Looking for the best beaches in Phuket?

Phuket, the jewel of Thailand’s Andaman Sea, boasts a diverse array of stunning beaches that cater to the unique preferences of every traveller. Whether seeking the best, the most secluded, or the bustling coastal vibes, this comprehensive guide brings you the best 21 beaches in Phuket. Join us as we embark on a sandy adventure, where we’ll uncover the pros and cons of each, ensuring you find the perfect slice of paradise tailored to your desires.

Top 21 Beaches in Phuket

1. Freedom Beach: A Secluded Oasis

At the southern tip of Patong Bay, Freedom Beach beckons with its seclusion and natural beauty. To reach this hidden paradise, you can embark on a serene boat ride or take on a moderately challenging jungle trek. Once you arrive, soft, powdery sands await, leading to the sparkling Andaman Sea. With the luxury of fewer visitors, you’ll have ample space to bask in the sun or explore the vibrant underwater world through snorkelling.

2. Patong Beach: A Vibrant Coastal Hub

Patong Beach takes centre stage as the primary beach on Phuket’s west coast, and booking a hotel here is a personal preference. It’s a bustling town teeming with restaurants, shops, markets, bars, and even go-go bars, though it may not exude the typical Thai ambience. While the central stretch of the beach can get busy, the northern end remains wonderful and relatively tranquil. You’ll find many hotel options, including just a few luxury accommodations like Avista Hideaway and three beachfront hotels. If your goal is to revel in nightlife, Patong is the ideal base.

3. Paradise Beach: A Hidden Paradise

Accessible by a short boat ride from Patong Beach, Paradise Beach is a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed by mainstream tourists. Vibrant coral reefs, clear waters, and lively marine life make it a snorkeler’s paradise. The beach club adds a touch of luxury for those who want to relax in style while gazing at the stunning sunsets.

4. Discover Karon Beach

Karon Beach, the second-longest beach in Phuket, stands out as one of the island’s most popular coastal havens. This impressive stretch of white sand and crystalline blue waters shines during the high season, offering ample space that never feels overcrowded. You’ll find numerous excellent hotels along the main beach road, being Avista Grande Karon on of the best to stay in the area. Karon Beach also treats visitors to various restaurants, small shops, a vibrant bazaar, a temple market, and even some enticing nightlife options.

5. Karon Noi Beach: A Hidden Gem Between Tourist Hotspots

Concealed discreetly amidst the bustling tourist destinations of Karon and Patong on Phuket Island, Karon Noi Beach is an unspoiled gem that easily ranks among the most picturesque beaches in the region. It boasts the splendid Le Meridien Resort Phuket as its neighbour and retains a serene ambience. Karon Noi’s allure lies in its powdery white sands harmoniously meeting the crystal-clear azure waters, creating an idyllic haven for those fortunate enough to discover it. Regrettably, due to the resort’s exclusive presence along the shoreline, this pristine beach is limited to hotel guests or individuals securing a day pass.

6. Explore Kata Beach

Kata Beach claims the title of Phuket’s second most adored beach, following closely behind Patong. Kata Beach, a favoured choice among families, boasts a vast expanse of soft, white sandy shoreline and strikingly blue waters during the high season. It offers a respite from the bustling crowds of Patong and provides an array of dining, shopping, and decent nightlife options. While many hotels cater to various budgets, only a handful enjoy direct beachfront access.

7. Kata Noi Beach: A Tranquil Gem Beyond Kata

Kata Noi Beach presents a serene and laid-back alternative to the bustling Kata Beach.  Situated just a bit further along the coast from Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach resides in a small, picturesque cove. Here, you’ll find crystal-clear blue waters, pristine white sands, and surf-friendly waves, making it an unmissable beach haven.

8. Embrace Nai Harn Beach’s Natural Beauty

Nai Harn Beach, nestled amid verdant hills and secluded islets, exudes a sense of serenity and charm. The fine, soft sands and vibrant blue waters make it a captivating destination during the high season (November to April). Unlike the bustling tourist spots on the west coast, such as Patong, Kata, and Karon, Nai Harn has preserved its local essence, thanks partly to the protected park surrounding the bay. While only a handful of hotels grace its shores, Nai Harn retains its authentic local atmosphere. The bay offers a sheltered haven where sailing and fishing boats find refuge in tranquil waters.

9. Ao Sane Beach: A Snorkeler’s Paradise

Concealed near Nai Harn Beach, Ao Sane Beach is a rocky cove that unveils its treasures to snorkelling enthusiasts. The unique rock formations, both onshore and underwater, create an underwater landscape teeming with life. With an on-site dive shop and a rustic beachside restaurant, it’s a fantastic spot for underwater exploration, followed by a delicious seafood feast.

10. Ya Nui Beach: A Picturesque Cove

Nestled between Windmill Viewpoint and Promthep Cape, Ya Nui Beach is a picturesque little cove that often escapes the radar of mainstream tourists. Large boulders and swaying palm trees surround this hidden gem, adding to its unique charm. Its calm waters are perfect for kayaking or simply floating your worries away, providing a peaceful respite from the bustling world.

11.  Coco Beach: Peaceful Paradise

Coco Beach is a pristine private shoreline located on Yao Yai Island, just a 10-minute boat ride away from Phuket, Thailand. Resembling a true tropical paradise, this haven offers a delightful retreat for solo adventurers, families with children, and groups of friends alike. It's a place where you can indulge in the full spectrum of your desires: a perfect blend of nature's tranquility and vibrant hues, a plethora of thrilling sports and captivating adventures, along with top-notch service and luxurious comfort.

12. Banana Beach: Tranquility by the Shore

While not entirely off the beaten path, Banana Beach is often overshadowed by its famous neighbours. A short, long-tail boat ride from Laguna Beach transports you to this serene paradise. The shallow, calm waters here are perfect for families, and the lush greenery surrounding the beach adds to its peaceful ambience, providing a quiet environment for a relaxing beach day.

13. Uncover Kamala Beach’s

Transformation Kamala Beach, once known for its understated allure, underwent a transformation with the arrival of Fantasea Park and the world-renowned Cafe Del Mar beach club. This beautiful beach, especially at its northern end, boasts clear waters and a charming small town offering decent dining and shopping choices, including beach-access hotels.

14. Nui Beach: A Secluded Haven

Hidden on the southwestern tip of Phuket, Nui Beach is a serene and secluded paradise far from the maddening crowds. Reaching it requires a short, long-tail boat ride from Promthep Cape, but the effort is well worth it. Here, you’ll find powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees, creating a perfect setting for snorkelling and sunbathing in peace.

15. Naithon Beach: A Tranquil Oasis

Still looking for the best beaches in Phuket? Here's another one! Naithon Beach, tucked away on Phuket’s west coast, stands as another hidden treasure, distant from the main road. This expansive beach boasts surreal sea hues during the high season, with soft, white sands that appeal to those seeking a peaceful retreat with essential amenities. A handful of restaurants and convenience stores cater to your needs for a weekend getaway, and a few hotels, including the remarkable Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Resort, dot the area. To fully savour a Naithon stay, renting a car or motorbike is recommended. While it may feel too tranquil during the low season (from May to November), some travellers appreciate the solitude.

16. Explore Laem Singh Beach

Laem Singh Beach has always held a special place among Phuket’s favourite coastal spots. With its nostalgic Caribbean vibe, lush palm trees swaying over the sands, and an almost secluded ambience, it’s reminiscent of a secret Robinson Crusoe hideaway. Access to the public may have been restricted since 2017, but there’s still a way to uncover its hidden charms.

17. Experience Bangtao Beach’s Vibrancy

Bangtao Beach, one of Phuket’s longest stretches of shoreline, resides halfway between the airport and Patong along the island’s west coast. With its expansive sandy shores, Bangtao has become synonymous with the sprawling resort complex, Laguna Phuket. This beach has evolved into one of Phuket’s liveliest and trendiest destinations, adorned with numerous beach clubs and an abundance of dining options right on the beach.

18. Mai Khao Beach: A Serene, Untouched Oasis

Mai Khao Beach, stretching for a remarkable 11 kilometres, is considered Phuket’s longest beach. Surprisingly, it has retained its peaceful and untouched character since my first visit in 1990. While a few hotels have been added, beach chairs, umbrellas, and food vendors have not overrun the beach yet. You can stroll along its eleven-kilometre expanse and encounter only a handful of fellow beachgoers, preserving the beach’s unspoiled essence.

19. Serene Surin Beach

Surin Beach has undergone a transformation, now resembling an untouched coastal gem. What was once a bustling spot with beach chairs for relaxation, a plethora of beachfront bars and restaurants, and various vendors has now evolved into a 100% natural oasis.

20. Enchanting Pansea Beach

While private beaches aren’t officially sanctioned in Thailand, some circumvent this by owning all the surrounding land, resulting in the most exquisite coastal spots. Pansea Beach, shared by ‘The Surin Phuket’ and ‘Amanpuri Phuket,’ is a prime example of a pristine and exclusive beach.

21. Nai Yang Beach: A Hidden Gem

Nai Yang has earned its place as one of our favourite beaches, primarily because it remains relatively unspoiled, tucked a bit away from the main road. This picturesque crescent of sand features charming beachfront restaurants and bars in the shade of trees. While a few luxury resorts like The Slate and Marriott Nai Yang grace the bay, there are also affordable hotel options slightly further from the beach. Nai Yang offers a tranquil escape from the crowded beaches while providing year-round activities for an enjoyable stay.

Phuket's Coastal Treasures

When you plan your visit to Phuket, make sure to explore these hidden treasures. Each beach offers a unique experience, from serene snorkelling spots to tranquil coves and untouched landscapes. Whether you’re searching for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, these lesser-known beaches in Phuket have something extraordinary to offer, making your island getaway unforgettable. So, go ahead and uncover Phuket’s best-kept beach secrets; your paradise awaits!