Phuket is generally a safe destination for travelers, but like any tourist area, it's important to stay aware and take sensible precautions. This guide covers everything from beach safety to common scams to help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable visit. Also check useful information and transportation tips.
Beach & Water Safety
Dangerous Currents & Riptides
The most serious safety concern in Phuket. Strong undercurrents and riptides can be deadly, especially during monsoon season (May-October). Always check flags at Patong, Kata, and other beaches.
- Red flags mean DO NOT swim - dangerous conditions
- Yellow flags mean caution - swim near shore only
- Green flags mean safe swimming conditions
- If caught in riptide: DON'T panic or swim against it. Swim parallel to shore until free, then swim back
- Several drownings occur each year - always respect the flags
- Swim only at beaches with lifeguards
- Stay within designated swimming areas
- Never swim alone or when intoxicated
- Avoid swimming at dawn/dusk when currents are strongest
- Ask lifeguards about current conditions
- Supervise children closely at all times
Marine Life
Generally harmless but some precautions needed:
- Jellyfish: Box jellyfish present during monsoon season (especially Kamala, Surin). Vinegar available at beaches for stings. Seek medical attention for severe stings.
- Sea Urchins: Common on rocky areas. Wear water shoes. Remove spines carefully or see doctor.
- Coral: Don't touch - protects you and the reef. Sharp edges can cause infections.
- Stingrays: Shuffle feet when walking in shallow water to avoid stepping on them.
Sun Safety
- Tropical sun is intense - burns happen quickly
- Use high SPF sunscreen (50+) and reapply every 2 hours
- Seek shade during peak hours (11 AM - 3 PM)
- Wear hat and sunglasses
- Drink plenty of water to avoid heat exhaustion
- First-time tropical visitors especially vulnerable
Motorbike Safety
Motorbike Accidents
Leading cause of tourist injuries and deaths in Phuket. The roads are dangerous with steep hills, sharp curves, and unpredictable traffic.
- Hundreds of tourists injured every year
- Many serious injuries and fatalities
- Insurance often invalid without proper license
- Medical bills can reach hundreds of thousands of baht
- Police checkpoints fine riders without licenses (500-1000 THB)
- Have valid motorcycle license (international or Thai)
- ALWAYS wear helmet - both driver and passenger
- Wear proper clothing - no flip-flops or shorts
- Start with automatic scooter if inexperienced
- Avoid riding in rain - roads extremely slippery
- Never ride drunk or at night if inexperienced
- Get comprehensive insurance that covers motorcycles
- Take it slow - you're on vacation, not in a race
Safer Alternatives: Use Grab, taxis, or hotel shuttles instead. The money saved on rentals often equals transport costs without the risk.
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them
Jet Ski Scams
The Scam: Operators claim you damaged the jet ski and demand large payments (20,000-50,000 THB). Sometimes involves intimidation or police.
Avoid: Don't rent jet skis. If you must, photograph all damage before use, film yourself operating it, and use only reputable operators with insurance.
Taxi Overcharging
The Scam: Fixed high prices or refusing meter. Especially at airport and popular spots.
Avoid: Always insist on meter. Walk away if refused. Use Grab app instead. Airport taxis have fixed rates but confirm price before entering.
Tuk-Tuk Tours
The Scam: Cheap/free tours that take you to gem shops, tailors paying commission. Pressure to buy.
Avoid: Decline unsolicited tour offers. Use licensed tour companies. Never go to "friend's shop."
Ping Pong Shows
The Scam: "Free" show with huge drink bill (thousands of baht). Intimidation if you refuse to pay.
Avoid: Avoid these shows entirely. If you go, agree on all prices in writing first. Keep credit cards secured.
Motorbike Rental Damage
The Scam: Claiming pre-existing damage was your fault. Keeping deposit for minor scratches.
Avoid: Photograph/video entire bike before renting. Read contract carefully. Use reputable rental companies.
Timeshare Presentations
The Scam: "Free" tour or gift requiring sitting through high-pressure sales presentation.
Avoid: Decline all free tour/gift offers. These waste hours and are psychologically manipulative.
Personal Safety & Crime
General Safety
Phuket has relatively low violent crime, but petty theft occurs:
Theft Prevention
- Use hotel safe for passport, extra cash, cards
- Don't leave valuables on beach while swimming
- Watch bags in crowded areas and night markets
- Keep phone/camera secured when not in use
- Don't flash expensive jewelry or cash
- Lock hotel room and balcony doors
Night Safety
- Stick to well-lit, busy areas at night
- Avoid walking alone on dark streets
- Don't accept drinks from strangers
- Keep friends aware of your location
- Use registered taxis or Grab late at night
- Be cautious around heavily intoxicated people
Drug Safety
- Drugs are illegal - severe penalties including prison
- Police conduct raids on clubs and bars
- Don't buy or accept drugs from anyone
- Random drug testing possible
- Prescription medications should have documentation
Health & Medical
Travel Insurance
ESSENTIAL - Don't travel without it!
- Medical costs can be extremely high
- Many injuries require medical evacuation
- Check coverage for activities (diving, motorcycles)
- Keep insurance details accessible
- Get policy that covers Thailand specifically
Medical Facilities
Phuket has good hospitals with international standards:
- Bangkok Hospital Phuket (best facilities)
- Phuket International Hospital
- Vachira Phuket Hospital (public, cheaper)
- Most staff speak English
- Credit cards accepted at private hospitals
Common Health Issues
- Stomach Issues: Drink bottled water. Be cautious with ice and street food initially.
- Mosquitoes: Use repellent. Dengue fever risk during rainy season.
- Heat Exhaustion: Stay hydrated. Rest in shade if feeling unwell.
- Food Poisoning: Eat at busy restaurants. Avoid seafood that smells off.
Emergency Contacts
Tourist Police
1155
English-speaking police for tourist issues
General Emergency
191
Police emergency number
Ambulance
1669
Emergency medical services
Fire Department
199
Fire emergency
Your Embassy: Keep your country's embassy contact information saved. They can assist with lost passports, legal issues, and emergencies.
General Safety Advice
- Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, walk away
- Make copies of passport and keep separate from original
- Register with your embassy if staying long-term
- Learn basic Thai phrases including "help" (chuay duay)
- Keep accommodation address in Thai for taxi drivers
- Have local SIM card for emergencies
- Know your hotel's location and phone number
- Be respectful of local customs and culture
Most visitors have safe, wonderful experiences in Phuket. By staying aware, using common sense, and following these guidelines, you can minimize risks and focus on enjoying your tropical vacation.