Beach hopping is one of the top activities to do in Phuket and with so many stunning beaches on this island, it’s no surprise why it attracts visitors from all over.
It’s easy to get lost in the beauty of all that white sand and crystal blue waters, but to ensure your beach trip is a great success, try these simple tricks!
1. Karon Beach
Karon Beach is a beloved stretch of sand that rarely feels crowded and offers plenty of resorts, restaurants and activities for visitors to enjoy. The soft white sand and turquoise-blue waters make it the ideal place for swimming or sunbathing.
Water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing will keep you entertained. Plus, you can go scuba diving to explore the surrounding reefs.
The beach is usually not busy during the day, but becomes busiest at sunset when people gather to take in the stunning sights. You can easily stroll along the sand and find a spot to relax while taking in all of nature’s splendor.
On the southern shoreline, a large lake and cycle path offer great jogging routes. Additionally, this park boasts a dinosaur theme park as well as a small craft market where local souvenirs can be purchased.
For a more peaceful environment, try visiting Kata Yai and Kata Noi beaches – less developed but still serene. Don’t forget about Boo Island either – an iconic coral reef perfect for snorkeling.
For an unforgettable experience, visit Karon Temple Market on Tuesdays and Fridays for a lively market full of food stalls. It’s an ideal chance to mingle, make new friends, and sample authentic Thai street foods.
Another excellent option is Access Resort & Villas, which provides spacious rooms with free-form pools and furnished patios that open directly onto the pool. It has a small gym, babysitting services, a game room, and multiple dining options.
Families will enjoy the Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, which features waterslides, a lazy river, an expansive outdoor pool as well as family-friendly dining and bar options.
Finally, for something different than just beach food, check out On The Rock Restaurant at Marina Phuket Resort. This romantic eatery has an idyllic view of the sea and serves fresh seafood with a twist.
For a stylish and modern nightclub experience, Centara Grand Beach Resort’s Coast Beach Club is worth visiting. Here, guests can enjoy cocktails while admiring the sea view. Compared to other nightclubs in town, it has more modern decor so it makes for a great destination for relaxation during their stay.
2. Kamala Beach
Kamala Beach on Phuket’s west coast is more sedate than Patong and ideal for families or those seeking peace and serenity.
Kamala Beach is a two-kilometer long sandy beach that attracts families with stunning sunset views to the west. Sheltered by Kamala Bay, there are various restaurants and bars along the shore as well as massage shops, tailors, spas and five-star resorts.
Kamala Beach offers calm, clear water from November to April during the dry season, making it a prime swimming spot. Sun loungers can be rented for 100 baht per day and some vendors sell snorkelling gear on-site.
The beach is an idyllic spot to laze around and enjoy a drink during the day, with its wide expanse of soft sand and swaying palm trees. The northern end of the beach tends to be less crowded than its southern counterpart and offers breathtaking sunset views.
On the main road that runs parallel to the beach, you’ll find several hotels of high quality at affordable prices. Some even feature pools and offer a small village atmosphere with friendly service.
Another excellent option is Cape Sienna Resort & Spa at Kamala Beach’s northern end. This breathtaking resort has stunning panoramic views overlooking the bay, with all rooms featuring a sea view – from studio apartments to suites complete with their own private pool.
This apartment complex is situated in a tranquil residential area and boasts an array of restaurants that cater to all budgets – from beachfront breakfast to fine dining with stunning ocean views. Not only is the food delicious and service impeccable, but this budget-friendly spot also makes for great budget stays when visiting Phuket.
If you’re in the mood for a nightcap on Kamala Beach, Cafe Del Mar and Pine Beach Bar are two popular beach bars that appeal to both locals and visitors alike.
3. Bang Tao Beach
Bang Tao Beach, situated on the west coast of Phuket, is a long stretch of white sand beaches framed by lush forest and trees. It’s one of Phuket’s most stunning beaches and an ideal spot to unwind and relax.
Bang Tao Beach is much quieter and less touristy than Patong Beach, which can get quite crowded with sunbeds, umbrellas and jet skis. It makes for a lovely spot for romantic walks along the water’s edge or simply taking in the stunning scenery.
On this beach you will find several excellent restaurants, particularly on Boat Avenue where you can have a memorable lunch, dinner or simply enjoy some drinks. Popular choices include Catch Beach Club and Peppers Sports Bar.
Phuket’s best beach for swimming and snorkelling, Longtail boats can take you out offshore for even better diving and exploring the reef at either end. With such beautiful sand, why not come early for some great underwater action?
At Laguna Phuket beach, there are plenty of activities to enjoy including surfing (best at the north end between May and October), jet skiing, paddle boarding, parasailing and banana boat rides. While the Laguna Phuket complex – featuring five luxury hotels and an 18-hole golf course – dominates much of the beachfront, it is still easy to find a quiet corner to unwind.
Many hotels along this beach offer an array of dining options, from the luxurious Dusit Thani Hotel to budget-friendly seafood eateries just steps from the shoreline.
Another excellent option is Outrigger Laguna Hotel, where you can savor a meal at one of their numerous restaurants. They offer both Thai and western fare with stunning beachfront views to match.
For some extra entertainment, Blue Tree water park is the perfect spot for you and the kids. They have various rides and games in the water as well as a rock climbing wall and Ninja Warrior obstacle course to conquer!
4. Kata Beach
Kata Beach is one of Phuket’s finest beaches, known for its golden sand and tranquil waters. It’s ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, and spending quality time with family (especially during peak season).
Kata Beach offers plenty of activities, but for those seeking a bit more peace and quiet, two smaller beaches – Kata Noi and Kata Yai – are less developed than its larger counterpart at the southern end.
Kata Yai is the more popular of the two towns, boasting more restaurants and bars. There’s also a bustling night market along the road where you can sample Thai food, shop for souvenirs, get a traditional Thai massage or have your ears pierced.
If you’re interested in snorkeling, there are several spots along the beach where to do so. You can rent equipment and go out on your own or hire a boat to take you out. Alternatively, book kayaking tours for added excitement!
Hikers can venture up to Kata viewpoint for stunning views of Karon and Kata Yai beaches, as well as Ko Pu, a small island off the coast that can be spotted during sunset.
When looking for hotels and resorts close to the beach, there is no shortage of choices. Most have excellent access, with the exception of Boathouse and Beyond Resort Kata which provide direct beach access.
On the beach, restaurants tend to be casual and unique, offering both local Thai cuisine and gourmet dining experiences. Many offer breathtaking ocean views, plus excellent seafood dishes.
Surfing is a popular activity in Phuket, and Kata Beach provides some excellent spots to test it out. There are several surf schools on the beach where you can rent equipment or take lessons.
Another popular activity is island hopping, which offers stunning views of some of Thailand’s most stunning islands. You can book day trips online in advance or visit one of the many tourist information booths around town to find out more about available packages and rates.