The 8 Best Places To Stay In Phuket

When planning a trip to Phuket, Thailand, choosing where to stay is vital. This beautiful island is famous for its clear beaches, lively nightlife, and rich culture. It offers a wide variety of accommodations to fit every preference and budget.

Whether you seek a lively beach town, a family-friendly getaway, a luxury spa resort, or a peaceful retreat, Phuket has something for you. This guide highlights the 8 best places to stay in Phuket, showcasing each area’s unique features and amenities to help you find the perfect spot for your Thai adventure.

1. Patong: The Heartbeat of Phuket

Why You Should Stay in Patong

Patong is the vibrant center of Phuket, ideal for many travelers. This busy beach town is known for its energetic nightlife, especially Bangla Road, which turns into a lively party scene at night. Patong Beach offers a 3-kilometer sandy stretch with activities like jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and kayaking, perfect for water sports lovers and those seeking excitement.

Patong is also a shopping hub with places like Central Patong, which has various dining options, fashion stores, and more. The area is well-connected with easy transportation, including wheelchair-accessible tuk-tuks, making it simple to explore nearby attractions.

Top Accommodation Picks

Patong has several excellent hotels and resorts that combine comfort, luxury, and convenience:

• Hotel Indigo Phuket: A compact luxury hotel near Patong Beach and Bangla Walking Street. Stylish and well-located for those wanting to be in the heart of the action.
• Amari Phuket: Located at the southern end of Patong Beach, it offers a unique sandy cove and bay views. Features two large pools and a romantic restaurant.
• Rosewood Phuket: A luxurious retreat on Tri Trang Beach, 3 km south of Patong. Offers stylish rooms, private plunge pools, and an excellent spa.

These hotels provide a range of amenities to ensure a memorable and comfortable stay in Patong.

2. Kata: A Family-Friendly Retreat

Reasons to Choose Kata

Kata Beach is perfect for families and those seeking a relaxed atmosphere. Located on Phuket’s southwest coast, it features gentle sea entry, soft golden sand, and clear turquoise waters. The 1.5 km beach is great for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling.

In the low season, Kata is popular for surfing, with rental boards and lessons available. The area offers family-friendly activities like a kids’ club and daily games to keep children entertained. There are also several restaurants, a surf cafe, a dino-park, and a viewpoint to enjoy.

Recommended Hotels and Resorts

Kata Beach has a variety of hotels and resorts for different needs:

• Sawasdee Village Resort and Spa: An oasis with lush gardens, Arabian decor, and a great spa. Its serene atmosphere makes it a standout choice.
• Novotel Avista Resort: A modern hotel on a hill overlooking the sea, close to the beach and Kata Center.
• Mom Tri’s Villa Royale: Villas overlooking Kata Noi Beach with a top-rated restaurant, about a 15-minute walk from the main area.
• Kata Palm Resort: Known for its large pool and kids’ pools, just a few minutes from the beach and local restaurants.
• The Shore At Katathani: A luxurious resort on Kata Noi Beach with sea views, private pools, and a 5-star beachfront experience.

These options provide comfort, luxury, and family-friendly amenities for a relaxing stay in Kata.

3. Karon: Scenic Beauty and Serenity

The Appeal of Karon

Karon Beach, on Phuket’s southwest coast, is known for its scenic beauty and peacefulness. The 3-kilometer white sand beach is nestled between lush hills, offering stunning views of the Andaman Sea.

The beach is less crowded than other Phuket spots, ideal for a relaxing vacation. The northern end is secluded, perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds. The southern end is lively with water sports like windsurfing, kayaking, banana boat rides, and jet skiing. The coral reef is great for snorkeling.

Karon also features attractions like the Karon Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon Beaches. Karon Park, with its artificial lake, is great for strolls or runs and hosts festivals like Loy Krathong.

Where to Stay in Karon

Karon offers various accommodations. Top choices include:

• Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Karon Beach: Features three pools, a spa, a fitness center, and rooms with private balconies.
• The Old Phuket: A family-owned resort with two wings offering traditional and modern comforts, two pools, four restaurants, and more.
• Sugar Marina Resort – ART – Karon Beach: Just a 3-minute walk from the beach, featuring an outdoor pool and artistic decor.
• Baan Sailom Hotel: Comfortable rooms with balconies and an outdoor pool, close to the beach and central Karon.
• Serenity Apartment at Karon Beach: Self-catering apartments with pool views, sun terraces, and free parking.

These accommodations offer luxury, comfort, and various amenities for a pleasant stay in Karon.

4. Kamala: For a Quiet and Cozy Experience

Discovering Kamala’s Charm

Kamala Beach, on Phuket’s west coast, is tranquil and family-friendly. The long stretch of soft sand and calm waters during high season make it perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Kamala blends natural beauty with a laid-back vibe. The beach is lined with excellent Thai and international restaurants, many with ocean views. Attractions include the Kamala Temple and the Kamala Farmers Market, held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Sundays.

Evening entertainment includes the Cafe Del Mar Beach Club and Pine Beach Bar at the InterContinental Phuket, offering a relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunsets.

Top Stays in Kamala

Kamala has a range of accommodations:

• InterContinental Phuket: A 5-star beachfront resort with luxurious rooms, multiple dining options, a spa, and a fitness center.
• Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach: Offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, direct beach access, and a rooftop bar.
• Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort: Near Rayee Beach, featuring luxurious rooms, multiple pools, a kids’ club, and stunning sea views.
• Paresa Resort: Luxury villas in Kamala Bay with private pools, outdoor areas, and fully equipped kitchens.
• Twinpalms MontAzure: Spacious suites and penthouses with great views, a fitness center, multiple pools, and a library.

These stays provide a quiet, cozy, and luxurious experience in Kamala.

5. Bang Tao: Luxury Meets Tranquility

Why Bang Tao is Unmissable

Bang Tao Beach is one of Phuket’s longest beaches, blending luxury with tranquility. This 6-kilometer white sand beach, lined with casuarina trees, offers a peaceful atmosphere unlike the busier areas.

The beach is perfect for walking, running, or strolling, with the northern sections being especially pristine. Activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, diving, and snorkeling. The area also offers golfing at Laguna Phuket Golf Club and island hopping to places like Phi Phi Islands.

The local village and Laguna Phuket complex mix authentic Thai culture with international amenities. Visitors can explore markets, enjoy traditional Thai food, and dine at various international restaurants.

Luxury Resorts in Bang Tao

Bang Tao hosts some of Phuket’s most luxurious resorts:

• Mövenpick Phuket Bangtao: Combines Thai and contemporary design with king-size rooms, private pools, jacuzzis, a spa, and dining options like The Palm.
• Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket: Offers ocean-front rooms, suites, and villas with activities like watersports, yoga, and batik painting. Features the Angsana Spa and extensive kids’ facilities.
• Banyan Tree Phuket: Traditional Thai elegance with modern comforts, golf course, tennis courts, yoga pavilion, and private beach access.
• The Pavilions Phuket: Luxurious suites and villas with stunning ocean views, rooftop bar, fine dining, and a fabulous spa.

These resorts provide comfort, luxury, and a variety of activities to enhance your stay in Bang Tao.

6. Surin Beach: The Celebrity Hotspot

The Lure of Surin Beach

Surin Beach, known as “millionaires row,” attracts the rich and famous. Located on Phuket’s west coast, it features soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and beautiful scenery.

The peaceful atmosphere and picturesque views make it perfect for a luxurious getaway. Surin Beach offers activities like surfing, paddleboarding, parasailing, and snorkeling during the high season. The low season attracts surfers and boogie boarders despite challenging conditions.

Nearby attractions include the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and Phuket FantaSea theme park, offering a mix of culture and entertainment.

Accommodation Options in Surin

Surin Beach has exclusive and luxurious resorts:

• The Surin Phuket: Located on Pansea Beach, it features 109 cottages, suites, and pool villas with elegant design and personal amenities.
• Amanpuri Resort: Shares Pansea Beach with The Surin, known for luxurious villas and exceptional service. Features the Arva Italian Restaurant.
• Twinpalms Phuket: Nearby luxury suites and villas with amenities like a spa, fitness center, and Wagyu Steakhouse.

These resorts offer luxury, tranquility, and exclusive amenities for an extraordinary stay at Surin Beach.

7. Rawai: Off the Beaten Path

The Unique Allure of Rawai

Rawai Beach, in southern Phuket, is a hidden gem with a laid-back vibe. It’s popular among locals and expats for its serene and authentic atmosphere.

Rawai’s vibrant seafood market and Gypsy Village at the south pier showcase local fishermen and fresh seafood. It’s a great place to taste local cuisine and experience the traditional lifestyle.

Rawai is also a base for island-hopping to Coral Island, Buddha Island, and Bon Island, perfect for snorkeling and exploring beautiful beaches.

Families can enjoy Rawai Park Kids Club with its water playground and activities. Nearby beaches like Laem Ka, Ya Nui, and Nai Harn offer more family-friendly options. Activities include Thai kickboxing and horseback riding for active vacations.

Staying in Rawai: Top Picks

Rawai offers various accommodations:

• Rawai Palm Beach Resort (Sha Plus+): Family-friendly with comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and direct beach access.
• Navatara Phuket Resort (Sha Plus+): Luxurious villas with private pools, ideal for couples and families.
• Sunsuri Phuket (Sha Plus+): Stylish rooms, outdoor pool, spa, and a romantic atmosphere.
• Ya Nui Resort: Boutique resort near Ya Nui Beach with cozy rooms and private pools.
• Phuket Sea Resort: Budget-friendly with comfortable rooms, outdoor pool, and a restaurant.

These options ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in Rawai.

8. Phuket Old Town: Cultural and Historical Haven

Why Phuket Old Town is Special

Phuket Old Town is a cultural and historical treasure. Dating back to the 19th century, it was a hub for tin mining and international trade. The area features well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture that blends Chinese, European, and local styles.

The multicultural community includes Thai, Chinese, Muslim, and European influences. The Baba-Nyonya community, or Peranakans, adds to the town’s unique culture with their distinct traditions and cuisine.

Phuket Old Town has many museums and temples, such as the Thai Hua Museum, Baan Chinpracha Museum, and Phuket Baba Museum, offering insights into its rich history.

The Sunday Walking Street Market on Thalang Road is a highlight, offering crafts, souvenirs, and street food in a lively setting. The town also has a vibrant cafe scene and impressive street art murals.

Khao Rang Viewpoint provides panoramic views of the town, perfect for appreciating its beauty.

Best Places to Stay in Phuket Old Town

Phuket Old Town offers excellent accommodations:

• Novotel Phuket Phokeethra: Located in the heart of Phuket Town, it combines modern comfort with traditional Thai hospitality. Ideal for exploring local attractions.
• Baan 125 Stay Phuket: A boutique hotel with a mix of modern comfort and historical charm. Perfect for exploring local culture and dining.
• Onya Phuket Hotel: Modern and stylish with comfortable rooms, providing a relaxing base to explore Phuket Old Town.
• Hotel Verdigris: A boutique hotel with a cozy atmosphere, traditional Thai architecture, and stylish decor.

These hotels offer comfort, culture, and convenience, making them ideal for experiencing Phuket Old Town’s charm.

Conclusion

Phuket offers a wide range of beaches, cultural attractions, and luxurious resorts for every traveler. Whether you enjoy Patong’s lively nightlife, Kata’s family-friendly vibe, Karon’s serene beauty, or Old Town’s historical charm, Phuket has a unique experience for you.

Explore beyond the main areas to find hidden gems like Bang Tao’s luxury resorts, Surin Beach’s celebrity allure, and Rawai’s cultural richness. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, Phuket promises unforgettable memories.

Start planning your trip today and enjoy the best Phuket has to offer.