Best beaches in Phuket
With many travellers to Thailand preparing their holiday plans for 2025, one of the most common research topics is to uncover the best beaches in Phuket and we are here to help make this process east. Phuket has some of the best beaches in Asia if not the world. It is a unique place in that there are in excess of 20 high-quality beaches to visit in a relatively compact area and indeed most of the island’s principal resort and accommodation locations are built around very accessible beach front.
We focus on 10 beach locations for this article – they are all favourites of the Simba team and all definitely worthy of a place in any list of the best beaches in Phuket.
Kick back and check out these places of natural luxury, lush sands, tall palm trees and clean waters, ready to welcome all tourists fortunate enough to have the opportunity to visit.
Some Common Sense Beach Tips
With respect to safety, it is very important to note that for most beaches surf life-saving coverage is limited or non-existent and nowhere near the standards typically found in Australia and the US. Accordingly, you must take responsibility for your own safety and like many other beaches around the world, Phuket does experience rough surf conditions (particularly in low season) and strong currents/rips.
This article highlights some of our favourite beaches with a particular focus on the most family friendly locations in addition to some fabulously hidden secrets.
Now we make our first mention, for those of you with the time to explore a little further afield from Phuket, our personal favorite area to visit outside of Phuket…. Krabi.
Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands
Surprise, surprise, Maya Bay takes top spot on our list of the best beaches worth visiting in Phuket. If you aren’t aware of Maya Bay already (and its hard not to if you are a fan of pop culture and most notably the hit movie, The Beach), it is purely spellbinding.
Since its strategic closure and reopening, Maya Bay has reclaimed its status as a sanctuary of unmatched beauty. This iconic bay, on the island of Koh Phi Phi Leh, offers a unique sense of tranquility, a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere of its sister island, Phi Phi Don. Laying on this beach and soaking in the sheer magnificence of the Andaman Sea, you’ll quickly realize why it’s considered one of Earth’s most beautiful natural wonders.
The regeneration efforts at Maya Bay have transformed it into an ecological success, with the return of blacktip reef sharks often visible in the clear shallows, a testament to the thriving marine life. Visitors are now permitted to stroll the beach, take in the stunning vistas, and wade in the shallows, but swimming is respectfully restricted to protect the delicate coral reefs and burgeoning ecosystem. This gentle approach ensures that Maya Bay remains a pristine jewel for generations to come.
A true highlight when visiting Maya Bay is witnessing its serene beauty from the water, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, when the light dances on the limestone karsts, creating a magical glow. It’s an experience that truly connects you with the raw, untouched beauty of nature.
So, as an essential part of your Phuket island-hopping adventure, a visit to Maya Bay is an absolute must. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience, standing apart from other popular destinations like Phang Nga Bay or the bustling beaches of Phuket itself.
What to do on a Phi Phi Island Tour
If you’re looking to experience the magic of Maya Bay and the surrounding Phi Phi Islands from Phuket, the Phi Phi Sunrise tour is the ultimate choice. We pride ourselves on offering an unparalleled experience, arriving at Maya Bay before the crowds, allowing you to witness its serene beauty in near solitude (our tour departs early, ensuring you capture this moment before the masses arrive). We are dedicated to sharing the incredible sights of the Phi Phi Islands with you, making Maya Bay the unforgettable centerpiece of your journey. Arrive at Maya Bay as our first stop and truly immerse yourself in this paradisiacal setting – you’ll be so glad you woke up early to experience this amazing natural wonder all to yourself (tour departs at 6:30 am).
Stops and Activities
Following on from experiencing the tranquility of Maya Bay, our journey continues with an exploration of the stunning Phi Phi Leh Lagoon, a hidden gem nestled amidst towering cliffs, offering breathtaking photo opportunities. Next, we’ll head to a prime snorkeling spot at a vibrant coral reef, teeming with colorful marine life, near Viking Cave. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and discover the underwater wonders. Our adventure also includes visits to Monkey Beach (observing from the boat), and the picturesque Bamboo Island, where you can relax on the soft sands and enjoy another swim in the azure waters.
After a morning filled with breathtaking sights, swimming, and snorkeling, it’s time to be whisked away to a stunning beachfront location for a scrumptious, indulgent lunch, providing the perfect setting to relax and refuel amidst the island beauty. Our tours are meticulously planned to ensure a luxurious and seamless experience, allowing you to fully soak in the magic of the Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay.
Railay Beach, Krabi
Railay beach Krabi is a truly postcard-worthy, idyllic tropical landscape which has two beaches, one facing east, the other facing west, with a great selection of reasonably priced hotels, bars, and restaurants in between these two beaches. Walk the stretch of the beach with the pristine blue and the velvet sand and enjoy the peace of the warm sun glazing your skin with gently warm rays. Krabi is particularly well known with the adventure seekers and rock climbers and has a much more laid back feel to it than most of the busiest beaches in Phuket. Laying on this beach in Phuket and soaking in all the best beauty of the island. Once you realize that you are now lying on the sand of the best beaches in Phuket and probably all of Earth, then it becomes surreal!
Rock climbers from far and wide come to Railay Beach Krabi to hone their skills and scale up and down one of the numerous climbing sites in and around the Railay Beach area. It looks exhausting, and it sure is fun to watch these fit and toned guys and girls give it their best shot.
Another highlight if you’re staying overnight in Railay is the sunset relax session on the west facing the beach. Drink some very reasonably priced cocktails on beach mats, while the local Thais and tourists alike enjoy a game of beach football as the sun goes down. A great way to close out an awesome day.
So as an aside trip from visiting the best beaches in Phuket, Krabi should not be missed. It offers something different to the usual tourist destinations out of Phuket being Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay.
What to do on a Krabi tour
If you have limited time and are unable to spend a stunning night or two in Krabi, a great way to see the highlights of Krabi in one day out of Phuket is the Krabi Island tour operated by Simba. We are the only tour company operating a day tour to Railay Beach Krabi, one of the best beaches in Phuket, out of Phuket and we are proud to share with you on this tour the amazing sites of Krabi. Arrive at Koh Hong National Park before the crowds as our first stop. This is a truly beautiful beach, a paradise on earth, and you’ll be so glad you got out of bed so early to experience this amazing national park all to yourself (tour departs at 630am).
Stops and Activities
Following on from breakfast on the beach is a visit to the intriguing Koh Hong Lagoon, then snorkeling stop nearby Chicken Island before we arrive at what we believe to be the best beach in Krabi, Phranang Beach. Here you will find the most amazing small beach with an enormous and spectacular limestone rock face towering over this beautiful landscape. Look out for the peculiar display of phallic objects in a small cave. A local fisherman’s tradition of days gone by.
For the more adventurous at Phranang cave, there is a secret cave to find and crawl through in the pitch black on your hands and knees, or a challenging climb up a steep side of a hill, clawing your way up the track, clinging to fig tree roots to reach an amazing viewpoint of the famous Railay east and west beaches. You’ll also find a secret lagoon perched way up in the jungle at the top of this limestone karst.
After a busy morning of sightseeing swimming, snorkeling or climbing, it’s time to be whisked away to the Grand Centara Resort Krabi for a scrumptious, indulgent lunch at this beautiful 5-star resort.
Moving on to Nai Harn, this is located in the southern cape near Rawai and work our way north along the west coast towards the airport.
Thai Mueang Beach, Phang Nga
Thai Mueang Beach is a truly pristine and serene coastal stretch, famously quiet and untouched by mass tourism, making it a rare find in the bustling Andaman region. This expansive, 13-kilometer-long sweep of golden sand, backed by a tranquil seafront road and rows of cooling fir trees, offers an unparalleled sense of peace and natural beauty. Here, you can truly walk the stretch of the beach with the gentle waves lapping at the velvet sand, letting the warm sun glaze your skin with its soft rays. Unlike the more developed beaches, Thai Mueang provides a much more laid-back and authentic feel, a true escape from the crowds. Laying on this beach, you’ll feel a deep connection with nature and the simple, profound beauty of Thailand’s coast.
Thai Mueang is particularly renowned for its vital role in sea turtle conservation. From November to February, the beach becomes a crucial nesting ground for various sea turtle species, a truly magical spectacle for nature lovers to witness, especially during moonlit nights. Each March, the “Prapanee Ploi Tao” festival sees locals and visitors joyfully releasing young turtle hatchlings into the ocean, a heartwarming testament to the community’s dedication to protecting these magnificent creatures. Beyond the turtles, the beach’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming or simply wading, offering a refreshing break from the tropical heat.
Another highlight of Thai Mueang is its unspoiled sunsets on the Andaman Sea, where the sky explodes in a riot of colors, painting a spectacular end to the day. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and appreciate the natural rhythms of life.
So, as an unmissable detour from the usual tourist trails of Phuket, Thai Mueang Beach should not be overlooked. It offers something genuinely different to the well-trodden paths of Phi Phi Islands or Phang Nga Bay, providing a glimpse into a more serene side of Thailand.
What to do on a Phang Nga Tour
If you have limited time but wish to discover the tranquil charm of Thai Mueang and its surrounding natural wonders, a fantastic way to experience this authentic corner of Phang Nga from Phuket is through a private charter tour to Phang Nga Bay. Simba Sea Trips is committed to showcasing the less-explored, incredible sites of this region. While we are known for our early departures to iconic spots, for Thai Mueang, we focus on bespoke experiences that allow you to fully appreciate its unique character, including its commitment to sea turtle conservation. Experience the profound beauty of this area, perhaps with a visit to the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre, understanding the vital work being done to protect these gentle giants.
Stops and Activities
A visit to Thai Mueang could include: a leisurely stroll along the vast, uncrowded beach, soaking in the quiet atmosphere and perhaps spotting local fishermen at work. You might also visit the Phang Nga Coastal Fisheries Research and Development Centre, where you can learn about sea turtle conservation efforts and see juvenile turtles before they are released. Further inland, within the Khao Lampi–Hat Thai Mueang National Park, you can discover the multi-tiered Lampi Waterfall, offering refreshing natural pools perfect for a dip amidst lush jungle scenery. For those seeking a deeper local experience, exploring the charming, old Thai Mueang town offers a glimpse into its tin-mining history and a chance to savor authentic local cuisine at the morning market or traditional coffee shops. After a morning of gentle exploration and connection with nature, enjoy a delicious local lunch at a quaint roadside restaurant, savoring the fresh flavors of the region. Simba Sea Trips can craft a personalized itinerary that aligns with your interests, ensuring a memorable and authentic discovery of Thai Mueang Beach.
Phra Nang Cave Beach – Krabi
Recently awarded position 32 in the World’s Top Beaches survey by Big 7 Travel, Phra Nang Cave Beach is mesmerising and a popular request from our guests. It’s a place where the nature truly takes your breath away, offering a distinct and captivating atmosphere that sets it apart from other Krabi beaches. Walk the stretch of this stunning shore, feeling the velvet sand beneath your feet as the warm sun gently caresses your skin. Krabi, and particularly the Railay area, is a haven for adventure seekers and rock climbers, and Phra Nang embodies this spirit with its dramatic natural playground. Lying on this beach, you’ll realize you’ve stumbled upon one of the most uniquely beautiful coastal spots, not just in Krabi, but arguably on Earth. It truly becomes surreal!
The beach is famously home to the Princess Cave (Tham Phra Nang Nok), a sacred shrine dedicated to an ancient sea princess, believed by local fishermen to bring good fortune and protect those at sea. The peculiar display of phallic offerings within the cave, left by fishermen seeking fertility and protection, is a fascinating and unique cultural insight. Beyond the cultural intrigue, the towering limestone cliffs are a magnet for rock climbers from around the globe, scaling the sheer rock faces in a thrilling display of strength and skill. It’s both exhausting to imagine and incredibly entertaining to watch these fit and toned individuals give it their best shot. The calm, clear waters are also perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply floating, offering a refreshing respite from the tropical warmth.
Another highlight of Phra Nang Beach is the serene ambiance, especially in the early mornings before the main crowds arrive, or later in the afternoon as the sun begins to dip. The interplay of light and shadow on the dramatic cliffs creates an ever-changing masterpiece.
So, as a pinnacle of any visit to the Krabi region, Phra Nang Cave Beach should absolutely not be missed. It offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural intrigue, and adventurous spirit that sets it apart from the usual tourist destinations out of Phuket, such as the Phi Phi Islands or Phang Nga Bay.
What to do on a Krabi Tour
If you have limited time and are unable to spend a stunning night or two experiencing the full magic of Railay, a fantastic way to see the highlights of Krabi in one day out of Phuket, including the magnificent Phra Nang Cave Beach, is via the Krabi Island tour. We are proud to be one of the few tour companies offering a comprehensive day tour to Railay Beach and its jewels like Phra Nang from Phuket, and we are thrilled to share the amazing sites of Krabi with you. Our early departure ensures you arrive at key locations like Phra Nang before the main crowds, allowing you to experience this amazing national park with a sense of peaceful solitude (our tour typically departs at 6:30 am).
Stops and Activities
Following a delightful breakfast on a secluded beach, our journey often includes a visit to the intriguing Koh Hong Lagoon, followed by a snorkeling stop near Chicken Island, before we arrive at what we believe to be one of the absolute best beaches in Krabi: Phra Nang Beach. Here, you will find the most amazing small beach with its enormous and spectacular limestone rock face towering over this beautiful landscape. Take time to explore the peculiar display of phallic objects in the Princess Cave – a fascinating local fisherman’s tradition of days gone by.
For the more adventurous at Phra Nang, there is a secret cave to find and crawl through in the pitch black on your hands and knees, or a challenging climb up a steep side of a hill, clawing your way up the track, clinging to fig tree roots to reach an amazing viewpoint overlooking the famous Railay East and West beaches. You’ll also find a secret lagoon perched way up in the jungle at the top of this limestone karst, a true hidden reward for the intrepid. After a busy morning of sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, or climbing, it’s time to be whisked away to a beautiful, hand-picked resort for a scrumptious, indulgent lunch, providing the perfect cap to an unforgettable morning.
Nai Harn / Ao Sane / Ya Nui Beach
If you are looking for the beach that can start your day with a chill vibe then you shouldn’t be looking at places such as Patong Beach in Phuket or other touristy beaches near huge resorts packed with people ready to party. You should be looking for a beach that is more quiet where you could enjoy the amazing view without all the noise.
No better place to kick off our best beaches of Phuket tour than the quiet beaches of Nai Harn and surrounds at the southern tip of Phuket. ‘Quiet’ is a relative term of course as one can expect plenty of beachgoers at Nai Harn in high season but nowhere near the crowds that the likes of Patong would typically experience. Enjoy the waters the islands have to offer and discover the best spots to chill without the worries of large crowds and fuss. Relax with your spouse, child, friends or even alone and take in the endless beauty that remains forever in your memory.
Nai Harn is the biggest of the 3 (approximately 300m long) but still manages to maintain a sleepy village atmosphere with low key bars and simple beach restaurants serving a variety of Thai classics. Usually well sheltered from the seasonal winds that can blow in at speed from the west. You will often see yachts and sailboats moored several hundred meters off the beach taking advantage of the calm conditions.
Two superb nearby ‘micro’ beaches are well worth a mention. Ya Nui lies to the left of Nai Harn (ie towards the famous Phrom Thep cape/viewpoint. More cove than beach but great for families with younger children. Snorkeling is sometimes possible as well.
Ao Sane Beach, to the right of Nai Harn, can rightly be considered a ‘secret beach’ of Phuket. Slightly tricky to reach as you need to drive or walk The Nai Harn resort to access.
Collectively these certainly qualify as 3 of the best beaches in Phuket.
Kata Noi & Kata Yai Beach
Probably the pick of the high profile beaches. Kata Beach really comprises 2 distinct locations – Kata Noi (short) and Kata Yai (long). Kata Noi’s beachfront is dominated by the upmarket Katathani Resort and one certainly gets the impression the resort ‘owns’ the beach. This, of course, is not the case and there are public access points at either end of the beach. Conditions can sometimes be rough, even in high season, so do take care. The vistas are superb, however, particularly the view to the north which is absolutely world class. The views alone make it one of the best beaches in Phuket. In our experience, this beach is rarely crowded.
This another good choice for people who are looking for a more quiet option when it comes to beaches that they can go to and relax. Kata Beach is super close to Karon Beach, but yet it is still quieter than Karon Beach.
Kata Yai is much longer, wider and very accessible. Most of the Kata resorts will be located close to this beach so do expect more people. Conditions are nearly always calm and as a result one of the best swimming beaches in Phuket. A good ‘allrounder’ option for most. There are many, many restaurant and bar options just 200m inland and indeed we like to recommend Kata to those looking for an energetic location but without the craziness of Patong.
Taking into account the holiday needs of most visitors Kata would be our pick of the beachside locations in Phuket and for many, it is the best beach in Phuket.
Freedom Beach – Phuket’s best beach that no one knows
One of the best small beaches on Phuket. It is very secluded and almost remote despite it only being minutes from the hustle and bustle of Patong. The best way to visit is via a Long Tail charter and these transfers are generally only available during high season. We understand you can also access via a dirt road but have not yet tried.
The beach is some 300m to 400m long and despite the relative inaccessibility still comes complete with a handful of bars/restaurants so really no excuse to not laze away a day. Don’t let the size fool you though. The sight of the beach is pretty mesmerizing, creating a relaxing atmosphere and the perfect place for you to take photos at one of the most rarely-visited beaches on the planet. No parasails or jet skis either which makes for a very welcome change from the bigger Phuket beaches.
This amazing piece of the earth may as well beach your favorite and best beach in Phuket. In our book, this is one of the best beaches in Phuket for people who like a bit of an adventure with an awesome reward. If you are willing to traverse the tricky dirt road to get to the Freedom beach, then the reward is all yours! You deserved that relaxation.
The strangest thing though is going to a beach that is this quiet but so close to Patong, probably the busiest area of Phuket.
Kamala Beach – One of the best “Big Beaches”
Kamala is the last of the ‘big’ beaches as we head north from Patong. Water and wave conditions are usually safe so again makes for a good family beach option. Following the demise of the Surin beachfront restaurants and bars in 2016, Kamala stands as one of the very beaches to provide a proper ‘on-the-beach’ dining and drinking experience.
Most of the restaurant options are safe (if not terribly exciting) tourist menu orientated. We eat along this strip every month or so and are rarely disappointed. For those looking for a more upmarket option Café Del Mar is a classy beach club operating at the northern end of the beach which believe it or not is quite family friendly. There are plenty on beach places you can go for a drink or food so don’t worry about that.
The best thing about Kamala? Given it doesn’t have the profile of Kata-Karon-Patong it can experience greater variation in tourist numbers in the off-season. This, of course, can mean a very peaceful beachside for those looking for getting away from it all. We also find it consistently offers the best beach sunset views of all the West Coast beaches.
If I chose to live at a beachside location in Phuket, Kamala would definitely be my pick, especially if you are looking for one of the best beaches in Phuket during low seasons.
Find out more about Kamala Beach.
Banana Beach – A secluded beach wonder
This location is, for me, the best of the small hidden beaches in Phuket. It takes some effort to reach as it is not within walking distance to any noted resort or village locations. Banana Beach can be found north of Layan Beach on the coastal road to Nai Thon (ie heading towards the airport). If you don’t have your own wheels then perhaps combine a stop at Banana Beach as part of a day tour with a private car and driver. A 6 to 8-hour tour can be had for around 2,000 baht. It is also possible to hire a long tail from Bang Tao / Layan beach to make the journey.
Although the beach has a sheltered look wave conditions can be a bit fierce during low season and given the remoteness of the beach it is probably good advice to restrict swimming to high season. The beach is very un-spoilt and usually very quiet. There is plenty of shelter on the beach and there is a small bar/restaurant at one end.
It can be hard to believe you are in Phuket such is the serenity of Banana Beach. Phuket is usually associated with Partying and vibrant lifestyle, but this tiny bit of the map, which is considered to be one of the best beaches in Phuket by many, will help you lay back and relax, taking in the beauty that surrounds you. The beach itself is quiet and it lets all the scenery and the beauty speaks for itself.
Nai Thong Beach, Phang Nga Bay
I often think the best way to describe Nai Thong as the place you come to after you have ‘done’ Patong and Kata. Certainly, the beach I would stay at if returning to Phuket for a subsequent visit. Not flashy, indeed even a little comfortably ramshackle, but oh so quiet once you get out of high season.
Beachside street food and juice vendors, simple Thai restaurants, pizza, cold beers – life can be very easy at Nai Thong. The beach is typical of the medium-sized bay beaches; ~1000m in length bookended by rocky points. The water is typically calm in high season and as such is one of the best beaches in Phuket for family excursions.
Only 10 minutes from the airport (if that’s important) and whilst quite a drive from Phuket Town and Patong, most tour companies will offer a pick-up for Phi Phi Island and Phang Nga Bay boat tours.
My favourite medium-sized beach in Phuket.
Questions you may have for the Best Beaches in Phuket
What is the most beautiful beach in Phuket?
In our humble opinion, the most beautiful beach in Phuket is Railay beach. The amazing sand, the crystal water and the breathtaking surroundings make a magical combo, and most likely the best views you can see while lying on a white-sand beach.
Which is the best beach to stay in Phuket?
The best beach we would suggest you find a place to stay in Phuket is Kamala beach. The beautiful Kamala beach is host to plenty of the best beach resorts in Phuket. Having a place to stay at Kamala beach and the option of visiting that wonderful sandy beach every day is an awesome combo.
Which Phuket Beach is best for families?
The best beach for people with children and families would have to be Kata. Kata beach has an amazing array of activities and things to do. The beach itself and the water is amazing and you can find plenty of things to do with your children. There are many restaurants that can satisfy different tastes and the hotels are nicely priced.
Where can you swim in Phuket?
In Phuket, you might think that anywhere would be a nice place to swim. And that is almost correct. Just make sure that by anywhere you mean a beach that is suitable for swimming. During the low season and sometimes during the high season there are places that are dangerous to swim at, for example, Banana beach can be a bit dangerous at specific times during the year. Just make sure that you are at a beach that is safe to swim. We are not saying that you have to follow the crowd, but it is important to know beforehand that a beach is safe before diving in the water. The dangers may range from currents to jellyfish and more.
Which beach is famous in Phuket?
The best beaches in Phuket may not be the most famous, but it’s hard to keep them a secret. Probably the most famous beach in Phuket is the Kata Noi and Kata Yai beaches. Many people visit these beaches because of their beauty and serenity.
Is Karon or Kata Beach Better?
This really depends on what you are looking for. Karon beach is also a great beach but it tends to feel more touristy because of the huge buildings surrounding the beach while on the other hand, the Kata beach feels cozier and more homely to people.
Start exploring the 7 best beaches in Phuket
So there you have it.
7 excellent beach locations that not only comfortably fulfill the criteria of ‘best beaches in Phuket’ but provide a mix of popular, hidden and off the beaten track. All are guaranteed to impart some memorable character and will help make your trip to Phuket one to remember.
So do enjoy your beach exploration whilst you visit this part of the world. The Phuket and Krabi areas really do have some of the most beautiful beaches you will find in Asia, and indeed the world.
Contact us to explore your Phuket boat tour options on how to visit the best beaches in Phuket on a boat!
As our today’s bonus, we have included an article with information about Tonsai Beach in case you want to consider it as one of your destinations.
Enjoy and be safe!
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