Did you know? There are over 30 Phuket beaches that you can visit during your getaway. Each beach boasts its own unique character, atmosphere, and things to do, while some are hidden gems that are not easily found on the GPS. Having said that, it can be quite overwhelming to decide on the right ones to visit. Depending on your preferences, the “best beach in Phuket” might vary. Couples may wish for a more secluded, and peaceful beach, while families might prefer a beachfront with activities for the kids.
Today, this Phuket beaches guide will uncover the top 5 beaches in Phuket for families and couples seeking vacation on this charming island of Southern Thailand. So, let’s dive into the beauty of Phuket’s coastal marvels!
1. Kata Beach
With its golden beaches, palm trees, crystal-clear sea, and a relaxed atmosphere, Kata Beach has it all. It is frequently recognized as one of the best beaches in Phuket for families because of its amenities and activities. Spanning 1.5 kilometers long and located in Karon on Phuket’s west coast, Kata Beach is a popular place for visitors to stay since it’s a great place from which to explore the famous sites on the southern portion of the island.
The high season (December to April) is considered the best time to visit Kata Beach since the sea is warmer and the tides are relatively flat, allowing visitors to view crystal-clear water while swimming or snorkeling. Conversely, surfers may prefer the low season, which runs from June to November, when rough tides are present. As the waters calm down towards the end of the year, Kata Bay is teeming with exquisite vessels participating in Asia’s largest sailing competition—the King’s Cup Regatta.
Additionally, rentable sun loungers and umbrellas are also available on the beach. Beachgoers can also take advantage of the local amenities, which include beverage shops, Thai restaurants, and street vendor stalls selling munchies. For families, you may want to head south of the beach, as it is shaded later in the day and is also close to various amenities.
2. Rayee Beach
Located in front of the renowned Hyatt Regency Resort on the island west coast, Rayee Beach, Phuket is a little-known and somewhat hidden beach tucked away in a cove close to the southern part of Kamala Beach area. This unassuming beach is often empty but offers an amazing view of the ocean. It’s no wonder that is tranquil spot is quickly ranking among the best beaches in Phuket for couples.
Naturally, Rayee Beach is not the island’s most picturesque. However, it’s long, bordered by towering casuarina and coconut trees, and has a lovely sand strip, perfect for a visit at any time of the year. Visitors can enjoy taking pictures, an intimate picnic by the beach, or the opportunity to go snorkeling during high tides. The only drawback of this Phuket beach is the low tide when the retreating sea exposes huge rock surfaces. Still, at the south end of the stretch, there is a small restaurant, situated on a tiny wooden terrace accessible by a tiny bridge, and there’s another small eatery close to the middle of the beach.
The remote nature of Rayee Beach helps Hyatt Regency Resort stand out. If you and your loved one happen to book a room at this 5-star hotel, then be prepared for a beautiful sea view, not to mention the breathtaking sunset view from their Casa Boho rooftop terrace.
3. Kamala Beach
When compared to its bustling neighbors, Kamala Beach has a more laid-back atmosphere. It’s a fantastic choice for couples and families who want a quieter holiday. Kamala Beach is situated about 9.5 kilometers north of Patong. There are many different beach activities available on the northern portion of the beach, and there are several beachfront hotels and neighborhood eateries in the southern end. The beach’s long stretch of beautiful white sand has always been the major draw, even with all the amenities.
During the high season, which runs from November to April, Kamala Beach’s waters are calm, clear, and shallow, making swimming a very safe activity to enjoy on this beach. However, between May and October, big waves resulting from ocean swell are frequently encountered, and you should shy away from the waters should you see a red flag.
In addition to the beach area, you can visit the nearby temple, local market, and Phuket Fantasea Park—a massive theme park with a one-and-only stage performance show that has been entertaining visitors for more than 20 years.
4. Freedom Beach
Freedom Beach, a 300-meter stretch of silky white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, is widely referred to as one of Phuket’s most stunning secret beaches. Despite its proximity to bustling Patong, the beach is surprisingly peaceful and calm.
The secret of Freedom Beach’s tranquility lies in its location. The beach is located in a beautiful bay and is only accessible by boat during the high season. You can hire a longtail boat from Patong Beach for around 1,500 baht for a round trip. This added layer of accessibility contributes to its exclusivity, yet the effort is well worth it.
You can explore two unique portions of Freedom Beach, separated by the landing site for longtail boats. To sunbathe, roll out your towel on the northern side of the beach. In addition to tanning, the site is ideal for beach volleyball, soccer, and snorkeling. To snap breathtaking images, climb the concrete steps to the peak, which gives panoramic views of the shore. Most notably, at Freedom Beach, the only sounds you hear are the distant motors of long-tail boats; there are no jet skis or other noisy water sports, allowing you to completely rest amidst nature’s sounds.
5. Nai Harn Beach
In the far south of Phuket lies Nai Harn Beach, a fanatic white beach nestled between the verdant hills of Phuket. This Phuket beach offers a relatively relaxed atmosphere, ideal for vacationing families. The protected bay, which is well-liked by both locals and foreigners, provides excellent anchorage for luxury yachts and sailing boats. There’s no settlement in the area, additionally, there are only a dozen of spaced eateries along the northbound route.
Nai Harn Beach is vast and has crystal-clear water in the summer. It is quite uncrowded in the high season (from December to May). Nevertheless, December and January are the busiest months, so the area can become a little congested. Fortunately, nothing can be built on the legally protected land in front of the beach, which is covered in tall casuarina trees.
There are lots of things to do in and around Nai Harn, despite its remote locale. Apart from the beach, there are numerous overlooks, a lot of Thai and seafood eateries in the area, and even a stunning Thai temple for beachgoers to explore.
Choosing the Best Phuket Beaches
There are various elements to consider when searching for the best Phuket beaches to ensure that your vacation experience meets your expectations. So consider the following:
- Accessibility: Think about how distant the beach is from your resort or hotel, as well as transportation choices. If you are driving, check for parking availability. Also, examine the steps or paths to the beach, as these can affect your beach day.
- Amenities: It is recommended to choose Phuket beaches that offer conveniences like beach chairs for rent, nearby restaurants and bars, and restrooms and shower facilities.
- Crowd levels: Consider the difference in peak and off-season visitor numbers, as well as whether the beach is popular among tourists or not. Even the time of day can have an impact on crowds, with early mornings typically affording more peace and quiet than the afternoons.
- Family-friendliness: Those traveling with children should consider the safety of the water for swimming. In addition, seek beaches with kid-friendly activities and play spaces, as well as shaded spots where children may get away from the sun.
When planning your Phuket beach excursion, consider mixing and matching different beaches to get a sense of what this tropical island has to offer overall. Phuket’s beaches have something for everyone, from busy tourist areas to isolated paradises. So pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and prepare to discover the unmatched beauty of these Phuket beaches!
About Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort
Book your stay at the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort, ideally located to explore the peaceful Kamala Beach, shopping spots, and countless attractions. Discover luxury, comfort, and the best of Phuket with us.
Our 5-star Kamala beach resort offers convenient beach access as well as diving and snorkelling activities in the surrounding bay that present effortless Andaman Sea discoveries. The resort is home to the largest oceanfront infinity pool in Phuket and features state-of-the-art family facilities and activities on the pool terrace, with spacious cabanas to unwind and soak up the sea and sunset views.
Our newly renovated Phuket Hotel offers 201 modern luxury rooms, complemented by stunning views of the Andaman Sea, which are ideal for families that wish for a spacious interior to relax and gaze over the sea.
Book your stay at the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort today and discover a world of cultural wonder.
Tel: +66 7623 1234
Fax: +66 76 231 233
Email: phuket.regency@hyatt.com
