With such a variety of gorgeous beaches on the island of Phuket, we come to a highly important question – which one is the best? Tourists always want to know which beach to visit to get the best experience of the island. Which Phuket beach tops the charts – which Phuket beach is best? In reality, there is no “best” beach – there are many different beaches that each have their own charm and character, and attract people for different reasons. The best beach for you depends on your personal preference and your style. But if you really want to know where to go, check out our ideas for enjoying Phuket from the most attractive stretches of sand.
Patong Beach
Patong Beach is kind of love-it or hate-it – the things that make it so popular are also the things that drive many people away. You need to know that it is big, brash, loud, and crazy. If you’re looking for fun, Patong is the place for you. Patong is the heart of all things entertaining on Phuket. You won’t be short of places to eat and drink, but you may find it hard to get a patch of sand all to yourself.
Kata Beach
Patong is the most popular beach, with Kata the next in line in terms of fans. Kata Beach gets pretty busy and it is easy to see why. The long stretch of wide sand rests against a brilliant blue sea. You can relax on the beach all day or enjoy a meal in one of the many restaurants and bars. Kata is not as busy as Patong but there are still many amenities for your enjoyment.
Kata Noi Beach
If you love the Kata style but don’t want to be part of the crowd, choose Kata Noi Beach instead. The beach at Kata Noi is in a small bay and boasts pure white sand and some gorgeous clear water during the high season. Kata Noi is a little off the beaten track so it is much quieter and calmer than Kata.
Nai Harn Beach
This beach is a little different from its neighbors along the west coast. Nai Harn has its own distinct charm and character and thanks to a lack of development it still retains its traditional appeal. While it is not deserted by any means, you will be able to enjoy the peace and quiet, and some wonderful views. The beach is located in a calm bay which is protected water, meaning no noisy water sports of jet skis. Definitely a beach you have to visit while you are in Phuket.
Laem Singh Beach
Laem Singh has a tropical vibe and a gorgeous, palm-fringed setting that looks perfect in photos. This beach is also largely unvisited so when you go, you have the chance of getting the beach all to yourself. A beautiful spot that is not to be missed in Phuket.
Karon Beach
Karon Beach is the second-longest in Phuket and there’s plenty to see and do here. However, Karon Beach is not half as popular as Kata or Patong. Go check it out for yourself – it’s a fine place to relax that is easy to reach with some decent dining spots.
Surin Beach
Surin Beach is one of the most popular – and busy – on the island for good reason. This is a large stretch of sand that has a multitude of bars and restaurants, plus lovely golden sand and clear water ideal for snorkeling and swimming in high season.
Rawai Beach
At the southernmost end of the island, Rawai Beach is not ideal for swimming but you benefit from beautiful views over the other small islands and a lovely atmosphere. Enjoy some seafood and book your trip to the nearby islands as Rawai is the starting point for many boat tours.
Laem Ka Beach
Close to Rawai, Laem Ka Beach is a small and secluded beauty of a beach that not many people know about. Visit this beach to soak up the sun in (relative) peace and quiet –but be quick because more and more people are finding out about it!
Bangtao Beach
Looking for the longest beach in Phuket? You’ve found it at Bangtao. This beach is the home of the mega-resort complex Laguna Phuket but it is worth visiting even if you are not a resident at that resort. The long stretch of sand is great for water sports or simply relaxing.
Kamala Beach
Kamala Beach is not too quiet, not too busy – it boasts a good number of shops and restaurants, while it remains more peaceful than other beaches. The water is very clear during the high season and various hotels along the beach offer good access to the sand.
Check out PhuketOn for information and inspiration on the best beaches in Phuket, the best hotels in Phuket, and Phuket’s best bars and restaurants. For more about Phuket and Bangkok, visit PhuketOn.
