Are you heading to Phuket, Thailand for the very first time?
In that case, welcome! I’ve lived in Phuket as an expat for the final three years, and all through my time right here, I’ve come to know the island VERY effectively!
In case you’ve already began researching the place to remain in Phuket, you’ll have realized that regardless of being an island, it’s huge with so many seashores, points of interest and issues to do it may be slightly overwhelming – that’s why I wrote this information!
This Thai island has many stunning areas and gorgeous seashores, however one of the best to remain in Phuket for you’ll rely on what you need out of your trip.
So, on this article, I’m drawing from my expertise residing in Phuket to share with you one of the best seashores in Phuket, one of the best areas to remain in Phuket and my favourite Phuket accommodations.
In a rush? Click on right here to leap to my lodge suggestions. Or keep on studying if you wish to get to extra concerning the island’s finest seashores and areas first.
Why I Love Phuket
Once I moved to Phuket, I had no concept what to anticipate. Nonetheless, I immediately fell in love with the island, and though it does get hectic, the professionals undoubtedly outweigh the cons.
Right here’s what I like probably the most about Phuket:
- There’s ample nature – In Phuket, you’re continuously surrounded by vibrant greenery and by no means need to go far to get pleasure from a spectacular view.
- The are quite a few stunning seashores – Phuket’s seashores are certainly picture-perfect: white sand and clear, turquoise waters. Whereas the ocean is just secure for swimming a few of the yr, you’ll NEVER get uninterested in lengthy seaside walks feeling the gentle sand beneath your toes.
- The sunsets are thoughts blowing – I don’t know why, however I’ve actually by no means seen extra stunning sunsets (and as incessantly) as in Phuket.
- The delicacies is numerous and scrumptious – On each avenue, you’ll discover many native seafood eating places dishing up top-quality Thai meals. Plus, as a global vacation spot, you’ll find EVERY kind of delicacies you’ll be able to think about. Significantly, I’ve had pizzas right here which can be nearly as good as in Italy!
- Most days are sunny – Whereas the wet season might be ‘hit and miss’ (see under), for those who come throughout the dry season (November to April) you’re just about assured to get stunning climate.
- There are infinite day journey choices – Phuket has many close by islands, a few of which you’ll entry in simply 20 minutes. Together with island hopping, Phuket borders Phang-Na, a province filled with waterfalls, lakes, untouched seashores, caves, and bays to discover.
In fact, nowhere is ideal. Right here are some things you might have considered trying to remember when visiting Phuket:
- Excessive season is EXTREMELY busy – In case you don’t like crowds or visitors, I like to recommend planning your journey any time aside from December to February!
- Wet season might be relentless – Technically, the wet season lasts from Might to October. Most years, the monsoons will probably be on and off, that means you’ll be able to have weeks of little and even no rain throughout this time. Nonetheless, you can’t predict the climate; typically, you’ll get seven days of continuous downpours.
- The ocean might be unsafe for swimming in wet season – One other factor to think about for those who plan to come back throughout the wet season is that the ocean will not be secure to swim in all yr spherical. The ocean can get wild throughout the monsoon months, and there might be weeks with pink flags marking the ocean as unsafe.
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About Phuket
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, situated within the south of the Andaman Sea. Spanning 576 sq. kilometers, it takes about 1.5 hours to drive from the south to the north, however going east to the west is far faster.
Phuket is understood for a lot of issues, together with stunning seashores and luxurious accommodations, world-class diving, vibrant night time markets, colourful historic shophouses in Phuket City and gorgeous temples just like the well-known hilltop Massive Buddha.
What makes Phuket island so in style is how numerous it’s, there’s so many lodging choices, vacationer points of interest and issues to do in Phuket so no matter you’re into, you will see it on this bustling Thai island!
Phuket Resort and Lodging Choices
One motive Phuket is Thailand’s hottest vacationer vacation spot is as a result of it affords one thing for ALL budgets. There’s a broad alternative of hostels, mid-range accommodations, luxurious resorts, and villas all around the island.
Sometimes, accommodations alongside the seaside will probably be considerably dearer than these additional away, however you’ll be able to nonetheless normally discover some low-cost choices inside a brief strolling distance.
The Greatest Inns in Phuket – My Fast Picks:
Greatest Seashores and Areas to Keep in Phuket
Whereas Phuket is technically an island, it is rather lengthy. All one of the best seashores and touristy areas are discovered alongside the coast, primarily alongside the island’s west coast. Nonetheless, every space surprisingly has a really completely different vibe so one of the best space in Phuket for you’ll rely in your private wants and preferences.
Subsequently, selecting the place to remain in Phuket depends upon what you want. For instance, you’ll love Patong for those who’re a celebration animal. However for those who favor peace and quiet, Mai Khao will probably be extra appropriate for you.
Kata Seashore and Karon Seashore are one of the best locations to remain in Phuket for first time guests as they provide a mixture of every part and quick access to discover the island whereas Kamala Seashore is the most suitable choice for a household vacation.
Whereas most guests keep on Phuket’s seashores, don’t neglect to make time to go to Phuket City to absorb the distinctive tradition and colourful heritage of the island.
Right here’s a short overview of one of the best locations to remain in Phuket and who they’re finest suited to:
- Kata Seashore – Greatest for surfers and water sports activities lovers
- Karon Seashore – Greatest for individuals who wish to be near the motion however not proper in it.
- Patong Seashore – Greatest for get together animals
- Kamala Seashore – Greatest for households and anybody who needs to keep away from the crowds
- Phuket City – Greatest for lovers of structure, good espresso, and native markets.
- Bang Tao Seashore – Greatest for these looking for luxurious and luxury
- Surin Seashore – Greatest for the older crowd
- Rawai and Nai Harn – Greatest for the youthful crowd
- Mai Khao Seashore – Greatest for these seeing nature and leisure
Map of Phuket
That can assist you get your bearings right here’s a map of Phuket so you will get to know the areas of the seashores and completely different areas.
In case you are planning on doing some island hopping excursions or day journeys the tour suppliers nearly all the time embody transport so they’ll decide you up out of your lodge. The most effective place to guide journeys is on Viator or Get Your Information, plus you’ll be able to learn opinions and make sure you’re journey is a memorable expertise for all the correct causes!
Greatest Locations to Keep in Phuket: Prime Inns by Space
Nonetheless making an attempt to resolve which is one of the best space in Phuket for you? No worries; I’ll clarify what to anticipate from every space on this part and offer you my suggestions for one of the best accommodations for all budgets.
Kata Seashore
Kata is conveniently situated between the island’s southern tip (Rawai and Nai Harn) and the bustling vacationer cities of Karon and Patong.
Subsequently, this small seaside city is good for households and {couples} searching for loads of enjoyable actions close by however with out a 24/7 noisy nightlife.
Kata Seashore is fairly lengthy; you’ll be able to simply stroll up and down it in lower than an hour. Kata is an effective swimming seaside and can be in style with surfers as you’ll discover medium waves (by way of energy and dimension) right here – ultimate for studying the game. There are various surf faculties in Kata – you’ll be able to be part of a lesson instantly on the seaside.
Subsequent to the primary seaside is Kata Noi Seashore, voted one of the crucial stunning seashores on the planet, which affords a smaller and quieter various with some superb luxurious beachfront resorts like The Shore at Katathani a romantic adults solely resort.
From Kata, you can too do the strenuous uphill hike from Kata city to Massive Buddha for those who’re looking for a problem.
Greatest Lodging in Kata:
- $$$ Luxe – The Shore at Katathani is a 5-star cliffside resort that sits above the shore with non-public pool villas, unbelievable views and direct entry to probably the most stunning seaside
- $$ Mid – OZO Phuket boasts a beachfront location and a big outside swimming pool, health heart and children membership in a peaceable backyard setting.
- $ Funds – Resort Kata Hill Sea View lives as much as its title with unbelievable ocean views and an exquisite pool, only a 5-minute stroll from the seaside.
Karon Seashore
Karon is a bigger seaside city than Kata, only a 5-minute drive north. Karon has top-of-the-line seashores in Phuket – tremendous gentle white sand spanning 5 km!
Karon Seashore boasts a fab location, because the get together resort Patong and the hidden Freedom Seashore are close by which makes it top-of-the-line areas to remain in Phuket for individuals who desire a little bit of every part.
Together with seaside lovers, Karon is in style with households, {couples}, and teams of buddies who wish to stability leisure with partying.
Greatest Lodging in Karon:
- $$$ Luxe – Le Meridien is a hidden paradise on a personal seaside, giving the sensation of seclusion regardless of being only a few minute’s drive from all of the motion.
- $$ Mid – Pullman Karon is situated (actually) a stone’s throw from the seaside and set in a shocking 75 acres of tropical panorama with 5 swimming pools!
- $ Funds – Reminiscence Resort is good for these looking for peace and worth as it’s situated up a hill away from the city however with a free each day shuttle service.
Patong Seashore
The well-known Patong seaside is understood for its 24/7 nightlife scene, predominantly centered alongside Bangla Street, a protracted strip of go-go bars and nightclubs. Subsequently, Patong Seashore attracts a selected crowd – teams of younger lads trying to get together and older males trying to get fortunate!
Patong could be a bit seedy at night time, so I don’t advocate it to households. Nonetheless, for those who’re on stag or hen do, then Patong will undoubtedly be the place to remain in Phuket!
Other than its nightlife, Patong boasts a protracted sandy seaside and an unbelievable central location for accessing the remainder of the island. And if the crowds get an excessive amount of, you’ll find some quieter small bays simply south of the city, together with the attractive Paradise Seashore.
Greatest Lodging in Patong:
- $$$ Luxe – Amari is an expensive 5-star lodge constructed upon a hillside, giving unbelievable views from the whole resort, together with the lavish rooms which have non-public balconies.
- $$ Mid – Grand Mercure is simply 600 meters from Bangla Street and 300 meters from the seaside, making it a well-liked alternative for anybody desirous to be within the heart of city.
- $ Funds – U Sabai Residing Resort is among the many finances accommodations in Patong that offers quick access all of the motion and is simply 10 minutes strolling distance from the seaside.
Kamala Seashore
Kamala is a quiet but stunning seaside space simply north of Patong seaside. Regardless of its proximity, Kamala seaside has a completely completely different vibe. It’s very relaxed, the sandy seaside is gorgeous, and there are some wonderful bars and eating places close by, together with the well-known Cafe Del Mar.
Whereas there usually are not many points of interest in Kamala city, there are lots inside a brief drive, together with Blue Tree Lagoon and Inexperienced Elephant Sanctuary.
Greatest Lodging in Kamala:
- $$$ Luxe – The Naka is a blissful 5-star paradise situated south of Kamala Bay with fashionable villas boasting their very own non-public outside infinity pool!
- $$ Mid – Sunwing boasts eight outside swimming pools and spacious rooms with kitchenettes, only a 10-minute stroll from Kamala city.
- $ Funds – Sungthong is only a 3-minute drive from Kamala Seashore and affords clear and spacious rooms with non-public balconies or pool entry.
Phuket City
In case you’re not fussed about being near a seaside and adore stunning structure, craft espresso, and cute boutique shops, Phuket City is for you!
Previous Phuket City is on the island’s east facet, removed from the vacationer seaside cities however nonetheless shut sufficient to go to for a seaside day.
Also referred to as Phuket Previous City, the streets listed here are lined with colourful Nineteenth-century shophouses and gorgeous Sino-Portuguese buildings changed into cafes and boutique accommodations. The world turns into much more vibrant each weekend when the Sunday strolling avenue market takes place.
Phuket Previous City is among the finest areas to remain in Phuket if you wish to expertise genuine Phuketarian tradition and combine with the locals. Nonetheless, the world nonetheless has a contemporary really feel, because it’s filled with Western-style cafes and eating places you’ll be able to get pleasure from and take a break from the warmth.
And for those who discover the seaside calling you, you’ll be shut to 2 pristine seashores on the east coast – Panwa and Ko Sire!
Greatest Lodging in Phuket City:
- $$$ Luxe – Resort Verdigris, ideally situated within the Previous City this boutique lodge boasts a novel conventional decor and options Junior Suites with interior courtyard plunge swimming pools!
- $$ Mid – Hilltop Wellness Resort is located simply outdoors Phuket City atop a serene hill. It’s in style with yogis and wellness fans because it runs common retreats.
- $ Funds – Blue Carina Inn affords worth, comfort, and clear rooms, a few of which have non-public balconies overlooking the outside swimming pool.
Bang Tao Seashore
Bang Tao Seashore is among the longest in Phuket, spanning 6 km. Nonetheless, this space is really particular due to the beachside Laguna – a number of small lagoons simply behind the shoreline.
The Laguna a part of Bang Tao has been reworked into an expensive inexperienced oasis filled with luxurious accommodations, peaceable strolling trails, and spas. That is one of the best space in Phuket for anybody who prioritizes consolation and pampering in addition to {couples} looking for a romantic getaway.
Exterior the laguna is the favored Boat Avenue, a full of life open-air life-style heart and market. Then, in the direction of the south of Bang Tao Seashore, you will see many beachfront eating places, cool seaside golf equipment, and lodging choices for all budgets.
Greatest Lodging in Bang Tao Seashore:
- $$$ Luxe – Angsana Laguna is undoubtedly probably the most epic resort in Bang Tao with a 323-meter pool snaking across the resort and a personal kayaking space.
- $$ Mid – Cassia is a vibrant household pleasant lodge in Laguna providing apartment-style rooms with kitchens and a big outside pool on the lagoon. Plus, it’s pet-friendly!
- $ Funds – Hanuman VIP Hostel balances affordability with luxurious, with a homely lounge space (full with a pool desk), fashionable bogs, and cabin-style dorms.
Surin Seashore
Surin Seashore is a small, quiet bay between Kamala and Bang Tao. It’s ultimate for individuals who wish to keep in a peaceful space however nonetheless be a brief drive from many high seashores, points of interest, eating places, and markets.
Whereas Surin Seashore is small, it has a pure, untouched really feel as it’s lined with timber hiding the close by highway. There are additionally some pretty elevated viewpoints on both facet of the bay.
Greatest Lodging in Surin Seashore:
- $$$ Luxe – The Surin Phuket is a tropical oasis with non-public seaside entry and vibrant, ethereal, and spacious non-public cottages.
- $$ Mid – Outrigger is a boutique ocean-facing resort with a contemporary and classy really feel only a 2-minute stroll from the sand.
- $ Funds – Surin Bay Inn is conveniently sandwiched between the seaside and the village, that means every part you want is only a brief stroll away.
Rawai and Nai Harn Seashore
Rawai Seashore and Nai Harn Seashore are two adjoining areas within the southern tip of Phuket, in style with digital nomads, health fanatics, and the youthful generations.
Rawai and Nai Harn are probably the most “up-and-coming” areas of Phuket, with new espresso outlets, eating places, and villa complexes popping up weekly. Rawai Seashore is stuffed with longtail boats so it’s not ultimate for swimming however Naiharn is among the finest seashores in Phuket.
There are additionally many wonderful nature spots, together with the gorgeous windmill viewpoint, and the breathtaking Promthep Cape. Regardless that these southern seaside cities are removed from the remainder of the island, there’s all the time lots to do and discover right here!
Greatest Lodging in Rawai and Nai Harn:
- $$$ Luxe – The Nai Harn is a 5-star lodge constructed on a hill overlooking Nai Harn seaside with a beach-club fashion pool and bar space and one of the best breakfast buffet in Phuket!
- $$ Mid – Selina is a trendy “all-in-one resort” for younger vacationers and digital nomads, full with a wellness deck, beachfront restaurant, pool, and co-working area.
- $ Funds – Roost Glamping affords a novel glamping expertise surrounded by nature with fashionable tents, correct beds, and comfortable decor.
Mai Khao
On the different finish of the island is Mai Khao Seashore, Phuket’s northernmost seaside stretching 7 miles. Mai Khao may be very near the airport (providing comfort for jet-lagged vacationers), and Sirinath Nationwide Park, but the world is normally quiet.
Mai Khao Seashore is one of the best space in Phuket for introverts who search nearly abandoned seashores, peaceable nature, and early nights. As many of the lodging right here is near the seaside and much from Phuket’s loopy visitors, Mai Khao affords a really tranquil vibe.
Mai Khao Seashore can be in style with golfers as it’s near the well-known Blue Canyon Nation Membership.
Greatest Lodging in Mai Khao:
- $$$ Luxe – Avani Plus affords EPIC beachfront suites with a kitchen, large lounge space, and spacious balcony. Some even include a personal pool!
- $$ Mid – Renaissance Phuket Resort is a 5-star resort and spa on the seaside constructed round peaceable backyard environment with suites and pool villas obtainable.
- $ Funds – Coriacea is a boutique lodge providing beachfront lodging for a fraction of the price of the larger resorts. Plus, all rooms have non-public balconies.
Ideas for Selecting Your Resort
There’s no scarcity of alternative relating to accommodations in Phuket so one of the best place to remain actually comes right down to your wants, private choice and finances.
Right here’s some issues to think about when selecting your Phuket:
- Take into account how near the seaside you wish to be. Beachfront accommodations are usually dearer, however the further expense is value it for those who dream of waking up and stepping onto the sand!
- Verify the ranking and opinions of your lodging earlier than reserving. I like to recommend selecting accommodations with a ranking of 8 or above on Reserving.com.
- Enquire along with your lodging to see in the event that they arrange airport pickup, as it will considerably scale back journey stress!
- Hunt down native eating places. Most eating places close to the seaside are geared toward vacationers and, thus, have extra of a global menu. If you wish to style genuine Thai meals (and may deal with the spice), I like to recommend selecting eating places on the again streets the place you see the locals eating.
Planning Your Journey to Phuket
The right way to Get to Phuket
Having Thailand’s second busiest airport, most vacationers can fly instantly into Phuket Worldwide Airport. 47 airways function from Phuket airport, together with Emirates, Etihad, and Virgin Australia.
Most nationalities can get a 30 day visa exemption or visa on arrival which makes coming into Thailand and visiting Phuket simple and handy.
Even for those who’re coming from different components of Thailand, air journey is the quickest and best method to enter Phuket. There are numerous buses and coach providers, however notice that Phuket is roughly a 12-hour drive from Bangkok or a 1-hour flight away.
When you land in Phuket, you’ll have to navigate your method to your lodging. Some resorts and accommodations provide pre-arranged airport transfers. In any other case, you’ll be able to take a taxi, hop on a public bus, or hail a journey by means of an app like Seize.
Nonetheless, many taxi drivers on the airport prey on unsuspecting vacationers and considerably overcharge. Due to this, some vacationers choose to guide a journey by means of the Seize app.
The right way to Get Round Phuket
Taxes are the most costly alternative relating to getting across the island. In case you do use them I like to recommend asking your lodge reception to name you one – that means, you’re much less more likely to be overcharged.
Seize and different ride-hailing apps like Bolt provide a extra handy and cheaper choice to taxis.
Additionally, you will see numerous tuk-tuks across the touristy areas. They’re expensive, so they don’t seem to be ultimate for lengthy distances. Nonetheless, many vacationers like to make use of them for brief rides for the expertise.
For a lower-cost method to get round, you’ll be able to contemplate the Sensible Bus, which runs from Rawai to the airport, stopping in any respect the foremost seaside cities. A single journey is 100 THB, however you should buy day or multi-day passes for a really cheap value.
Lastly, some vacationers favor to rent a scooter whereas in Phuket. As Phuket’s roads are busy and harmful, I solely advocate this if in case you have expertise with scooters and have pushed in Thailand earlier than. Guarantee you will have a global driving license that covers bikes, too.
Greatest Time to Go to Phuket
Weatherwise, one of the best time to go to Phuket is December to March. You possibly can count on persistently good climate throughout these months – blue skies and ample sunshine. Nonetheless, they’re additionally the busiest months, so whereas the climate is great, the island is crowded.
November could be a pretty month to go to as it’s comparatively quiet. Nonetheless, as that is the tip of the wet season, the climate might be unpredictable.
Alternatively, contemplate April and Might (the opposite shoulder season) for those who don’t thoughts the warmth. The island isn’t too crowded by this time, however it may be scorching, starting from 27°C to 36°C.
How Lengthy to Keep in Phuket
Anyplace from 7 to 14 days is a perfect size to remain in Phuket. 7 days gives you sufficient time to see all the highest sights and squeeze in a few day journeys – take a look at this 7 day Phuket itinerary for inspiration!
Nonetheless, for those who’re not in a rush, I like to recommend staying for 10 to 14 days. This additional time will permit you to take a look at extra components of the island, take some boat journeys, and discover at a extra relaxed place.
The Greatest Issues to Do in Phuket
In addition to being residence to a few of the world’s most gorgeous white sand seashores and turquoise waters. Phuket additionally has infinite actions and points of interest to supply.
From watersports and island hopping journeys, to visiting elephant sanctuaries and glittering Buddhist temples, to Thai cooking lessons or simply enjoyable with a therapeutic massage, there’s no scarcity of issues to do in Phuket to maintain you busy.
When selecting the place to remain in Phuket, take into consideration what kind of locations you wish to go to and actions you’d love to do in your journey and test the place they’re situated as taxi’s might be costly (by Thai requirements.)
So Now You Know The place to Keep in Phuket
I hope this weblog has given you a greater concept about the place to remain in Phuket. As every space differs, your most important deciding issue needs to be what you’re searching for from this tropical paradise. Whether or not you wish to discover the island’s points of interest, get together the night time away or just chill out on an exquisite seaside, relating to Phuket accommodations, regardless of your finances, you gained’t be brief on choices!
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