Choosing where to stay in Phuket is crucial for your trip experience. From bustling Patong with its vibrant nightlife to peaceful southern beaches, each area offers different vibes. Consider your priorities - nightlife, families, dining, or tranquility. See our hotel guides and transportation tips.
Patong Beach
Best For: Nightlife, shopping, dining, entertainment
Phuket's busiest and most developed beach. Endless restaurants, bars, clubs, and shopping. Bangla Road is the nightlife epicenter. Great for first-timers who want everything nearby. See beach resorts.
Vibe: Energetic, crowded, commercial
Kata Beach
Best For: Families, couples, surfing
Beautiful curved bay with good swimming. More relaxed than Patong but still plenty of restaurants and shops. Excellent surf during low season. Mix of luxury resorts and budget options.
Vibe: Balanced, scenic, accessible
Karon Beach
Best For: Quiet beach time, long walks
3km of golden sand, less crowded than Patong. Good swimming, beautiful sunsets. More spread out with relaxed atmosphere. Walking distance to Kata.
Vibe: Tranquil, spacious, family-oriented
Rawai
Best For: Long stays, authentic experience
South coast area popular with expats. Not ideal for swimming but great seafood restaurants. Close to Nai Harn Beach and Promthep Cape. More affordable long-term stays.
Vibe: Authentic, residential, laid-back
Kamala Beach
Best For: Relaxation, boutique resorts
Peaceful beach north of Patong. Mix of luxury resorts and budget bungalows. Small village atmosphere with local restaurants. Quick access to Patong when needed.
Vibe: Peaceful, village feel, uncrowded
Bang Tao Beach
Best For: Luxury travelers, golf, spa
Long beach with upscale resorts and villas. Home to Laguna Phuket resort complex. Excellent dining and water sports. Perfect for luxury seekers wanting tranquility.
Vibe: Upscale, sophisticated, serene
Phuket Town
Best For: Culture, food, budget travelers
Historic town center with Sino-Portuguese architecture. No beach but authentic Thai experience. Excellent street food, markets, and cultural sites. Budget-friendly guesthouses.
Vibe: Authentic, cultural, urban
Nai Harn Beach
Best For: Beach lovers, swimming
Stunning bay in the south. Crystal-clear water, white sand, surrounded by hills. Less developed with a more natural feel. Popular with locals. Limited accommodations.
Vibe: Natural, beautiful, secluded
Quick Decision Guide
- First time in Phuket? → Patong or Kata for easy access to everything
- Traveling with family? → Kata, Karon, or Kamala for calm beaches
- Want luxury? → Bang Tao or select areas in Kata
- On a budget? → Phuket Town or Rawai for value
- Love nightlife? → Patong is unbeatable
- Want peace and quiet? → Nai Harn, Kamala, or northern beaches
- Cultural experience? → Phuket Town for authentic Thai life