Neil Aronson So you have decided to visit Phuket? This is awesome, however like most people, you are overwhelmed with where to stay? It is the biggest Island of Thailand and have a multiple of different areas to stay in, all with different vibes, scenes, and things to do. Here we have it all on one guide, so no need to go searching many articles.
If you’re thinking of making Phuket your next vacation destination, it’s important to pick the right area for your stay. There are dozens of beaches around the island, but each main resort area has a different character. If you choose the right one to match your needs and preferences, you should have a fantastic vacation. Pick the wrong place and it could make for a less-than-ideal stay.
To help you make sense of the dizzying amount of choices available, we have this simple introductory guide to each of the main areas. With around 50 hotels and resorts listed here, we have your choices covered from Budget to Ultra Luxury.
Why go to Phuket
Most travelers to this part of the country only see a small glimpse of what Phuket has to offer, which has given it somewhat of a bad name. Patong Beach is where most of the action’s at, but many visitors don’t see this as a good thing.
Sure, the conveniences and amenities surrounding the area might be appealing, but with so much tourist traffic, year after year, it’s become overrun with shady operations, dirty establishments, and hoards of careless partiers. Our advice is to broaden your horizon and look outside of Patong.
If you’re willing to go a bit further out, you will discover much more of Phuket than would otherwise be possible. World class diving, snorkeling, island tours, swimming, surfing, free diving, sailing, and more can be had here. Add to that some of the most beautiful and relaxing beaches in the region and incredibly friendly locals, and you will certainly have enough options to fill your entire trip.
Of course, if you are looking for a high class, party-centered vacation that’ll likely leave more than just your bank account looking a little tired, Phuket has that for you, too.
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When To go
Phuket, like the rest of Thailand, has its dry and wet seasons but is hot most of the year. The rainy season falls between July and October, but rain showers usually only last a couple hours or less. Prices are cheaper and less crowded. November through February are high season, with the best weather. This is also a good time to visit as it’s slightly cooler and less humid. The hottest months are April and May.
Resources
Agoda is the best place to book cheap affordable hotels in Thailand, especially near national parks. They also book flights as well.
Expedia is my favorite place to book flights, hotels, cars, and more. Their group includes Hotels.com and Vrbo for vacation rentals.
Viator is the top choice for activities. Book everything from a waterfall tour to scuba diving, jungle trekking to cooking classes.
12Go is the top transportation source for Asia. From busses to trains to regional flights.
Where to stay in Phuket
Since Phuket is so large, it’s easiest to break the island up into regions when planning your trip. The western part of Phuket encompasses a majority of sights, beaches, hotels, and things to do, while the southeast, and central sections both offer slightly different experiences. There are also a number of smaller islands along the coastline; many can be visited on day trips.
The west coast is where you’ll find the lively Patong Beach. You won’t be far from any number of luxurious resorts to rest your head here. In the southeast, you’ll be met with slightly fewer crowds and somewhat quieter beaches. Expect hotel prices to reflect that, although they’ll still be higher than much of the mainland. The interior section of Phuket sees far fewer visitors. Phuket town has some accommodation options much cheaper than the beach areas.
We have partnered with several hotel booking sites including Hotels.com (part of Expedia), and Agoda which we use often. For renting houses Vrbo is an option for vacation rentals. The links on this guide use Hotels.com, however search Agoda with the same hotel if that is your preference.
Patong Beach
This is where most people stay who want to be next to the action. This area is best known for just one street , Bangla Road, which is the densest concentration of bars and clubs anywhere in Phuket and is the island’s primary nightlife destination. This is surrounded by a large number of hotels, ranging from budget guesthouses to small resorts. The picturesque coast road heading north towards Kamala takes advantage of the great sunset views by offering a more luxurious experience, but at the cost of being further from the party.
There are also a number of excellent restaurants, countless shops, several cultural attractions and various activities to enjoy in the area. So this area is for people who want to be centrally-located and want everything in one place.
The downside if you are past the party scene like me is that is can be crowded and noisy. Sort of like a ‘Spring Break’ location.
Bangla Road is the center of nightlife in Patong, filled with bars, clubs, and entertainment. It sometimes seems like anything goes along Bangla Road, with an incredible variety of things to see and do. Alongside international-standard nightclubs are hundreds of beer bars and dozens of go-go bars, as well as street performances, vendors, lounge bars, games, live music and more.
Where To Stay
Hotel Indigo Phuket is a compact luxury hotel with a convenient location in Patong, just a short walk from the beach and the famous Bangla Walking Street. The hotel is a 180-room L-shaped building with a rooftop pool, plus a second pool for the exclusive use of the pool access rooms.
Four Points by Sheraton Phuket is a new resort in Patong Beach with many qualities to please many travelers. The location just across the street from the beach is, without a doubt, the first reason why this hotel is so attractive.
The Amari Coral Beach Resort has been around for a long time, great location right at the south end of Patong away from the crowds, very nice place to relax but you can walk to the middle of Patong in 10 minutes.
La Flora is quite a new hotel, opened in 2008 and it’s right in the middle of Patong, right on the beach (which not many Patong beach hotels can claim). The best rooms have a “right by the sea” view! And you’re close to everything.
Phuket Marriott Resort Merlin Beach is a 5-star hotel with a unique location on Merlin Beach in Phuket, just a few kilometers from the busy Patong and in superb and quiet surroundings. Marriott Merlin Beach Resort is a large hotel built on vast land surrounded by hills and beaches
Le Meridien Phuket has become an iconic hotel in Phuket for its amazing huge pool and, most of all, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
Rosewood Phuket is a luxurious resort situated on the tranquil Tri Trang Beach, just 3 km south of the bustling Patong Beach. The resort boasts 123 rooms and suites, including 39 villas with private plunge pools.
The Aspery Hotel must be one of the Phuket’s best hidden gems. Located right in the middle of the action in Patong, it’s a great choice for people looking to thoroughly enjoy themselves whilst on holiday, but unlike most of the other 500+ hotels in Patong, it offers absolutely phenomenal value.
Budget
Lub D Phuket Patong was voted in 2017 as the Best New Hostel in the world, it has to be seen to be believed. Showcasing an outdoor see-through swimming pool and large terrace to enjoy the sun, where you can enjoy a few cocktails & beers.
Mad Monkey Phuket is just a stroll away from Patong Beach, so you can bounce between epic beach days and wild nights on Bangla Road. Whether you’re here to party, chill by the pool, or soak up the sun.
FunDee Boutique Hotel offers beachfront accommodations a 10-minute walk from Patong Beach and facilities like a terrace. This 3-star hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. The property provides a concierge service and a tour desk for guests.
BearPacker Patong Hostel you can enjoy beach views from dawn to sunset at the rooftop swimming pool. Patong Beach or Bangla Walking Street just few steps away with 24 hours reception services, allowing you to experience the best of Phuket
The Frutta Boutique is a 5-minute drive from Patong Beach and Jungceylon Shopping Mall, and is fruit themed! Fun place for families with younger kids. It offers modern air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi. Staff at the 24-hour front desk can assist guests with airport shuttle service.
Looking for a nearby Golf Resort? Phuket Country Club made its debut as the resort island’s first championship-standard 18-hole golf course. Its central location makes the Phuket resort only a short drive from all beach and hotel areas. Next to the property is the spectacular Jantra Residence, for a luxurious place to stay.
Katathong Golf Resort & Spa is a one of most challenging golf course in southern Thailand. It’s one hour drive from hotel in Khao Lak area, in Phang Nga. It has been converted from Old Tin Mine into a challenging golf course. It’s named “a valley of Dreams” as it is surrounded by the mountains, waterfall and streams.
Kata Beach
Quieter than Patong, and great for families and water activities like surfing. Kata Beach is a 1.5 kilometer stretch of golden sand and clear water that’s considered one of the most popular beaches in the area. Kata Yai is the larger beach, while Kata Noi is smaller and quieter.
The waters here are good for swimming, but you should avoid the water if red warning flags are out. During the north-east monsoon season (November to April), the warm sea is often as flat as a pancake, crystal clear and turquoise in color. The south-west monsoon season (May to October) can make for rougher swimming conditions, but it’s at this time of year that the surfers flock to enjoy the waves. At the north end is a small island for snorkeling and kayaking.
Yachts from around the region compete in this sailing event in December in the King’s Cup Regatta.
Kata town has a variety of shops, restaurants, and food stalls, but limited night life options.
Where To Stay
Katathani Phuket Beach Resort is your large resort choice with with 6 pools and 6 dining options. Located across from Kata Beach, it features a first-rate spa and tennis courts. Featuring private balconies overlooking landscaped grounds, Katathani’s spacious rooms are fitted with Thai-style furnishings.
Kata Palm is a huge, luxury resort with a real Thai feel to it, nestled in amongst tropical plants, the buildings and the rooms have been decorated in a very ornate but tasteful Thai style. The resort is huge, with a gigantic lagoon pool, a fitness center, a massage and wellness spa, and 3 fantastic on-site restaurants serving a range of different foods.
Chanalai Garden Resort in Kata Beach is a perfect spot due to its location. Situated in the relatively quiet Kata Beach, this place boasts of stunning coastal views with a long pool where you can lounge around and relax.
Budget
Fin Hostel is a great hostel to stay at if you’re looking for something that’s both clean and affordable. They have both dorm rooms and private rooms which are extremely well decorated. Unlike most hostels in Thailand, the beds here are fairly large. When you’re done exploring Phuket, you can relax on their rooftop pool which makes for a great common area.
Sugar Ohana Poshtel lives up to it’s name, offering a fabulous boutique style hotel only a few minutes from the incredible Kata beach. It has lots of designer features such as floor to ceiling glass doors and modern hardwood furniture, and it’s really hard to believe that this is a budget hotel.
Rico’s Bungalows is a very relaxing family friendly mini resort of 23 bungalows, just a stone’s throw from the beautiful Kata beach. Nestled in amongst a lovely tropical garden setting, it has a great swimming pool, restaurant and bar, and all bungalows have air conditioning, a fridge with mini bar, cable TV, DVD player and an in-room safe.
Karon Beach
North of Kata beach is a beautiful stretch of sand, ideal for relaxation and swimming. Quieter than Patong but still with a decent selection of restaurants and bars.
Karon Beach in Phuket is one of the longest beaches on the island, spanning 5 km of fine white sand overlooking the Andaman Sea. The northern end of the beach is usually deserted, making it an excellent spot for those who want the beach to themselves. The southern end, close to Kata, tends to be busier but it isn’t that hard to find a nice spot for yourself.
Karon Beach enjoys excellent conditions for windsurfing in Phuket. There’s plenty of space for you to maneuver the board. Sea kayaking, banana boat rides, waterskiing and wakeboarding are also some of the things to do on Karon Beach.
Where To Stay
Novotel Avista Resort in Karon Beach. This luxurious resort is a great place to stay for both couples and families. The rooms are spacious and very luxurious, with beds that are ultra soft! During your stay, you’ll enjoy a whole host of facilities such as three outdoor pools, a waterslide for young kids, and even a fitness center.
Chanalai Hillside Resort located in Karon Beach provides you with everything that you need and more! The rooms here are large, clean, and the view from the balcony is simply amazing. Spend your days relaxing and sunbathing by the pool. For an extra special stay, opt for the rooms with pool access.
Phuket Island View Resort is a stunning resort located at Karon beach, and is situated in amongst beautifully manicured gardens. You can choose between a standard room or a poolside villa, and in fact the resort boasts three fantastic swimming pools, as well as it’s own spa, restaurant and jacuzzi.
Mandarava Resort And Spa is an awesome luxury resort about 700m inland and up the hill from Karon beach. The resorts boasts 5 swimming pools with pool bars, a comprehensive and modern fitness center and a massage studio and spa.
Budget
Doolay Beachfront Hostel is good for those that want to stay closer to the beach, Doolay Beachfront Hostel by Karon Beach is a great pick! It’s just a few steps from Karon Beach. The beds are clean and comfortable and the mattresses aren’t paper thin. The hostel is very social with a great common area where they have movie nights, games, BBQs, and social evenings.
Casa Brazil is a delightful homestay (but more like a guesthouse) located only a few minutes walk from Karon beach. It is a Thai-style building, tastefully decorated, with large and spacious rooms, and has a great restaurant featuring Thai-style hardwood furniture which serves both Western and Thai food.
Pineapple Guesthouse is situated in an Ideal location, close to Karon Beach. 711 nearby, bakery and restaurant are just opposite the building. Rent a bike, Pharmacy, shops and more all right there.
Old Phuket Town
The provincial capital and largest urban area of the island, Phuket Town’s narrow streets are filled with great restaurants, boutique shops and unique attractions. This is the ideal location for people who want every day of their vacation to be different and to explore the island. It is best for culture and history. The charming Sino-Portuguese architecture is great for those who enjoy exploring towns.
The town has absorbed many aspects of the varying cultures that have called it home over the centuries, making it also a place of beautiful historical designs and features. Being the hub of local life, Phuket Town is probably the best place to get the “real Thailand” experience on the island and there are regular local markets to explore. The downside of course is that your not by the beach.
This area is also good if you are on a budget and enjoy local shopping and street markets.
Where To Stay
Novotel Phuket Phokeethra is the ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in Phuket Old Town’s captivating history and vibrant atmosphere while enjoying a comfortable and memorable stay.
BAAN 125 STAY Phuket has a terrace, and is a charming and tranquil retreat in Phuket Old Town’s heart. This traditional boutique hotel offers a delightful fusion of modern comfort and historical charm, providing travelers with an authentic and memorable stay.
Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel is a fairly new hotel right by the old town on Phuket Road, just round the corner from Thalang Road, restored old shophouse, with all white exterior (thus the name). Only 17 rooms, and good price too.
Courtyard by Marriott is good if you are looking for something reliable. That is, pretty much like any other Courtyard, so not much risk involved. Good location in town and standards.
The Westin Siray Bay Resort and Spa, located on the bay, is the perfect hotel for those who want to enjoy the quiet and tranquility of the coastline.
Good Day Phuket Boutique Bed And Breakfast is a modern mid-range pick for those who want contemporary-style accommodations. The rooms are bright, airy and comfortable. Plus, all the rooms feature a private balcony and seating area. They also have a flat screen television, fridge and electric kettle. Not quit in town, a little to the west.
Budget
Bed Hostel is a hip hostel is a great place for those who want a modern stay while in Phuket. The location is pretty central and everything is a short 5-minute walk away. The rooms are a mixed dormitory-style with four beds, making it quite spacious compared to other dorm rooms. There are shops on the property and guests will love the on-site bar, flat screen television, and wireless internet.
HOP INN Phuket Oldtown a few steps from Chinpracha House, Hop Inn Phuket Old Town provides accommodations with free WiFi and free private parking.
Chino Town Gallery Hostel is located only 350 feet from Old Phuket Town and it features a restaurant and wireless internet. The Thai Hua Museum and the Chinpracha House is close by as well. The room is dormitory-style with 6 single beds as well as a balcony and air conditioning. The rooms are clean, modern looking and is pretty centrally located, with the Sunday market being right across the hostel.
Eco Hostel has a quirky, boutique feel to it, but is clean, modern and comfortable, and very good value for money. There is a great coffee shop on site, plus all rooms have air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
Bang Tao Beach
This area is best for luxury and relaxation, and is home to high-end resorts and beach clubs. Also a great area for golfing and Spa Retreats.
Bangtao is the second-longest beach of Phuket. It really is a place of contrast: the southern part of the beach hosts budget and mid-range hotels surrounding a small fishing village while its central area is occupied by the Laguna Complex – a group of luxury resorts settled between lagoons. The northern area – which ends at Layan Beach – is still rather undeveloped, apart from a few 5-star properties set on the verdant hills.
Laguna Golf is part of the luxury Laguna Phuket resort complex, this course is designed to be both enjoyable and challenging, with a lot of water hazards and sand traps. Laguna Golf Phuket features a resort golf course with pleasant breezes from the Andaman Sea. After golf stay next door at the Luxurious Banyan Tree Resort.
Where To Stay
Sunwing Bangtao Beach offers spacious accommodations and is located on the beach. It has several large outdoor pools and 2 dining options. Children will enjoy the various activities available for them, which include games, activities and a playground. There are also 2 children’s pool.
Twin Palms is a modern and relaxing resort in the quiet Surin beach area, nestled in amongst several other high-end resorts. It was so popular however that in 2006, only two years later, they decided to add on another 20+ apartments, that should give you an idea of how amazing this place really is.
Banyan Tree Phuket offers luxurious tropical getaways with award-winning fine dining options and full spa services. Spacious villas feature open-air jet pools on landscaped grounds. Tastefully furnished with Thai art and fine woodwork, villas have ample seating areas that open out to pool views. Guests can enjoy relaxing massages and the use of tennis courts and fitness facilities. Offering concierge services, staff can attend to business and travel needs. Thai specialties are served in the elegant environment of Saffron while hearty buffets are available at Watercourt.
Kamala Beach
This area is best for families and a quiet retreat. Kamala Beach is a quiet stretch of sand located around 9.5 km north of Patong in Phuket. It’s an excellent spot for sunbathing and you can find many beach activities at the northern end of the beach. With its quieter pace, Kamala is a popular spot for retirees and longer-term visitors in Phuket. Along a winding road leading to the beach, there are small hotels, villas and apartments with great views of Kamala Bay.
The waters of Kamala Beach are clear and calm from November to April (high season), but large waves caused by the ocean swell are common between May and October.
There’s a choice of snorkeling spots near Kamala Beach, mostly around the rocks at its northern end. You can rent equipment from vendors patrolling the sand.
Where To Stay
Layalina Hotel is located in Kamala beach, which is one of the relatively quieter destinations on the island, the main road has a few restaurants and bars plus a 7-Eleven. Tastefully decorated with modern fixtures and fittings, this hotel oozes luxury, the swimming pool is beautiful – you can have a dip in the pool in the evening as the sun goes down and have a view out across the bay.
Sunwing is an upmarket Swedish chain of luxury resorts, and the Sunwing Kamala beach has to be one of the absolute best family holiday destinations in all of Phuket. It’s a huge, but very well-maintained property that is definitely a cut above the other family accommodations in Kamala beach, and is an excellent choice for travelers with younger children.
Thavorn Beach Village & Spa offers Thai-style bungalows spread across 25-acres of tropical greenery along Nakalay Bay. It features a large lagoon pool and fitness facilities.
Rawai Beach
Rawai Beach is at the south-eastern tip of Phuket Island. Historically the very first tourist beach of Phuket, it somehow retained its local touch with the sea gypsy village and the many long-tail boats belonging to local fishermen anchored along its 2.5-km length. The departure port for island-hopping to Coral and Racha islands, the atmosphere of Rawai is really tranquil compared to that of Patong. Best for local vibes and seafood lovers.
With only a few shops and nightlife options, the resort town nevertheless hosts a few great beachside restaurants. Its proximity with Nai Harn and Chalong also gives visitors good opportunities to discover some of Phuket’s most notable attractions like Promthep Cape and Phuket Big Buddha. The accommodations scene of Rawai features a wide range of hotels and resorts from budget to 5-star.
Where To Stay
Navatara Phuket Resort is a beautiful family style resort. The resort consists of 37 guest rooms with luxury bed. Spacious design come with their own private terrace and balcony exudes feelings of staying in a Thai Art Home, room features views of free form swimming pools and tropical gardens.
Rawai Palm Beach Resort, located just 200 meters from Rawai Beach on the southern tip of Phuket Island, offers a serene and secluded getaway, an ideal destination for families, honeymooners, and holiday seekers.
Rawayana West Villas & Kids Park, situated in the southern part of Phuket Island, offers 40 villas in various configurations, including 2 Bedroom Deluxe Pool Villas, 2 Bedroom Family Deluxe Pool Villas, 3 Bedroom Deluxe Pool Villas, and 3 Bedroom Grand Deluxe Pool Villas.
Roost Glamping is an eco-friendly, boutique glamping accommodation in Phuket.
Nai Harn Beach
This area is best for couples and nature lovers. It is a good spot for snorkeling, diving and hiking, especially December through April. There is limited nightlife and shopping.
Quiet and tranquil, Nai Harn Beach is a neighbor to Rawai beach, and is among the most popular places for locals. This is mostly because, being in a narrow, hill-lined cove, there isn’t much space for too many hotels. The geography creates an excellent harbor and offers visitors a cool choice of tiny beaches and coves such as Ya Nui and Ao Sane.
The area has a steady pace, with some great local restaurants but very few shops or other attractions apart from the splendid panoramas offered at Promthep Cape and Windmill Viewpoint. Nai Harn Beach is, therefore, the best place for enjoying a relaxing stay in natural surroundings without being totally isolated.
The Nai Harn, possibly the first luxury experience in Phuket. Exceptionally generous guest rooms and suites with our famously expansive private terraces, summoning shades of Santorini. Lush cliffside vistas of green jungle and turquoise sea.
Baan Krathing Phuket Resort is located a little off the beach, close to The Nai Harn. The hotel is located in a beautiful place, very large rooms, clean and beautiful, and there is a small beach, but not the best for swimming. More of a quiet getaway place.
