Where to Stay in Phuket, Thailand: 7 Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Phuket? You’re in the right place!

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, and there’s so much to see and do here, from watersports and buzzing nightlife to charming old streets and elephant sanctuaries. But what many first-timers don’t realize is that it’s a huge island and it takes over an hour to get from one side to the other, so where you stay can really shape your experience.

After visiting Phuket more times than we can count, we’ve broken down the 7 best areas so that you can choose the spot that best suits your vibe, whether you’re looking for beachy relaxation or local culture. We’ve also listed our top hotel picks for every budget, so finding a great place to stay has never been easier. Let’s go! 

Where to Stay in Phuket Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Phuket, Thailand 

We know it can be tricky to choose between so many varied areas on Phuket. Each part of the island has its own personality, from buzzing nightlife spots to peaceful beach hideaways, so it can be tough to decide where to stay.

The good news is that getting around Phuket is pretty straightforward. Grab (Thailand’s version of Uber) is cheap and convenient, so you can easily explore different areas no matter where you’re based. Just keep in mind that Phuket is a big island and traveling from the airport in the north to beaches in the south, like Kata, can take over an hour. Planning your base carefully can save a lot of travel time and make your trip smoother.

• Kata Beach – Kata is one of Phuket’s best beaches, and the area is lively without being overwhelming. Orchidacea Resort – Kata Beach offers a stylish stay right by the beach.

• Karon Beach – Karon is similar to Kata but slightly quieter, with stronger waves that make it popular among surfers. The Proud Karon Beach offers a five-star stay at a great price.

• Kamala – Kamala is calm and relaxing, so it’s an ideal spot for families or anyone looking for a laid-back beach escape. The Marin is a gorgeous hotel that’s all about relaxation.

• Patong – This is party central, so if you’re looking for energy and entertainment, then stay here! M Social Hotel Phuket offers a lovely, modern stay that won’t break the bank.

• Phuket Town – This area offers a nice mixture of nightlife, modern culture, and access to tours and activities. WOO Gallery & Boutique hotel offers a charming boutique stay right in the centre.

• Rawai – This is a quiet area with a more relaxed, local vibe, so it’s ideal for those who want to escape the crowds. Rawai Palm Beach Resort is a beautiful, beachy resort with a huge swimming pool.

• Bang Tao – Bang Tao is near the airport and it’s home to a beautiful beach, so it combines convenience with natural beauty. Andaman Seaside Resort Bangtao Beach offers a comfortable stay with lots of local flair.

Where to Stay in Phuket, Thailand

Kata Beach

Kata Beach is one of Phuket’s most popular beach destinations, and it’s our favorite place to stay! We enjoy this area because it has a lively but relaxed vibe. It has a wide, golden beach and an upbeat atmosphere, so it’s ideal if you want a fun beach holiday without the intensity of Patong. 

Another reason we like Kata Beach is that it’s a great spot for surfing, especially during the low season, which is between May and October. This is when the beaches are quieter, but the waves pick up. Experienced surfers flock here, but it’s also a great place to learn the ropes!

Beyond the sand, Kata has a variety of restaurants, beach bars, and cafes, offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. It’s close to viewpoints such as Karon Viewpoint, which provides sweeping views of Kata, Karon, and the Andaman Sea. Wat Kitti Sangkharam temple is also nearby, so you can get a glimpse into local Buddhist life.

Kata does largely cater to tourists, but it has an easygoing charm that some other areas have lost. It’s a comfortable base for exploring southern Phuket, but do keep in mind that the airport is over an hour away.

Pros

• Beautiful beach that’s great for swimming and surfing
• Lots to do 
• Family-friendly atmosphere

Cons

• Can get crowded during peak season (November to April)
• Limited nightlife compared to Patong

Chanalai Flora Resort, Kata Beach – $$$

Chanalai Flora Resort is the ultimate family-friendly resort in Kata Beach! With contemporary Thai design, spacious rooms, and a gorgeous pool, it’s hard not to fall in love with this place. It also boasts a super central location, so it’s easy to reach nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions. Karon Viewpoint and Kata Noi Beach are nearby, too. 

There’s a well-equipped (and, crucially, air-conditioned) fitness center on site, and the service is super attentive. Best of all, there’s a big on-site restaurant which serves up yummy food, and a great breakfast every morning. Rooms start at $60 USD per night and range up to $550 USD, depending on season and room type.

See room availability and secure your stay here!

Orchidacea Resort – Kata Beach – $$

Orchidacea Resort – Kata Beach is a beautiful, relaxing resort just steps from the beach. It combines sleek, modern rooms with tropical garden surroundings. There’s a large swimming pool, a poolside bar, and an on-site restaurant serving Thai and Western dishes. 

This is a great spot for couples and families, or anyone who wants to explore Kata on foot. It boasts a prime location and a fantastic breakfast with Thai and international options. Rooms start at $50 USD and go up to $275 USD per night, depending on room type and season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Kata White Villas – $

Kata White Villas is a budget-friendly option with just a short walk from the beach. The villas are simple and no-frills, but they’re still modern and comfortable! There are small kitchens or kitchenettes, which make it easy for travelers to self-cater.

There’s no swimming pool, but with the sea just steps away, I don’t think it’s a huge sacrifice! Rooms cost between $30 and $175 USD per night, depending on season and room type.

Reserve your stay at Kata White Villas here!

Karon Beach

Karon Beach is a long, wide stretch of sand just south of Patong and north of Kata. It’s quieter than its two neighbors, and it has a spacious shoreline, so there’s always room to spread out and relax. The waters are great for swimming, and we love strolling along the soft sand in the evening!

We think that Karon is a great choice if you’re looking for a fairly quiet beach experience, but you don’t want to be completely off the beaten path. There are livelier neighborhoods just a 5–15-minute Grab ride away, but you don’t have to deal with crowds and noisy bars all the time. 

Karon still has a nice mixture of bars, restaurants, and the Karon Night Market. This is a must-visit because you can sample lots of great street food and pick up fun souvenirs. There are lots of family-run restaurants around, and the super unique Dinner in the Sky experience is here, too. 

It’s definitely quieter at night here than in Kata or Patong, but there’s still enough to keep visitors entertained. Like most popular areas, it’s about an hour’s drive from the airport, but taxis and Grab make it easy to get around.

Pros

• Wide beach that’s great for swimming
• More relaxed than Patong
• Family- and couple-friendly

Cons

• Nightlife is limited compared to Patong
• Can still get busy during peak season

Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket – SHA Plus – $$$

Centara Grand Beach Resort is a huge and luxurious beachfront resort. It combines colonial-inspired architecture with modern amenities, like a giant pool, a kids’ club, and a full-service spa. And with direct beach access, it’s easy to enjoy Karon’s sand and surf from here, and to go and explore Karon. 

There are three restaurants on site, plus a gym, a hot tub, and a games room. This is the perfect choice for a fun and memorable family vacation… the only problem is that you might never want to leave! Rooms start at $130 and go up to $900 USD per night, while a pool villa could set you back up to $2,200 USD.

Browse room options for your travel dates and book this resort here!

The Proud Karon Beach Phuket – $$

The Proud Karon Beach Phuket Trademark Collection By Wyndham is a mid-range resort that’s perfect for travelers seeking comfort without splurging. It’s located just a short walk from Karon Beach and offers modern rooms with balconies, a swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant serving both Thai and international cuisine. 

We think that this resort is ideal for couples and families who want easy access to the beach and local attractions like Karon Night Market and Big Buddha. There’s a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, so it’s the perfect choice for a stylish and stress-free holiday. Rooms start at $60 USD and go up to $300 USD per night, depending on season and room type.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Simplitel – $

Simplitel is a budget-friendly option located within walking distance of Karon Beach. It’s simple but sleek with big beds and modern bathrooms. There are plenty of restaurants within walking distance, yet the property is far enough removed that you won’t get any noise at night. There’s a convenience store right next door, and the beach is just a 3-minute walk away. 

We really like Simplitel because it delivers fantastic value for money. The staff are also super friendly and welcoming, and you can choose between city or mountain views. Rooms cost between $50 and $180 USD per night, depending on season and room type.

Secure your budget-friendly stay at Simplitel here!

Kamala

Kamala is a quieter, more relaxed beach area on Phuket’s west coast, nestled between Patong and Surin. It’s known for its calm waters and family-friendly vibe, so we think it’s a great choice for travelers who want a quieter stay while still having plenty of restaurants and attractions nearby. The beach itself is long and sandy, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and casual strolls.

This area is popular among wellness-focused travelers, but it’s also home to Phuket FantaSea. It’s a popular cultural theme park offering nightly shows and a taste of traditional Thai performance art. Meanwhile, there are small local temples and plenty of viewpoints nearby. 

From Kamala, it’s pretty easy to take Surin Beach, which is just a 10-minute drive away, or you can head to Patong in about 20 minutes for a fun night out. Then, at the end of it all, you can come back to your tranquil base and enjoy the laid-back community vibes. If you’re looking for a sleepy, beachy base, then you’ll love Kamala, and it’s still well-served by taxis and Grab for exploring the rest of Phuket.

Pros

• Calm waters and a family-friendly atmosphere
• Tranquil area
• Close to Phuket FantaSea 

Cons

• Limited nightlife compared to Patong
• Fewer high-end dining options

Kamala Beach Estate Resort – SHA Extra Plus – $$$

Kamala Beach Estate Resort is a luxurious retreat offering stunning sea views and spacious rooms with contemporary Thai design. The resort features multiple swimming pools, an on-site spa, and several dining options serving Thai and international cuisine. Oh, and it’s right on Kamala Beach, so you can step onto the sand within minutes!

The suites and apartments are super spacious, and the owners and staff really couldn’t be friendlier. This is one of the more expensive options in Kamala Beach, but we think that it’s worth every penny. Rooms start at $75 USD and can go up to $600 USD per night, depending on season and room category.

See room options and reserve this luxury stay here!

The Marin Phuket Kamala Beach – $$

The Marin Phuket Kamala Beach is a modern resort offering comfortable rooms just a short walk from Kamala Beach. The rooms are sleek with big standalone bathtubs—perfect for a soak after a day in the sun! There’s also a lovely swimming pool, a gym, and an on-site restaurant serving a delicious American breakfast each morning. 

Another thing guests like about this property is its central location. It’s easy to explore the beach, local markets, and Phuket FantaSea from here, while still enjoying a quiet retreat from busier areas like Patong. Rooms start at $115 USD and go up to $500 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Kamala Resotel, SHA Extra Plus – $

Kamala Resotel, SHA Extra Plus may be budget-friendly, but it still boasts a rooftop infinity pool with amazing mountain views. The rooms are simple, but they’re sparkling clean with contemporary decor. You really wouldn’t know that this is such an affordable hotel—we think it delivers fantastic value for money.

While there’s no on-site restaurant, cafes and local eateries are nearby, and the beach is right at your doorstep. The staff are super helpful, too, and will go out of their way to make your stay pleasant and easy. Rooms cost between $35 and $185 USD per night, depending on season and room type.

Book your stay at Kamala Resotel here!

Patong

Patong is Phuket’s famous party town! It’s easily the liveliest part of the island. This is where the action happens.

Patong boasts a huge sandy beach plus nonstop nightlife—and no, I’m not kidding! The party scene centers around the legendary Bangla Road, where you’ll hear music thudding at every hour of the day. Party tuk-tuks decked out with lights and boom boxes zoom around all night long, and the boxing stadium hosts regular Muay Thai matches.

Beyond the bars, there are also big shopping malls like Jungceylon and fun souvenir markets. There are tons of restaurants around, as well as yummy street food options, and the accommodation options are seemingly endless. But don’t worry because, as always, we’ve outlined our favorites for you below.

Patong is definitely not the spot for peace and quiet, but it is the best area if you want easy access to tours, nightlife, and day trips. Families might find it a bit hectic, but groups of friends and solo travelers looking for fun will love the energy here.

Pros

• Best nightlife on the island
• Tons of restaurants, shops, and activities

Cons

• Crowded and noisy, especially at night
• Less authentic compared to quieter beaches

The Charm Resort Phuket – SHA Certified- $$$

The Charm Resort Phuket – SHA Certified is aptly named! It’s modern with a huge infinity pool, sweeping sea views, and plenty of glamorous touches. The bar is perfect for sunset drinks, and the sleek, spacious rooms are the perfect retreat from Patong’s chaos. 

The executive suites have hot tubs on the balcony, and there’s a super relaxing spa and sauna on site, too. This place is an excellent choice if you want to stay close to the beach while still enjoying resort-style luxury. Rooms start at $80 USD and can reach up to $700 USD during peak season.

Find the best prices for The Charm Resort Phuket on Booking.com!

M Social Hotel Phuket – $$

M Social Hotel Phuket is a fun, contemporary hotel with a trendy vibe. It’s located just a short walk from both Patong Beach and Bangla Road, so it’s perfect for travelers who want to be close to the action while still having a sleek and sophisticated place to stay. The rooms are bright and modern with colorful touches, and the property features a stylish pool area with loungers and a bar.

There’s also a fitness center, a rooftop bar, and a nice restaurant offering both Thai and international options. It’s a great mid-range pick for couples and friends who want comfort, modern design, and a prime location without breaking the bank. Rooms start at $115 USD and go up to $650 USD per night, depending on season and room type.

Check availability and book your stay here!

The Expat Hotel – $

The Expat Hotel is a fun and welcoming hotel tucked just behind Patong’s main stretch. It’s simple but comfortable, with clean rooms, a swimming pool, and a popular on-site bar and restaurant. It’s the perfect spot for a few drinks in the evening before you hit the town!

While this hotel doesn’t have luxury amenities, the location more than makes up for it. You’re within easy walking distance of the beach, Bangla Road, and plenty of shops and restaurants. It’s one of the best-value spots in Patong if you want to stay in the heart of the action without overspending. Rooms cost between $30 and $175 USD per night.

Find the best prices and reserve this stay on Booking.com! 

Phuket Town

Phuket Town is the cultural heart of the island. We fell in love with its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture as soon as we arrived, and we always enjoy the buzzing local vibe. Don’t get me wrong – everywhere in Phuket is touristy these days, but this is definitely the best place on the island to experience some authentic Thai culture. This is where you go to dive deeper into Phuket’s heritage! 

The Old Town is the star of the show here. It boasts pastel shophouses, cool cafés, and lots of street art, so you’ll definitely get some great Instagram snaps as you stroll around. On Sundays, the famous Walking Street Market brings the area alive with food stalls, live music, and local crafts. It’s a must-visit, even if you don’t end up staying in Phuket Town!

While Phuket Town isn’t right on the beach, the town is well-connected, so you can easily head out on day trips to the coast or nearby islands. If you want a more authentic, urban base with tons of character, this is the place for you.

Pros

• Rich history and colorful architecture
• Great street food and local markets

Cons

• No direct beach access
• Less nightlife than Patong

Arco Phuket Town – $$$

Arco Phuket Town is a sleek boutique hotel that blends modern design with Old Town charm. The interiors are chic and minimal, with high-quality bedding and spacious layouts. The rooftop pool and lounge area are a highlight, giving you a perfect spot to cool off after a day exploring Phuket’s bustling streets.

There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar serving fresh Thai and international dishes, plus a fitness center if you want to keep up your routine while traveling. It’s a luxurious pick right in the heart of Phuket Town, and it delivers a very trendy, upscale stay. Rooms start at $105 USD and can reach up to $450 USD during high season.

Reserve your stay at Arco Phuket Town here!

WOO Gallery & Boutique Hotel – $$

WOO Gallery & Boutique hotel is as unique as it gets. It’s set inside a restored Sino-Portuguese shophouse, and it doubles as an art gallery! It has a quirky design and traditional charm in spades, so it really reflects the heritage of Phuket Town.

One of our favorite things about this hotel is the delicious breakfast, which really starts the day off on a high note! As for the location, it’s pretty much unbeatable. The hotel sits right in the heart of the Old Town, with cafés, markets, and street art just steps away. Rooms range from $75 to $200 USD per night, depending on the season.

Browse room options and reserve this stay here!

Royal Phuket City Hotel – $

Royal Phuket City Hotel is a budget-friendly option in Phuket Town, offering spacious rooms at affordable rates. It delivers everything you need: a swimming pool, fitness center, on-site restaurants, and comfortable air-conditioned rooms.

The location is central, making it easy to explore Old Town, and there are plenty of shops and local eateries nearby. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a comfortable and practical base without spending too much, especially if you plan to use Phuket Town as a hub for day trips around the island. Rooms typically cost between $100 and $200 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Rawai 

Rawai sits on the southern tip of Phuket. It has more of a laid-back, local feel compared to the island’s bigger beach towns, so it’s a great choice if you want somewhere relaxed and low-key. Plus, it still offers easy access to some of Phuket’s best viewpoints and day trips.

The beach itself isn’t ideal for swimming, but it’s lined with long-tail boats that will whisk you away to nearby islands like Coral Island or Koh Bon. Rawai is also home to the famous Gypsy Seafood Market, where you can pick fresh seafood and have it cooked on the spot. It’s a really cool, must-try experience!

Just up the road, you’ll find Promthep Cape, one of the most photographed sunset spots in Phuket. Nai Harn Beach and Ya Nui Beach are just a short drive away, offering beautiful, swimmable stretches of sand.

Rawai is best for travelers who prefer a calmer base and don’t mind renting a scooter or hopping in taxis to get around. It’s popular with families, long-term visitors, and couples who want to enjoy local restaurants, quiet beaches, and authentic Thai vibes without the chaos of Patong.

Pros

• Relaxed, local atmosphere
• Great for day trips to nearby islands

Cons

• Beach isn’t ideal for swimming
• Limited nightlife compared to other areas

Phuket Meet Holiday Hotel – $$$

Phuket Meet Holiday Hotel is a stylish upscale option in Rawai. It combines comfort with modern design, and the spacious rooms are bright and contemporary. But for me, the highlight is the outdoor pool area, complete with loungers and a poolside bar where you can soak up the sunshine in peace.

We like this place because it has old-school, elegant Thai vibes and the on-site restaurant serves up authentic local cuisine and international dishes. While the hotel isn’t directly on the beach, it’s only a short drive to Rawai’s seaside promenade and nearby Nai Harn Beach. It’s a great pick if you’re looking for a quieter and more polished base in southern Phuket.

Rooms typically start from $55 USD and go up to $500 USD in peak season, or you can opt for a villa with a private pool for $2,000+ USD. That may seem like a lot, but it can sleep 12 people!

See room options and book this stylish stay here!

Rawai Palm Beach Resort – $$

Rawai Palm Beach Resort is a beautiful, family-friendly resort located just a short walk from Rawai Beach. The resort is set around a huge lagoon-style pool with swim-up bars and palm-shaded lounging areas, giving it a proper holiday vibe. This is my kind of place!

If you can drag yourself away from the pool, the spacious and airy rooms offer private balconies and traditional Thai touches in the decor. There are multiple dining options on site, including a buffet breakfast, plus a spa and fitness center.

The resort is popular with families and couples alike thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and excellent value for money. Rooms usually range from $45 to $200 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Ya Nui Resort – $

Ya Nui Resort is a friendly spot just a few minutes from Ya Nui Beach, which just so happens to be one of the prettiest little coves in southern Phuket. The property offers clean and comfortable studios, suites, and apartments with kitchenettes, making it a good choice for longer stays or travelers who like the option of self-catering.

It may not be the most sleek or modern property, but it has a charming, tropical vibe and a small pool tucked in a leafy garden. The vibe here is very relaxed and welcoming, so if you’re looking for a budget-friendly base with a local feel, don’t hesitate to snap up your room.

It’s perfect if you plan to explore the area’s quieter beaches and nearby viewpoints! Rooms cost between $20 and $320 USD per night, depending on the season and suite or apartment type.

Find the best deals for Ya Nui Resort here!

Related Read: Once you’ve figured out where to base yourself, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Phuket here for ideas on how to fill your days with incredible experiences!

Bang Tao

Bang Tao is one of the longest beaches in Phuket, stretching for nearly 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) along the island’s west coast. It’s known for its wide sandy shoreline and calm, laid-back atmosphere. Despite its upscale reputation, Bang Tao has a nice balance of luxury resorts, budget stays, and casual beach clubs.

One of the things that we like about Bang Tao is that it’s home to the best beach close to the airport. It’s only a 25-minute drive from Phuket International, whereas most tourist areas are over an hour away. So if you don’t have long to spend in Phuket, staying in Bang Tao means you get to enjoy one of its best beaches without wasting unnecessary time on travel. 

And that’s not the only perk of staying here. This part of Phuket is home to the famous Laguna Complex, a huge resort development with luxury hotels, golf courses, spas, and restaurants. If you’re after a resort-style holiday where everything you need is within walking distance, this is the place. 

At the same time, the local village areas around Bang Tao still have plenty of authentic Thai restaurants and small shops, so you’re not completely cut off from island life.

Pros

• Long, spacious beach that never feels overcrowded
• Mix of luxury resorts and local Thai village atmosphere
• Close to the airport

Cons

• Limited nightlife compared to Patong or Kata
• Resort prices can be on the higher side

SAii Laguna Phuket – $$$

SAii Laguna Phuket is an upscale resort right on Bang Tao Beach, offering a prime beachfront location within the exclusive Laguna Complex. The huge swimming pool is truly a modern masterpiece, with sunbathing platforms and a swim-up bar.

And as if that weren’t enough, you’ve also got direct beach access and tennis courts, so you’ll never be bored! What makes this resort special is how it combines luxury with convenience. Everything you need is within walking distance, from spas and shops to restaurants and bars.

Families especially love the kids’ club and activities, while couples appreciate the sunset views and romantic beachfront setting. Rooms typically range from $150 to $1,000+ USD per night for the most luxurious suites during peak season.

Browse room options and book this stay here!

Andaman Seaside Resort Bangtao Beach – $$

Andaman Seaside Resort is a charming property that consists of cozy Thai bungalows set around a pool and nestled among lush tropical gardens. It has a friendly, welcoming vibe that feels more personal than some of the larger resorts. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and there are family suites available, which makes it a popular choice for groups and families.

There’s an on-site restaurant, but you’re within easy reach of local restaurants and street food stalls, too. It’s not as fancy as some of the big resorts in the area, but the location and value for money are fantastic if you want to stay near the beach without breaking the bank. Rooms usually cost between $35 and $250 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Bangtao Village Resort – $

Bangtao Village Resort is a lovely traditional property just a 10-minute walk from the beach. The resort features bungalow-style accommodations with Thai gabled roofs. Inside, they’re simply furnished, but cute touches like flowers on the bed add a little romance.

There’s a small restaurant on site, and you can dine al fresco if you prefer, and there’s easy access to Bang Tao Beach. This place isn’t fancy, but it’s super well-kept and clean with friendly staff, so if you’re traveling on a budget, then we think it’s an excellent choice. 

Rooms range from $50 to $170 USD per night, depending on the season.

Find the best deals for Bangtao Village Resort here!

Related Read: Once you’ve chosen your base, check out our 4-day Phuket itinerary here for the perfect mix of beaches, culture, and adventure.

Top Activities to do in Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is a fantastic destination on its own, but the real excitement begins when you dive into the islands, flavors, and cultural experiences that surround it. From speedboat rides and tropical lagoons to cooking classes and glowing caves, guided tours make it simple to experience the best without worrying about the details. Here are some top tours that will round out your stay in Phuket:

• Speedboat to Phi Phi islands – This full-day speedboat tour takes you across the Andaman to Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Bamboo Island, with time for snorkeling and a seaside lunch. It’s a seamless way to pack the best of Phi Phi into one adventure.

• Cook Thai dishes with a local chef – Start at a local market to pick fresh ingredients before heading into the kitchen to prepare classics like Tom Yum and Pad Thai. This cooking tour is perfect for food lovers wanting to take Phuket’s flavors home.

• Play with elephants – Watch rescued elephants roam, bathe, and feed freely at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary before enjoying a vegetarian buffet on this morning tour. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an ethical way to connect with Thailand’s gentle giants.

• Kayak caves & float krathongs – Paddle through sea caves in Phang Nga Bay on this kayaking tour, then release your own floating krathong under the stars. This experience blends culture, nature, and an unforgettable night on the water.

• Taste Phuket on a food tour – Wander Phuket Old Town while sampling over 15 dishes, from spicy curries to tropical sweets, guided by a local foodie. This food tour offers an easy way to experience the city’s diverse culinary heritage in one evening.

Thanks for reading!

We hope this guide helps you find the area and hotel in Phuket that feels like the right fit! Whether you’re here for beach time and water sports, elephant sanctuaries and cooking classes, or lively nightlife and markets, choosing the right base will make all the difference in how you experience Thailand’s largest island.

Before you go, don’t forget to check out our other Thailand blogs here—we’ve shared detailed guides that will help you plan adventures beyond Phuket, from island-hopping to cultural deep-dives. And if you’re looking for even more inspiration, be sure to explore some of our top travel guides below!

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