Where to stay in Phuket

Charming, colourful, and endlessly Instagrammable, Phuket Town – especially the historic Old Town – blends old and new with its Sino-Portuguese architecture, vibrant street art and hip cafes tucked down narrow alleys. Staying here puts you at the heart of Phuket’s cultural scene, with access to local markets, boutique shopping and the island’s best nightlife. It’s perfect for those eager to explore beyond the beach.

Stay

Experience the allure of Phuket’s Old Town at The Memory at On On Hotel, the island’s oldest hotel, thoughtfully restored to preserve its colonial architecture.

Eat

Check out Raya Restaurant, a local go-to known for its southern Thai dishes. Set in a two-storey building with Chinese-Portuguese architectural charm, it’s the place to try crab curry in coconut milk.

Drink

Sip cocktails at Shhh. Phuket, an immersive social club where art meets mixology. Projector displays create an ever-changing ambiance and each cocktail is crafted with personality. Share your preferences with the bartender for a custom experience.

Do

Stroll down Lard-Yai Walking Street and explore street art along Thalang, Phangnga and Yaowarat Roads. Don’t miss the beautiful Thai Hua Museum for a dive into the area’s heritage.

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Wander through the town to admire Sino-Portuguese architecture. Stop by Wyndows Cafe for coffee or tea in a setting blending vintage and loft design. The front facade showcases Sino-Portuguese details, while inside offers a cosy place to relax.

For laid-back beach vibes with a hint of luxury, head to Karon and Kata beaches on the southwestern coast, about a 15 to 20-minute drive from Phuket Town. These neighbouring beaches offer something for everyone – golden sands, clear water and a chilled-out atmosphere. Karon is famous for its spacious stretch, while Kata brings a more intimate setting and is popular with surfers. Both offer accommodations from budget-friendly to luxe and some of Phuket’s best sunset views.

Stay

For a getaway with privacy, Beyond Resort Karon is a top choice. Set on a quiet corner of Karon Beach, this retreat promises seclusion, with rooms offering views of the Andaman Sea just steps away.

Eat

Enjoy ocean views and fresh sea air at A Blanket & A Pillow, an open-air cafe with a menu that’s as relaxing as the setting. Drinks start at under B100 , making it a great spot to unwind with a view.

Drink

Cannelle Bakery & Co, near Kata Beach, is a must for coffee lovers. This cafe serves excellent coffee, homemade bread, and pastries made with top-notch ingredients, making it an unbeatable pitstop for a midday treat.

 Do

Adventure seekers won’t want to miss the chance to surf at Kata Beach or snorkel near Karon Viewpoint. For a lively experience, check out Flow Surf Beach Club, the only rooftop venue on Kata Beach. Here, you can try surfing on an artificial wave machine – ideal for beginners looking to learn without the usual bumps and bruises.

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Paddle out on a crystal kayak at Karon Beach. With its clear base, you’ll enjoy stunning views of marine life as you glide over the water, offering a tranquil yet exhilarating way to see Karon’s natural beauty from a whole new perspective.

Quiet sophistication with a hint of chic – that’s Bangtao. Situated on Phuket’s northwest coast, this area is halfway between Patong and the airport and offers a refined escape with upscale resorts lining a six-kilometre stretch of beach. With gourmet dining, trendy beach clubs and a polished yet laidback vibe, Bangtao is ideal for travellers looking for a luxurious, serene retreat.

Stay

Families will love Angsana Laguna Phuket, with its beachfront access, water sports and lush landscapes. There’s something for everyone here, from poolside snacks to elegant dining.

Eat

Smigo’s Bar & Restaurant offers seafood, European and Thai favourites along with live music, sunset views and a chill ambiance.

Drink

Catch Beach Club is a Bangtao icon, offering al fresco dining, relaxed beach seating and poolside lounging for a classic beachside experience.

Do

Explore Cherngtalay Village, a historic community where Buddhist and Muslim residents live together. The village is steeped in tradition and perfect for nature-filled adventures.

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Catch the sunset on Bangtao Beach. It’s one of Phuket’s most striking sunset spots, offering an unforgettable way to end a beautiful and romantic day.

An under-the-radar beach haven nestled on Phuket’s western coast, Kamala is about 10 minutes north of Patong. If you want a peaceful beach escape without being too far from the action, Kamala is just right. It’s quieter than Patong, with a family-friendly vibe, yet it’s close enough for when you want to dip into Phuket’s nightlife. Kamala also has a growing number of beach clubs and dining spots, making it a low-key paradise for relaxation.

Stay

Retreat to Kamala Beach Resort (a Sunprime Resort), where tropical surroundings meet beachfront serenity. Set among palm trees with four pools and poolside cocktails, it’s an ideal spot for unwinding, with nearby beach bars for evening tunes.

Eat

Boat Bar & Restaurant serves up fresh seafood, Thai delicacies, and international dishes. Visit at sunset, then stay for happy hour and live music every Monday and Thursday.

Drink

For a lively atmosphere, Cafe Del Mar at Kamala Beach pairs cocktails with Balearic beats, Jazz, House and Techno. Light bites, BBQ and sorbets round out the experience at this beach club favourite.

Do

Don’t miss Phuket FantaSea, a cultural theme park with a lively Thai show, buffet and shopping street. It’s like Vegas with a Thai twist!

If you do just one thing…

Take a peaceful stroll on Kamala Beach. With its tranquil setting, it’s perfect for unwinding, sunbathing, or snapping a few scenic photos.

No matter your style, Phuket’s variety ensures there’s a perfect spot for every type of visitor. The only question is, which one’s calling your name?