Can anyone recommend a hostel in Phuket? It seems most are on the east side, but I read the nice beaches are on the west side. I would rather not be in a red light district tho. TIA.

Jess

Theres one in the hart of patpong on soi sansabai , forget the name but just on the left as you enter from Bangla road end

^ N47HAN means Patong, not Patpong which is a red light district in Bangkok. Patong in Phuket has a red light district which is centralized around Bangla Rd.

The only hostel I know of along the west coast beaches but not in sleazy red light districts is RnR's. They have lots of activities. Surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and live music on the weekends. Pretty cool place to hang out. Has it's own bar and lounge downstairs. http://www.phuketrnrhostel.com

http://www.phukethostel.com/

http://www.phukethostel.com/

I considered that place on my 1st visit to Phuket 11 years ago. Too bad they don't mention how far you are from the beaches, and the going price for a tuk tuk!

If it's economical accommodation and everything else, I would recommend Phuket Town. There are many inexpensive and good Thai restaurants, as well as non-tourist bars and cafes. There is also a daytime 'baht' bus service between Phuket Town and Kata/Karon, Rawai/Chalong for beaches, and I think Patong also. I've seen many backpackers in Phuket Town, far more than anywhere else.

Probably TripAdvisor would be the place to start a search.

There are a number of places now offering dorm beds. Look at hostelworld.com. Phuket Town has several choices, Patong has Bodega, Cheap Charlies and a couple of options in the hills behind Nanai, Pineapple Guesthouse in Karon, Rick 'n' Rolls in Kata (ladies only I think).

Avoid the place mentioned by N4than if you want to sleep as it is next to Rock City.

Pineapple guest house in Karon is well located,plenty of bars and restaurants around but not a red light district and close to the beach

There are a number of places now offering dorm beds. Look at hostelworld.com. Phuket Town has several choices, Patong has Bodega, Cheap Charlies and a couple of options in the hills behind Nanai, Pineapple Guesthouse in Karon, Rick 'n' Rolls in Kata (ladies only I think).

Avoid the place mentioned by N4than if you want to sleep as it is next to Rock City.

Ricky has both mixed and ladies only dorms. He has converted all the rooms to dorms now. 20 beds. If you stay there be ready for a social, party like atmosphere. The bar/lounge is packed every night. Live music on the weekends.