Where is the best part of Phuket to relax? Which is better, phuket or pattaya

Visitors to Phuket choose a location depending on the length of their stay on the island and the purpose of the trip. For those who come for two weeks, it will be unprofitable to rent a villa, and for those who stay to spend the winter on the island, hotel accommodation will cost a pretty penny. Also, experienced tourists do not have to live in tourist places, and newcomers will not feel very comfortable in expat areas.

As a rule, most tourists from Russia, especially those who are going to Phuket for the first time, choose the three most popular beach, which have already been mentioned more than once on our website, namely: Kata (Kata Beach), Karon (Karon Beach) and Patong (Patong Beach). The reason for this is a huge selection of hotels with which travel agencies have agreements. Many of these hotels are "Russian", which allows our tourist to feel at ease. But in Lately among a certain stratum of vacationers, there was a tendency to settle away from compatriots. Such tourists specifically find out the contingent of vacationers when booking a room, and prefer to be surrounded by tourists from Europe. The reasons for separating from “their own” are completely different: someone wants solitude and tranquility, which the above beaches are far from, someone is far from the first time in Phuket and wants to gain new experience, someone does not like the style of relaxation of some Russian citizens ...

A lot of Europeans can be found on the beaches of the northern part of the island, from Surin to Mai Khao Beach. These beaches are famous for many kilometers of coastline and a minimum number of hotels compared to the most popular tourist areas. And the five-star complex Laguna offers a service of such a level that its frequent guests are TOP managers of large companies and world pop and sports stars. There are also golf courses, SPA - VIP level salons and restaurants with the best cuisine on the island. All this chic is adjacent to traditional Thai markets and budget-type cafes. On the same beaches there is also housing in the private sector, which is especially popular with those who prefer to relax in villas. For example, the beach villas (Bang Tao) Bang Tao offer secluded accommodation and high-level comfortable accommodation. Nai Harn Beach / Rawai Beach is also famous for its villas and houses, so chosen by Russians who come to Phuket for a long time. However, expats from Europe and Australia are also not averse to spending several months here, or even moving to live in this area for a long time, opening a private business here.

As for Patong, this area is unique in that both tourists and permanent residents coexist here. Patong is a densely populated area, the first line of which is densely built up with hotels different levels. Starting from the second line, and further into the depths of the island, Patong is replete with private mini-hotels and houses for different tastes and budgets. On the side of Try Trang beach there is a small private sector, which is good because it is very close to all markets and shopping centers, but at the same time it is calm and there are beautiful quiet coves. The 5th line is famous for its abundance of housing with gorgeous views and clean air, there is accommodation of all types, from Thai-style houses to Europeanized apartments. Nanai Road attracts backpackers and those just looking for economy class accommodation with several dozen guest houses. Apartments-rooms in them are convenient because you can live here for a long time for a small fee (from 5-8 thousand baht per month). On Katya and Karon, the choice of housing in the private sector is not as great as on Patong, these two beaches are mostly hotels.

The Kathu area (Kathu. Not to be confused with Kata Beach!) has long won the sympathy of those who prefer to live in conditions as close to the city as possible, and even more comfortable. There are a large number of so-called condominiums, that is, hotel-type houses. Such houses, as a rule, have their own fenced area, the entrance to which is carried out through a barrier, security guards are on duty here around the clock and there is parking for vehicles. Complexes of this type often have swimming pools and gyms, the use of which is included in the rent. The cost of living in a condo starts to vary from about 7,000 baht per month. Currently, Kathu has several condos in operation and under construction, and there are also proposals for Thai-style houses. There is an area close to Phuket Town, which also has a lot of housing for residents of the island on a permanent basis. Many parts of Kathu have easy access to the island's great shops. To the sea to go on average 15-20 minutes (the nearest beach is Patong).

Chalong is also overly popular with expats. It has all the infrastructure and many streets where you can rent a house for a long time. And the Chalong ring is the starting point for several beaches - it takes about 10-15 minutes to go to Kata and Nai Harn from the ring. It is also not far from here to large shopping centers, where you can buy everything from everyday goods to large household appliances and furniture.

Housing and food prices in cafes in areas such as Kathu, Chalong and Phuket Town are about 2 or even 3 times lower.

Now you have a general idea of ​​​​the areas of the island, and you can decide for yourself where it is better to stay in Phuket. Choose accommodation in advance by booking it via the Internet, or upon arrival on the island. The first option is suitable for those who have a rest in the high season, or travel for a short time. The second option is more suitable for those who come for a long time. You can stay at cheap hotel, rent a transport and independently find the place that will be to your liking!

As you know, the resorts of Thailand are incredibly in demand among lovers of beach and sea holidays. If you are planning to go to the islands, then you will definitely have a question: "What to choose - Phuket or Koh Samui, where is it better to relax?". Of course, making a choice is not at all easy, however, knowing more information, you can decide on your preferences.

Islands of Thailand

There are more than 250 islands in Thailand, but not all of them are sufficiently equipped. Naturally, choosing this country as a place to relax, tourists prefer to relax on the ennobled islands. Like, for example, Koh Samui or Phuket.

On the second of them, the process of formation and development of civilization was much more dynamic. Already in the fifteenth century, local residents actively used the favorable location of the land and developed the economy. At the same time, the inhabitants Koh Samui lived quite a wild life in their bungalows. Today, such large differences between the islands are practically erased. Tourism is developing quite actively on each of them. Now the islands have become competitors. And yet, historical aspects to this day define the features of Koh Samui and Phuket. Each of them has its own characteristics. For example, Phuket is interesting as a place for active rest. On the island is coming fairly active nightlife. But Koh Samui is preferred by those holidaymakers who, on the contrary, seek to take a break from the fast pace of megacities. Therefore, in order to decide where it is better to relax - in Phuket or Koh Samui - you need to know all the features of each of them.

weather difference

To do right choice, it is worth knowing the weather differences of the islands. If you do not want to spoil your vacation, then you do not need to come to the islands during the rainy season. During such periods, the water is not very warm, it often rains and there are waves. It would seem that Koh Samui and Phuket are close enough, and yet there are differences in their climatic conditions. This is due to the fact that the coast of Phuket is located on the Andaman Sea. The rainy season here lasts from May to the end of October. But Koh Samui is located in Gulf of Thailand, so the rainy season here lasts from November to February. Knowing such features of the islands, it is easy to make a choice, focusing on the vacation time.

Of course, Koh Samui is the most attractive place in terms of weather, because it rains here only a few months a year. But in Phuket, the high season lasts from March to April. At this time, there are always a lot of tourists on the island. The air temperature fluctuates within + 30 degrees, and there is no precipitation at all.

Where is the easiest and fastest way to get to?

So, which is better: Koh Samui or Phuket? Last but not least, the answer to this question depends on how convenient it is to get to a particular resort. Of course, in terms of air travel, Phuket wins, since there are five direct flights to the island from Moscow daily. But there are no direct flights from other regions of the country.

How to get to Phuket and Koh Samui? If we figured out the first, then the road to the second is more complicated. The fact is that there are simply no direct flights to the island. Koh Samui Airport serves only domestic flights. Therefore, tourists will probably have to take tickets to Bangkok, and then get on the ferry. Perhaps in the future the situation will change and it will be easier to get to Koh Samui.

Which resort is cheaper?

Assessing which is better - Koh Samui or Phuket - many start from the cost of rest. Phuket can definitely be called the most expensive resort Thailand. The island is more urbanized and densely populated. It is more like a metropolis. According to experts, Koh Samui is definitely more cheap resort. Of course, if you want to save money, you can cut back on your needs, but still, many people want to allow themselves to relax and enjoy their vacation to the fullest.

Staying on Koh Samui is much cheaper. Prices for food, shopping, entertainment are much lower. Holidays on the island are more suitable for those tourists who want to get a relaxation of soul and body.

On Koh Samui, you can afford to completely relax and live in a traditional bungalow on the very shore, enjoy a deserted beach and go to the local market for fruit. Here you are guaranteed a quiet, calm and measured rest. This is the dream of any inhabitant of a noisy metropolis.

As for Phuket, it is chosen by people who appreciate a higher level of service and entertainment. Prices for food, services and hotels are really higher here, which is quite logical for a popular resort.

Resort infrastructure

Phuket is one of the few islands in Thailand where civilization began to develop quite early. And the last century has become very significant for the island. Phuket has always had a significant impact on the country's economy, but its tourism potential was only appreciated in the 60s. It was during this period that a restaurant, hotels and roads began to be built. It's hard to imagine, but in just one decade the island has turned into an incredibly popular resort, which all avid travelers aspired to visit. But Koh Samui began to develop in the 70s. A popular island became only in the 1990s.

In fairness, it should be noted that between the resorts there is a big difference in the development of infrastructure. You can find everything in Phuket: restaurants, hotels, entertainment, clubs, shopping centers, attractions, spas, malls and much more. There are similar objects on Koh Samui, but they are much smaller and much more modest. Of course, Phuket can be safely called a leader in infrastructure. In this matter, it does not even make sense to compare Koh Samui and Phuket. The leading position is occupied by the second island.

Transfer Phuket - Koh Samui

It is worth noting that the islands are located in the waters of completely different oceans, so it is impossible to get only by sea. But, despite this, the relationship between them is established quite well. The distance from Phuket to Koh Samui is about 350 kilometers. And yet there are plenty of options to get from one island to another - by bus, plane, taxi, plane and ferry.

One of the fastest and easiest options is air travel. Due to geographical features, the direct distance between the islands is 80 kilometers less than along the routes of communication. How long does it take to fly from Phuket to Koh Samui? The flight takes about an hour, and the ticket price is 5600 rubles.

The most budget option is the bus. If you do not want to spend money on air tickets, then you can use ground transport. But it is worth remembering that, in addition to the bus, you will also have to use the ferry. From Phuket to Koh Samui you simply cannot get there without transfers. Such a journey takes up to six hours, and in fact disappears all day, since night flights do not exist in nature. As for the fare, it depends on the carrier.

If you decide to travel by bus and ferry from Phuket to Koh Samui, the fare will cost you about 800 rubles.

Those tourists who love comfort can be offered to use taxi services. Cars move along the same route as buses. However, such a trip will cost you more than a flight, so it makes sense to find travel companions for traveling by taxi. The taxi ride takes approximately five hours.

Very often, vacationers in Thailand rent transport to be able to travel freely. If you have rented a bike or a car, you can independently get to the ferry and cross it with your vehicles.

The beaches of the islands

When discussing the advantages and disadvantages of resorts, of course, it is worth remembering their beaches, because it is for them that tourists go on a long journey. Phuket and Koh Samui are just made for beach holiday. Their long coastlines will please any holiday-maker. There are youth, elite, children's and even nudist beaches here. And yet, there are differences between the beaches of the islands. On popular Phuket rests an incredible number of tourists. Therefore, its beaches are more polluted. As for Koh Samui, its coast is cleaner. Local beaches are less crowded and more natural. There are periods in Phuket when swimming is prohibited due to rough seas. But there are no waves on Koh Samui. The sea is very calm and quiet there.

If you dream of relaxing right on sea ​​coast, then, definitely, it is worth choosing Koh Samui. On the island, you can rent a bungalow built right on the coastal sand and enjoy the sound of the sea throughout your vacation.

But in Phuket, you are unlikely to find such an option, since all the hotels are quite far from the sea.

Nature

Since Phuket has been the most popular resort Thailand, its territory is still being built up. Now the island already resembles a metropolis. And all some beautiful natural places managed to be preserved. Tourists, if desired, can see parks, waterfalls, jungles, coral reefs and underwater inhabitants.

As for Koh Samui, in terms of nature, the island is more attractive. There are no high-rise buildings and the constant hum of cars. Oddly enough, a large number of vacationers come to Koh Samui, but at the same time the island does not follow the path of Phuket. It is in the interests of the country to fully preserve unique nature islands so that there is a contrast of directions tourist holiday. Going to Koh Samui, you can be sure that coral reefs, sandy beaches and coconut palms are waiting for you there.

Resort hotels

Finding accommodation on the islands for a vacation is not a problem at all. There are modern hotels and original romantic-style bungalows. However, it is worth considering the fact that in Phuket there is absolutely no beach hotels. When building the island, a big mistake was made. After the sandy coast the road goes, it turns out that beach hotels simply does not exist in nature. Therefore, if you want to live near the sea, you should go to Koh Samui.

Where is it more comfortable to relax with children?

If you plan to go to then you should choose a place with clean beaches, children's entertainment and a gentle sea setting. All this is in Phuket and Koh Samui. It is comfortable to relax with kids on both islands. The only thing to remember is that the sea on Koh Samui is quieter and calmer, there are never waves here. And this is very important for children.

Entertainment for tourists

Going on vacation, many tourists want to break away to the fullest and visit nightclubs. In terms of no doubt, Phuket wins. There is a whole street with all kinds of nightlife, which is in itself a landmark of the resort. Koh Samui in this regard is more quiet place. Even if you find night club on the island, then its scope cannot be compared with the establishments of Phuket.

As for attractions, they are all located in Phuket. Koh Samui is a very small island that has only natural beauty.

Phuket and Koh Samui: reviews of tourists

The Thai islands are amazing vacation spots. Each of them is good in its own way. Before deciding where to go on vacation, it's worth prioritizing and thinking about how you envision your vacation. Phuket and Koh Samui - it's important different places that offer diametrically different possibilities and conditions. According to experienced tourists, Phuket should be chosen by those people who appreciate comfort, attractions, nightlife and developed infrastructure. If you like natural beauties and a relaxing holiday on the very shore of the sea, then you simply cannot find a better place than Koh Samui. Therefore, when making a choice, listen to yourself: what do you want to receive - a holiday or peace.

If we briefly describe the island of Phuket and all its advantages, then the following words will prevail in the description: unreal, divine, fabulous and unimaginable. The island is located in the southwestern part of Thailand. The coast of Phuket is washed by the Andaman Sea and Indian Ocean respectively. This island will help you forget about all the worries and problems, dissatisfaction and stress, as well as dip you into heavenly pleasure, from which you will not want to leave, no matter in which part of Phuket you rest. In this part of the world, everyone can discover for themselves their own little piece of paradise, something only their own and only personal. Phuket is considered the most major island of those that unite the archipelago, then there is only a small series of smaller islands. Of these, you can also highlight Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. Unusual names islands and such an unusual life flows on them, capable of turning desires into reality. Everyone has their own preferences and their own vision of an ideal place to relax, what others like may not like you and vice versa. Therefore, it is worth briefly considering the best beaches of the island in order for you to find the best place for yourself. The description will take place from north to south, so the first of the presented beaches is Bang Tao. Length coastline seven kilometers, is only ten kilometers from the airport. There are mostly upscale hotels, many cafes and bars, restaurants and shops. In the vicinity of this beach there are riding clubs, golf clubs, as well as other complexes for sports entertainment. Less built up is Northern part beach, and it is also less populated by tourists, so here you can find a secluded and less touched by nature place.

The next beach is Kamala, located west of Phuket at a distance of sixteen kilometers. There is a very soft atmosphere, it is perfect for lovers of comfortable rest and dazzling white sand. The two-kilometer bay has retained its original attractiveness and beauty; a fishing village is still located here. This beach is chosen by pensioners and long-term residents of the island, who rent small and cozy villas, guesthouses and bungalows around the village. On Saturdays and Wednesdays, there is a market where you can buy fresh vegetables and fruits. The beach is also famous for its proximity to the entertainment center - Phuket FantaSea.

Patong Beach - is the center nightlife islands. Perhaps this beach is the most famous in Phuket. Here you can find accommodation for every taste, from hotels to ordinary guesthouses. A huge number of restaurants and bars, strip clubs and nightclubs. Diving centers and large shopping mall Junceilon, it's all located here. The place is ideal for those who are not averse to combining a beach holiday with a vibrant nightlife. Once upon a time, a banana forest was located on the site of Patong Beach, which is where the current name of the beach came from. The epicenter of all the parties and nightlife of Patong Beach are located near Bangla Road. This is a rather noisy street with a large number of striptease clubs and establishments, the street has achieved the fact that they began to call it "little Pattaya". The length of Patong Beach is four kilometers.

Three kilometers long Karon Beach is the second more famous beach in Phuket. Here the hotels are very conveniently located - right across the road in front of the beach. And in the territories that are adjacent there are many guesthouses. This beach is able to offer a large number of restaurants and bars, in turn, at night it is not so noisy and stormy, here you can say silence, unlike Patong Beach. Karon has a large number of art galleries, the beach itself is not very crowded, and it is famous for its creaky sand underfoot. The waves here are bigger than on all other beaches.

The Kata beach is divided into two parts by rocks - the main Kata beach and a small one, it is located to the south. The beach itself is small, and therefore the tropical nature of this area fascinates not only tourists, but the remoteness of this place from noisy Patong attracts those who want to retire. The beach is surrounded by hills, and also has a wide sand strip. Swimming near the northern part of the beach with a mask and snorkel, you can enjoy the coral reef and watch all kinds of colorful fish. There are many hotels of various categories here, as well as a small nightlife and at the same time not too noisy. On the way to Nai Harn beach, you can look at the observation deck called KARON VIEW POINT, where you can see all three beaches located in length.

A calm and cozy place, this is how Nai Harn beach can be described. The beach is considered one of the most picturesque places on the island. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, then choosing Nai Harn beach will make the right decision. Three hundred meters from the sea, away from the beach, located freshwater lake Nai Harn Lake with a small island in the middle, in the center with a playground. The beach is very popular with the locals, there is a hotel and several restaurants and bars. In the bay of Nai Harn there is a parking lot for owners of expensive yachts.

Where can I book a hotel in Phuket?

When you are planning your first trip to Phuket, you can easily fall into the trap of believing that one beach town (area) is virtually identical to another. Of course, they have much in common, but it is also worth noting their clear differences. Randomly choosing a direction that does not meet your needs and desires can lead to unforeseen consequences.

In such a variety it is quite difficult to find your own personal paradise. That is why we have prepared this simple guide with detailed description the merits and demerits of each beach and area in Phuket. It can serve as a guide to the vast variety of information on our site and help you get your bearings.

Browse our short review below to find the perfect destination for you, because no matter what, Phuket is sure to have one. You may be planning your first trip to Phuket, but we hope it will be one of many trips to this piece of paradise for you.

Have a nice trip to fairy island Phuket!

Patong Beach

This one, located on west coast, known primarily for its main street Bangla Road, which is the densest cluster of bars and nightclubs in Phuket and the island's first nightlife destination. From the scenic coastal road north of Kamala Beach, you can enjoy a beautiful sunset. The area also has several excellent restaurants, many shops, several cultural attractions and various activities. A is three kilometers of the most populous and popular coast of Phuket.

Who is it suitable for:
For those who want to save
People who love to have fun
For those who like a busy beach
For those who like to relax in the center

Positive sides:
Huge selection night clubs, restaurants, cafes and shops
Wide range of hotel prices

Negative sides:
There are not many traditional Thai style places
Heavy traffic

Kata Beach

A wide range of attractions in the surrounding area makes it a good place to stay. Its lively and long beach is especially popular with surfers (from May to November) and beginner divers (because of the good reef between the beach and Pu Island). It has a fun but not too noisy nightlife. You can choose for yourself several excellent restaurants, shops, observation platforms and types of events. It offers entertainment for the whole family, making Kata Beach a particularly popular destination for young couples traveling with children.

Who is it suitable for:
Young tourists
Families
People who like fun nightlife
Surfers and beginner divers

Positive sides:
One of the most beautiful beaches Phuket
Large beach area
Plenty of restaurants, shops, nightclubs and entertainment venues
Good range of hotel prices

Negative sides:
Long distance between the beach and most budget hotels and mid-range hotels
From May to November, strong waves at sea

Karon Beach

The cozy sands of the longest beach on the island have become a suitable place for large resort hotels that fit well into environment which contributes to a relaxed atmosphere. However, in the more urbanized part of the city, you can find many attractions near nearest beach Patong. This makes Karon a great place for people who enjoy nightlife, shopping and entertainment.

Who is it suitable for:
Beach lovers
People who love shopping
For those who love the nightlife
People who need a compromise between "too busy" and "too quiet" places

Positive sides:
Center of Karon - lively resort town With great choice restaurants, shops and nightlife
The beach has a unique color of natural nature

Negative sides:
Due to the long distances, it will be necessary to walk a lot or spend money on taxis
From May to November, strong waves at sea

Surin Beach

Due to its amazing natural beauty, it is surrounded by an excellent elite area. It is popular with visiting celebrities for this very reason, and many of the large houses are privately owned by multimillionaires. In that small town there are several boutiques and luxury shops, as well as several small clubs. Surin Beach is somewhat limited in attractions, which makes it the most suitable for those who want to relax and relax in relative privacy.

Who is it suitable for:

People who are looking for a more exclusive destination
For those who want to meet celebrities
People who love funky beach parties

Positive sides:
great place
A good place surf from May to November
good diving in high season at the northern end of the beach

Negative sides:
Very few attractions other than the beach
From May to November, strong waves at sea

Kamala Beach

The long, curved expanses of Kamala Beach and small town behind it are not far from Patong, but practically opposite to it. Kamala Beach is popular with retirees due to its calm atmosphere, measured pace and abundance of resorts, villas and hotels. This area is perfect for those who love a leisurely vacation and want to relax on a quiet and calm beach.

Who is it suitable for:
Families
People who like the atmosphere of a rural settlement
Travelers on a budget

Positive sides:
One of the few places in Phuket with many restaurants right on the beach
Excellent surf spot in the northern part of the beach from May to November
Good range of cheap and quality hotels

Negative sides:
Very few stores
Pretty quiet at night
From May to November, strong waves at sea

Provincial capital and largest distinguished narrow streets filled with restaurants, boutiques and unique attractions. This perfect place for people who want every day of rest to become a holiday filled with new discoveries and impressions. The city has absorbed many aspects of the various cultures that have called it home over the centuries, thanks to the beautiful historical structures and features of the place. Being the center local life, Phuket is probably the best place, which will help you experience the "real Thailand" and explore local attractions.

Who is it suitable for:
tourists
People interested in history and culture
lovers local cuisine
People who like shopping markets

Positive sides:
Democratic restaurants, shops and nightlife
Charming and lively area of ​​old Phuket town
Seductive cheap hotels

Negative sides:
No beach (places suitable for swimming)
Heavy traffic during rush hour
Quiet on weekday evenings

Nai Harn Beach

Quiet and peaceful, is one of the most popular places among local residents, namely because in a narrow bay there is not much space for large hotels. Nature has created a wonderful harbor and offers visitors the coolness of tiny beaches and bays such as Ya Nui and Ao Sein, making Nai Harn especially popular with yachtsmen, as well as snorkelers and divers. There are some excellent restaurants here, but very few shops or other attractions besides the magnificent panorama that can be seen at Promthep Cape and the viewpoint.” Windmill". Therefore, Nai Harn is the best place for a relaxing holiday surrounded by nature, without being completely isolated.

Who is it suitable for:
Beach and nature lovers
Snorkelers

Positive sides:
Three beaches and one lagoon
Snorkeling and diving
Peaceful atmosphere

Negative sides:
From May to November, strong waves at sea

Few restaurants

Bang Tao Beach

It is the second largest beach in Phuket. This is really a contrasting place: in the southern part of the beach there are budget and mid-range hotels, surrounded by a small fishing village while its central square occupies the Laguna complex - a group of luxury resorts. Northern zone- which ends at Layan Beach - is still rather undeveloped, apart from a few five-star hotels nestled in green hills. Bang Tao Beach is a fairly calm place, here you can find several beach clubs and several excellent restaurants, most of them located on or near Tinlay Plaza at the entrance to the Laguna complex.

Who is it suitable for:
Wealthy travelers
People who are looking for a relaxing holiday
Families
People who prefer to have everything in one place

Positive sides:
A six-kilometer long beach designed for leisurely walks
First class restaurants

Negative sides:
Very few shops and nightlife
From May to November, strong waves at sea

Mai Khao Beach

At 11 km long, Mai Khao Beach is the longest beach in Phuket. This deserted beach offers a panorama similar to the 350 km of coastal zone between Phuket and Ranong on the border with Myanmar, which occupies an oversized expanse of sand, fringed with coniferous trees, tropical almonds and palms, and magnificent seaside plants. Mai Hao seems far from luxury resort hotels and refreshing Splash Jungle Water Park, most of beach belongs to the Sirinat National Park, as the only place in Phuket where giant sea ​​turtles each year they lay their eggs between November and February.

Who is it suitable for:
Newlyweds
Wealthy travelers
People who love solitude

Positive sides:
11 km beach offering long leisurely walks
protected area national park
Convenient distance from the airport

Negative sides:
Very few restaurants, shops and nightlife
From May to November, strong waves at sea
Located 15 km from Patong - where there is an active nightlife

Rawai Beach

Rawai Beach is located on the southeastern tip of Phuket. Historically the very first tourist beach Phuket, he somehow retained his contact with the seaside village and the many longtail boats owned by local fishermen, the string of which stretched for 2.5 km. The atmosphere of Rawai is really too quiet compared to Patong. There are only a few shops and nightclubs here, resort town as well as some great beachfront restaurants. Its proximity to Nai Harn and Chalong also provides good opportunities visitors who can find many attractions here. There are a large number of hotels on Rawai: from inexpensive to five-star.

Who is it suitable for:
People who want to enjoy the color of the area
People who are fed up with crowded tourist areas

Positive sides:
Local seaside restaurants
Laem Ka Beach and Promthep Cape are nearby
Many attractions of the island

Negative sides:
Few shops
Not too active nightlife

In the article we talk about the best beaches in Phuket. We share information about the cleanliness of beaches, the popularity of places and infrastructure. We will also tell you which Phuket beaches are best suited for families with children. For convenience, we have marked all the best beaches on the map.

What you need to know about the beaches of Phuket

1. The country has no concept private beach": all beaches are municipal, and therefore in Thailand the concept of" is perceived differently. There are many hotels near the beach, and such hotels do not have the right to interfere with visiting the beach. So any beach in Thailand is at your disposal.
2. Most of the equipped beaches with developed tourist infrastructure are located on the west coast of Phuket.
3. The best time to visit Phuket is from November to April. During this period, the waves are not so high and the weather is most conducive to relaxation.

The best beaches of Phuket on the map

Comparison of Phuket beaches

☆– minimum value; ☆☆☆☆☆ – maximum value

Description of the best beaches in Phuket

Patong

Patong is the best beach in Phuket for lovers of nightlife and fun. The beach is the most popular place at youth, as life is in full swing there, and the fun lasts around the clock.

Best place to visit Patong Beach in November, December, January, February, March and April.

Entrance to the sea comfortable: gently sloping and sandy. Bottom without stones and sharp shells. There are no pronounced tides and low tides (the sea does not run away for tens of meters.)

In the daytime, many are laid out along the beach sunbeds and umbrellas. Renting a sunbed with an umbrella for the whole day costs 100-150 baht.

Because of a large number tourists do not have time to clean the yarn, so it can hardly be called clean.

Built along the beach many hotels: from inexpensive hotels and hostels, to comfortable hotels with 5 stars. The bulk of the hotels are 3 and 4 stars. The cheapest hotels can cost an average of 260 baht. Guest houses can cost tourists from 450 baht per day. From October, prices on Patong Beach begin to rise. Current prices can be found.

Hotels are separated from the beach by a road along the coast.

Photo © Harsha K R/flickr.com

Photo © James Qualtrough/flickr.com

Photo © [email protected]/flickr.com

Photo © Walter/Limflickr.com

Photo © Walter Lim/flickr.com

Photo © RoarAG Magnussen/flickr.com

Kata

Another popular place that is included in the list of the best beaches in Phuket. Many tourists rest here. Great on the beach developed infrastructure: many hotels, cafes, restaurants, shops.

They mostly rest here. young and old couples, couples with children who came for relaxing holiday. There are no bars or clubs here.

Sea and beach: The entrance to the sea is gentle, at low tide the water leaves for several meters (3-4 m). Myself sand beach- neat and clean.

The best place to visit is Kata Beach Season: November to March. For surfers, the season of strong waves and winds begins between May and October.
Photo © Ishmael Riles/flickr.com

The beach is equipped with: there is a rental of sun loungers and umbrellas for 100 baht per day, changing cabins, a shower are located.

Along the beach there are small cafes, restaurants and small shops.

From entertainment on the beach there are parasailing behind a motor boat, snorkeling (diving with a tube), jet skis, surfing, etc.

Hotels there is a lot here: from inexpensive ones for 350-400 baht to 5 star hotels on the first line. The first line is occupied by large hotels, and a little in the depths you can find budget options for hotels.

shopping lovers can look into the city center and the markets located near Hotel Club Med.

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Bang Tao

This beach can be called one of the quietest and calm beaches in Phuket. We have added it to the list of the best beaches in Phuket for its cleanliness, lack of crowds of tourists and for the distance of the road (unlike most of the beaches in Thailand).

Fits for families with children and young couples.

Bang Tao Beach stretches for 8 km. Tall trees grow along the entire beach, which create a natural shade. Beach with fine white sand. The entrance to the sea is gentle and muddy.

Sun loungers are rented on the beach (150-200 baht). Some of them belong to a cafe on the beach and sunbeds are provided for customers free of charge.

As a rule, wealthy people rest here, so prices for hotels higher here than in Patong. The approximate price tag for a hotel room is from 1500 baht.

From entertainment on the beach there is a cafe, massage (about 30 baht). Not far from the beach there is a golf course, there are also tennis courts.

Concerning shops and shopping, then most of them are located in the southern part of the beach. It's hard to find cheap products here. It is mainly designed for wealthy buyers with a high demand for quality.

Video about Bang Tao beach

Kamala

Another exotic beach in Phuket, which can be safely called one of the best beaches on the island.

It's best to come to Kamala beach during high season in season (November to March). During the monsoon season, it becomes dangerous to swim on the beach, and special flags appear along the beach, and the winds raise big waves for surfers.

Mostly people come here for vacation. married couples with children and elderly couples.

Beach and sea here it is kept clean, pebbles and sharp shells do not come across in the sand. The sea itself is blue. Waves do not occur here during the season. The entrance to the sea is gentle and fenced from boats.

Note: it is better to avoid swimming in the southern part of the beach, as there is a small boat parking and the place is not clean.

Here you can hide from the sun under the palm trees that grow along the coastline. They also rent sun loungers for 100 baht.

There are no crowds of tourists on this beach, only in the high season their number increases slightly. In the northern part there is a place where you can relax in complete privacy (between Novotel and Kamala Beach).

For entertainment tourists here there are jet skis, a banana, parachuting behind a motor boat, you can dive with a mask. Of the quiet entertainment is massage, cafes and restaurants. Also on Kamala is held a bright show "Phuket Fantasea" (Phuket Fantasea).

There is no nightlife on the beach: bars, noisy discos, etc.

Concerning hotels, then there are many good options. We advise you to pay attention to the Novotel hotel (we mentioned it above). There is a good beach here: clean and well-groomed. The hotel is surrounded by exotic greenery and stands as close to the beach as possible.

Budget hotel options can be found on Beach Road. The farther from the beach, the cheaper the hotel.

Not far from the beaches there are several 7-Eleven shops, a small market.

Video of Phuket beaches - Kamala beach

Nai Harn

It is considered one of the best beaches in Phuket due to the picturesque area around it. The beach itself is small (relative to previous beaches) - about 0.7 km. The beach is separated by small mountains on both sides.

Mostly go to rest on Nai Harn couples with children or simply romantic couples.

It's best to come during the autumn-winter period, at this time there are no waves here or they are small. In spring and summer it is better to refrain from going to this beach if you are not fond of surfing. At this time, winds and dangerous undercurrents reign here.

This is a quiet and peaceful place where there is practically no entertainment. Silence is sustained by absence motor boats. Royal regattas are sometimes held here, when you can see many sailing yachts.

Sea and beach: clean with white sand. There are no stones and sharp shells in the sand. The entrance to the sea is gentle.

Umbrellas and mattresses are rented on the beach (2 mattresses + umbrella = 200 baht).

Entertainment: Services available on the beach Thai massage. There are many small cafes along the beach. Not far from the beach there are several attractions (Buddhist temple, lake and observation deck).

On the very beach hotels few, but 10 minutes (outside the temple) there are much more hotels and you can find a room from 700 baht. the most prestigious and expensive hotel considered to be The Nai Harn Hotel. Wealthy people stop here, including regatta participants.

From the shops here you can find 7-Eleven, souvenir shops and shops with goods for the beach.

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Photo © wales_gibbons/flickr.com

Photo © wales_gibbons/flickr.com