Phuket Beaches are some of the most beautiful in Asia. Known for their palm tree lined soft powdery sand and diverse choices from quiet and remote to action packed. There is a Phuket beach to fit everyone's personality. This is our list of Phuket's Top 10 Beaches. Although it is our particular order of choice, you should read through to find the beach that best matches what you look for in a beach, as one persons Patong is another person's Disneyland nightmare.
Our favorite Phuket beach for many reasons. Kata beach is centrally located and close to major hotels, dining, and nightlife. The beach itself is clean, long, offers a few entertainment choices, and is lined with trees and has beautiful blue water that has good snorkeling in the winter months. In the summer months you can find some of Phuket's best surfing here too.
Nai Harn Beach is one of Phuket's best beaches located on the Southern end of the island. The drive into the area is beautiful as you will pass by a large lake that sits just behind the beach with a large Thai temple. Nai Harn is often known as an expat and local favorite, as it is never too crowded and has a very long wide beach, perfect for walking, running or playing.
Not located directly on Phuket, but definately our favorite beach overall (ranked #3 due to location off Phuket). Found on Racha Yai Island 20km due south of Phuket, Siam Beach is what most people dream of when it comes to a tropical island beach. 800meters of powder white sand and even in the middle of Phuket's high season, maybe a few dozen people. The waters are several different shades of turquoise, inviting and warm - just perfect for a swim or soak. The beach is the whitest and finest powder whaite sand you can imagine.
This Phuket Beach is located mid-way up the West coast. One of our favorites for the beautiful white sands and the large number of beachside restaurants to choose from. Nothing beats relaxing on Surin Beach all day and enjoying a great lunch or sunset dinner while listening tothe sounds of teh waves and the perfect view of the electric sunsets.
The longest Phuket Beach is Karon Beach. Located in between Kata and Patong beaches, the location is perfect for those who want to explore all three beaches while on holiday in Phuket! Walk the length of this beach and you will be ready for a nap under one of the many beach umbrellas that dot Karon beach. In the winter the swimming is wonderful in the blue waters. However, be very careful in the summer season due to the very strong riptides at this beach. Always ask a lifeguard for advice before swimming. If they say don't go - Don't go.
Phuket's most famous beach, Patong Beach, is a people watchers dream come true. If you want action, this is your beach. Absolutely jam packed in the winter and even crowded in the summer, Patong beach is a big draw. The waters are not as clear and beautiful as other Phuket beaches, but there are more jet-ski's and parasailing activities here than anywhere else on the island. As the sun sets, you are only steps away from the notorious Bangla Road with all the beer bars and shows that will either entice or repulse. During the day there are hundreds, if not thousands, of small souvenier stands - just be ready to bargain. One word of warning - there are many visitors every day that fall prey to the jet-ski scams. Best advice - avoid renting a jet-ski unless you are prepared to depart with up to 60,000 baht if they find any damage - even old damage.
Ya Nui is small, but it makes up for it in its picture perfect setting. This Phuket beach is located about 1km to the South-East of Nai Harn beach. The beach is split towards the end by a limestone pinnacle that rises out of teh sand and sea. The beach faces to the West or the South depending on where you sit. A favorite of local expats for years for relaxing and soaking up the sun, Ya Nui is a traditional Thai tropicla beach. There are a few local owned bamboo restaurants and drink stands that make the scene look even more amazing.
Located on the North-West side of Phuket, Mai Khao Beach is beautiful and remote. If you are looking to get away from it all, Mai Khao Beach is your place. Home to some of Phuket's most expensive and posh resorts Mai Khao is also a very long way from the action. If you are planning on doing many tours or going to the southern beaches, be prepared to pay extra.
Just North of Patong Beach you will find this little gem of a beach. A great escape from Patong and a nice change of scenery from Surin Beach to the North, Kamala
Amazing little beach just south of Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach is a great place to enjoy a more compact beach or enjoy a five-star dinner overlooking the beach.