The Best Places and Hotels to Stay in Phuket

Located in the south of Thailand, Phuket is renowned as the country's most attractive tourist destination. As Thailand's largest island, this tropical paradise is packed with attractions and resorts suitable for all types of travelers.

However, choosing where to stay in Phuket can be challenging given the size of the island, which covers more than 500 square kilometers. In this article, we will help you discover the different regions of the island and choose the best hotels in Phuket that will suit your preferences for your stay.

Written by Hung DAO (Local Expert) Updated on 06-04-2024

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1. What Is the Best Area in Phuket?

• Phuket Town: The Best Choice for a First Stay in Phuket

Phuket Town, the capital of Phuket Province and the largest city on the island, exudes a special charm thanks to its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture. Downtown Phuket has become a must-see attraction for tourists. This is where you'll find a variety of hotels of all categories, delicious restaurants, unique shops, and famous attractions.

If this is your first visit, staying in Phuket Town is a very reasonable option to easily explore the local attractions and dive deeper into Thai culture in general, and that of Phuket in particular. However, it's important to note that Phuket Town is located some distance from the beaches, making it a less strategic choice if you're looking for a combination of city and seaside living.

• Kata, Kamala and Bang Tao: The Ideal Beaches for Families

Phuket is a very family-friendly destination, offering plenty of activities for children. Kata and Kamala stand out as interesting options, offering affordable hotels and a variety of restaurants offering Western cuisine.

Kata Beach makes an excellent base for families, groups and couples looking for a lively, activity-packed holiday. With its fine sand and picturesque setting on the southwest coast of the island, Kata is the perfect place for lovers of surfing and beach activities. However, it's important to note that the choice of beachfront restaurants is more limited compared to Kamala.

While there are no beach clubs directly on the sand here, visitors to Kata can explore the bars and restaurants located on the nearby hills to take in beautiful sunsets. Still, expect a livelier atmosphere during the high season compared to Kamala.

Kamala Beach is the perfect place for families, couples, and retirees looking for a relaxing beach getaway with a wider selection of luxury accommodations. Kamala offers a more diverse range of beachfront restaurants as well as stylish beach clubs for festive evenings in style. Despite its popularity, Kamala maintains a relatively peaceful vibe compared to Kata, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere.

Bang Tao is a popular destination for families due to the expansive resorts that offer all the necessary facilities to keep children entertained, from kids' clubs to dedicated pools and special menus in restaurants. In addition, Bang Tao is home to many award-winning spas and retreats, often integrated with luxury hotels like the Banyan Tree.

• Patong Beach: The Best Destination for Nightlife

Patong Beach is Phuket's most popular beach resort. During the day, the main activity takes place on its 2.8 km long white sand beach, renowned for its multiple water sports. Here you can enjoy jet skiing, paragliding, snorkeling, windsurfing, and much more. However, as soon as the sun goes down, Patong Beach transforms into the main nightlife destination on the entire island.

Bangla Road is the center of this transformation, bringing together a variety of dance clubs, bars, beer pubs and bars offering live music. The area is also famous for its quality restaurants and shops, with plenty of shopping malls and night markets to explore.

So it's no surprise that Patong is the perfect choice for youngsters looking for nightlife entertainment, while families with children might prefer other areas of the island. You'll find plenty of accommodation options here, including affordable hotels, motels, and small resorts.

• Surin Beach: Luxury and Serenity on a Beautiful Coast

Surin Beach is one of the most exclusive and luxurious corners of Phuket. Nestled just a few kilometers from Kamala, this small, secluded beach attracts mainly affluent travelers looking for a peaceful and refined holiday experience.

Most properties in Surin Beach are luxury resorts. Although the beach is accessible to everyone, its main attraction lies in its tranquility compared to busier beaches like Kata or Karon. If you're looking for a more peaceful and elegant atmosphere, Surin Beach is one of the best options for your stay in Phuket. A unique aspect of Surin Beach is its excellent surf spot, making it a popular destination for surfers.

However, the major disadvantage is the high cost. If you're on a budget, Surin Beach might not be the ideal place for your stay in Phuket, as most resorts exceed $161.5 per night. In addition, its location further away from the rest of the island's attractions as well as the presence of shops geared towards an affluent clientele are to be taken into account.

• Karon Beach: The Affordable Option to Stay in Phuket

Karon Beach is located on the west coast of Phuket Island and is home to the second largest beach on the island. Karon Beach, nestled between Patong Beach and Kata Beach, is a true paradise for beach lovers in Phuket.

At this beach, guests can engage in popular activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving. In addition, there are many shops, bars and restaurants nearby. Once the sun goes down, the night markets come alive and the city's nightlife spots open up.

Karon Beach is the perfect place for all types of travelers, whether families, honeymooners, or backpackers. It offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. You will be able to enjoy all the necessary amenities and services while enjoying a more peaceful atmosphere.

>>> Also read: Scuba Diving In Thailand: The 10 Most Fascinating Dive Sites

• Nai Harn: A Paradise for Beach Lovers

Nai Harn Beach is a very special place due to its limited development. Nestled in the heart of green cliffs and surrounded by lush vegetation, this long and spacious beach offers ample space for everyone, even during the high season.

Snorkeling is a popular activity here, thanks to its crystal clear waters and soft white sand, which also lend themselves perfectly to relaxation and sunbathing. Despite its tranquility, the beach is full of restaurants, shops and hotels to ensure you have a complete holiday.

During your stay in Nai Harn Beach, you are only a 10-minute drive from Karon Viewpoint. From this breathtaking panorama, you'll be able to admire three beautiful beaches and bays at a glance, offering truly stunning photography opportunities.

>>> Also read: Krabi or Phuket? - 10 Key Questions To Make a Decision 

2. Best Boutique Hotels in Phuket

• Double Pool Villas by Banyan Tree

Address: 33,33/27 Moo 4 Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Bang Tao, Phuket.

Double Pool Villas by Banyan Tree is the perfect choice for discerning travelers. This upscale hotel in Phuket offers impeccable service. The rooms are equipped with modern conveniences. In addition, the hotel offers a range of perfect services, including a gym, yoga, swimming pool, on-site golf course, and many more. You can also rent cars, motorbikes, bicycles, and enjoy other attractive services, all within 3 km.

• Mom Tri's Royale Villa

Address: 12 Kata Noi Road, Kata Noi Beach, Phuket, Thailand.

Mom Tri's Royale Villa is located just a 5-minute walk from Kata Noi Beach. Perched on the edge of a cliff, the villa offers stunning views of the entire Kata Noi beach. Guests can enjoy traditional Thai massages and relax at the Royal Spa. The villa's amenities include an outdoor pool, a peaceful private beach, and a fitness center.

• Sala Phuket Resort

Address: 333 Mai Khao, Thalang District, Phuket, Thailand.

Sala Phuket Resort is an establishment in Phuket with a captivating style reminiscent of Arabia. Nestled along Mai Khao Beach, this resort is ideal for couples and vacationers looking for relaxation.

3. Best Hotels with Private Beach in Phuket

• Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort

Address: 29 Soi Karon Nui, Karon Beach.

Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort is one of the most renowned hotels in the area, offering access to its own private beach. Ideal for a beach holiday, the hotel is nestled between Karon and Patong beaches, in a bay surrounded by jungle. It is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday, suitable for families with children and honeymooners looking for tranquility.

• Andaman White Beach Resort

Address: 28/4 Moo 4, Tambon Sakoo, Thalang District, Phuket, Thailand.

The Andaman White Beach Resort offers a unique experience with its private beach and panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. The hotel offers a 40-meter outdoor swimming pool and a variety of free water sports equipment. Surrounded by lush vegetation and vast coconut palms, the hotel seduces with its delicious cuisine, clean and private Thai-style rooms. The nearest cafes and shops are about 1 km from the hotel.

• The Shore At Katathani

Address: 18 Kata Noi Road, Karon, Mueang, Phuket, Thailand.

The Shore at Katathani is one of the best hotels in Phuket. The property is located just a short walk from the beautiful Kata Noi Beach, renowned for its soft, snow-white sand. Entry into the sea is easy and shallow, with the water temperature rarely below 28°C. The waters are clear and the waves gentle, providing the perfect setting for an unforgettable seaside getaway.

4. Best Budget Hotels in Phuket

If you're looking for affordable accommodation in Phuket, here are some recommendations. These are the cleanest, well-located, and budget-friendly hotels/hostels:

• Pool Access 89

Address: 183/2 Moo.6, Wiset Road, Rawai, Phuket 83130, Thailand

This property has a beautiful swimming pool and spacious, modern rooms. It is just a 5-minute walk from the center of Rawai and the beach.

• The Crib Patong Hotel

Address: 184/18 20 Phang Muang Phangmuang Sai Kor Road Patong, Phuket 83150, Thailand

The hotel offers luxurious rooms with sophisticated designs that will make you feel comfortable from the moment you arrive at The Crib Patong. In addition, the staff stands out for its enthusiasm to offer you a service that will make you feel at home and happy.

5. Tips for Choosing the Best Places to Stay in Phuket

During peak periods in Phuket, hotel room prices triple or quadruple, with no significant improvement in quality. Many people will advise you to book during the low season, as the rates are more affordable there. However, many months of the low season are often marked by continuous rain and thunderstorms. We recommend planning your trip to Phuket between October and mid-November, when the transition to peak season is when there is less rainfall and clearer skies.

Accommodation in Phuket can be expensive, especially during the peak tourist season. If you want to avoid price hikes, be sure to book in advance. In general, the earlier you book, the cheaper the rates. Hotels have an interest in encouraging you to book early to reduce risk and occupy rooms in time for your stay. By booking your hotel 1-2 months in advance, you can save around 35% on the room rate.

>>> Read more: Tips for a Successful Trip to Thailand

Take full advantage of special offers. Travel magazines, websites, and TV shows may sometimes offer special booking codes, and some loyalty programs and credit cards offer promotions with select hotels or travel agencies.

By booking directly on the hotel's website, you can save up to 20%. Many hotels now offer various exclusive perks to guests who book directly through their official website, such as a free minibar, dining vouchers, or even a free room upgrade!

Conclusion

Phuket is one of Thailand's most popular holiday destinations, offering a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. We hope this article helps you gain a better understanding of the different places to stay in Phuket based on your personal preferences!

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