Exploring the 7 best beaches in Phuket

[CharlieH]

 Image by Hongbin via Unsplash

Image by Hongbin via Unsplash

Phuket’s perennial allure lies in its beautiful beaches, which continue to lure visitors from across the globe. Along with the soft, golden sands, the dazzling hues of the Andaman Sea have captivated everyone, from couples on romantic getaways and digital nomads seeking inspiration to families and friends looking for some fun in the sun. While it’s tempting to stay cocooned in your villa, especially when it’s as dreamy as Botanica Luxury Villas, the irresistible pull of Phuket’s beaches will have you wandering out to sunbathe with a fresh coconut in hand. And below, we’ve gathered the best beaches in Phuket that are perfect for your island escape.

The 7 best beaches in Phuket you need to visit

1. Surin Beach

Surin Beach. Image by Bence Biczó via Unsplash.

Perfect for: Luxury travellers, food lovers, and beachgoers seeking an upscale vibe

Location: Surin Beach, Phuket’s west coast. Around 20 minutes from Botanica Modern Loft II.

With its crystal-clear waters and pristine sands, Surin Beach is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket. Surrounded by luxury resorts and high-end dining establishments, it attracts visitors seeking a more refined, upscale beach experience. However, despite the premium feel of the area, Surin Beach maintains a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. And thanks to the beach’s size and open layout, visitors can easily find their own quiet spot to relax even during peak times.

The water at Surin Beach is perfect for swimming during the high season, while the waves become more suited to bodyboarding and surfing during the monsoon season. Snorkelling is also popular here, with the coral reefs just offshore teeming with marine life. For those looking to spend a leisurely day by the water, there are sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent. Plus, the beach is lined with coconut palms and casuarina trees, which offer natural shade for a leisurely day by the sea.

Food options range from local beachside vendors offering Thai snacks and fresh coconuts to more refined beachfront restaurants serving international cuisine. Parking can be tricky during peak season, so arriving early is recommended if you’re driving.

2. Nai Thon Beach

Nai Thon Beach. Image by Veseye7118 via Wikimedia Commons.

Perfect for: Solitude, couples, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Location: Nai Thon Beach, Phuket’s northwest coast, about 10 minutes from Botanica Lakeside.

Tucked away on Phuket’s quieter northwest coast, Nai Thon Beach is a peaceful, scenic retreat that remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. One of the best ways to access the beach is through a charming wooden bridge that feels like a secret passage to paradise. Despite its postcard-perfect setting, you’ll often find Nai Thon blissfully uncrowded. The sands stretch along a kilometre of coastline, framed by dense greenery and gently lapping waves. During the dry season, its calm waters invites swimmers and snorkellers, while sun-seekers can relax on the soft sands.

Aside from its proximity to Botanica Lakeside, Botanica Lakeside II Villas, what makes Nai Thon a great beach to visit is its tranquillity. It’s far less commercialised than many of the island’s more famous beaches. This makes it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind away from the crowds. A few local seafood restaurants and beachside cafés offer fresh dishes, and there’s plenty of space to set up your own beach mat or rent a sun lounger. The nearby hills also provide an opportunity for scenic walks or hiking if you’re feeling adventurous.

3. Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach. Image by Leon Panchenko via Unsplash

Perfect for: Families, relaxed holidaymakers, and retirees.

Location: Kamala Beach, Phuket’s west coast, roughly 30 minutes from Botanica Foresta II .

Kamala Beach is a family-friendly beach that offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to its livelier neighbour, the infamous Patong. Since the waters here are calm for most of the year, it’s ideal for swimming, especially for children and less confident swimmers. The beach is long, with plenty of space for visitors to spread out, and it’s lined with casual eateries and beach bars that offer everything from Thai street food to international dishes. In addition, there are sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, as well as vendors offering massages right on the sand.

For those looking for activities, Kamala has plenty to offer. You can rent kayaks towards the north end of the beach, go parasailing, or book a snorkelling tour to explore the nearby reefs. The beach is also home to the famous Phuket FantaSea and Carnival Magic, cultural theme parks with nightly shows, making it an excellent spot for families.

4. Bang Tao Beach

Bang Tao Beach. Image by Raita Futo via Flickr.

Perfect for: Families, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a luxurious yet laid-back beach day.

Location: Bang Tao Beach, northwest Phuket, about 12 minutes from Botanica Sky The Valley.

Bang Tao Beach is one of Phuket’s longest beaches, stretching for 6 kilometres along the island’s northwest coast. Known for its luxury resorts and relaxed atmosphere, this beach offers a blend of serenity and sophistication. Unlike the busy Patong, Bang Tao is far less crowded. Therefore, it’s popular among those who prefer a more laid-back beach day.

Most people come to Bang Tao to enjoy water sports, with options like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing available. The northern end of the beach tends to be quieter, while the southern end, near the resorts, has a bit more activity with beachfront restaurants, bars, and beach clubs. If you’re in the mood for a luxurious day by the water, head to one of the beach clubs where you can rent a sunbed, order cocktails, and enjoy a relaxed yet chic vibe.

5. Banana Beach

Banana Beach. Image by fokkebok via iStock.

Perfect for: Snorkelling enthusiasts, solitude seekers, and nature lovers.

Location: Banana Beach, west Phuket, approximately 8 minutes from Botanica Lakeside I , Botanica Lakeside II.

A true hidden gem, Banana Beach is one of Phuket’s most picturesque and secluded spots. Not to be mistaken for its namesake on Koh Hey, this tucked-away cove lies between Nai Thon and Bang Tao and it offers a peaceful retreat far removed from the island’s busier beaches. Surrounded by lush jungle and towering palm trees, Banana Beach feels like a tropical paradise that’s well worth the extra effort to reach.

Accessible via a short, somewhat steep path from the main road, this beach remains relatively untouched by over-tourism. Therefore, it’s a wonderful place for those seeking peace and privacy. With colourful marine life just beneath the surface of the crystal-clear waters, be sure to swim and snorkel while you’re here. Due to its off-the-beaten-path location, you won’t find many vendors or restaurants here, but during the high season, a small beach bar opens up, so you can enjoy refreshments and simple meals.

6. Patong Beach

Patong Beach. Image by Robert Eklund via Unsplash.

Perfect for: Nightlife lovers, partygoers, and thrill-seekers.

Location: Patong Beach, West Phuket, about 40 minutes from Botanica Modern Loft II.

Patong Beach is Phuket’s most famous and bustling beach, known for its lively atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and extensive range of activities. While it can be crowded, especially during the high season, it remains a must-visit for those who thrive on energy and excitement. The beach itself is a long stretch of sand lined with countless bars, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can enjoy everything from jet skiing and parasailing to beach volleyball and banana boat rides.

Patong’s nightlife is legendary, with Bangla Road at the heart of it all. This bustling street comes alive at night with neon lights, music, and an array of nightclubs, bars, and street performances. If you’re looking to experience Phuket’s party scene, this is the place to be.

Despite its lively reputation, Patong Beach also offers quieter corners for those who prefer to relax and sunbathe. There are plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas available for hire, and vendors are always nearby, selling fresh fruit, snacks, and cold drinks.

7. Kata Beach

Kata Beach. Image by Radek Kucharski via Flickr.

Perfect for: Families, beginner surfers, and water sports enthusiasts.

Location: Kata Beach, southwest Phuket, about 60 minutes from Botanica Foresta II.

This list of best beaches in Phuket wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Kata Beach. Located on the southwest coast of the island, Kata Beach is divided into two main areas: Kata Yai (the main beach) and Kata Noi (a smaller, quieter beach to the south). Its reputation as a family-friendly destination is well-deserved, thanks to its variety of activities, dining options, and safe swimming conditions.

For those new to surfing, Kata Beach is a great place to start. During the low season (May to October), the waves are ideal for beginners, and you’ll find surf schools offering lessons and board rentals right on the beach. In the high season (November to April), the sea calms down. Therefore, the conditions are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, especially near the southern end of the beach, where there’s a coral reef.

Why buy a villa in Phuket?

Image via Botanica Hillside

The hardest part of any visit to Phuket is, undoubtedly, leaving. The island’s enchanting beauty has a way of capturing hearts, so much so that many visitors find themselves dreaming of staying forever. So why not make that dream a reality?

With Botanica Luxury Villas, you can. They offer a portfolio of exclusive luxury properties designed for discerning buyers who value privacy, comfort, and elegant living. Established as a premier luxury villa brand in Phuket, Botanica’s developments are known for their meticulous attention to detail, sophisticated design, and exceptional quality.

Each Botanica Luxury Villas project is crafted to blend seamlessly with Phuket’s stunning natural surroundings. With over 15 projects across Phuket, Botanica Luxury Villas ensures that buyers have a range of options tailored to different lifestyles, from the modern minimalism of Botanica Modern Loft II to the serene, nature-focused environment of Botanica Forestara II.

Investing in Botanica Luxury Villas not only gives you access to some of Phuket’s most beautiful beaches but also ensures that you are part of an exclusive community that defines luxury living in Thailand. With each villa made to meet the highest standards, owning a property in Botanica Luxury Villas means embracing the ultimate in tropical luxury while enjoying Phuket’s world-famous natural beauty.

 

For more information, be sure to visit Botanica Luxury Villas’s website.

 

 

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