Are you planning a trip to Thailand and wondering where to stay in Phuket?
Let’s explore together what Thailand’s most popular beach destination has to offer and discover some hidden gems along the way!
Table of Contents
- Why Stay In Phuket?
- Is Phuket Safe?
- Which Is Better Bali Or Phuket?
- What Is The Best Time To Go To Phuket?
- Is Phuket An Island?
- How To Get Around Phuket?
- How Many Days Should I Spend In Phuket?
- The Best Hotels To Stay In Phuket
- #1 Where To Stay In Phuket For The First Time: Karon Beach
- #2 Where To Stay In Phuket For Couples And Honeymooners: Kata Beach (Close To The Big Buddha)
- #3 Where To Stay In Phuket For The Best Nightlife, Lively Beaches, Shops & Markets: Central Patong Beach
- #4 Where To Stay In Phuket With Family: Kamala Beach, Surin Beach & Bang Tao Beach
- #5 Where To Stay In Phuket Off The Beaten Path: Rawai Beach & Mai Khao Beach
- #6 Where Do Celebrities Stay In Phuket AKA The Best Luxury Accommodation In Phuket
- #7 Where To Stay In Phuket Town (For Culture, Food & Easiness Of Getting The Ferry To Phi Phi Islands)
Why Stay In Phuket?
Who hasn't heard of it? Phuket has been a popular destination for decades.
It has a lot to offer: untouched islands, pristine shores, beachfront resorts, never-ending nightlife, strong culture, amazing food, and the kindest people.
Some things Phuket is famous for:
- Nature adventures, from rock climbing to trekking
- Landmarks such as Phang Nga Bay, a bay characterized by mysterious standing limestone cliffs and rocks which featured in a James Bond movie
- Paradise style beaches: crystal clear waters and white sand is the standard
- Night markets to experience Thailand’s famous street food
- Old Town Phuket, a blend of local culture, city vibes and roaring nightlife
- Bar hopping: spend a night on Bangla Road, the nightlife hotspot in Phuket
- Island hopping to discover hidden gems
- Ancient temples
- Thai food and cooking classes
- Fancy beach clubs
Is Phuket Safe?
Yes, Phuket is pretty safe! But as it’s also very touristic, it does attract a lot of funny characters.
Here are some tips to stay safe when traveling to Phuket:
- Avoid drinking too much, and always stay conscious
- Don’t offend the locals
- Check reviews and research on prices before buying or renting anything
- Agree on a price before hopping on a tuk-tuk
- Beware of red flags and strong currents when swimming in the open sea
- Walk away from any dodgy situation: there are plenty of tuk-tuk, motorbike, and accommodation scams
- Don’t walk alone at night in dark alleys
- Don’t do topless bathing in public
- Don’t drive a scooter if you don’t have experience
- Get travel insurance, I recommend SafetyWing
- Keep your valuables in your hotel safe
Which Is Better Bali Or Phuket?
Southeast Asia offers so many appealing destinations that it can get hard to pick, right?
As an island, Bali is the perfect combination of natural beauty and fascinating culture.
Compared to Bali, Thailand gets a heavier rainy season. But they are both easily accessible and you’ll need roughly the same type of budget for both.
Bali and Thailand both offer options for backpackers as well as luxury tourism alike. And there are plenty of things to do in both.
One of the main differences between Bali and Phuket are the beaches.
In Bali, beaches are perfect for surfers as there are constant swells, but not for swimmers (except a few beaches). They’re not the most beautiful either.
Phuket on the other hand has the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen: pristine, deserted, untouched, crystal clear waters and white sand set the standards high. It’s best for swimmers and those who love beautiful scenery along with snorkeling and island hopping.
In a nutshell: If you’re more into culture, nature and surf, go to Bali. If you’re more into dreamlike beaches and little boat trips/island hopping, head to Phuket!
What Is The Best Time To Go To Phuket?
Like many Southeast Asian destinations, it obviously never gets cold in Thailand.
From November to February, the temperature is much cooler though, and that’s the reason why it’s the busiest period.
This changes from March to May, which is the hottest time of the year.
Then, from May to October, it’s monsoon time, meaning it’s the rainy and humid season.
Worst-case scenario, it can rain every day in short downpours, with the possibility of storms and flooding. But most of the time, it’s fine to travel and you’ll usually still catch some sunshine even in the rainy season.
Is Phuket An Island?
Phuket is a province on the West Coast of Southern Thailand. There are many different islands actually around Phuket.
It’s also the largest island of the country, linked to the mainland by a bridge making it easily accessible.
How To Get Around Phuket?
In Thailand, one of the most popular ways of getting around is by tuk-tuk (the motorized auto rickshaws).
They are very convenient as you can easily find a ride, and they are also cheap! On top of that, it’s a nice way to fit in with the local vibe.
Another option is to rent your own scooter, but I’d advise you to do it only if you have experience and travel insurance. Phuket’s traffic can be quite hectic.
Getting a taxi is also possible, but may be more pricey.
How Many Days Should I Spend In Phuket?
When it comes to travelling to Phuket, I suggest staying at least a minimum of 4 days.
Phuket is a diverse destination and bigger than you think. With its remote, untouched and natural areas with beach resorts, as well as its busy city vibe, the craziest nightlife, and everything in between.
There is so much to discover that if you don’t have any other destinations in Thailand like Chiang Mai, Bangkok or Koh Samui on your itinerary, I’d advise staying for 1 week or 10 days.
You could split your time between a remote hidden location to enjoy nature, and spend some time close to the city discovering the local culture, the night markets, do some shopping and experience the Thai nightlife.
Now, let’s have a look at the best area to stay in Phuket that fits your needs!
The Best Hotels To Stay In Phuket
#1 Where To Stay In Phuket For The First Time: Karon Beach
There is a long list of luxury resorts in Phuket, but this one is definitely special.
Nestled in nature, it has five pools, a restaurant open to the horizon, a game room and a gym.
You can enjoy the free shuttle to the beach, and shopping and nightlife a stone throw away.
Location: 14/2 Patak Road Soi 24
Price from: US$100 per night
Sleeps: One bedroom villa, up to 2 people
What makes it unique? Affordable costs for a luxury stay!
Pick one of these impressive Phuket resorts on the beach with infinity pool.
It’s a perfect location for those who want to swim every day and be close to the main hotspots.
They have original rooms with different features: from a top-level sea view balcony, to the special spa bath rooms.
Location: 38 Soi Luang Phor Chuan Soi 1
Price from: US$77 per night
Sleeps: Triple room, up to 3 people
What makes it unique? Family-friendly and kids club available!
Rooms are modern and clean, with a bathroom, a sofa, a TV, and a desk.
There is a great cafe next to the pool, and you’ll get a free shuttle to Karon beach when you feel like going out.
Location: 400/2 Patak Rd
Price from: US$223
Sleeps: Triple room, up to 3 people
What makes it unique? The hotel is built so every room gets a balcony with great nature views.
Grandiose entrance for a great luxury stay. The resort proposes bright and spacious villas, some oriented towards the garden and others towards the pool.
I love the layout of the villas coming with living room, TV, en suite bathroom and stone bathtub.
Only five minutes walk to the beach.
Location: 566/1 Patak Road
Price from: US$87 per night
Sleeps: Villa, up to 3 people
What makes it unique? Afternoon live music by the pool and happy hour!
Stunning resort built among palm trees!
Whether you choose a garden villa or a private pool villa, you’ll get an en suite bathroom with hot tub, AC, a fridge, and nice seating areas along with a balcony.
It has a quality spa, four pools and seven restaurants.
Location: 509 Patak Road
Price from: US$173 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom villa, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? If you’re looking for where to stay in Phuket with a family, this resort might be the one: book a two-bedroom villa with private pool! The resort also has a DVD lounge with PlayStations…
Ready for another beachfront accommodation in Phuket?
This pink marble resort has a massive pool equipped with sunbeds, sitting just next to the beach.
Each room is modern with all the essentials. There are also a spa and a gym on-site!
Location: 683 Patak Road
Price from: US$145 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom villa, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? All rooms have something special: when there is no private pool overlooking the ocean, you’ll benefit from a spa bath on your terrace.
#2 Where To Stay In Phuket For Couples And Honeymooners: Kata Beach (Close To The Big Buddha)
The best hotel in Phuket on the beach!
The resort has warm suites with wooden features, offering beautiful terraces with a view, a seating area, a TV.
Location: 12 Kata Noi Rd
Price from: US$140 per night
Sleeps: Suite, up to 2 people
What makes it unique? The magical location facing the sea!
You’ll love this luxury village sitting above the sea!
It features independent lofts and villas offering a truly exclusive space: with kitchen, seating area, bathroom and terrace.
Enjoy a classy hangout around the pool, or get a daily free ride to the beach!
Location: 186/22 Koktanode Road
Price from: US$769 per night
Sleeps: Three-bedroom villa, up to 6 people
What makes it unique? The very high-tech villas!
Located on a gentle hill while facing the beach, each villa comes with a private pool, sundeck, bathroom with bathtub.
The set up has a romantic vibe, between their instagrammable sunbeds and the delicious floating breakfasts!
The resort offers yoga and aerobics classes, as well as a spa.
Location: 14 Kata Noi Road
Price from: US$487 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom villa, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? Adult only hotel! This is the place where to stay in Phuket for couples – no doubt!
This hotel has a very central location, a stroll away from the beach for your sunsets walk.
The rooms have a clean design, with TV, AC, private bathroom and balcony with a view.
Enjoy the delicious and super appealing breakfast, the two pools, bars, restaurants and the gym.
Location: 247 Koktanode Rd
Price from: US$74 per night
Sleeps: Triple room, up to 3 people
What makes it unique? There is a kids club with lots of games available!
This hotel is perched just above Kata Noi’s bay!
It has villas with private pools, with a high tech TV, DVD player and iPod docking, espresso machine (a great add-on in my opinion).
Location: 10 Kata Noi Road, Moo 2
Price from: US$952 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom villa, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? They have a special honeymoon suite: a real romantic getaway!
#3 Where To Stay In Phuket For The Best Nightlife, Lively Beaches, Shops & Markets: Central Patong Beach
The resort offers colourful rooms boasting a TV, a terrace, minibar, and some have direct pool access.
If you want to stay in, you can enjoy the pool bar and the juice bar, as well as the two swimming pools.
Fancy some action? Head to Patong beach, the fun hub of the area, only 10 minutes walk away.
Location: 18/110 Ruamjai Road
Price from: US$130 per night
Sleeps: Double room, up to 2 people
What makes it unique? The resort has different packages according to your preferences: free daily minibar or one-hour free massage. What’s yours?
You’ll surely enjoy their modern rooms with fridge, desk, TV, and bathroom.
The hotel has a long pool, a lounge deck with a view on the sea, a kids club, a gym, a spa and sauna, along with a restaurant. Well, anything you might need is probably available on-site.
Location: 322 Prabaramee Road
Price from: US$80 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom suite, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? It’s only two minutes drive from the hustle of Patong beach!
Like almost all the best hotels in Phuket, you’ll enjoy an all-included stay and benefit from countless facilities such as two pools, five restaurants, a gym, a spa.
Needless to say that your room will satisfy all your needs from a comfortable bed, AC, TV, a terrace to a private access to the pool.
Location: 199 Rat-Uthit 200 Pee Road, Patong Beach
Price from: US$129 per night
Sleeps: Suite, up to 2 people
What makes it unique? This urban resort is for those who want to enjoy luxury facilities while staying close to the main hub, only five minutes walk!
Quite impressive in terms of size, this resort has been made to provide privacy to every unit, along with a beautiful view.
You’ll enjoy spacious rooms with AC, bathroom, terrace and coffee machine, and for some extra money direct access to the pool!
The pool area is a nice place to hang out, with live music every evening.
Location: 79 Hasib Pee Road, Patong
Price from: US$78 per night
Sleeps: Apartment, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? I would definitely pick the suite with hot tub on the terrace facing lush nature!
#4 Where To Stay In Phuket With Family: Kamala Beach, Surin Beach & Bang Tao Beach
Oh well, this top-class accommodation in Phuket probably got it all, right?
Even though it’s a big resort, it spreads well enough between the mountainside and beachside to allow space between the different facilities.
I particularly love their beachfront area, equipped with sunbeds.
Location: 333, 333/3 Moo 3
Price from: US$538 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom villa, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? Thumbs up for the location amidst greenery, the tasteful decoration and design of the resort.
These apartments are for those who want to be independent, particularly having their own kitchen, and all facilities that a regular hotel offers.
Each unit has extra-large double beds, a balcony, a bathroom, a TV and AC.
Nice bonus: the saltwater pool!
Location: 107/1 Soi police station
Price from: US$74 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom apartment, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? A great affordable option to stay on the beach!
As its name suggests, this hotel offers glamorous villas only!
For such an affordable price, you’ll get a villa with a private pool, featuring a sundeck, a kitchen, a dining table and sofa, a TV, and a marble bathroom. Like at home, but fancy as an extra!
Only two minutes walk from the beach.
Location: 112/39 M.3 Kamala Road
Price from: US$91 per night
Sleeps: Three-bedroom villa, up to 6 people
What makes it unique? The two-bedroom villa has an Xbox game console and a soundbar!
Just next to Surin beach, this resort offers modern and spacious rooms with balcony, living room and flat-screen TV, bathroom, and a fridge.
You can enjoy the numerous facilities from a beach bar, the large pool coming with daybeds, a restaurant, a gym and a spa.
Location: 106/46 Moo 3, Surin Beach Road
Price from: US$130 per night
Sleeps: Duplex suite, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? The resort is a secluded retreat spot with easy access at the same time.
Located right on Bangtao beach, you’ll spend great days cooling off in crystal clear waters, watching beautiful sunsets while having dinner feet in the sand.
The resort proposes lots of facilities, including squash and tennis courts, long water slides and a large pool.
The rooms offer all essential comfort, with different view options: ocean, lagoon or garden.
Location: 323 Moo 2, Srisoonthorn Road
Price from: US$146 per night
Sleeps: Double room, up to 2 people
What makes it unique? Perfect resort for families! It provides special services such as a kids club and babysitters for you to make the most out of your holiday.
Check out this peaceful beachfront hotel on Bang Tao beach!
The rooms are spacious and thoughtfully set up.
You can leave your little ones at the kids zone while you enjoy what the area has to offer, such as water activities (think jet ski!), and lots of restaurants to eat on the beach.
Location: 124/29 Moo 3, Bangtao beach
Price from: US$150 per night
Sleeps: Family room, up to 3 people
What makes it unique? I’m sure this dreamy beach will be the highlight of your stay!
#5 Where To Stay In Phuket Off The Beaten Path: Rawai Beach & Mai Khao Beach
Best Hotels In Raiwai Beach
The rooms are bright and comfortable, boasting a bathroom and big shower, a desk, a seating area, a fridge and other thoughtfully picked kitchen facilities.
Previous guests loved the private access to the pool from their rooms.
If you feel like going on other beaches, hop on the free shuttle bus provided by the hotel.
Location: 66/2 Viset Road
Price from: US$65 per night
Sleeps: Family room, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? Family-friendly: there is a separated pool for children with a sandy area, which is a nice addition!
This resort rents simple and cosy apartments with kitchen, fridge, en suite bathroom and balcony with a view of the saltwater pool.
Shuttle services to the great Ya Nui and Nai Harn beaches, where to swim and snorkel.
You’ll love the local food served at the restaurant!
Location: 9/25 Moo 6 Soi Ya Nui Rawai Phuket
Price from: US$78 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom suite, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? Great value for money!
Best Hotels In Mai Khao Beach
Grandiose setting for this resort on a pristine beach!
The villas are oriented to provide a beautiful view and privacy at all times.
They have ensuite bathroom, a terrace, a coffee machine, AC, TV and some come with a private pool.
Location: 555 Moo 3, Mai Khao Beach
Price from: US$180 per night
Sleeps: Three-bedroom villa, up to 6 people
What makes it unique? Pick a villa with a private pool! Their beautiful design is a pleasure for the eyes.
A tranquil retreat getaway on an almost deserted beach.
The rooms are splendid and classy, providing all comfort.
To deliver a complete holiday experience, Marriott proposes not less than 11 dining options, 3 pools, yoga and cooking classes, as well as Thai boxing.
Location: 231 Moo 3 Mai Khao Talang
Price from: US192 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom villa, up to 5 people
What makes it unique? For those looking for untouched beaches!
#6 Where Do Celebrities Stay In Phuket AKA The Best Luxury Accommodation In Phuket
You think you’ve seen all the Phuket luxury accommodations? The best is yet to come.
This one is the glam pick! Set on a small island, this resort is accessible only by boat.
Surrounded by peaceful greenery, the villas have a smart layout to deliver comfort and a well oriented pool.
Location: 94/4 Moo 6, Tambon Koh Kaew
Price from: US$260 per night
Sleeps: Four-bedroom villa, up to 8 peopl
What makes it unique? Far from the crowds! This big villa is available for your holiday with friends or family.
Best place in Phuket to stay? I think so!
These villas are stunning and luxurious while having something of an eccentric touch. Every detail will make your eye pop!
Located in front of a private beach, the resort offers any service that you might need: from a private chef to a spa therapist and a driver.
Location: 40/14 Moo 6 Kok Kloi
Price from: US$830 per night
Sleeps: Three-bedroom villa, up to 6 people
What makes it unique? It’s such as exclusive and grandiose resort that it simply goes beyond your imagination.
Struggling to find where to stay in Phuket that is truly special?
Book a real luxury getaway, and enjoy a private beach access, incredible and diverse pools, ponds, surrounded by lush greenery, and premium service.
Previous guests loved it all! From the facilities to the quality of the food, and the comfortable rooms.
Location: 88 Moo 8, Sakdidej Road
Price from: US$512 per night
Sleeps: Five-bedroom villa, up to 10 people
What makes it unique? Sitting above the sea, this resort will make you feel out of this world to enjoy a relaxing time.
Located on the coast, this resort is a remote haven with a breathtaking view, offering villas with private pool.
Do you want a proper spa treatment? The resort has steam rooms, massage alcoves and a spa pool.
It also proposes yoga classes, flower arrangements classes, and more.
Location: 225 Moo 7
Price from: US$290 per night
Sleeps: Four-bedroom villa, up to 8 people
What makes it unique? Perfect spot for honeymooners looking for a romantic escape, far from it all.
I’m in love with their open design pool villas, their tropical outdoor seating area, and the view on a typical Thailand scenery.
Even though it feels like you’re alone out there, the resort has a gym, a spa, a restaurant, and activities such as movie nights, wine tasting, Thai cooking classes.
Location: 56 Moo 5, Tambol Koh Yao Noi
Price from: US$1,239 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom villa, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? Set on an island, in a 24-acres of lush forest, you’ll be only a walk away from a pristine beach.
Set on Tri Trang beach, this resort has double rooms, pool pavilions, beachfront pool villas, and a few houses.
The highlight of your stay will definitely be the beautiful setting in the lush gardens and top-class food.
Location: 88/28 Muen-Ngern
Price from: US$826 per night
Sleeps: Two-bedroom villa, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? This remote area is perfect to cycle around! The resort offers free bicycles for this occasion.
#7 Where To Stay In Phuket Town (For Culture, Food & Easiness Of Getting The Ferry To Phi Phi Islands)
One of the great hotels in Phuket town: this very stylish hostel features a lounge, a kitchen, a garden, and a lovely pool!
Each unit has a desk and AC, some bathrooms have a pretty bathtub.
Location: 2/15 Thanon Dibuk Talad-Yai
Price from: US$34 per night
Sleeps: Quadruple room, up to 4 people
What makes it unique? Close to a night market and lots of eateries.
Looking for original Phuket town hotels?
This black and white themed accommodation offers double to triple rooms with AC and a desk.
It has a pool with daybeds, a lounge, and a bar.
Enjoy the daily breakfast, and the free bicycles!
Location: 3 Soi 3 Phangnga Road
Price from: US$62 per night
Sleeps: Triple room, up to 3 people
What makes it unique? Book for the friendly vibes and the central location!
This is the best place to stay in Phuket Old Town!
Very central, these beautiful and colourful bedrooms have something of an old school vibe.
Each of them come with a bathroom, a TV, and AC.
Location: 19 Phang-Nga Road
Price from: US$39 per night
Sleeps: Double room, up to 2 people
What makes it unique? The vintage colonial look of the rooms!
If you’re wondering where to stay in Phuket, it honestly depends only on your idea of a perfect holiday.
Doing the right research will bring lots of benefits and avoid disappointments: your ideal trip is just a click away!
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