Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, nightlife, and family-friendly attractions. With a wide range of accommodations for all budgets and styles, it’s no surprise that Phuket is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
If you’re planning a trip to Phuket, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing where to stay. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, there are plenty of great hotels in Phuket to suit your travel style and needs. Our guide provides an overview of some of the top areas to stay in Phuket and information on the best hotels on the island.
Couples will want to stay in Karon Beach or Kamala Beach, both perfect for tourists who want a quieter environment, offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.
Patong Beach is perfect for party-people who want a lively and bustling atmosphere with a wide range of activities and entertainment options. It’s the area for nightlife.
Kata Beach is ideal for families and those looking for a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and activities to enjoy.
For a luxury experience, Cape Panwa is the place to stay in Phuket, with stunning views and a variety of high-end restaurants and hotels. Alternatively, Mai Khao Beach is perfect for those seeking a secluded beach experience, known for its long stretch of white sand and clear waters.
In this guide, I will elaborate on each area and explain in detail why it’s interesting and ideal for your preference, budget and travel style.
Table of Contents
- Tips for selecting the best accommodation in Phuket
- Karon Beach – Best area to stay in Phuket for first timers
- Best places to stay in Karon Beach
- Surin Beach – Best area in Phuket for luxury
- Best places to stay in Surin Beach
- Kata Beach – Best area to stay for families
- Best places to stay in Kata Beach
- Kamala Beach – Best area to stay for couples
- Best places to stay in Kamala Beach
- Patong Beach – Best area to stay in Phuket for nightlife
- Best places to stay in Patong Beach
- Nai Harn Beach – Best area to stay for stunning beach
- Best place to stay in Nai Harn Beach
- Mai Khao Beach – Best area to stay for honeymoon
- Best place to stay in Mai Khao Beach
- Bang Tao Beach – Best area to stay for watersports
- Best places to stay in Bang Tao Beach
- Phuket Town – Best area to stay for an all round experience
- Best places to stay in Phuket Town
Here is a summary of the best places to stay in Phuket at a glance:
| ❤️ Best Area for first-timers: | Karon Beach |
| 💎 Best luxury 5* hotel: | Outrigger Surin Beach Resort |
| 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: | Pacific Club Resort |
| 🛏️ Best budget hotel: | Baan Andaman Sea Surf |
Tips for selecting the best accommodation in Phuket
When choosing accommodations in Phuket, consider budget, location, and personal travel style. Here are tips to help you find the best option for your trip:
- Plan ahead: Phuket can get crowded during peak season, so book in advance to ensure you get the best places to stay. I recommend at least 2 months in advance if possible to get the best deals.
- Budget: Phuket offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. There are plenty of honeymoon villas as well but also beach hostels. Determine your budget and search for options that fit it.
- Location: Phuket has several regions with distinct characters and attractions. Select a location which suits your travel style best to ensure you make the most of your trip.
- Personal preferences: Phuket offers various activities such as stunning beach, shopping, and nightlife. Consider your personal preferences and what you want to get out of your trip when choosing your accommodation.
- Itinerary: If you plan to explore different parts of Phuket, consider staying in different areas to create a flexible itinerary. Taxis or tuktuks are your best bet around the island and can easily travel between resorts or locations.
- Enjoy the local experience: Regardless of where you stay, Phuket offers delicious local cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and a warm atmosphere for a memorable trip. Keep and open mind and have the best of time!
Karon Beach – Best area to stay in Phuket for first timers
Karon is the third-longest beach on the island, and it’s the place where you will find an array of great resorts surrounded by nature and exotic plants. Karon beach is the best place to stay in Phuket for first timers because it has the long and gorgeous beach, several types of accommodation for all budgets, plenty of restaurants, bars, and nightlife to suit every taste.
Karon is not too busy, nor too quiet, it’s just the perfect in-between, ideal for first timers in Phuket to get a bit of everything.
For beach lovers, Karon is great. Although it does get busy during the season, the beach is large and have enough space for everyone.
Apart from the stunning beach, Karon also offers plenty of shopping opportunities, with lots of fresh produce markets and souvenirs for tourists. The resorts here are mainly spacious and well decorated. You’ll have plenty of budget restaurants as well.
Karon also provides you with an array of activities, such as visiting the temple of Way Suwan Khiri Khet or hiking at the Karon View Point. Both of these hotspots offer breathtaking views of the beach and its surroundings.
There are many of luxury hotels as well as budget-friendly options like hostels and inns, making it very easy to find a range of accommodation options in the area. Ideal for someone who’s visiting Phuket for the first time.
Best places to stay in Karon Beach
Mandarava Resort and Spa, Karon Beach, is situated just 10 minutes away from the lively Patong Beach, Bangla Road, and Jungceylon Shopping Centre. This resort features 5 pools, 5 pool bars, fitness center, and luxurious spa offerings. Take advantage of the free shuttle service to Karon Beach, located only 750 yards away.
Nestled on a hilltop just a short 10-minute stroll from Karon Beach, the Pacific Club Resort boasts a one-of-a-kind design and offers breathtaking views. The resort features roomy accommodations with private balconies, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Stay in comfort at Karon House 15A, located in Karon Beach with breathtaking garden views. This air-conditioned holiday home boasts a spacious living room, a fully equipped kitchen, 1 separate bedroom, and 2 modern bathrooms. Enjoy free WiFi, a private balcony, and free parking during your stay.
Surin Beach – Best area in Phuket for luxury
Surin is an exclusive and naturally beautiful area in Phuket known for its celebrity presence, high-end shops and boutiques, and private properties. Surin beach is stunning and offers a peaceful escape, making it a top destination for luxury travellers.
Besides lounging on the beach, Surin is also fantastic for shopping and snorkelling.
Surin is ideal if you are a couple who wants luxury because the resorts here will cater to all your needs. This is the place to find the best superior suites and stunning beach villas with surreal views and tropical palms.
The area is quiet and serene at night as you will be surrounded by other luxury travellers and honeymooners. For entertainment, your hotel is your best bet.
For mid-budget and budget accommodation, you can still find some options around 1 mile (1.61 km) from Surin beach.
Best places to stay in Surin Beach
The Outrigger Surin Beach Resort is a chic lifestyle resort located at the edge of Surin Beach’s white sands. Just a quick 2-minute walk from Surin Beach, this beachfront resort features 60 rooms, fashionable suites, and roomy plunge pool suites.
Stay just 200 yards from Surin Beach at Twinpalms, where spacious accommodations offer private terraces with views of the lagoon pool. Relax by the saltwater pool or dine at one of the resort’s restaurants. Enjoy free parking and Wi-Fi.
Located just 50 yards from Surin Beach, Surintra Boutique Resort offers stylish rooms and suites with flat-screen cable TVs and free Wi-Fi. The resort features a relaxing outdoor lap pool surrounded by lush tropical landscapes and lounge chairs.
Kata Beach – Best area to stay for families
Kata is the perfect beach destination for families and young travellers if you are looking for a combination of fun activities, peaceful surroundings, and great nightlife.
Kata beach offers a family-friendly atmosphere and is known for being a trendy spot for young adults. It has a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities, which keeps everyone entertained and excited.
The beach is a highlight of Kata and is great for surfers and divers, who will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the waves and the reef. Kata is a fantastic surfing beach if you visit during May – November. It’s incredible for surfing and diver students if your young ones are ready to learn how to explore the waves.
The beach is quite long and full of energy, which means you can combine some great nightlife with good restaurants and shopping opportunities.
Kata Beach House Reef is also a popular spot for snorkelling and diving, and is home to a variety of sea life, including fish, octopus, turtles, and seahorses. Meanwhile, the Thursday market is a great place to experience the local culture and buy spices, fish, and food.
Kata Beach has plenty of accommodation options available. You will find lots of family-friendly hotels and resorts. OZO is a great option for families as it offers luxurious accommodation close to the beach and a lovely kids pool on site. For families on a budget, you can find several apartments and houses for affordable prices.
Best places to stay in Kata Beach
OZO Phuket, a 4-star hotel 550 yards from Kata Beach, features an outdoor pool, free parking, a fitness centre, a garden, and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, airport transfers, a concierge service, a shared lounge, and breakfast with various options including à la carte, continental, and American.
Malisa Villa Suites is located in the stunning Kata Beach area of Phuket and features luxurious villas with private pools, a well-appointed spa, free Wi-Fi and MAC mini computers. Set amid tropical scenery, this is the perfect location for a relaxing and indulgent vacation.
Nestled atop a hill surrounded by lush tropical forests, Mountain Seaview Luxury Apartments offer free WiFi and BBQ facilities. A family room is available. Free public parking can be found nearby. Located just a 15-minute walk from Kata Beach this property is perfect for those seeking a serene escape.
Kamala Beach – Best area to stay for couples
Kamala Beach is perfect for couples or older travellers because it is a peaceful destination in Phuket, ideal if you want a relaxing beach holiday. The beach is renowned for its calmness and serenity, offering a relaxed pace compared to other busy towns.
Kamala has a nice community village feel, and it’s suitable for laid-back couples who don’t wish to pursue any type of crazy nightlife, beyond having a drink in a bar or eating good food. This is also one of the few places in Phuket which has restaurants on the beach.
Kamala is surrounded by towering trees and greenery, and is safe even at night. You should stay in Kamala if you want to laze around on the beach and enjoy some quiet time, away from the crazy Thai rush. Kamala has easy access to spas and wellness centres, as well as affordable accommodations, top-notch restaurants with good local feel and delicious food.
Kamala beach has a variety of hotels, villas, and apartments to suit a range of budgets. You will find luxury resorts like the InterContinental Phuket Resort, but also budget friendly self-catering apartments and guest houses.
Best places to stay in Kamala Beach
The InterContinental Phuket Resort is a luxurious 5-star property located right on Kamala Beach. It boasts an outdoor pool, fitness centre, and a beautifully landscaped garden. Dine at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a drink at the bar, and relax in the hot tub.
Click here for prices and book InterContinental Phuket Resort
Kamala Villa Hill offers breathtaking mountain views, complimentary WiFi and on-site private parking. Located in Kamala Beach, this villa is 2.6 km from Kamala Beach. Each unit has a terrace, a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen and private bathroom.
Vivace Hotel offers a comfortable stay with amenities including an outdoor pool, free parking, a garden, and a terrace. All rooms come with bed linen and towels provided for added comfort.
Patong Beach – Best area to stay in Phuket for nightlife
Patong Beach is the best area to stay for nightlife as it is home to Bangla Road which is Phuket’s most concentrated place in bars and clubs. You can expect explosive nightlife and party bars.
You will have a variety of accommodation choices here, including luxurious resort, but mostly rudimental guest houses for budget travellers. This is brilliant for those interested in having all restaurants nearby and the nightclubs just minutes from the accommodation.
Patong Beach is vibrant and colourful, which means this is party Phuket for those who want to sleep during the day and party all night. If you are a traveller interested in nightlife and all sort of party bars, then this is the place to be. You will find great accommodation, great restaurants and an array of clubs.
Patong is great for shopping too and a fun place for souvenirs. When you want to take a short break, plan your trip to the Elephant Hills, in Khao Sok National Park.
Patong is essentially great if you love to party, want budget accommodation and wish to be in a central location with everything at your convenience.
Patong is always busy, and its nightlife can be a little extreme and rather overwhelming, which means it’s not the place to come with your small kids. It’s more tailored for young adults and students on a gap year.
Best places to stay in Patong Beach
Rak Elegant Hotel Patong is located in Patong Beach, 0.9 miles from the beach. It features an outdoor pool, free parking, a fitness center, a garden, a restaurant, a lounge, a sauna, and a hot tub.
Fong Kaew and Baan Nang Fa Guesthouse is an accommodation near Paradise Complex in Patong Beach, offering free WiFi. Rooms include a cable TV, air conditioning, sofa seating area, refrigerator, electric kettle, private bathroom with shower and free toiletries, and some rooms have a balcony. It is located 550 yards from Jungceylon Shopping Centre.
Click here for prices and book Fong Kaew and Baan Nang Fa Guesthouse
Baan Andaman Sea Surf offers air-conditioned rooms with private balconies and views of Patong. It provides free WiFi and has an outdoor pool and hot tub. The hotel is located 10 minutes walk or 2-minute drive from Patong Beach.
Nai Harn Beach – Best area to stay for stunning beach
Nai Harn Beach is a popular, serene destination for those seeking a beach escape with a touch of local charm. The beach is beautiful is not overdeveloped and Nai Harn Beach is one of the most popular among locals. Nai Harn is also the ideal spot for snorkellers and surfers.
You won’t find too many hotels here, which makes it perfect for travellers who want to enjoy the beach, want some options but are not interested in much nightlife.
Nai Harn has a steady pace with gorgeous nature around.
This is the place to stay in Phuket if you would like to enjoy beach life, a lagoon and fancy some crazy beautiful viewpoints.
Nai Harn is located in the southwestern part of Phuket and is owned by a local Buddhist temple, contributing to its low-key vibe.
Accommodation wise, you can score amazing 4 star hotels for as little as £50 per night here when booked in advance. Nice studios are very well priced as well, getting great mid-range amenities for budget prices.
Best place to stay in Nai Harn Beach
The Nai Harn is nestled in a tropical hillside overlooking the beautiful Nai Harn Beach. Comfortable rooms and suites offer a spacious balcony that looks out towards the ocean. Free WiFi is available in public areas.
Babylon Pool Villas Certified offers serviced apartments and studios near Nai Harn and Rawai Beach on the southern tip of Phuket. It features an outdoor pool, sauna, spa bath and BBQ facilities, and is just a 5-minute drive from the finest beaches.
Designed around a saltwater infinity pool and tropical landscaped gardens, Phuket Riviera Villas offers spacious apartments and free parking. This property is just 5 minutes’ drive from Naiharn and Rawai Beach.
Mai Khao Beach – Best area to stay for honeymoon
Honeymooners, if you’re looking for a romantic getaway, Mai Khao Beach is the perfect spot for you. With 11 km of pristine and deserted sand fringed with pines and tropical trees, this is the ultimate place to enjoy a secluded and peaceful honeymoon.
Mai Khao Beach is ideal for those who just want to relax, admire the stunning views, and indulge in natural beauty.
There is not much noise here, especially compared to the busy tourist hotspots on the island. While it may not be the place for those who are looking for a cultural adventure or nightlife, it is a great spot for beach lovers and those who want to get away from it all.
Apart from the stunning beach, there are other things to see and do in Mai Khao. The Splash Jungle Water Park is a must-visit, as well as the Turtle Village where you can see the Giant Ridley Sea Turtles. Sirinath National Park is also conveniently located in the area, offering an opportunity to explore and admire the beauty of Phuket’s natural wonders.
When it comes to accommodation, Mai Khao Beach has something to offer for all budgets, but honeymooners will find luxury hotels with stunning views and pools. While Mai Khao is not a built up area, you will find accommodation options to suit your travel style here, with several luxury resorts.
Best place to stay in Mai Khao Beach
Melia Phuket is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the tranquil Mai Khao Beach, just a short-distance away from the stunning Sai Kaew Beach. The hotel has a range of top-notch amenities, including a stunning outdoor swimming pool, convenient private parking, a fully equipped fitness centre, and a lush garden that provides guests with a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
The Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa is a luxurious resort located on the pristine white sands of Mai Khao Beach. It features a spacious outdoor pool, well-maintained jogging and biking trails, and an impressive selection of 5 dining options.
Click here for prices and book Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa
Nestled in serene Mai Khao Beach, SALA Phuket Resort has a verdant garden and two beach-facing pools, along with private villas complete with individual pools and sundecks. Guests can also indulge in a spa experience, featuring a sauna and steam bath.
Bang Tao Beach – Best area to stay for watersports
Bang Tao is an attractive destination in Phuket known for its long, beautiful beach and peaceful atmosphere. It’s ideal for travellers who want to mix a beach holiday with plenty of watersports. Bang Thao is known for its watersports activities, including activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking and more.
Bang Tao offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury, catering to both budget-conscious travellers and those seeking a luxurious escape. The Southern part of the beach has budget accommodation options, the central area boasts luxury resorts, while the northern side is more secluded with a few luxury properties on the hills.
The area is home to first-class restaurants, beach clubs, and other amenities, making it a popular choice among tourists.
The beach is long and beautiful, and you have access to everything in one place.
Best places to stay in Bang Tao Beach
Hilton Garden Inn Phuket Bang Tao features free bikes, outdoor swimming pool, a garden and terrace in Bang Tao Beach. With free WiFi, this 4-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk.
Click here for prices and book Hilton Garden Inn Phuket Bang Tao
Boasting 11 exclusive villas built around 2 swimming pools, Pai Tan Villas offers free Wi-Fi and a restaurant.
A 15-minute walk to the quiet Bangtao Beach, Similan Hotel offers cosy air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi.
Phuket Town – Best area to stay for an all round experience
Phuket town is the capital of the island and a great place with lots of restaurants, shops, and attractions making it the best area to stay in Phuket for all round experience.
The good news is that Phuket town is excellent for people interested in history and culture, but also great for backpackers who are searching for epic food.
Phuket Town is not very close to the beach, so your stay in Phuket town will feel more like a city escapade rather than a beach holiday. Of course, you can always make your way to the beach. Phuket has good transport options to most beaches. You can even take a taxi if you would rather not hire a car for the day.
The Old Town is so beautiful and here is where you will find a real local atmosphere in Phuket. You can enjoy markets, attractions, and super charming accommodation options. If you love food, you should absolutely use Phuket Town as your base.
Prices are well tailored to any budget, and you can find plenty of fresh ingredients at the local market so you can craft your own dishes if you are on a budget.
Phuket Town offers a variety of accommodations to fit all budgets. It offers hundreds of 5-star hotels that are affordably priced compared to other parts of the island. Additionally, there are many budget guesthouses and apartments available for those looking for more cost-effective options.
Best places to stay in Phuket Town
Hotel Verdigris provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. This 4-star hotel offers a bar. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, a concierge service and free WiFi throughout the property.
Each accommodation at the 4-star hotel has city views, and guests can enjoy access to a terrace and to a hot tub. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, a kids’ club and free WiFi throughout the property.
At the Ritsurin Boutique Hotel every room is equipped with air conditioning, a desk, a terrace with a city view, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, bed linen and towels. All units will provide guests with a fridge.
As you can see, there are a lot of fantastic areas and hotels to suit your travel style for when you visit Phuket. You can find where to stay in Phuket based on your interest and type of vacation you wish to enjoy on Phuket. With so many wonderful hand-picked hotels, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation and hotels too. Don’t forget to let us know where you decided to stay in the comments section below.
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