Phuket Travel Guide: 21 Best Beaches & Things to Do
Everything you need to know about visiting Phuket, including what to see, things to avoid and our top tips | Hi! We're Alex & Victoria - a digital nomad couple from Copenhagen escaping 9-5 to chase adventures in our beautiful world. Learn more about us here. |
Big, bigger, Phuket
We’ve flown in and out of Phuket International Airport several times on our travels to Thailand, but it wasn’t until 2024 that we actually spent time on the country’s largest island.
We stayed for 18 nights – 10 in Karon and 8 in Surin – and while we can’t say we fell completely in love with Phuket, we still had a lovely time.
The beaches are beautiful with soft sand and inviting waves. The weather was perfect with clear blue skies every day and barely a drop of rain. As always, the Thai people were incredibly warm and the food was nothing short of fantastic.
We also really enjoyed visiting Big Buddha and Phuket Old Town.
Put simply, Phuket is an easy and convenient holiday destination.
Thailand has plenty of places where you can escape the crowds and mass tourism, but if all you’re after is a sunbed, a cocktail and pleasant tropical weather… Well, Phuket delivers.
Keep reading our travel guide to Phuket to find out what makes the island worth visiting, how to avoid the busiest spots, where to find the best beaches, the best things to see and do (and what to skip), where to stay, great places to eat, getting around and our top tips for making the most of Phuket.
Our recommendations: Where to stay in Phuket?
- Budget: Baan Chay Lay Resort – We stayed at this hotel in Karon. The rooms are family-friendly with a kitchen, and the pool was in half shade/half sun.
- Value for money: 6th Avenue Surin Beach – At Surin, we stayed in a nice apartment hotel with a gym and a luxurious pool on the roof.
- Luxury: The Surin Phuket – One of Phuket’s absolute best hotels (without being one of the most expensive). Has a unique hexagonal pool that leads directly to an almost entirely private beach.
Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Phuket here.
Table of contents
Why visit Phuket
Thailand’s largest island is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations with millions of visitors each year.
The beaches are stunning with clear water and soft sand, and there’s no shortage of things to do – whether it’s cultural sights, boat trips, snorkelling, diving or, of course, the nightlife.
If you’re after a vibrant nightlife scene, Phuket has plenty to offer. Especially around Patong Beach, where bars and clubs are everywhere.
The island has modern infrastructure with an international airport, well-equipped hospitals and good roads, making it easy to get around.
There’s also a wide selection of places to stay; from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels, making Phuket suitable for all kinds of travellers.
The advantages of Phuket
We have to admit that Phuket isn’t our favourite island in Thailand. It’s a bit too developed and touristy for our taste…
But! That might actually be a reason to visit Phuket.
There are plenty of hotels across all price ranges and you’ll find restaurants serving just about every type of cuisine.
Massage parlours and small shops selling clothes and souvenirs are everywhere and everything you could possibly need is within easy reach.
If you are looking for nightlife in the evening, Phuket is a great choice.
Also, one of its biggest advantages is the ease of getting there from many places in the world. You can often fly directly from Denmark (where we are from) or with just one stopover – and we know that’s possible from many other countries as well.
If you’re short on holiday time and want to minimise travel days and transport, Phuket is a solid option.
The island works well as a starting point for a longer trip around Thailand, too – perfect if you need to unwind, feel the sand between your toes and sip a freshly squeezed juice before heading off on your next adventure. That’s what we did!
Is Phuket very touristy?
In a word: Yes! Phuket is undeniably touristy.
It’s especially popular with Chinese and Russian visitors, but plenty of Europeans, Americans and travellers from all over the world also flock to the island.
And Phuket welcomes tourism – or has at least done plenty to attract and keep it.
Almost anything can be arranged year-round and at any hour, always with a smile (as long as you have enough thai baht).
If you visit Phuket during the busiest months (from November to March), expect plenty of people on the beaches.
That said, it’s still fairly easy to find a sunbed or a spot for your towel on the sand. Booking accommodation well in advance is a good idea, though.
Where to find a quieter side of Phuket
If you’re after a more unspoiled side of Phuket, focus on beaches and areas without rows of hotels. They do exist (and one of them is called Freedom Beach which you can read more about further down).
Kata Noi, Kamala and Surin are all good options if you want a more relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds on the island’s busier beaches.
You can also take a boat trip to explore smaller islands, including the famous Phi Phi Islands and James Bond Island.
Map of Phuket
With a size of 543 km², Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. It’s more than twice as big as Koh Samui (Thailand’s second-largest island).
Phuket is located in the Andaman Sea on Thailand’s west coast in the southern part of the country. A bridge at the island’s northern end connects it to the mainland.
The best beaches in Phuket
Although Phuket offers more than just its beaches, there’s no doubt that it’s the island’s amazing beaches that have made it such a popular holiday destination.
From long stretches of sand to small coves; from lively spots to peaceful retreats – Phuket has beaches to suit every taste.
Below, we’ll take a closer look at the most popular beaches.
What makes them different? Are they ideal for swimming? Where’s the best place to stay? And which nearby spots are worth a day trip?
The best beaches in Phuket:
- Karon Beach – The island’s most beautiful long beach (very family-friendly).
- Kata Beach & Kata Noi Beach – Child-friendly beaches on the west coast.
- Patong Beach – Busy area with more of everything.
- Freedom Beach – Paradise atmosphere away from mass tourism.
- Surin Beach – Peaceful atmosphere with stalls along the beach promenade.
- Kamala Beach – Charming beach between the hills.
- Bang Tao Beach – Long beach with expensive lagoons.
- Nai Harn Beach – Serene and quiet beach located at the far south.
Karon Beach – The island’s most beautiful long beach (very family-friendly)
Stretching around 3 kilometres (1.86 miles), Karon is one of Phuket’s longest beaches.
The sand is bright, soft and squeaky when you walk on it.
The beach is wide with several spots where you can find shade under the trees if you don’t want to pay for one of the (many!) sunbeds.
The gentle waves roll in over a sandy bottom and the calm water makes Karon one of the best beaches in Phuket for families with children.
While Karon is more laid-back than the nearby Patong to the north, you can still rent water skis and other water sports equipment, especially around the middle of the beach.
The northern part of Karon is nearly deserted, so if you’re after a more peaceful stretch of sand, this is the place to go.
Accommodation tip: We stayed at Baan Chay Lay Resort (adlink), which is located just behind the temple in Karon.
Search for the best and cheapest hotels near Karon here (adlink).
Kata Beach & Kata Noi Beach – Child-friendly beaches on the west coast
Just south of Karon lies Kata Beach (and the town of the same name), with Kata Noi (Little Kata) on the other side of a hill.
Kata Beach to the north is the longer of the two and shares many similarities with Karon.
It features a wide, long stretch of sand and beautiful, calm water. It’s very child-friendly for swimming.
While there are some water sports here, the areas for these activities and for bathing are clearly marked, so you don’t have to worry about getting caught in a jet ski’s path.
Kata Noi is smaller and quieter than Kata Beach.
At the northernmost end, along the rocks, there’s a great spot for snorkelling and the beach overall feels a bit more pristine. However, there are still quite a few hotels across the road that line the beach.
Search for the best and cheapest hotels at Kata and Kata Noi here (adlink).
Patong Beach – Busy area with more of everything
Patong is, for many, the epitome of what they dislike about Phuket.
The beach has long been the centre of tourism on the island and remains one of its busiest areas.
Bangla Road, infamous for its nightlife, has a reputation for being sleazy and a bit vulgar, especially after dark. The loud and brash atmosphere is far from appealing to all travellers.
That said, Patong Beach itself is long (about 3 kilometres/1.86 miles) so it’s possible to stay in areas where the bars and nightclubs feel distant. Still, if partying isn’t on your agenda, other west coast beaches might be a better fit.
One thing in Patong’s favour is that there’s never a shortage of things to do.
Shops, restaurants, massage parlours and entertainment options are everywhere. Large shopping centres like Central Patong and Jungceylon offer an overwhelming selection.
If you just want to turn it up to 110% for consumption and hedonism, Patong might be the right choice.
For most others, it’s enough to stop by for a bit of shopping or out of curiosity before retreating to somewhere quieter.
Search for the best and cheapest hotels near Patong here (adlink).
Freedom Beach – Paradise atmosphere away from mass tourism
If you’re looking to visit a beautiful beach in Phuket away from the crowds, you should consider making your way to Freedom Beach.
The beach is located on the peninsula which marks the divide between Patong and Karon.
There are small beach stalls offering drinks and food, as well as homemade “sunbeds” made from sand cushions and mats. Apart from that, you’ll find nothing but crystal-clear water and soft sand.
Although we haven’t visited every beach in Phuket, we would dare say that this is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.
How to get to Freedom Beach
There are two ways to get to Freedom Beach: by boat or by hiking.
The boat ride is, of course, the most comfortable option. The trip from Patong or Karon is quite short.
Driving and then walking down to the beach yourself is free, and you can arrive and leave at your convenience.
Set your Google Maps to “The Lek Sand Beach Bar” and walk down towards the beach from there. The walk takes around 20 minutes.
Check out our travel guide to Freedom Beach for more pictures, details of how to get there and other things you need to know before going.
Surin Beach – Peaceful atmosphere with stalls along the beach promenade
Surin is a wonderful beach located a little further north on the west coast between Bang Tao Beach (to the north) and Kamala Beach (to the south).
The beach has a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Patong and Karon, but there is still a variety of facilities and activities.
Behind the beach, there’s a long “pedestrian street/beach road” (on sand) lined with juice bars, pancake stalls, small restaurants, massage parlours and souvenir shops.
It’s a pleasant place to stroll back and forth, and having refreshments so close to the beach adds to the convenience.
You can also easily enjoy your dinner with a view of the sea and sunset.
Accommodation tip: At Surin, we stayed at 6th Avenue Surin Beach (adlink), which has a pretty nice rooftop pool with a 360-degree view of Surin and over Bang Tao.
Search for the best and cheapest hotels near Surin here (adlink).
Kamala Beach – Charming beach between the hills
Just south of Surin, on Phuket’s west coast, lies Kamala Beach, tucked away in a small bay surrounded by hills.
The beach has blue waters, palm trees gently swaying in the breeze and a beach promenade with several small juice stalls and restaurants.
Unlike the more well-known beaches in Phuket, Kamala Beach tends to be quieter with fewer people, making it a more peaceful retreat.
Food tip: Near the southern end of Kamala Beach, we recommend the café Fruit Fusion, where you can get delicious smoothie bowls (and they’ll even put your name on them if you wish).
Search for the best and cheapest hotels near Kamala here (adlink).
Bang Tao Beach – Long beach with expensive lagoons
Bang Tao starts just north of Surin and stretches for a few kilometres until it reaches a small island.
It is one of Phuket’s longest beaches.
In the middle of the beach, you will find Laguna Phuket, a complex of luxury hotels, apartments and various attractions, such as an 18-hole golf course. Many of the hotels offer direct views of the lagoon.
While Bang Tao Beach is pleasant, the sand and water aren’t quite as pristine as on the nearby Surin Beach. It remains quite lively, especially at the southern end, where you’ll find several restaurants and bars – some with live music.
The northern part, on the other hand, is much quieter.
The area, known as Cherngtalay, also hosts the Porto de Phuket shopping centre and the Boat Avenue Phuket retail area.
Food tip: We absolutely loved the vegan sandwiches from Bartels. Their sourdough bread is outstanding.
Search for the best and cheapest hotels at Bang Tao here (adlink).
Nai Harn Beach – Serene and quiet beach located at the far south
Nai Harn Beach is only a few minutes from Promthep Cape (the southernmost point of Phuket).
It faces west (like all the beaches mentioned above), making it an ideal spot to catch the sunset.
Nai Harn is known as a beautiful and swimmable beach where you can truly relax.
There is not much more here than a handful of restaurants, but you can walk along the lake to a more urban area in 15 minutes.
Search for the best and cheapest hotels near Nai Harn here (adlink).
The best things to do and see in Phuket
In addition to its stunning beaches and the towns that line them, Phuket offers a wealth of sights and experiences.
You won’t be bored!
Here are some recommendations for things to see and do on the island.
- Big Buddha – Great view from Phuket’s largest statue
- Wat Chalong – The largest and most stunning Buddhist temple on the island
- Phuket Old Town – Colourful Sino-Portuguese houses
- Karon Temple – Pretty Buddhist temple in Karon
- Karon Temple Market – Classic market in a sacred setting
- Boat trips from Phuket – Island hopping to Thailand’s most beautiful islands
- Water activities – Try everything from snorkelling to jet skiing
- Trekking in the jungle – See waterfalls in the rainforest
- Active experiences – Get moving and connect with nature
- Samet Nangshe Viewpoint – Day trip to an epic panoramic view
- Nightlife – Party in Thai style
- Massage – Relax and unwind
- Shopping – Buy unique souvenirs
Big Buddha – Great view from Phuket’s largest statue
Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Eknakiri, more commonly known as Phuket Big Buddha, stands tall at 45 metres above the island on a hilltop in the south.
Thailand’s third-largest Buddha is undoubtedly one of Phuket’s top attractions.
Visiting the Buddha is free and the peaceful atmosphere up there is lovely.
In addition to admiring the impressive white marble statue, you can enjoy stunning views of both the coastline and Phuket Town, meditate with monks, and, of course, watch out for the cheeky monkeys that hang around near the exit.
Don’t worry – as long as you avoid displaying food or drinks, they tend to leave you alone.
Remember, the Big Buddha is a sacred site, so be sure to follow the dress code and cover your shoulders and knees.
Read our travel guide to Phuket Big Buddha here (including tips to avoid being robbed by the monkeys!).
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Wat Chalong – The largest and most stunning Buddhist temple on the island
If you only visit one temple in Phuket, we highly recommend Wat Chalong, also formally known as Wat Chaiyathararam.
The temple complex features many stunning buildings, several of which you can enter and explore (but remember to leave your shoes outside).
The 60-metre-high pagoda is the standout feature, not least because of its unique architecture. We haven’t seen anything else quite like it in Thailand.
At the top of the pagoda is said to be a piece of bone from the Buddha himself.
Wat Chalong is free to visit, but remember to wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
Food tip: Not far from the temple, we enjoyed a meal at Pure Vegan Heaven (on Soi Taeiad). Here, we had a yummy smoothie bowls and tasty healthy summer rolls with peanut sauce.
Phuket Old Town – Colourful Sino-Portuguese houses
There are few places in Thailand where you can find a real town with a historic centre so close to stunning beaches.
Just over 30 minutes from the west coast lies Phuket Old Town with rows of colourful townhouses that date back to the island’s tin mining history.
It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours wandering the charming streets, admiring the houses and exploring the many delightful shops and cafés.
We especially recommend strolling along Phangnga Road, Thalang Road and the smaller Soi Romanee.
Coffee tip: Dou Brew Coffee & Craft serves great coffee on Soi Romanee.
Read our travel guide to Phuket Old Town here for more information on markets to visit, our best tips and lots of photos.
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Karon Temple – Pretty Buddhist temple in Karon
When we booked the room at our hotel Baan Chay Lay Resort (adlink) in Karon, we didn’t realise that its location meant we had to walk through Karon Temple to get something to eat or head to the beach. What a pleasant surprise, though!
The temple, also known as Wat Karon or Wat Suwan Khiri Khet, is truly beautiful.
While the temple grounds aren’t entirely picturesque, the atmosphere here is much calmer compared to just outside the walls.
Karon Temple Market – Classic market in a sacred setting
Every Tuesday and Friday a large market, known as Karon Temple Market, is held at Karon Temple.
Here, you can find a variety of items, including clothes, souvenirs, snacks and more.
While the selection isn’t drastically different from other markets, the sacred surroundings add a unique atmosphere to the experience.
The market begins to set up in the afternoon and typically runs until the evening.
Boat trips from Phuket – Island hopping to Thailand’s most beautiful islands
We would have loved to take a boat trip from Phuket ourselves, but we felt that a long day on the water might be a bit much for our 5-month-old baby (and his parents)…
However, if you have more energy to explore than we did, we highly recommend heading out to explore Phang Nga Bay on a boat trip from Phuket.
The islands look insanely beautiful.
We flew over the bay on our way to Koh Samui and were in awe of the scenery from above.
We can only imagine how much more impressive the tall limestone formations must be when seen from the water.
Specific boat trips
Most boat trips include a stop at James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan), famous for its unique rock formation standing in the water. It looks as though it could topple over at any moment.
This iconic rock is often one of the first images that comes up when you search for Phuket online – even though it’s actually not particularly close to Phuket, but rather in the north-western part of the bay.
Hong Island and Naka Island are two other popular destinations on these boat trips. Many tours also include visits to caves with stunning stalagmites and stalactites, and offer opportunities for snorkelling and kayaking.
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Boat trip from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands
In addition to trips to Phang Nga Bay, boat trips to the Phi Phi Islands are also available. They look absolutely stunning!
During these trips, you can visit Bamboo Island, Koh Phi Phi Don (the main island) and Maya Bay, which was featured in the movie The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio.
The Phi Phi Islands are renowned as one of the most beautiful destinations in Thailand, so if you have the time, it’s easy to imagine that it would make for a truly memorable day trip.
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Water activities – Try everything from snorkelling to jet skiing
If you’re a fan of water activities, there are almost no limits to what you can do in Phuket.
In addition to boat trips, you can, of course, enjoy snorkelling and diving, and many of the beaches offer jet ski rentals.
There are even day trips where you can explore various islands by jet ski.
In Patong and Karon (among others) you can try parasailing. You’re strapped to a speedboat while wearing a type of parachute and you’ll soar high above the beach and the sea.
Tip: With both jet skiing and parasailing, we’ve heard of many who felt cheated – either due to the time they were given or being asked to pay extra for “damaging” something. To avoid any surprises, it’s a good idea to check reviews of the operator on Google beforehand. Also, be sure to take photos of the jet ski (especially if there are any scratches) before you use it.
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Trekking in the jungle – See waterfalls in the rainforest
If you’re keen to immerse yourself in nature and experience the rainforest up close, there are several trekking tours with guides available.
Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife and admire beautiful waterfalls (some of which you can even swim in). Lunch is usually included in the package.
Be sure to avoid trips that include elephant riding or any experiences involving elephants. Although such activities are “common” in Phuket and Thailand, they are unethical and we strongly advise against supporting them.
You can read more about why elephant riding and interactions with elephants are harmful to the animals here.
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Active experiences – Get moving and connect with nature
If a jungle walk isn’t adventurous enough for you, you can opt for more thrilling experiences like zip-lining or ATV (quad bike).
Perfect for adrenaline junkies!
Both activities take place in the jungle, and you can even combine them into a longer day trip.
Be prepared to get a little muddy on some of the ATV rides, but it looks like a lot of fun!
Be cautious not to choose an experience that includes interactions with elephants.
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Samet Nangshe Viewpoint – Day trip to an epic panoramic view
We would have loved to have visited the Samet Nangshe viewpoint (or perhaps even spent a night there), but the car journey felt a long with our 5-month-old baby.
That said, the view over Phang Nga Bay looks absolutely stunning and we can only imagine how magical the sunrises and sunsets must be there.
Fortunately, when we flew on to Koh Samui, we were lucky enough to have a window seat with a perfect view of the islands in Phang Nga Bay!
Avoid any trips to Samet Nangshe Viewpoint that also include interactions with elephants.
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Nightlife – Party in Thai style
Phuket is ideal if you’re looking for a lively night out – particularly in Patong, but also in Karon just to the south.
The epicentre of Patong’s nightlife, Bangla Road, is a frenzy of neon lights, loud music and lots of people. The area is packed with bars, clubs and some more… questionable establishments…
You’ll find everything from live music venues, sports bars and Irish pubs to go-go bars and cabaret-style ladyboy shows.
An evening out will certainly keep you entertained!
However, it’s important to take care of yourself while enjoying the nightlife. While Phuket and Thailand are generally safe, be cautious with your drinks and steer clear of any violent altercations. If the police are called, be aware that their English may not be great and you certainly don’t want to end up in a Thai prison due to a misunderstanding.
Massage – Relax and unwind
Massage is incredibly affordable in Thailand – and Phuket is no exception – so it’s almost impossible to visit without indulging in at least one massage.
Massage parlours are everywhere; you can’t walk more than two minutes down a street without passing another one.
For the ultimate relaxation, you can even enjoy a massage right by the beach.
Prices usually start at 300 or 400 baht (~ 8-11 EUR / 9-12 USD) for an hour of Thai massage, oil massage or foot massage.
Shopping – Buy unique souvenirs
At markets and street stalls, you’ll find a wide variety of holiday clothes, swimwear, bags and sunglasses, but there are also many selling really lovely souvenirs.
Whether you’re looking for hand-cut soaps, bowls made from coconuts, strong spices or Muay Thai shorts, there’s something for everyone.
Check out the different nightmarkets on the island or take a day trip to Phuket Old Town for some unique options.
For a more traditional shopping experience, visit the malls Central Patong and Jungceylon in Patong or explore the options in Phuket Town.
What not to do in Phuket
Riding elephants
Unfortunately, elephant riding and elephant interactions are widely promoted by tour operators in Phuket.
Although it’s “normal” in Thailand, we hope you will choose not to support the industry.
To make elephants perform tricks, interact with people or carry tourists on their backs, they are subjected to brutal training methods.
The process of taming them often involves beatings, starvation, sleep deprivation and other forms of abuse to make them obey humans.
Also, carrying tourists for hours puts enormous strain on their spines, which can lead to permanent back injuries.
We have written about why you should not ride elephants here.
Be especially wary of places that call themselves a “sanctuary”. It sounds reassuring, almost like a safe haven for elephants, doesn’t it?
In many cases, it’s little more than a marketing stunt designed to make visitors feel good about their experience. If a place allows direct interaction with elephants, it’s rarely for their well-being, and we strongly advise against supporting it.
Tiger Kingdom
Just like with elephant riding, you will likely come across plenty of advertisements for visiting Tiger Kingdom.
Here, visitors can pet tigers and take photos with them. While it might seem like a fun holiday snapshot for social media, we hope you reconsider before taking part.
To make these large predators tolerate human interaction all day, it is widely believed that they are sedated to keep them docile. And even if that is not the case, they are reportedly beaten into submission.
On top of that, they are kept in small enclosures that are nothing like their vast natural habitats.
Wild animals are not meant for entertainment, and if you care about their well-being, it is best to avoid the tiger park altogether.
Dolphin shows
While we’re on the topic, we also advise against supporting dolphin shows and similar attractions featuring trained wild animals.
Dolphins, sea lions, penguins and other marine creatures belong in the ocean – not on a stage or in a confined pool where they are unable to exercise their natural behaviour.
(Too strong) cannabis
When you arrive in Phuket, it won’t take long to notice that every tenth shop is a cannabis shop.
Weedland, Canna Space, Weed Burger, Surf’n’Herb, High So Weed, The Green Spot – the list goes on…
Cannabis was legalised for recreational use in Thailand in 2022 and sales have exploded.
However, only cannabis with less than 0.2% THC (the psychoactive compound) is legal. Much of what is sold in these shops is far stronger and technically illegal.
The police can search the shops and charge both the owners and those found in possession of illegal cannabis. It doesn’t happen often, but it’s something to be aware of.
Where to stay in Phuket
We have put together a detailed guide on where to stay in Phuket with hotels in several price ranges and plenty of photos.
Below is a short version of our recommendations as well as the places we stayed in Phuket ourselves.
Our recommendations: Where to stay in Phuket?
- Budget: Baan Chay Lay Resort – We stayed at this hotel in Karon. The rooms are family-friendly with a kitchen, and the pool was in half shade/half sun.
- Value for money: 6th Avenue Surin Beach – At Surin, we stayed in a nice apartment hotel with a gym and a luxurious pool on the roof.
- Luxury: The Surin Phuket – One of Phuket’s absolute best hotels (without being one of the most expensive). Has a unique hexagonal pool that leads directly to an almost entirely private beach.
Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Phuket here.
Stay in Karon
We stayed in Karon for 10 nights and can easily recommend it if you’re looking for a relaxed tourist experience with plenty of restaurants and activity but without an overwhelming number of bars and parties.
The beach is popular, stunning and very family-friendly. The sand even makes a funny creaking sound when you walk on it.
The northern end of Karon is the quietest. Just south of the lake, the main street begins, lined with restaurants, massage parlours and tour operators all the way up to Karon Temple. There are also plenty of options along the beachfront.
We stayed at Baan Chay Lay Resort (adlink), where we had a small apartment with a sofa and kitchen at a great price. The hotel’s pool was ideal for us with some shade and the location near the temple was very convenient.
Search for the best and cheapest hotels near Karon here (adlink).
Stay at Surin Beach
We stayed right by Surin Beach for 8 nights.
Although we probably spent most of the time at our apartment hotel, 6th Avenue Surin Beach (adlink), we really enjoyed the peaceful walk along the quiet road down to the beach.
Surin Beach is lovely. While it’s fairly busy (at least in January), there’s plenty of space for everyone on the soft sand, particularly at the southern end.
The beach has a charming “beach promenade” (beach road on the sand) running along it with stalls offering food, drinks, massages and everything else you might need.
Search for the best and cheapest hotels near Surin here (adlink).
Best places to eat in Phuket
As we ate most of our meals out in Karon, we’ve written the most about the restaurants there below.
Further down, we also provide recommendations for places to eat in Patong, Kamala, Surin and Bang Tao.
Where to eat in Karon
Soul Phuket – Completely vegan place close to the beach
Even if you’re not specifically looking for a plant-based eatery, we’re confident that most people will love Soul Phuket.
Tucked away from the road, the restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating with lovely decor and several cosy nooks. The service is quick and friendly, and the food was 10/10.
On our first visit to Soul we ordered a massaman curry, a poké bowl, tofu sticks with satay sauce and a “Snickers” ice cream cake. All the dishes were absolutely delicious.
We returned several times and even ordered takeaway – it was that good.
While the prices here might be slightly higher than some other restaurants in Karon, we believe the food and atmosphere make it well worth it.
Ya Restaurant – Great value Thai cuisine
Ya Restaurant is located right next to the temple in the centre of Karon.
Here, a real Thai mama stands behind the wok pans (with a little help from a few other ladies) and serves authentic Thai food at fair prices.
The red curry was rich in flavour, but their pad thai, while good, didn’t stand out as extraordinary. However, their mango sticky rice was absolutely spot on!
Elephant Cafe by Tan – Large menu with Western options
The location next to the busy main road in Karon isn’t particularly charming, but the service at Elephant Cafe is very friendly and the menu offers a wide variety at good prices.
We ordered the Thai classics holy basil and fried vegetables with cashews (both generously served with tofu) which were tasty, though not particularly bold in flavour.
We also tried a smoothie bowl which was cold and delicious, with good toppings. However, the consistency was a bit too watery for our liking.
Find Elephant Cafe by Tan here.
Mama Mickey Restaurant – Street Kitchen on Patak Soi 22
Virtually right across from our hotel, Baan Chay Lay Resort (adlink) in Karon, there was a lady (Mama Mickey!) serving up fantastic Thai food at unbeatable prices. We had a vegan pad Thai with tofu for just 50 baht (around 1.4 EUR / 1.5 USD!).
You can sit at a few small tables, but we opted to take our food up to the room.
Mama Mickey has previously worked as a chef in both France and England but now calls Phuket home. We were more than happy with this spot during our stay in Karon.
Find Mama Mickey here (approximately).
Where to eat in Patong
- Shree Hare Krishna pure vegetarian restaurant – Authentic (aka strong!) Indian food.
- Mae Orathai Vegetarian – Classic jai (Buddhist vegan) restaurant with cheap, tasty buffet dishes.
Where to eat in Kamala, Surin and Bang Tao
- Kamala: Fruit Fusion – Delicious and beautifully crafted smoothie bowls with names or words written in fruit. Close to the beach.
- Surin: Mama Riz Cafe & Dessert Bar – Large vegetarian menu with yummy Thai dishes that could easily be made vegan.
- Bang Tao: Bartels – Fancy and popular café with smoothie bowls and insanely delicious vegan sandwiches on homemade sourdough bread.
- Bang Tao: Hosay Bowl Cherngtalay – Smoothie bowls and healthy salad bowls.
- Bang Tao: 108 Vegetarian cuisine – Inexpensive “mom-and-pop” jai eatery with a small selection of Thai dishes.
- Bang Tao: Vegetarian Food – Amphoe Thalang – Another cheap jai eatery on the main street with more options.
Safety in Phuket
Is it safe to visit Phuket?
Thailand is generally a very safe country to visit for tourists.
Here are three things to keep in mind:
- The biggest danger in Phuket is probably the traffic – particularly if you’re driving a scooter. Always wear a helmet, drive cautiously and make sure to stick to the left side of the road.
- In addition, the nightlife (especially in Patong) is known to be quite crazy. If you go out on places like Bangla Road, be sure to keep a close eye on both your drink and your wallet.
- Unfortunately, there have been accidents on boat trips in the past. Make sure to read reviews beforehand and confirm that life jackets are available for everyone. The quality of the experience often reflects the price.
How to get around Phuket
Below, we’ll cover the best ways to get around Phuket, including renting a scooter and the systems for buses and taxis.
Walking around
If you prefer to stay close to a beach and dine in the immediate area, you can easily just walk around.
Patong, Karon, Phuket Old Town and other beach towns are compact enough that you can get from your hotel to the beach or nearby restaurants in just 5-15 minutes (depending on your exact location, of course).
For excursions or trips to and from the airport, buses or taxis are your go-to options.
Renting a scooter in Phuket
If you plan on going on several day trips or need to travel frequently between cities, renting a scooter in Phuket is a convenient option.
Prices can vary depending on the model and rental location. Generally, you can expect to pay around 250 baht (~ 6.8 EUR / 7.5 USD) per day.
Opt for a newer model with good brakes. While the roads in Phuket are generally in good condition compared to the rest of Southeast Asia, the traffic can be heavy, so caution is necessary.
If you’re renting a scooter for an extended period, you can often negotiate a discount, so don’t hesitate to ask for a better price before finalising the deal.
Always insist on a helmet and make sure to wear it while driving.
Remember: In Thailand, you drive on the left side of the road.
Avoid scams
We recommend that you take photos of the scooter when you rent it. That way you can document any pre-existing damage, such as scratches. This will help protect you from being blamed for any damage that wasn’t your fault.
While we’ve never had issues with this, some travellers have been scammed into paying for damage they didn’t cause.
Tip: If you’ve never ridden a scooter before, Phuket may not be the ideal place to learn. The traffic can be hectic and accidents are unfortunately common. See alternatives below.
Phuket Smart Bus
The Phuket Smart Bus operates fixed routes between Phuket’s harbour and Rawai Beach (with stops in Surin, Kamala, Patong, Karon, Kata and others).
As of spring 2025, the fare is 100 baht (~ 2.7 EUR / 3 USD), paid directly to the driver or via a QR code.
It may not be the fastest option, but if you’re on a budget, it’s a convenient and affordable choice.
Read more about bus stops, timetables and how to board the Phuket Smart Bus on their official website.
Taxis and songthaews
If you’d prefer not to drive a scooter and need something quicker than a bus, you can take a yellow-and-red taxi or hop into an open taxi called a songthaew.
A songthaew operates like a local bus. It’s a vehicle with a covered bed and benches on the sides, running various routes at affordable prices.
To catch one, simply raise your hand when you see it approaching and tell the driver where you want to get off. You can ask about routes and what price is fair at your hotel or in a shop.
It’s also a good idea to ask the driver before you get on if you want to be sure of the price for your specific trip.
Be cautious not to treat the songthaew like a private taxi, as this could significantly increase the price if you’re the only passenger.
Grab or Bolt (alternative to taxi)
If you want to avoid negotiating prices with taxi drivers, consider using Thailand’s answers to Uber: Grab or Bolt.
With these apps, you simply enter your pickup location and end destination to get different price options depending on the size of the car. For example, if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with a group, you can opt for a larger van.
You can even book a ride on the back of a scooter (through Grab), which is a cheap option if you’re travelling alone.
Both Grab and Bolt require you to be online (usually with a local SIM card or eSIM with data, like Airalo (adlink)).
We’ve used both apps ourselves and compared the prices, as they can vary slightly in cost.
For instance, from Phuket airport to our hotel in Karon we paid 1,000 baht (~ 27 EUR / 30 USD) with Grab. We were three adults, a baby and a lot of luggage, so we opted for a larger car.
You can pay through the app using a credit card or choose to pay cash directly to the driver – though they usually prefer cash.
How to get to and from Phuket
Get to Thailand
From Denmark and many other European countries, there are direct flights to Phuket, with even more options available with a single stopover.
Phuket International Airport is also well connected to other cities in Thailand, for example Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Krabi, Chumphon and Rayong (which you can fly to in order to reach Koh Samet).
After three weeks in Phuket, we flew from its international airport to Koh Samui.
You can also fly directly between Phuket and other Asian cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh.
By using our adlink below, you can search for flights on Momondo:
Find the cheapest flights to Phuket here.
When to visit Phuket
With a temperature that almost always stays between 25° C and 32° C (77° F to 90° F), Phuket has a pleasant, tropical climate.
Phuket has three distinct seasons: the cool winter season (Phuket’s high season), the hot summer season and the rainy season.
Despite this, Phuket remains a year-round destination, with most hotels and restaurants staying open throughout the year.
What is the best time of year to visit Phuket?
The best months to visit Phuket are December and January, offering cooler temperatures, plenty of sunshine and calm waves.
November and February are also great times to travel, with slightly lower prices compared to December and January.
November to February (Phuket’s high season):
We visited Phuket ourselves in January, and it’s during this time at the beginning of the year that Phuket experiences its high season, with the most tourists and the most stable sunny weather.
Temperatures are slightly cooler, and in turn, hotel prices are higher – especially from around mid-December to mid-January.
If you’re planning to travel to Phuket over Christmas and/or New Year, it’s highly recommended to book accommodation well in advance.
March to May (the hottest months):
Phuket generally experiences the highest temperatures from March to May, with increased rainfall as well.
The school year in Thailand ends around the end of February or the beginning of March, when many families travel to escape the hottest months.
If you’re planning to visit Phuket in March, April or May, it might be worth paying a little extra for a room with air conditioning and perhaps even access to a pool!
June to August (the start of the rainy season):
From June, or sometimes as early as May, the heat begins to subside with the southwest monsoon winds that bring heavy rainfall to Phuket.
The rain usually falls in intense showers and rarely lasts all day, so there are still plenty of sunny hours.
In July and August, Phuket is at its greenest.
The rainy season also offers the chance to find accommodation at discounted prices.
September and October (the wettest months):
September and October are the wettest months in Phuket, with frequent heavy rain. During this time, boat trips or swimming in the sea aren’t always possible.
The rainfall can be so intense that the roads almost turn into rivers. It’s wise to be prepared with an umbrella and a good book if you find yourself needing to stay sheltered for a while!
If you want to avoid the worst of the rainy season in Phuket, you might want to consider visiting Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Koh Tao instead. These islands, located in the Gulf of Thailand, have slightly different seasonal patterns, with the rainy season falling at a different time.
Our best tips for visiting Phuket
- Phuket is a beautiful island. Make sure to bring a good camera! Here’s our guide to lightweight photography gear for high-quality travel content.
- Transportation with Grab or Bolt is often cheaper than local taxis. They work similarly to Uber. Download both apps and compare prices for a ride to Phuket Old Town – just make sure you have data on your phone.
- The electrical outlets in Phuket generally feature two round prongs, fitting both most European and Asian appliances, as well as the flat prongs of USA and Japan. The standard voltage is 220 volts.
- How long to spend in Phuket is hard to say. You can see the main sights in a few adventure-filled days, or spend weeks discovering the hidden beaches. Not to mention all the islands in Phang Nga Bay!
- Beachwear belongs on the beach. Although Thais in Phuket are accustomed to tourists, it’s considered rude to wear a swimsuit when you’re not on the beach. Especially at temples.
- Book accommodation well in advance if you’re travelling during the high season (July and August + December to March). While there will always be rooms available, many of the best hotels get fully booked months ahead of time.
- Wifi is widely available in hotels and cafes, and it’s usually very fast. If you need internet access elsewhere for services like Grab and Bolt, consider buying a local SIM card or eSIM with data. It’s affordable and easy to obtain. We’ve previously used Airalo (adlink) with great success.
- Phuket is very family-friendly. Thais are fond of children, and there are plenty of fun activities beyond just lounging on the beach.
- The sun is strong. Remember your sun protection and stay in the shade during the hottest hours in the middle of the day.
- Credit cards are accepted in most higher-end establishments, but cash is more commonly used in local restaurants and smaller shops.
- ATMs and currency exchange spots are easy to find. It’s usually most cost-effective to withdraw money in baht, and to minimise extra fees, it’s a good idea to take out the maximum allowed amount at once.
- With several hospitals, clinics and dental practices on the island, medical care is readily available if you need treatment or assistance during your stay.
- Bring your own water bottle and refill it at cafes, restaurants or water dispensers, where a litre of clean water costs just a single baht.
- Remember travel insurance! We compare the best travel insurance for digital nomads and long-term travellers here.
Thank you for reading our Phuket guide
Thank you for reading our travel guide to Phuket with the best things to do and seee. We hope it has been useful!
What do you think of Thailand’s largest island?
Don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments if you haven’t been to Phuket yet. We are happy to help.
And if you’ve already been there, it would be great to hear your best tips and tricks.
Our favourite travel resources:
- Booking.com for cheap hotels.
- Momondo for the best flight deals.
- SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller. All three compared here.
Our camera gear:
- Panasonic GH5. Used for all of our photos and videos.
- DJI Mavic 2 Pro. Best drone out there!
- Sirui Tripod. Lightweight and strong.
- See all of our camera gear here.
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