Where to Stay in Phuket? Here is a list of the best places to stay in Phuket and I am sure that you would find these places highly affordable and enjoyable.
Whether you want a bustling night life, a relaxing place in the middle of nature, or something in the middle, the best places to stay in Phuket will allow to choose something that suits your situation.
1. Patong Beach
On the west coast of Phuket Island, you can find Patong Beach which is home to Bangla Road, a places that has the most amount of bars and clubs in all of the island. Patong Beach is known primarily for its night life and has many hotels in all price points to accommodate travellers. In addition to the fabulous night life, there are also pristine beaches, beautiful sunsets, and plenty of restaurants and stores.
You should stay at Patong Beach if you are on a budget or just love to travel. If you don’t mind busy and packed beaches, then this place is good for you. It’s especially ideal for those that want to be centrally located.
2. Kata Beach
If you’re looking for an all-around good place to stay in Phuket, then Kata Beach is for you. The beach has a party atmosphere both day and night and the water is particularly good for surfing, from May to November. There is a coral reef between the beach and nearby Pu Island which is a great location for scuba diving. Kata Beach has a number of delicious restaurants to choose from and many shops to find local goods at.
If you are travelling with your family, Kata Beach is a good destination. There are a number of hotels at different price points. Kata Beach is also good for young travellers. If you want to party, but not have it overwhelm your trip, then this is a good place to stay in Phuket.
3. Karon Beach
The third longest beach on Phuket is full of large resorts that seamlessly blend into the surrounding nature. Karon Beach is near Patong Beach, which means you’re close to many attractions, restaurants and shops.
If you are a beach lover, then Karon Beach is for you. If you also like a mix of market shopping and nightlife, then this is a good place to stay. Karon Beach is that middle of the road town that isn’t too busy but also isn’t too quiet.
4. Surin Beach
This highly exclusive area is known for its draw to famous celebrities and the town is dotted with giant properties owned by multimillionaires. However, even if you are not a millionaire yourself, you can still stay at Surin Beach. There are many boutiques and high end shops as well as neat beach clubs to visit.
If you want to relax and enjoy some privacy, then Surin Beach is the place to stay. The area definitely caters to wealthier travellers and those that want to spot celebrities. There is a party atmosphere as well, so Surin Beach attracts younger tourists.
5. Kamala Beach
A short drive from Patong is Kamala Beach that has a long, curving beach with a small town set next to it. The area is relaxing, peaceful and very calm. It is a place for those wanting to take a break from the hustle and bustle of their lives. While there is a night life, it is calmer and more geared to those wanting to enjoy their food and some good conversation. There are many options for accommodation including hotels, villas and resorts.
Kamala Beach is a great option if you are with your family. It is also popular with retired people. The village has a community feel, which is great if you are travelling on your own. Kamala Beach is reasonably priced and good for budget conscious travellers.
6. Phuket Town
Phuket Town is the provincial capital as well as the largest urban area of the island. Here you can find an abundance of restaurants and shops that highlight the island’s culture. If you want to fill your days with activities, Phuket Town is the place to stay. The town is filled with architectural marvels and has a rich history in its streets. There are many local markets to explore to experience what Thailand is all about.
Phuket Town is very popular with backpackers and there are many hostels to stay at. It is also especially good for people who are interested in history and culture. The food here is great, so if you love to try local foods, Phuket Town is a great place to stay.
7. Nai Harn Beach
If you’re looking to find where the locals stay in Phuket, Nai Harn is where it’s at. Set amongst hills and coves, there aren’t many hotels to stay at, making the area a bit of a hidden treasure. The water is great for snorkelling and scuba diving as well as sailing. While there aren’t many places to shop at, there are some very good restaurants to eat at. The views are spectacular and it’s a very naturally inviting beach.
If you are a nature lover, either on land or in the sea, Nai Harn Beach is a great place to stay in Phuket.
8. Bangtao Beach
The second longest beach of Phuket, Bangtaobrings together the worlds of resort living and a fishing community. There are some beach clubs that like to party, but overall it is a quieter place to relax at.
Due to the many luxury resorts, Bangtao Beach is very popular with wealthy travellers. It is also ok for families. If you want a relaxing escape this is a nice area to stay in.
9. Mai Khao Beach
With over 11 kilometers of beach, Mai Kaho is the longest beach in Phuket. The white sand is bordered with palm trees and other tropical plants, making it a nature’s paradise. There are some luxury resorts and the very fun Splash Jungle Water Park, but a lot of the beach is set in a national park which means it is protected from development. Mai Khao is famous for it being the only place in Phuket where eggs are laid by Giant Ridley Sea Turtles.
If you are on your honeymoon, Mai Khao is a great destination for its remoteness. It is also popular with people that want to escape from busy lives, or for those that have extra money and want a luxury vacation.
10. Rawai Beach
Located at the south eastern part of Phuket, this island has been able to mix tourism with cultural heritage. Rawai Beach is also the location for many boats that take tourists island hopping around Phuket. There are some shops and clubs, and quite a few restaurants, but overall the town is quite calm. There are many local attractions nearby, including the Big Buddha and Promthep Cape.
Rawai Beach is for tourists that want to experience how locals live. While there are many luxuries to be had in this area, it is quite less touristy than other places in Phuket.
The many places to stay in Phuket cater to people with every budget or need. Whether you are travelling by yourself, in a group, or as a family, there is a place to stay in Phuket that will make your trip amazing.
