Often known as the Pearl of the Andaman, Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, draws many travelers to its coastline. Yet the best beaches in Phuket may just be the lesser known ones.
Phuket was once a crucial trading port, but today it lures voyagers with the promise of sugar-sand beaches and swaying coconut palm trees. The fact that its sun-drenched shores are a breezy 1.5-hour flight from Bangkok makes them especially enticing.
While Phuket is an immensely popular getaway, there are hidden corners for those who know where to look. After admiring historic Sino-Portuguese architecture and feasting on seafood in Phuket Town, leave the crowds behind and head to these unspoiled stretches of sand. Here are the best beaches in Phuket.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Nai Yang Beach
Sirinat National Park in the north of Phuket shields a sizable portion of Nai Yang Beach’s honey-hued sands from development, meaning the shoreline here looks much the same as it has for decades. Sea turtles still occasionally lay their eggs here, and it’s the perfect spot for a picnic.
Despite its location near Phuket International Airport, most tourists drive right by this beach without realizing it. For those hoping to bask in the sun and enjoy the quiet moments, Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach offers stylish rooms, suites, and villas overlooking the Andaman Sea.
Hua Beach
While the sand here is rockier rather than powder soft like other Phuket beaches, the turquoise waters are every bit as lovely. Hua Beach faces due north and has the distinction of being a stone’s throw from the so-called Millionaire’s Mile, a string of lavish private mansions, villas, and resorts. Visitors here can enjoy the same stunning views without having to spend a penny.
Hua lies just before the better-known Kamala Beach as you headed north on Phuket Island away from Patong Beach.
Kalim Beach
After squeezing through the crowds of sun chasers on Patong and Kamala beaches, find a haven right around the corner. Kalim Beach is located just north of Patong, and it’s smaller than its flashy neighbors. But what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in solitude. It’s also dotted with beautiful rock formations and coral reefs. When you need to get away from it all, stroll over to this shore. As a note, it is not as great as its neighbors for swimming.
Merlin Beach
Snorkelers will be in paradise in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the reef directly off of Merlin Beach. Since guests at the Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach have exclusive access to the area, you’ll never have to fight for a spot in the sun or the sea.
As the waves recede, wander out to the exposed tidal pools, which host all manner of crustaceans, minnows, and sea cucumbers.
Nui Beach
A sheltered cove surrounded on all sides by emerald foliage, Nui Beach more than merits the 1.8-mile drive through the jungle necessary to reach it. To find it, keep an eye out for the turn just south of the Kata-Karon Viewpoint, on the road linking the Kata and Nai Harn beaches. Once there, take a swim in the stunningly clear and serene waters and enjoy the peace of this secluded spot.
Banana Beach
Nicknamed for its crescent shape and golden sands, Banana Beach is a piece of postcard-worthy perfection located on Koh Hey, or Coral Island, just off the coast of Phuket. You’ll need to grab a speedboat at Chalong Pier to reach it, but the half-hour ride is incredibly scenic.
Since much of Koh Hey is protected by a national park, there’s virtually no development on the island. It is truly a perfect paradise for snorkeling, sunning, and swimming the day away.
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