Where to stay in Phuket

Charming, colourful and endlessly Instagrammable, Phuket Town – especially the historic Old Town district – 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 plenty of 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 first and oldest hotel, thoughtfully restored to preserve its colonial architecture. 

Eat

Check out Kopitiam by Wilai, a local go-to known for its Phuket-style Baba-Nyonya dishes, authentic Thai food and a range of refreshing coffees and teas. Set in a Sino-Portuguese shophouse, it’s the place to try local favourites such as Hokkien Mee (fried noodles with squid, prawns and an egg on top) or Moo Hong (Thai pork belly stew).

Drink

Sip cocktails at Shhh.Phuket, an immersive social club experience where art meets mixology. Projector displays create an ever-changing ambiance and each cocktail is crafted with personality. This is the place where curated art meets creative liquor. 

Do

On Sundays, stroll down Lard-Yai Walking Street and enjoy a variety of local street food. Explore the amazing street art along Thalang, Phang Nga and Yaowarat Roads. Don’t miss the historic Thai Hua Museum for a deep dive into the island’s heritage.

If you do just one thing… 

Wander through the town to admire Sino-Portuguese architecture and view a slice of local life. Stop by Campus Coffee Roasters for coffee and snacks in a setting blending vintage decor and design. 

For laid-back beach vibes with a hint of luxury, head to Kata and Karon beaches on the southwestern coast, about a 20 to 25-minute drive from Phuket Town. These neighbouring beaches offer something for everyone - golden sands, clear water and a chilled-out atmosphere. Kata is hip and trendy and popular with surfers, while Karon is famous for its spacious stretch of beach and family friendly resorts & hotels. Both offer accommodations from budget-friendly to luxe and offer some of Phuekt’s best sunset views. 

Stay

For a tropical 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

Sugar and Spice Restaurant and Inn, located between Kata and Karon, is a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike. The restaurant serves authentic Thai food, has vegetarian options and also features an international menu serving sandwiches, pizza and burgers. The food here is exceptionally good and the wait staff are some of the friendliest in the area.

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 during the wet season. 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 or those just hoping to have a bit of fun in the sun. 

If you do just one thing…

Paddle out on a crystal kayak rental 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 an entirely new perspective.

Quiet sophistication with a hint of chic – that’s Bangtao. Situated on Phuket’s northwestern 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 a fine selection of gourmet dining restaurants, trendy beach clubs and a sophisticated yet laid-back vibe, Bangtao is ideal for travellers looking for a luxurious, serene retreat.

Stay

Families will love the Laguna Phuket complex featuring a choice of different resorts with beachfront access, watersports and lush landscapes. There’s something for everyone here, whether it's poolside snacks or 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 the village of Cherngtalay, a historic community where Buddhist and Muslim residents live together. The local village is steeped in tradition, has a number of tourist attractions and is perfect for nature-filled adventures.

If you do just one thing…

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

A tranquil beach haven nestled on Phuket’s western coast, Kamala is about a 10-minute drive north of Patong. If you want a peaceful beach escape without being too far from the action, Kamala is just right. Quieter than Patong with a family friendly vibe, Kamala is close enough for when you want to dip into Phuket’s nightlife. The beach neighbourhood also has a number of beach clubs and dining spots, making a low-key paradise for relaxation.

Stay

Retreat to Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort. Cascading down a forested hillside overlooking Kamala Bay, the resort offers spectacular views of the Andaman Sea. With a variety of accommodation types, a choice of restaurants including the Latin American-inspired Casa Boho, luxurious spa and on-site Marine Biological Center, the resort is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. 

Eat

Pine Beach Bar, located at InterContinental Phuket Resort, serves up delectable pizzas, fresh seafood, classic Thai favourites and international dishes complemented by a selection of carefully crafted cocktails. Book a beachfront table, sink your toes into the sand and admire an epic Phuket sunset over the Andaman Sea as you dine on light bites and fruity drinks. 

Drink

For the quintessential Phuket beach club experience, Cafe Del Mar at Kamala Beach pairs cocktails with a line up of international DJs spinning beats including Jazz, House and Techno. Light bites, BBQ and sorbets round out the dining experience at this beach club favourite.

Do

Don’t miss Carnival Magic, the very first Thai Cultural Carnival Park. Inspired by exotic carnival celebrations around the world, Carnival Magic presents a breathtaking evening of sparkling imagery, regal pageantry and cultural fun.

If you do just one thing…

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

No matter what you’re looking for, Phuket’s eclectic variety ensures there’s a perfect spot for every type of visitor. The only question is, which of these beach neighbourhoods is calling your name?