Known as the Pearl of the Andaman, Phuket is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. As the largest island in Thailand, Phuket is approximately the size of Singapore. It’s location on the Adaman Sea, provides it with many beautiful beaches and a year-round temperate climate. No wonder it’s become a paradise for those seeking, sun, sand, and surf!
Visitors to the island will find that the beaches include more than just sand. Many are host to popular clubs, restaurants, and five star Phuket hotels. The main tourist season runs October through May, but the incredible weather makes pretty much any month a good time to visit Phuket — and visiting off season means the beaches will be less crowded.
Many of the beaches feature strong currents, especially during monsoon season. Be sure to watch for warnings and advisories on any beach. Also, although many of the tourists in Phuket are European, nudity is frowned upon in Thailand. To avoid insulting the locals, it is best to avoid going topless or to sunbath nude.
Most of the beaches include recreational areas, making it more than just beautiful views, warm sun, and great swimming. Sailing, windsurfing, snorkelling, and scuba diving are all popular activities. Surfing is possible on the western beaches.
Patong Beach is perhaps the most popular tourist beach on the island. Located on the central western coast, it features bargain shopping and some of the hottest nightlife and best seafood restaurants on Phuket. Other beaches of note include Phromthep Cape on the south end of the island, Hat Karon which features a coral reef, Karon Noi, Rawai, Bang Tao, and Kamala. The beaches on the north tend to be lesser developed (not as many shops, restaurants, and clubs) and provide a more relaxed environment for families and those seeking a less crowded beach experience.
If you want a unique experience, schedule a visit to the northwestern coast of Phuket during March and April. Here you’ll find Sirinat National Park. Established in 1981, it protect ninety square kilometers of marine area. Nai Yang beach is part of this preserve and it is where sea turtles come to lay their eggs every year.
