Phuket is a dream beach destination for many travelers. It is the largest of Thailand’s islands, and the most visited each year. There are over 30 beaches on the coast of Phuket, and when I visited, I found it overwhelming to figure out which beaches to visit. My friends and I were only there for a week, so we wanted to make the best of our trip.
What I have realized from traveling with groups, is that people are REALLY specific about what they want out of a beach vacation. Some are simple, they just want sun and sand – and they are fine. Others are a bit more selective – pure white sand, turquoise clear waters, beach club access, sunbeds, and minimal crowds. This is why I express the importance of selecting folks who travel like you. Just sayin.
The one thing I regret during our visit is not staying at a beachfront or near beach property. Our villa, while luxurious, was a 10-minute drive from the beach. Initially, 10 minutes didn’t seem far, but when you have to arrange transportation and get “ready” to go to the beach, it’s a lot different than just waking up and walking to the beach. Nonetheless, the beaches below are what we chose:
Bangtao Beach
We went to Bangtao Beach because it was the closest to our Villa. Bangtao is a beautiful and quiet beach. It has light brown sand, turquoise water and lots of trees – which makes for great photos. It’s very clean and relaxing. It has many local fresh fish restaurants, and not too many vendors – which was also great. There is nothing like being able to relax at a beach and not having a vendor approach you every 5 minutes. Our villa stay included access to Catch Beach Club, so we had access to a sunbed, food, and alcohol.
Patong Beach
Patong is one of the most popular beaches in Phuket. If you like a beach with a “livelier” atmosphere – think South Beach (Miami), Patong is the place to go to. Very blue water and nice sand for those of you who are particular about sand. Although it’s can be very crowded and “busy,” it’s also great because it is close to many great restaurants as hotels, nightlife and restaurants. It also offers lots of activities such as kayaking, parasailing, and more. Also, if you’re looking for somewhere to get a fish pedicure, this is the place for you.
Karon Beach
If you’re looking for a quiet, laid-back experience, Karon is the beach for you. It’s north of Patong Beach, and one of the most popular beaches on the island. Yet still having plenty of water activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling.
James Bond Island (Phang Nga Bay)
If you’re interested in taking a day trip to beaches our bit farther out in Phuket, I highly suggest James Bond Island. My friends and I debated on whether we should go to James Bond Island or Phi Phi Island – both are undoubtedly the most famous islands in Phuket and Krabi. Each tour is a different experience, it really depends on what you are looking for. For various reasons, we decided to go to James Bond Island instead of Phi Phi.
James Bond Island is best for people who want to canoe, sightsee in caves, swim and sunbathe. I really enjoyed canoeing riding through the caves and taking photos of the limestone cliffs. Though I am not a fan of the bats in the caves – I had a terrible childhood experience with them– I packed my fears away and did the tour anyway. It was an amazing experience. Note: I highly suggest purchasing a waterproof pouch for your phones, they will get wet.
