Beach Hopping In Phuket

Patong Beach. Source.

Phuket is a confluence of different hues of blues and greens. Thailand’s largest island is where endless seas meet the skies to make some of the most awe-inspiring sights you’ll ever see.

You’re planning your next trip to Thailand, it will be safe to assume that beach-hopping in Phuket is a big part of your itinerary. If not, we’re sure this article will change your mind. Pristine stretches of white sand, spectacular sunsets and luminous shades of water will make your trip to Phuket worthwhile.

Here are some of the must-visit beaches in Phuket. We've also listed some beaches that can be avoided for various reasons including accessibility and views.
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Must-Visit Beaches

1. PATONG BEACH

​One can say that Patong is the most popular beach in Phuket. It is mostly known for its lively partying scene because of the scores of bars, restaurants and clubs located here. However, it is also ideal for someone looking for watersports, ranging from cable skiing, parasailing, and boat rides. Patong is also the most popular shopping destination due to its many fresh markets, night markets, and Jungceylon, Phuket’s largest shopping mall.

If you’re spending multiple nights in Phuket, we’d suggest staying here to get the quintessentially happening Phuket city experience. You can choose from the quiet South and North Patong hotels, if you want a bit of solitude.

Patong Beach. Source.

2. KATA BEACH

​Kata is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket. Its pristine white sands, tropical trees and clear waters will make you believe that you’re living inside of a computer wallpaper! Kata is divided into two areas- Kata centre, which is close to the Karon beach and Kata south, which houses several resorts. Apart from frolicking on the beach, surfing or sunbathing, you can also enjoy shopping at Kata’s many beach shops, where you will find everything from souvenirs to clothes and cosmetics. The beach also has many food stalls and restaurants if you want a refreshing meal after your beach time. For easy accessibility to this beach, it’s best to stay at a beach resort since it can be a bit tedious to reach here from the city.

Kata Beach. Source.

3. KARON BEACH

​Karon is only a short walk away from Kata beach, and is one of the longest beaches in Phuket. Despite being near the lively Kata, Karon beach does not attract a lot of crowd, which is why one can have a soulful beach experience here. It is also a popular destination for leisurely walks, since this beach is more sandy than rocky. Apart from lounging and walking, Karon has some good snorkelling spots and more room for jet skiing, parasailing, banana rides and other water sports due to lesser crowds, especially at the south end of the beach. Although there are some good restaurants nearby, one can always walk over to Kata beach for more variety. If you're someone who enjoys quiet beaches, this is a great choice for accommodation.

Karon Beach. Source.

4. BANGTAO BEACH

​Bangtao beach is one of Phuket's most underrated beaches. It has a large coast and is fairly quiet. It also offers a lot of variety for restaurants, luxury hotels and spas. We think this beach is one of the best places to stay, due to its accessible location, views and serenity. Do check out the Banyan Tree Resort or Dusit Thani Laguna Pool Villa for the luxe hotel experience, with amazing rooms, spas and food.

Now, although it is a great destination for beach walks and sunbathing, watersports, especially surfing isn’t the best idea here due to the unpredictable nature of the waves. So, if you want to Venture out at the sea, it would be wise to consult the hotel or beach authorities to check for safety.

Bangtao Beach. Source.

5. MAI KHAO BEACH

Mai Khao is the longest and among the most secluded beaches in Phuket. This beach has some amazing views with its deep blue waters and vast stretches of the white, sandy coast. Plus, with Phuket airport being nearby, one can also witness the awe-inspiring sight of planes landing in the backdrop of a gorgeous beach. Another fun activity to do here is to experience the baby turtle release during the Songkran festival in April every year. You can also sponsor a turtle and
carry it to its destination in the sea!

If you want to get away from the city on one or two nights during your Phuket trip, we highly recommend Mai Khao beach.

Mai Khao Beach. Source.

6. SURIN BEACH
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Surin is one of the most picturesque beaches of Phuket. It has a good balance of activities and solitude, and is a popular haunt for celebrities and families. It is also a great location for swimming. However, during monsoon, the rains can create dangerous undertow conditions so it’s best to take necessary precautions. You will also find a lot of luxury resorts here. However, if you want to stay somewhere quieter, Bangtao beach is a short cab ride away from Surin and would be the more suitable destination.

Surin Beach. Source.

least popular beaches

Although, most beaches in Phuket are enjoyable and picturesque, you might want to consider venturing more on the west coast than the east coast. This is because the beaches on the west coast have a mountainous terrain in the backdrop, hence offering more spectacular views than the ones on the east coast which are flat.
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Chalong, Cape Panwa, Koh Siray, Ao Po are some beaches on the east coast that can be avoided if what you’re looking for is the lively, Thailand life. These beaches are more suited for tranquil activities like swimming and meditation. Since the main Thai community resides here, this can also be an option for a more local culture-driven vacation.

AUTHOR BIO: My name is Lavanya and I discovered peace in traveling and exploring. I love experiencing the authentic culture of any place I go to, the local people and local food is how I connect with the place. Currently I work at a travel company called Ithaka and help other people enjoy traveling as much as I do.
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