The Casuarina fringed, white sand beaches that adorn the western and southern coast of Phuket are the reason that attract tourists to this island from all around the globe. Beach hopping in Phuket is a major activity to have on one’s itinerary because there is no better way to enjoy your vacation here than covering the pristine beaches of this island.
Each beach here has a story to tell and while some are full of luxe resorts, others are secluded and quiet for one to spend some quality time. Pick the best that you’d like to stay at, and cover the rest on your beach hopping trip!
Best Time For Beach Hopping In Phuket
Owing to its pristine beaches with clean blue waters, beach hopping in Phuket is one of the top things to do. And the best time to hit the beaches here is from November to April. The weather is pleasant and dry during these months, following which it is the monsoon season here. So, if you want to explore the beautiful beaches in Phuket, plan your trip during the best time to visit Phuket.
8 Best Beaches For Beach Hopping In Phuket
Phuket being the largest island of Thailand has a number of gorgeous beaches with spectacular settings. To be able to cover most of these beaches in a limited time period the best way is to go on a beach hopping trip. Have a look at the best beaches to visit here.
1. Patong Beach
Patong Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Thailand and Phuket. The center being the most crowded, it is a bit peaceful towards its northern edge. This beach is famous for its nightlife and party scenes and has loads of bars and clubs to visit. But that doesn’t mean that it has nothing to offer during the day.
One can enjoy a number of watersports here like parasailing, jet-skiing, and banana boat rides. Parking here could be a hassle so it is advised to either walk to the beach or hire a taxi.
Things to do: Experience the nightlife in Patong, enjoy watersports
Beaches nearby: Karon Beach, Kamala Beach
Must Read: 25 Best Things To Do In Phuket That You Must Not Miss On Your Vacation
2. Kata Beach
Fringed with palms and casuarina trees, the white sand beach is quite inviting and the 1.5 km long stretch of this beach never makes it feel too crowded. With a number of places to eat and drink, from a light snack to a proper Thai meal, it is a popular beach with both the locals and the tourists.
Other than beach activities one can enjoy surfing here as well as shop at the number of stores nearby. Stay at a beach resort at Kata to enjoy the best of this beach!
Things to do: Surfing, sunbathing, shopping for souvenirs
Beaches nearby: Kata Noi Beach, Karon Beach, Ra Wai Beach
Suggested Read: Krabi Vs Phuket: Which Exotic Destination Fits Your Holiday Plans?
3. Karon Beach
A stone’s throw away from Kata Beach, Karon Beach is one of the longest beaches here. It is one of the lesser crowded beaches of Phuket and ideal to include in one’s beach hopping in Phuket Itinerary.
The beach is famous with honeymooners as one can enjoy romantic walks along the coast here. Other than spending quality time, one can also enjoy watersports like jet skiing and parasailing at Karon Beach.
Things to do: Snorkeling, sunbathing, enjoy water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, strolling alongside the sea
Beaches nearby: Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach, Patong Beach
Suggested Read: Canoeing In Phuket: An Exhilarating Experience You Must Undertake
4. Bang Tao Beach
While beach hopping in Phuket, if you are looking for a quieter beach, then head to Bang Tao which is a peaceful 8 km stretch. One can find some great beach resorts, luxury hotels, spas, and a golf course here. It is popular with tourists for its stunning views, easy accessibility, and serenity.
Other than the luxe accommodations, the beach is great to enjoy evening walks, sunbathe, and surf. It is also about the sun, sand, surf and also spas at Bang Tao Beach.
Things to do: Beach walks, watersports like surfing, sunbathing
Beaches nearby: Surin Beach, Kamala Beach, Naiyang Beach
Suggested Read: Safari in Phuket: A Handy Guide For Best Vacation Ideas For Families in Phuket!
5. Mai Khao Beach
If you are looking to spend some peaceful time all by yourself, then Mai Khao Beach is one of the best options. One of the secluded beaches in Phuket, Mai Khao is a vast stretch of white sand coast. The beach is close to Phuket airport and one can see airplanes in the background here.
The water here is deep and clear and the ambiance is tranquil. The only time when there is a rush at this beach is during the Songkran festival in April when baby turtles are released into the sea.
Things to do: Spend a quiet evening here, watch airplanes fly and land, witness the release of baby turtles in the sea in April
Beaches nearby: Hat Sai Kaeo, Nai Yang Beach, Nai Thon Beach
Suggested Read: 6 Lip Smacking Street Food In Phuket Which Will Make You Savour The Taste Of Local Cuisine!
6. Surin Beach
A hub of luxury resorts, Surin is one of the most pretty beaches in Phuket. Offering both, a laid back atmosphere and a number of beach activities this beach is one of the top choices of tourists visiting Phuket.
Also, with Bang Tao just a short cab ride away, it offers one a chance to add beach hopping in Phuket to their list. A beautiful beach lined with pretty palms and with blue waters, it is a great place to go for a swim.
Things to do: Enjoy beach activities, go for a swim
Beaches nearby: Bang Tao Beach, Kamala Beach, Banana Beach
7. Kamala Beach
Another beach to add to one’s beach hopping in Phuket itinerary is Kamala Beach. It is located north of the popular Patong Beach and is quite peaceful in comparison to it. The water here is shallow and tranquil and the beach is the perfect spot for people who want to unwind and relax.
The coastline offers one with ample space to find their own spot and have a great time sitting on the sand and chilling. One can find here a few water activities during the peak tourist season, otherwise, it is mostly quiet for the rest of the year.
Things to do: Spend quality time with one’s folks, enjoy water activities during the tourist season
Beaches nearby: Surin Beach, Hua Beach, Yae Beach
Suggested Read: Bachelor Parties In Phuket: 8 Places To Have Unlimited Fun With Your Gang
8. Nai Harn Beach
Nai Harn Beach is located to the south of the island and is a small bay with soft sand. A really popular spot for surfing and kiteboarding in Phuket, the place is filled with adventure seekers. There isn’t too much commercialization at the beach and it is still quite natural compared to the other beaches in Phuket.
There is a lake too behind the beach where people can be seen fishing and boating. And if you are out beach hopping in Phuket then some of the beaches close by are Ra Wai Beach and Kata Noi Beach.
Things to do: Surfing, kiteboarding
Beaches nearby: Ra Wai Beach, Kata Noi Beach
Tips For Beach Hopping In Phuket
Beach hopping can be one of the best activities on your trip if you take care of these little things. Let these tips help you plan your beach holiday better.
- Do not forget to carry sunscreen as soaking the sun without protection would be a nightmare
- Pack footwear that is easy to rinse off like flip flops
- Always carry your beach towels and hats when planning to hit the beaches in Phuket
- A sand-free beach bag is always a blessing at the end of the day
- Begin your day early if you want to cover more beaches during your beach hopping expedition.
Further Read: Hiking In Phuket: These 7 Trails Will Leave Every Hiker In Awe!
Excited to go beach hopping in Phuket? It is one of the best things to do on the island which has so many picturesque beaches. Book a trip to Phuket with TravelTriangle and have an amazing time exploring the various beaches here. Do not forget to keep a waterproof bag for your electronics! Know of more such beaches to add to one’s itinerary, then write to us in the comments below!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Beach Hopping In Phuket
Which beach is the best in Phuket?
Phuket has a number of pretty beaches and some of the best ones are Patong Beach and Karon Beach.
Is it safe to swim in the sea in Phuket?
The clear water is quite enticing and safe for one to go swimming in the sea in Phuket. But one should avoid it during the monsoon season from May to October as the sea is pretty rough.
Which part of Phuket is best to stay?
Patong and Bang Tao has some nice resorts for couples and families to stay in Phuket.
How many days in Phuket are enough?
One can easily spend 3 to 4 days in Phuket, exploring the various attractions of the island.
Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Phuket?
Bangkok’s international airport, Suvarnabhumi is the cheapest airport in Thailand and therefore it is cheaper to fly to Bangkok than Phuket.
What can you do for free in Phuket?
One can enjoy beach hopping in Phuket and relaxing at the sandy beaches for free.
Which is the cheapest month to fly to Thailand?
March is considered to be the cheapest month to fly to Thailand.
