trail once led visitors to Pansea Beach, it had been fenced off during our last visit in 2019, shrouding it in an air of mystique. Although Pansea Beach is technically open to the public, it has evolved into an exclusive paradise cherished by two world-renowned luxury resorts, the awe-inspiring Amanpuri and The Surin Phuket.

Why Stay At Surin Beach

Surin Beach stands as the epitome of sophisticated indulgence, catering to those with discerning tastes and a generous budget. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of a top-end resort nestled in an upscale, intimate neighbourhood, basking in the beauty of a beach that lulls your soul to peaceful serenity.

While here, don't miss the opportunity to embark on a boat journey to the nearby Laem Sing Beach, a hidden gem that eludes road access and proudly stands as one of Phuket's best-kept secrets.

Things To Do Around Surin

• Sunbathe
  Indulge in the pure pleasure of relaxation as you bask in the warm embrace of the sun. Surin Beach offers the perfect setting to unwind and soak up the rays, creating a blissful and rejuvenating experience.
• Surfing
  For those seeking an exhilarating adventure, the monsoon season from June to October/November brings exciting surfing opportunities. Ride the waves and feel the adrenaline surge through your veins as you revel in the magnificence of the ocean.
• Snorkeling
  Explore the hidden treasures beneath the sea's surface at the beach's northern end, especially during November to March when the crystal-clear waters provide exceptional visibility. Engage in the enchanting world of snorkeling, discovering a vibrant underwater paradise that captivates the imagination.