Phuket Beaches, Swimming and Coastline

(Phuket, Thailand)

One of the main attractions on the island of Phuket is without doubt its many sandy beaches, which are particularly concentrated along the western coastline. Many of these beaches feature superb stretches of soft sand, calm water suitable for bathing, and nearby coral reefs perfect for those with an interest in scuba diving or snorkelling.

Most of the island's most popular beaches are just a short drive from Phuket City, with a number also being particularly close to Phuket Airport, on the north-western coast. Always avoid going into the water if a red flag is flying, since this warns of strong currents and potential riptides. The main beaches are shown below.

Main Beaches

• Bang Tao Beach - one of the island's longest beaches and home to both the Laguna Beach Resort and the popular Canal Village Shopping Centre, being close to the Thalang district, the Wat Phra Nang Sang, and a nearby golf course
• Kalim Beach - known for its beautiful coral reefs and rocky outcrops, this popular location can be found at one end of Patong Beach and features natural scenery at its best
• Kamala Beach - a fairly undeveloped stretch of fine sand, which is amongst the most peaceful spots on the whole island, measuring around 2 km / 1.5 miles in length. Plenty of seafront restaurants are nearby, as is the FantaSea theme park
• Karon Beach - situated approximately 20 km / 12 miles to the west of Phuket City and featuring fine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, innumerable beachfront bars and some seasonal water sports
• Kata Beach - a popular sandy stretch around 17 km / 11 miles to the south-west of Phuket City, boasting conditions suitable for swimming, windsurfing, diving and snorkelling, with a particularly beautiful coral reef just waiting to be explored. Plenty of hotels and eateries are never far away
• Laem Sing Beach - often described as an especially intimate spot, since it is fairly small, relatively quiet and frequently overlooked
• Nai Harn Beach - referred to by locals as 'Hat Nai Harn' and boasting both find white sand and a picture-postcard lagoon. Suitable for swimming and windsurfing during the peak season
• Nai Thon Beach - an isolated spot on the north-western coastline and away from the crowds, regularly frequented by surfers
• Nai Yang Beach - close to Nai Thon Beach, the Sirinart National Park and the island's airport, alongside mature pine trees and mangrove areas. Scuba diving is especially popular here, due to the underwater coral attractions
• Patong Beach - this major tourist hotspot is lined with amenities, accommodation, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and family orientated attractions
• Rai Ley Beach - a particularly stunning stretch, backed by cliffs and sited to the north-east of the island, in nearby Krabi. This beautiful beach can only be reached by boat
• Rawai Beach - a tropical oasis situated roughly 17 km / 11 miles to the south of the city and edged with mature palm trees. This spot offers excellent fishing and soft sand perfect for sun worshippers
• Surin Beach - next to Laem Sing Beach and always popular with island locals, who come hear to swim, dive, snorkel, sunbathe and picnic