20 Best Phuket Beaches ⛱️

There are hundreds of hotels to choose from, but just a couple of luxury hotels, plus only three resorts with real beach access; the other hotels calling themselves beachfront are actually across the road. If you are here to party, Patong is the place to stay: party at night and recover on a lounger under an umbrella the next day. We particularly enjoy the food vendors selling cheap and good street food and fruits under tall coconut trees! It’s a great photo opportunity.

If you want to be in Patong but in a quiet area, there are several options: Stay in the north end, in front of Four Points by Sheraton Resort, where the sand is soft, and the beach is a lot quieter than in the main part of Patong but still at reasonable waking distance of Bangla Road. Option 2: stay in a hotel on the outskirts of Patong, like Amari Phuket, Avista Hideaway or the popular Courtyard Merlin Beach.

The beach itself has a laid-back feel – it’s lively but not wild. There are no nightclubs in Kata, but you will find beachside restaurants, massage huts, and even a small night market in the area behind the beach road. In fact, one of my evening routines in Kata is to stroll to the Kata Night Market to snack on grilled seafood and banana pancakes from street vendors. For dinner with a view, a few local restaurants at the north and south ends of Kata Beach let you dine with your toes in the sand. And if you’re wondering about hotels, Kata has plenty of options from budget to luxury. A unique thing here is that only two resorts have direct beachfront access (The Boathouse and Beyond Resort Kata) – most other hotels are just across the road or a short walk away​. But that doesn’t bother me; even when I’m not staying overnight, Kata Beach is a spot I return to again and again for its easygoing charm and that perfect mix of scenery and amenities.

Kata is less crowded than Patong and offers a large selection of dining, street shopping, and a bit of nightlife. There are mostly bars but no nightclubs or beach clubs here. The night market in the middle of town is very popular for shopping and eating local food at low prices. The choice of hotels to stay in is vast, from 4-star to budget hotels, but only two hotels have direct beach access: The Boathouse and Beyond Kata Resort.

Karon town is smaller and quieter than Patong, but you’ll still find everything you need for a comfortable stay. A unique aspect of Karon Beach is that most hotels and businesses are set back across the road, not directly on the beachfront (with one notable exception: the Centara Grand Beach Resort at the northern end is the only large resort right on the beach). This means the entire length of the sandy shore is open and unobstructed, which I really appreciate when I’m there – no private areas, just one continuous public beach. The downside is you might have to cross the road to grab lunch or a drink, but it’s a minor trade-off. Along the northern half of Karon, there’s a tourist center with streets lined by restaurants, bars, and shops. You can find everything from Thai curries to Italian pizza there.

At night, a couple of bars have live music and there’s even a small nightly market by Karon Temple (I enjoy wandering there for some mango sticky rice or to pick up a souvenir). Karon is not a party town like Patong – nights are more laid-back, with couples and families having dinner or a drink. For me, Karon Beach hits a nice balance: it’s less hectic than Patong, but more happening than a remote beach. I love spending late afternoons here; the sunsets are fantastic, painting the sky orange and pink over the sea. As the evening breeze comes in, the beach cools down, and you can sometimes hear the faint music from a beachside cafe mixed with the sound of the waves. It’s a beautiful spot to end the day. 

The vibe at Nai Harn is peaceful and family-friendly. You’ll often see groups of Thai families having picnics under the trees at the back of the beach, and expats walking their dogs in the mornings. The water in high season is generally calm, clear, and excellent for swimming. In the low season, Nai Harn can get strong winds and waves – it becomes a popular spot for kite surfers on breezier days! I sometimes come down here to watch the colourful kites zipping over the waves. One unique scene at Nai Harn is the sight of sailboats and yachts anchored just off the bay, especially between November and April. The bay is known as a safe anchorage, so you’ll see dozens of masts bobbing out on the horizon. It adds a bit of a “picturesque postcard” feel – white beach, blue water, and sailboats. When you get hungry or thirsty, you don’t have to go far.

There’s a line of casual Thai restaurants and food stalls just under the trees behind the beach. They serve everything from grilled chicken and papaya salad to fresh coconuts and fruit shakes. I often grab lunch at one of these little places – the prices are reasonable and nothing beats eating pad Thai with your toes in the sand. You can also find a few massage huts and vendors selling beach toys or snorkeling gear. For those who want to stay in the area, Nai Harn has a couple of noteworthy hotels (like The Nai Harn – a luxury hotel on the hillside with panoramic views, and some smaller resorts). But since accommodation is limited, many visitors just drive down or take a taxi here for the day.

If you do visit, consider combining it with a late afternoon trip up to Promthep Cape (just a few minutes’ drive away) for one of Phuket’s best sunset viewpoints. That’s a perfect way to end a Nai Harn day. In short, Nai Harn Beach is a gem – a place where I feel the pace of Phuket slows down. It’s scenic, tranquil, and holds a special place in my heart after many years of enjoying its simple, natural beauty.

The village of Kamala runs along the beach road and the road just behind it. It’s quite a compact town – essentially two main parallel streets. Along the beach road (which in some parts is just a footpath on the sand), you’ll find small hotels, Thai and Western restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and a few convenience stores. I’ve eaten some fantastic local meals here – grilled seafood at a sand-floor restaurant, spicy papaya salad from a street cart by the beach, and even some Italian gelato from a little shop opened by an expat. In the evenings, Kamala is generally low-key. There are bars and pubs, but it’s more about a quiet beer while listening to soft music, rather than dancing till dawn. However, Kamala has a couple of notable attractions that do light up the nights: Phuket FantaSea and the new Carnival Magic theme park.

These are large cultural theme park shows located just outside the village. I’ve attended the Phuket FantaSea show (which features Thai cultural performances, trapeze artists, and even elephants) a few times when guiding visiting friends – it’s quite a spectacle, especially enjoyable for families. Carnival Magic is a newer addition with vibrant parades and shows. Another popular spot in Kamala, especially for the younger crowd and those seeking a bit more lively atmosphere, is Café del Mar, a stylish beach club on the north end of the beach.

On weekends, I sometimes go there for a sunset drink and chill-out music; it has comfortable beach loungers and occasionally international DJs. Despite these attractions, Kamala never feels overwhelmed. During the day, the beach remains mostly about sunbathing, swimming, and the simple joys. The water at Kamala is generally very calm in high season – great for kids – and in low season, it can have some waves, but usually not as rough as more open beaches like Karon or Surin. There’s a small coral reef at the extreme north end, but for serious snorkelling you’d go elsewhere. If you’re staying in Kamala, you’re conveniently in the middle of Phuket’s west coast, making it easy to explore other beaches too. Personally, I enjoy Kamala for its easygoing charm – it’s the kind of place I might choose for a “staycation” when I want to get away from the more crowded parts of Phuket but still have plenty of dining options and a nice beach at my doorstep.

Along the small road behind the beach, you’ll find a few local restaurants, one or two mini-marts, some massage shops, and tailors, mainly catering to the resort guests. If I’m spending a day at Kata Noi, I usually just relax on the sand, maybe do a bit of snorkelling near the rocks (there are some fish to see but coral is minimal), and then head to one of the casual restaurants by the road for some delicious curry or seafood.

One tip: there’s a great viewpoint on the hill above Kata Noi called Karon Viewpoint that gives a panoramic view of Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon beaches all in one frame. It’s worth driving up there either in the morning or late afternoon for a photo – it reminds me how these three bays, each with its own character, line up so beautifully on Phuket’s west coast. Kata Noi, with its serene vibe, is the kind of beach where I go to relax.

Remember, what goes down must come up – the climb back up will get your heart pumping! There’s usually no road access by car or bike directly to the beach. Because of this, you won’t find jet skis or large crowds here – just a few sunbathers, snorkelers, and me, lying under the palms feeling like I’ve found a secret island. In peak months (January especially), a little beach restaurant often operates here, where you can grab a cold coconut or a simple Thai lunch overlooking the bay. At other times, amenities are minimal, so I always pack some water and snacks. If you visit Freedom Beach, start early in the day (to beat any boat rush and the midday heat on the trail) and bring a snorkel mask – both ends of the beach have rocks with pretty fish to see. Trust me, the effort to reach this beach is absolutely worth it for the tranquility and postcard-perfect scenery.

Note that during the peak season, January and February, the beach becomes busier, and there is even a nice beach restaurant. Unless the weather is quiet and the sea is calm, longtail boats don’t operate during the low season (roughly June to October), and the only way to get there is down a steep hill. Remember that walking back up that hill is not for the faint of heart! See how to access Freedom Beach here.

One of my favorite things to do at Nai Yang is to have lunch literally on the beach. There are a few small, welcoming restaurants and rustic bars right on the sand under the trees. These are simple local joints with plastic chairs and amazing seafood. I often order a grilled fish or some prawns and enjoy the meal with my toes digging into the cool sand in the shade – it’s the simple pleasures! After lunch, it’s perfect to laze in a hammock or get a Thai massage by the sea (yes, there are local masseuses offering their services under the trees as well). Nai Yang is also known among locals as a good spot for kite surfing on windy days and for releasing baby sea turtles – the nearby Phuket Marriott hotel and local conservationists sometimes host turtle release events here around Songkran (Thai New Year).

In terms of accommodations, Nai Yang offers a range from small guesthouses to a couple of upscale resorts. On the higher end, there’s The Slate, a very unique luxury resort with a tin-mining theme, and a Marriott Resort. Both are tucked among trees and have beach access (though like all national park beaches in Phuket, no private resort property extends onto the sand). I’ve stayed at The Slate once for a “staycation” – its design and the way it blends with nature are impressive. But even if you’re not in a resort, Nai Yang village has budget-friendly bungalows and homestays just a short walk from the beach. One thing to note: nightlife here is minimal (a few quiet beach bars playing reggae or soft music), and shopping is just basic necessities.

I love coming here in the late afternoon; the sunlight through the trees is beautiful, and locals often gather on the grassy park areas for picnics or to play football. As the sun sets into the Andaman Sea, you might see airplanes in the distance making their final approach, their lights blinking, but you won’t hear much noise from them – just the sound of waves and rustling leaves. For anyone arriving or leaving Phuket, I always suggest that if you have time, swing by Nai Yang Beach to taste Phuket’s quieter side.

Since land access is closed, the easiest way to get there is by boat. Usually in the high season (when the sea is calm), there are boatmen at nearby Surin Beach who will take you to Laem Singh by sea. It’s a short ride (just around the headland) and might cost a few hundred baht per person. I did this with a friend last year; we hired a boat from Surin’s south end and in 10 minutes we were jumping ashore at Laem Singh, feeling like smugglers arriving on a secret beach. The other way some adventurous souls reach it is by a bit of a hike: there’s a rocky path from Surin Beach along the coast. It’s not an official trail, and it can be slippery and tricky, but it is possible if you’re fit and careful. I’ve attempted it once – it was like a mini-trekking adventure, ducking under branches and stepping over rocks with the ocean on our left. When you finally step onto Laem Singh’s sand, you’ll likely find very few people there, especially now. It truly feels like a Robinson Crusoe hideaway these days.

There are no more beach shacks or facilities (so bring water and snacks if you go). The beauty, though, is unchanged – the bay still has that postcard look with overhanging trees and boulders at the edges of the sand. Swimming is wonderful there, and snorkelling can be decent around the rocks. Whenever I’m there, I have mixed feelings: joy that I can still enjoy this slice of paradise, and nostalgia for the times when everyone could easily come and enjoy it. If you’re not up for the boat or hike, you can also admire Laem Singh from the Laem Singh viewpoint on the coastal road – a great spot for photos. Hopefully, someday access will be officially reopened. Until then, Laem Singh remains an elusive beauty – still one of Phuket’s best beaches in my eyes, made even more special by the effort it takes to experience it. Read here how to get to Laem Singh Beach.

Despite its hidden vibe, Ya Nui is not exactly a secret – it tends to get busy at times, especially in the high season and on weekends. There’s limited parking along the road, and you’ll notice many cars and motorbikes lined up when the beach is popular. If it feels a bit crowded on the sand, I sometimes take a break at one of the little open-air restaurants just across the road from the beach. There are a couple of them that are very casual, with plastic chairs and tasty Thai food. Sitting there, you still get a view of the beach and a nice breeze. It’s a perfect spot for a lazy lunch or a cold drink when the sun is high.

One thing to note: Ya Nui doesn’t have any hotels right on the beach (which is good for keeping it unspoiled), but if you love it and want to stay nearby, Nai Harn Beach with its hotels is just up the hill, or there are some homestays in Rawai down the road. The crowd at Ya Nui is a mix – families, snorkelers, and sometimes groups of friends doing a little beach hopping (often coming from Nai Harn or checking out the viewpoints).

Because it’s so small, you might end up chatting with fellow beachgoers more than at larger beaches. I’ve met travellers from all over the world here while comparing our snorkelling finds of the day. For sunsets, I usually head up the road to Windmill viewpoint or Promthep, since those higher spots have panoramic views. But for everything else – morning swims, midday snorkel sessions, and afternoon naps under a pandanus tree – Ya Nui is a delightful little beach that proves smaller can be better. If you blink, you might miss the turnoff, so keep an eye out for it when exploring Phuket’s southern tip. It’s definitely worth stopping by.

Ya Nui can be busy during the high season, so when it gets too busy, have a nice lunch or drink at the terrace of one of the little local restaurants across the street. The shade of the tall trees over the open space is welcoming, and the prices are reasonable.

This area is more about the resort guests: each hotel has its sun loungers and activities, but since all beaches are public, you can still stroll through. During the day, you might see horse riding along the beach here (popular with some tourists) or people learning to windsurf or stand-up paddleboard in the gentle waves. Bang Tao’s water is generally quite calm and shallow for a good distance out, especially from November to April, making it nice for wading and kids. In the monsoon months, waves can pick up, but the bay is somewhat sheltered compared to totally open ocean beaches, so it’s often manageable – still caution with red flags as always. The northern end of Bang Tao becomes very tranquil. There are fewer buildings – just casuarina trees and a few local restaurants. It edges toward Layan Beach (a technically separate, even quieter beach at the far north end). If you really want space for yourself, head up that way. One of Bang Tao’s biggest draws now is actually off the beach: the Boat Avenue and Porto de Phuket areas at the south end (near the entry to Laguna) have blossomed into a dining and shopping hub.

There’s a night market on Mondays and Fridays, lots of trendy restaurants (Thai, Japanese, Italian, steakhouses – you name it), wine bars, and boutiques. As an expat resident, I often find myself in Bang Tao’s Boat Avenue area for dinners and groceries; it has two big supermarkets that carry many imported items. This development has turned Bang Tao into a very complete destination: you have the beach, activities like beach clubs and water sports, a golf course in Laguna, and ample food and nightlife options (albeit more on the chic and relaxed side, not Patong-style craziness). If someone asks me for a place in Phuket where they can stay long-term by the beach and not get bored, Bang Tao is high on my list. Personally, I would go to Bang Tao if I want to mix a bit of everything – maybe a beach jog in the morning, a lazy afternoon reading under a tree, and a nice dinner with friends in the evening. It really showcases Phuket’s ability to cater to all tastes in one place.

There are a few hotels along Mai Khao, but they are very spread out and mostly high-end resorts that respect the natural vibe (for instance, Marriott Phuket, SALA Phuket, Renaissance Phuket, and a couple of others are hidden behind tree cover and have long access lanes). You won’t see any buildings looming over the beach. The national park rules prohibit development right on the beachfront, which is why it’s so empty. Importantly, Mai Khao is also a protected nesting site for sea turtles. Leatherback turtles used to come ashore to lay eggs here (and still do occasionally, in the quiet season). There are conservation efforts to protect any turtle nests found. If you’re very lucky, you might witness a release of baby turtles if you visit at the right time (usually around March-April).

One quirky and increasingly famous activity at Mai Khao is plane spotting. At the very northern tip of the beach, adjacent to Phuket Airport’s runway, you can stand right where airplanes come in for landing just a few dozen meters above your head. It’s an adrenaline rush to watch a big jet roar in seemingly just overhead. It became a popular Instagram spot (just check “#MaiKhao” and you’ll see folks posing with planes). Do note that the authorities sometimes restrict access to that corner for safety, but usually you can still get relatively close on the beach side. I’ve done it a couple of times – it’s a thrilling sight and makes for unique holiday photos! Aside from nature and planes, Mai Khao is about relaxation.

There is a small local village and a couple of local restaurants near the main public entrance (where the national park office is), but otherwise, it’s mostly the few resort restaurants or beach picnics. Nightlife is virtually non-existent here (unless you count listening to crickets and waves under the stars as nightlife, which I sometimes do!). For travellers, I’d suggest Mai Khao if you truly want peace, or as a day trip to see a different, untamed side of Phuket. I love the contrast it provides to my usual haunts – coming up to Mai Khao reminds me of Phuket’s natural heritage and why it’s so important we preserve these quieter corners. Plus, the sunsets here, with such an open horizon and often hardly anyone around, are absolutely magical.

There are two small modern shopping villages nearby, but not much nightlife. Because it is just next to Phuket Airport, the most popular and unusual attraction nearby is to watch the planes landing over the beach, just a few meters above your head! (only using high season). Sala Phuket and Renaissance Phuket Resort are the most popular hotels in Mai Khao.

These days, Surin is one of my top recommendations for those seeking a scenic and relatively quiet beach without going off the beaten path. The water quality is often excellent in the dry season, great for swimming and boogie boarding. Surin can get waves and rough surf in the low season, so like other west coast beaches, heed any red flag warnings then. There are still a few local vendors and small eateries at the far ends of the beach. In particular, at the southern end under the trees, you’ll find clusters of local Thai food stalls that pop up by late morning. They set up plastic tables and chairs right under the coconut palms facing the water – it’s one of my favourite lunch spots on a beach.

You can enjoy some spicy papaya salad, grilled chicken, or fresh fruit while your toes play in the sand. It’s simple, delicious, and cheap – the way local beach dining should be. Surin village (just across the road) also has some upscale restaurants and wine bars, thanks to the affluent community around. If you fancy a break from Thai food, there are options like Italian or Mediterranean within a short walk. In terms of accommodations, Surin has a few luxury hotels (like Twinpalms, The Surin, and Amanpuri, which is actually on Pansea Beach next door) and some mid-range resorts and apartments. They’re not on the sand, but within a 5-minute walk. I’ve stayed at one or two over the years for a weekend escape and loved hearing the ocean at night from my balcony. Surin Beach doesn’t have loud nightlife – it’s more about daytime beauty and maybe a romantic dinner with the sunset.

One thing I often do with friends is to drive up the hill north of Surin to the viewpoints – there’s a spot where you can see Surin Beach and Laem Singh and further to Kamala in the distance, which makes for great photos. In summary, Surin Beach offers that picture-perfect tropical beach experience with clear waters and soft sand, but without the fuss of commercialisation right on the beach. It’s an easy Surin – it might just become one of your favourite Phuket beaches, as it has for me.

So, Paradise Beach now feels a bit like a private beach club that’s open to all (for a fee). On the one hand, it’s very convenient – you can get food and cocktails, do kayaking or paddleboarding, and use facilities like showers and bathrooms easily. On the other hand, it’s not the untouched “secret beach” vibe it once was. When I go now, I usually take visitors who want a comfortable beach day with amenities, or if they’re curious about the full moon party scene in Phuket (note: it’s fun but not as massive as the original Koh Phangan Full Moon parties). The water at Paradise Beach is generally calm because the bay is protected. It’s good for swimming and snorkelling around the rocks (you can spot some fish, though the coral is mostly damaged due to so many visitors).

One tip: if you walk a bit away from the main area, you might still find a quieter spot on the edges of the beach or the second small cove. There’s also a viewpoint trail that offers a nice look over Patong Bay. To get to Paradise Beach, nowadays the road is paved and clearly marked from Patong – you can drive or take a tuk-tuk fairly easily (about 15 minutes from Patong). They have a parking area and even shuttle carts that bring people down the hill to the beach entrance.

All in all, I’d say Paradise Beach is a fun, convenient beach stop if you don’t mind the commercial aspect. It’s kind of a mini theme park beach: you pay a bit, and you get the facilities. If you’re looking for pure solitude, this isn’t it (for that, see Freedom Beach or others).

I once visited a friend who was staying at The Surin, which allowed me to enjoy Pansea for a day. It was glorious – we snorkelled around the rocks (pretty decent fish life, some corals), and we practically had the water to ourselves. The Amanpuri end of the beach was similarly quiet, with perhaps a few couples lounging. It feels extremely exclusive and peaceful. If you aren’t a guest, trying to get in is challenging. There used to be a small path from Surin Beach over the rocks that intrepid explorers attempted at low tide, but I believe even that is often monitored or blocked now by resort security.

I recall a story of someone trying to walk in along the shore and being politely (but firmly) turned back unless they were dining at one of the resort restaurants. So realistically, unless you splurge on a stay at one of these resorts or perhaps a reservation at their restaurant, Pansea is off-limits. That said, I often enjoy the view of Pansea from a hilltop bar or viewpoint. The good news is that Phuket has many beautiful beaches that are accessible to everyone. Pansea represents the private luxury side of Phuket’s beach scene – amazing if you can get there, but not worth fretting over if you can’t. If you’re keen to see it without staying, one idea is to visit The Surin’s restaurant or spa – call ahead, sometimes outside guests are allowed for a meal or treatment, and then you might catch a glimpse of the beach. Just be respectful of the resort’s space.

For most travellers, I’d say Surin Beach (right next door) will give you a similarly gorgeous experience without any barriers. But as a local who’s seen almost all of Phuket’s beaches, I can confirm that Pansea’s natural beauty is indeed something special. It’s the kind of place you see in a luxury travel magazine and think, “I want to be there right now.” And for a lucky few, that postcard is reality. For me, knowing it’s there and relatively pristine is satisfying, and I hope it stays that way for future generations to enjoy – maybe one day with easier public access too, who knows.

Swimming at Naithon is great in the high season – the bay is open and can have a bit of surf, but usually moderate waves. In the low season, it can get rough, and there are rip currents so that swimming might be off the cards then. Naithon doesn’t have any offshore reefs, but you can sometimes do a bit of snorkelling near rocks at the edges. A fun activity here is to explore the northern tip, where there are some sea caves and rock formations (at very low tide, you might find some interesting shells or crabs). A word on getting to Naithon: you definitely benefit from having your own transport (car or scooter) as public transport doesn’t really reach here. Perhaps that’s one reason it stays quiet.

If I had to sum up Naithon’s appeal, it’s for travellers (or locals like me) who want to unwind in a scenic spot with minimal distractions. You come to Naithon to read a book under a palm tree, to take leisurely swims, and to chat with friendly locals running the small restaurants. Don’t expect parties or shopping – the nearest town is quite far. And that’s exactly why I find it special. Each time I visit, Naithon Beach gives me that mini-vacation feeling where time slows down, and it’s just you and the sound of the Andaman Sea lapping the shore. 

Because of the rocky nature, Ao Sane isn’t your typical “lie out and tan” kind of beach (though there is space to do that); it’s better known as a snorkelling and diving spot. The water is usually very clear in high season, and just by taking a short swim from shore, you’ll find coral formations and plenty of fish. I’ve snorkelled here and it’s like a little marine oasis, so sometimes you’ll see dive instructors bring students here for shallow scuba training.

The middle of the beach is mostly sandy-bottomed, great for swimming and floating. There’s a rustic little beach shack restaurant here (usually open in high season) where some local folks cook simple but tasty Thai food and grill seafood. I recall one time I feasted on grilled squid and papaya salad right on the sand with basically no one else around except my friends and the shop owner. It was bliss! They also rent out a few beach mats and snorkelling gear if you need them. Don’t expect fancy toilets or anything (there might be a very basic restroom behind the shack), so come prepared. For the most part, Banana Beach has a castaway atmosphere, especially on weekdays.

One tip: try to visit around midday when the sun is high, as the light makes the water colour really beautiful. Late in the day, the surrounding hills can cast shadows on the beach earlier than sunset, though sunset itself from here is still lovely. In the rainy season, Banana Beach can get a bit rough, and sometimes the path gets overgrown, but I’ve ventured down even then just to enjoy the solitude. All in all, Banana Beach is a treasure in Phuket – a reminder that if you’re willing to explore a bit beyond the main roads, you can still find pockets of paradise. Every time I bring a newcomer here, their eyes light up and they say, “I would have never found this place on my own!” That always makes me happy to share this little paradise cove.

Cape Panwa, in general, is a fantastic area if you want to escape the crowds entirely. Many expats and locals live around here, giving it a residential feel. Nightlife is virtually nil (except hotel bars), and dining is mostly at the hotels or a few local eateries. One highlight is the Phuket Aquarium – small but interesting, especially if you have kids or are on a rainy day. Also, the view from the top of Cape Panwa is gorgeous; you can see Lone Island, Coral Island, and even Phi Phi on a clear day. In short, Panwa and Ao Yon beaches offer a different side of Phuket – one of calm seas, local life, and quiet relaxation. I love spending a lazy Sunday driving down to Panwa, having lunch with a sea view, and maybe taking a dip at Ao Yon. It’s a reminder that Phuket isn’t just nightlife and busy resorts; it also has these peaceful pockets where time seems to slow down.

Another thing I love about Rawai is the longtail boat culture. If you want to go island-hopping or snorkeling, you can just walk up and hire a longtail boat from here. There’s a sort of unofficial “pier” area (actually a small jetty and gathering spot) where boat captains will quote you prices to various islands. The waters off Rawai are dotted with small islands that are visible from shore – Koh Bon is the closest (with a beach restaurant often visited by longtails), Coral Island and Racha are further. Even if I’m not island-hopping, I sometimes take a stroll on the long Rawai Pier that juts out into the sea, just to catch the breeze and enjoy the coastal view from out over the water.

Rawai is also known for its local art scene and expat community. Nearby is the beautiful Wat Nai Harn (and Nai Harn Beach and Promthep Cape are just a short drive away), plus some art galleries and cafes in Rawai town. Many expats live around here, giving it a mixed Thai-international community vibe.

The Gypsy Village at Rawai is an area where a community of sea gypsies (Chao Leh) live – they have their own culture and are known for their sea-based lifestyle and handicrafts. You can browse stalls selling shells and handmade jewelry there. In essence, Rawai Beach is a place to experience Phuket’s local seaside life. You come not to sunbathe, but to eat, to chat with fishermen, to catch a boat, or simply to sit under a tree and watch daily life unfold by the water. Many times, I’ve done just that – found a quiet bench, sipped a coconut, and enjoyed the view of islands on the horizon and the soft sound of longtail boat motors chugging along. It’s a side of Phuket that’s very authentic and warm, especially if you enjoy cultural experiences as much as sandy beaches.

Many expats live in this area because of its relaxed, local atmosphere. If you choose to stay in Rawai, the beautiful Naiharn and the iconic Promthep Cape, known for their superb sunset views, are very near.