Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Planning an island holiday to Koh Phi Phi? Here is our Koh Phi Phi island travel guide blog includes all the exciting things to do with the calm relaxation you’d expect from a pristine tropical island paradise.

Koh Phi Phi, also known as Phi Phi islands, is one of the world-famous beautiful islands in the world. Many people traveling to Thailand will add the Phi Phi island for a pristine island holiday.

During our vacation in Phuket, we visited the popular Phi Phi Islands as part of an island hopping tour by speed boat. It was the highlight of our Phuket trip and never regret spending one day on the island. The areas are so beautiful and the beaches are serene. We did swimming and snorkeling at a few spots around the islands. You cannot miss it when you’re visiting Phuket or Krabi.

Phi Phi island is one of the most amazing places we’ve ever traveled to. Although you can now find almost all the information you need on the internet, these are our comprehensive Phi Phi Island travel guide tips for a trip to this natural beauty. A must-visit destination when you’re traveling to Phuket or Krabi.

Phi Phi Islands

Dubbed the “jewels of the Andaman Sea”, Koh Phi Phi or Koh Phi Phi is located on the Andaman Coast, Thailand. It is part of the Nopparattara-Ko Phi Phi National in Krabi Province south of Thailand, covering an area of about 388 km². The deadly 2004 tsunami enormously damaged the Koh Phi Phi and it is amazing to see the transformation from the devastating effects.

Phi Phi Island is the most popular island compared to Krabi, Koh Lipe, or Koh Lanta on the west coast. It consists of two islands: Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh. There really are no words to describe how beautiful these islands are. Both islands are absolutely gorgeous.

The Koh Phi Phi Leh Island is an undeveloped and uninhabited island. It is a prime tourist destination and home to the famed Maya Bay. The views here are absolutely amazing. But unfortunately, Maya Bay has been closed to repair the damage since 2018. We will share more information on the Phi Phi travel guide blog below. Besides, Koh Phi Phi Lei is also one of the 6 Islands that form the Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park.

While Koh Phi Phi Don is an inhabited island and it’s home to all the accommodation, restaurants, and amenities of the Phi Phi Islands. If you’re staying overnight on Koh Phi Phi, you’re staying on Koh Phi Phi Don. It’s a vehicle-free island.

Pre-trip Essentials

Just like the setting of the Leonardo DiCaprio movie – The Beach, Koh Phi Phi is an island paradise as you see them in the movie. It has beautiful turquoise clear water, stunning white, and coconuts on a palm tree next to a hammock. Exquisitely beautiful.

Here are a few pre-trip essentials that you need to know prior to planning your Phi Phi island itinerary.

How To Get To Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi island can be reached year-round from Phuket or Krabi, Thailand. While going to Phi Phi islands from Krabi is easier than Phuket, Phuket seems like they bring more tourists compared to Krabi as many world travelers can fly directly to Phuket international airport. From there, access Phi Phi island by boat ride or join any of the tour operators.

See Skyscanner for the best rate

Phi Phi Island Travel Guide Tips: We always recommend using Skyscanner to find your best flight times and cheap flights when we travel.

From Phuket or Krabi to Koh Phi Phi

If you’re already in Thailand or South East Asia countries, you can also choose first to travel to Krabi or Phuket by train, ferries, or flights before getting to Phi Phi Islands. Both places are very convenient to get to Phuket.

Once you are in Phuket or Krabi, do not worry about how to get to Phi Phi Island. There is always a way to transfer you from the mainland to Phi Phi island, or between islands. You can pick up tickets for slow ferries and speedboats to get to Phi Phi Island. Both options, the speedboat as well as the slow ferry, are not expensive.

Coming from Phuket you can take a 1-hour speed boat from Chalong Pier. While from Krabi, the speedboat will take you approximately 50 minutes. A normal boat will take a longer time, with about 2 hours from Phuket and 90 minutes from Krabi or Koh Lanta.

Where To Stay in Phi Phi Island

Most people will choose to stay in Phuket and do an island trip to Koh Phi Phi. But you can still stay in Phi Phi Don to get closer to paradise. You can spend your leisure time snorkeling, sunbathing, and photo shooting when the day-trippers are going back to Phuket. The accommodation is more limited and pretty expensive as compared to Phuket city if u wanna stay on the island.

Find the best Koh Phi Phi Hotel Deals Here

Phi Phi Island Travel Guide Tips: Like most of Thailand, prices fluctuate greatly based on the season. We recommended booking it early to secure your room rates as the prices will be higher when the rooms are running out.

Best Hotels in Koh Phi Phi

In case you’re after recommendations for a beachfront accommodation, here is our best pick:

ChaoKoh Phi Phi Hotel and Resort is easily one of the best stays in the Phi Phi Don. A nice resort design with a great pool welcomes you that has most of what you’ll need for a relaxing, comfortable stay. Very close to the beach with only 3 minutes walk. Definitely one of the nicest hotels on Phi Phi Island.

SAii Phi Phi Island Village is still the unbeatable luxury hotel in the mist gorgeous setting on Phi Phi Island. The location of the resort is astonishing and situated along Lo Ba Goa Bay with a great sea view. It offers spacious accommodation and features a private beach and infinity pool equipped with a pool bar. The rooms come with a thatched roof and solid wood furnishings. Staying here to enjoy the exclusive gorgeous beach of the most beautiful island, with the amazing professional service. A peaceful hideaway on Phi Phi island.

Another worth recommendation is the Viking Nature Resort. The resort offers classically furnished rooms adorned with simple interiors made with natural materials. It’s authentic with a private beach and close to nature stay on the island. Amazing peaceful stay with friendly staff.

Island Hopping Tour to Phi Phi Island

An Island Hopping Tour to Phi Phi Islands is an opportunity to see some extraordinary scenery and are superb locations for diving and snorkeling. If you are looking for an island hopping tour to Phi Phi Islands, here are a few recommendations. Most of the tour consists of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing via speedboat. It is worth every cent spent.

Phi Phi Islands Tour From Phuket:

• Phi Phi, Maya Area, Khai, and Bamboo Island Snorkeling Day Trip from Phuket – Most Popular!
• James Bond Island Day Tour from Phuket by Longtail Boat, Speedboat, or Big Boat
• 3 Khai Islands, Phi Phi, or James Bond Day Tour from Phuket by Speedboat
• Racha Yai, Racha Noi, Coral, or Maiton Island Day Tour from Phuket by Speedboat or Catamaran
• Small-Group – Phi Phi Islands Sunrise Or Day trip

While the above tours will be gathered with a group of people to share for the speedboat. If you prefer more private time, there are also Private Boat Tour recommendations you might consider. The price for sure will be more expensive, but definitely worth it.

• Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour from Phuket – Most Exclusive!
• Phi Phi Tour Private Speed Boat from Krabi – By group

Things To Do in Phi Phi Island

Our group of four had a terrific Phi Phi islands hopping tour during our trip to Phuket. As part of the tour, we visited some of the sublimely beautiful sites around the Koh Phi Phi. We enjoyed the speedboat tour, swam, relaxed in the sun, snorkeled, enjoyed some time ashore, and took photos of the amazing scenery.

Below, you’ll find Phi Phi Island Travel Guides and recommendations for things to do on this tropical island. Check them out if you want to learn more about visiting Koh Phi Phi!

Here is the list of things to do on Phi Phi Island itinerary:

• Speedboat or Longtail Boat Tour
• View on the Famous Maya Bay
• Boat Trip to Viking Cave
• Snorkeling at Phi Phi Leh
• Swimming in the lagoon
• Enjoy the beach
• Sea Cave Kayaking

Speedboat or Longtail Boat Tour

When getting to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket or Krabi, there is always fun to take a speedboat or a longtail boat tour. Both options offer a convenient way to get to the Phi Phi Island, by speedboat will save a lot of time and you can get to the island earlier.

From Phuket, we have our hotel pick-up to the pier and joined a group of people getting to Koh Phi Phi. Our speedboat was cruising through clear, blue emerald waters and suddenly these limestone cliffs arise out of the middle of the ocean. The view was so stunning and we truly enjoyed the speedboat journey.

James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay

James Bond Island, locally known as Khao Ping Kan, is another popular spot in Koh Phi Phi when you choose among all the island hopping tours.

The famous landmark is located about 25 kilometers northeast of Phuket Island, in Phang Nga Bay. The name came after the shooting of the James Bond movie in 1974 “The Man With the Golden Gun”. The surrounding is a very scenic and definitely a great spot for Instagram pictures

View on the Famous Maya Bay

The famous Maya Bay is the most popular attraction around Koh Phi Phi surrounding. It is where the popular Hollywood movie “The Beach” acted by Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed. Everyone flocks into Maya Bay after seeing the movie. The reason is simple, Maya Bay is almost unspeakably gorgeous.

Sadly, due to over-tourism, Maya Bay was closed by the Thai Goverment to assist in ecological regeneration and protect the coral and marine life in that area. It is a good action that our nature is being protected. It is re-opened in 2022 recently and hopes I can visit Maya Bay soon!

When Maya Bay is closed, visitors are still possible to go snorkeling around but you can’t access the beach. You only can view the beach from a distance and take pictures of the beautiful scenery from the speedboat.

The view from Maya bay is spectacular and absolutely a photographer’s delight.

Boat Trip to Viking Cave

Viking Cave is one of the tourist attractions on Koh Phi Phi Le island and part of the island-hopping tour. It is located on the way to Pileh Lagoon and is a short stop on most tours of the islands.

Viking Cave is private property and not accessible to the public. It is used as a huge collection of hundreds of swifts nests, a Chinese specialty used for Traditional Chinese Medicine. Locals harvest the swift’s nests in the darkness by climbing the cliff using the bamboo scaffold.

During the island hopping, the speedboat will ride around the cave and stop for a good glimpse of the cave. The guide will also explain the history and how the whole process of retrieving these valuable nests. Nothing special but a great stop during the boat trip.

Pileh Lagoon

The Pileh Lagoon is another popular spot for the Phi Phi Island itinerary and most of the island tor will stop here for visitors to enjoy swimming or snorkeling. We snorkeled and swam in the pristine blue waters in Pileh Lagoon, just a magical experience for me.

The place is absolutely stunning and simply took my breath away. The emerald turquoise sea surrounded by spectacular limestone cliffs is awe-inspiring. It is truly amazing especially when the sun is hitting the water. Simply unforgettable!

Snorkeling at Phi Phi Leh

Snorkeling around the Koh Phi Phi island was amazing and the water is so clear. This place is such a wonderful place to spend snorkeling with. It has crystal clear blue water where you can see live underwater creatures. The experience where you directly see underwater life was a different feeling.

During your island tour to Koh Phi Phi, there are several opportunities where people can do snorkeling. The boat will stop and the guide will tell you to enjoy the Waterworld.

For me, snorkeling is not my first time but you’ll still amaze by how beautiful the Koh Phi Phi is. The world underwater is so colorful and mesmerizing. There is beauty around every turn and incredible fish viewing when you’re snorkeling. Sadly, due to over-tourism, most of the coral around these islands has been decimated, however, it is still a magical way to enjoy nature in the beautiful Andaman Islands.

Swimming in the lagoon

Next, swimming in the lagoon is another best thing to do for water activities. It was a great experience. The water is very clear and you’ll be able to see lots of fish surrounding you, many kinds of fish to view and even small sharks if you are lucky. The waters are the most amazing colors and the backdrop scenery of the cliffs is stunning.

Even if you don’t know about swimming, you still could manage it with the help of a life jacket. Just put on your life jackets and jump into the sea, don’t miss out on it.

Enjoy the Beach

As we approach the end of the trip, some relaxing beach time would be much welcomed. At the end of the island tour, the guide will bring you to the island with a white sand beach that offers pleasant beach opportunities.

Depending on your island tour, there are numerous islands near the shoreline such as Bamboo Island and Khai Island. All offer amazing experiences and Instagram moments on the beach. The ocean water is very clean and the colors of the water on the white sandy beach seem unreal.

Take your time to enjoy the views while watching the boats come in. You can swim and chill at the beautiful beach. Alternatively, you can opt to go for a leisurely stroll by the beach, enjoying the sea breeze, and playing in the sand. It is absolutely beautiful even if you just tip your toes into the water!

Sea Cave Kayaking

If you’re adventurous and looking for extraordinary things to do on Phi Phi Island, we highly recommended you take this Sea Cave Kayaking activity. The tour will bring you to the hidden wonders of Phang Nga Bay, including a kayaking tour of limestone sea caves and cliff-lined lagoons. We are so interested in this activity but have no extra time to include during our visit to Phuket. It is my next bucket list and hopes I can make this happen soon! Free feel to check it out!

Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating

Extra Phi Phi Island Travel Guide Tips

Lastly, don’t forget to read more of our final tips in Phi Phi Island Travel Guide:

Recommend choosing the tour that can go early to avoid heavy congestion from Phuket-based tours. You could be able to stay there longer and have more personal time with these beautiful islands.

Speedboat is faster and saves a lot of time. But I also recommend chartering a private longboat for the day and exploring the island and the many beaches if you prefer for more leisure and enjoyable tour.

Please wear a swimsuit, flip flop, towers, and most important sunscreen.

Keep your belonging in the hotel and only bring those things you need for water activities.

Do not leave your waste, bottles, and papers there. Take only photographs and leave your footprints.

Remember to fully charge your mobile phone for taking photos. There is also a cameraman who will take photos along the trip. It’s on you to buy it or not and they are not pushy at all.

Is Koh Phi Phi Worth the Visit?

Sadly, overcrowded tourism and overdevelopment have ruined the Phi Phi Islands. The water is emerald color but the coral has been pretty destroyed. The beaches are full of rubbish and a large number of tourists that sour around you and are everywhere! The waters are beautiful, the coral has lost its color from too many tourists. Locals care more about the money to be made and do not protect the sealife.

But we still think Phi Phi island is worth the visit, even if just for a few hours of island hopping. The islands may be overcrowded but definitely not overrated. It is truly paradise dubbed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. You can get there early when the sun is rising you will experience the magic that this beautiful country has to show.

This island is truly a jewel. You’ll understand why Phi Phi is a popular destination when people think of the best island paradise. The place is great for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing. Definitely check it out.

Overview: A Trip to Phi Phi Islands

All in all, an island trip to Phi Phi island is a must-do if you come to Phuket or Krabi. Words cannot describe or pictures do it justice, just how stunningly beautiful this place is.

We had such a wonderful time visiting Phi Phi Island during our island hopping tour. It was so stunning and the nature is astonishingly beautiful. I cannot explain how amazing was the views, snorkeling experience, and scenes around there. An excellent place for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, taking photos, or just enjoying the majestic views. You won’t regret the money and time spent there. Definitely an island you need to visit once in your life!

Have you ever been to Phi Phi Island? How did your Phi Phi Islands itinerary go? We wish you enjoy reading this Phi Phi Island Travel Guide and had a great time there. If you need more Thailand travel tips, feel free to check out the below travel post to popular travel destinations in Thailand.

Island Holiday in Phuket:

• How to Plan Your Phuket Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where to Stay in Phuket: Top 7 Areas on Island

Travel to Bangkok:

• Bangkok Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
• Day Trip to Ayutthaya Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where To Stay in Bangkok: Best Areas and Hotels

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Here is the Phuket Travel Guide Blog to help make the most out of your holiday gateway with a perfect Phuket itinerary on this paradise island.

For years, Phuket island is a well-known island paradise for many travelers who are looking for sunshine and beautiful beaches. This famous island covers more than 5,800 square feet, making it become Thailand’s largest island.

Phuket is a giant mix of everything Thailand has to offer. No matter what you are looking for, there is something for everyone on the island for your holiday gateway. For beach lovers, Phuket is hugely covered with numerous sandy white beaches with emerald blue waters. You can find plenty of sun-bathing beaches, as well as excellent snorkeling and diving spot for your holiday in Phuket. The views alone will make you fall in love with Phuket. For party-lovers, you can experience a ton of lively activities on the island, from days until night.

This Phuket Travel Guide Blog is the essential handy guide for a short trip to this Thailand’s most popular island. It includes the Phuket itinerary on how to plan your things to do and see on the island, as well as recommendations for the best beaches, restaurants, cafés, and accommodation. Find out more!

Pre-Trip Essential

Thanks to its popularity, Phuket has very good infrastructures on the island. There is an International airport located in the north of Phuket to welcome travelers from around the world. Many international direct flights and domestic flights from Thailand bring thousand of travelers into this island paradise.

To guarantee the best price, we always love to compare the flight ticket prior to making any trip planning, Highly recommended checking the cheapest flight from your home country to Phuket via Skyscanner. It is very easy and simple to grab a good flight deal to Phuket.

See Skyscanner for best rate

From Phuket Airport to the hotel

Once you arrived in Phuket, there are plenty of transportation options to get you to the hotel from the airport. The price varies depending on the destination and what kind of transportation options choosing.

• Airport Taxi – Plenty of taxi stands waiting for you. It is much more expensive, but also faster and more convenient.
• Minibus – The cheapest option. But you will need to follow the minibus to drop the passengers one by one along the journey, depending on the destinations.
• Private Transfer – A convenient transport from the airport to your hotel in the city. Good for a group of friends and family. Book your Phuket International Airport Transfers.
• Some high-range hotels also offer an airport pick-up service. Make sure to check and book it prior to your flight.

Getting Around in Phuket

Always bear in mind that Phuket is much larger than you might think. When you are on the island, getting around in Phuket is not easy due to the winding road and traffic. It is not easy to drive a car or scooter for getting around as it is quite dangerous and risky unless you are confident in your driving skill. While a taxi is quite expensive, we recommend asking for the tuk-tuk for a short distance ride.

Phuket Travel Guide Tips: Stay connected with your portable WIFI or Sim card. Klook always provides a good deal on the Wifi sim card and easy to redeem it at the airport. Check the detail here.

dtac HAPPY TOURIST 4G/5G SIM Card for Thailand

Best Time to Visit Phuket

Phuket is a popular travel destination and you can visit the island at any time of the year. As a tropical island paradise, you can enjoy the sunshine in Phuket all year round.

However, the best time to visit Phuket is between December and March as the weather is more comfortable. It is not too hot for getting around but you still have a sunny day all day. But these are also the popular months to visit Phuket and expenses will be slightly higher with more crowds.

Where To Stay

Phuket Island has a wide range of accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts, high to mid-range hotels, guesthouses, and budget hostels to choose from. For sure you can find the perfect stay that suits your budget in Phuket. Here is our best pick.

For first-timer, we recommend staying in Patong as it is the most happening area and has easy access to food, shops, massage, and all the activities in Phuket. The infamous Bangla Street is also situated in Patong with pubs, dance clubs, bars, and restaurants lined along the street.

Some great accommodation options I can recommend in Patong Beach are the best luxury resort: Amari Phuket, or the modern mid-budget hostel: Lub d Phuket Patong.

If you prefer to stay in Phuket for a more laidback holiday, it’s alright to stay nearby Patong, such as Karon Beach and Kalim beach. You can still easily access Patong with 10-20 minutes of walk or a Tuk-tuk drive. The Mandarava Resort and Spa, Karon Beach is an amazing, luxurious hotel on Karon beach with great sea views.

Do you need more accommodation options to stay in Phuket? Check out: Where to Stay in Phuket: Top 7 Areas with Best Hotels.

Things to Do in Phuket Itinerary

This Phuket itinerary shows you how to spend a perfect 3 to 4 days on Phuket island, Thailand. To make the planning process as easy as possible, I compiled a list of things to do and see on the island.

Things to do for Phuket Itinerary (3 to 4 days):

• Take an island trip (a whole day!)
• Visit Patong (2-3 hours)
• Party at Bangla Road (2-3 hours)
• Strolling along the beach (2-3 hours)
• Phuket Night Market (2-3 hours)
• Massage & Relaxing (2-3 hours)
• Phuket Fantasea (4-5 hours)
• Religion and Culture Visit (4-5 hours)

This Phuket itinerary can be amended and added with more activities. We didn’t pack too much of activities as the best way to enjoy Phuket is to relax and enjoy the tranquility on the beaches.

Note: Due to the pandemic, many of the shops and streets may be temporarily close. We recommended to check again and pre-booking the service prior to your arrival.

Take An Island Trip

If you are visiting Phuket, taking an island tour is a MUST-DO!

Phuket is such a lovely place, a perfect balance between crazy parties and lay-back beaches. Just a couple of hours away from the main hustle of Phuket city have many amazingly beautiful Islands with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water. All attracts tourists from all over the world for snorkeling, swimming, taking photos, and just strolling along the beach while enjoying the majestic views 

Undoubtedly, this was my favorite thing to do in Phuket if you want to see coral reefs and have some beach activities.

There are several island trips that you can take into consideration. Do not miss the amazing snorkeling experience on James Bond Island, Koh Phi Phi, Maya Bay Area, Khai Island, or Bamboo Island, You can explore the picturesque and pristine beaches of Thailand islands by joining one of the islands tours from Phuket.

Here you can find some inspiration from our visit:

• Island Hopping Tour to Koh Phi Phi: A Travel Guide Blog

Phi Phi Island

The popular Phi-phi island is dubbed the “jewels of the Andaman Sea”. The islands consist of two islands: Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh. The places are sublime, the sand is so fine and white, like nowhere else on the island. No photo can do justice to this archipelago. Almost all visitors to Phuket will be visiting this beautiful island in South Thailand.

Phang Nga Bay

Explore the limestone caves, and have time to relax and swim at a peaceful beach at the Phang Nga Bay. There are also many options for water activities, and the snorkeling also very good, as you can see fish and corals in the emerald water. A must-do on your Phuket itinerary!

Here are a few island day tour options from Phuket if you’re looking for a great way to visit the stunning beaches that you won’t ever forget. Mostly the tour will be coupled with some of the island tours together as a complete island hopping tour package.

Choose from the organized tour with a speed boat to some of the beautiful islands.

• Phi Phi, Maya Area, Khai, and Bamboo Island Snorkeling Day Trip from Phuket – Most Popular!
• James Bond Island Day Tour from Phuket by Longtail Boat, Speedboat, or Big Boat
• 3 Khai Islands, Phi Phi, or James Bond Day Tour from Phuket by Speedboat
• Racha Yai, Racha Noi, Coral, or Maiton Island Day Tour from Phuket by Speedboat or Catamaran

Visit Patong

Patong is the most popular place in Phuket. This is a place always busy no matter the time of day and full of shops, restaurants, and people. Travelers also can find many accommodation options in this neighborhood, ranging from luxury resorts to budget hostels.

A stroll in Patong means you are seeing the most lively neighborhood in Phuket. It is an authentic place to see the true color of Phuket’s life.

In the daytime, you can have a leisure walk on Patong beach or do some water activities. Sample some local food on the street or authentic Thai cuisine in restaurants, or look for a relaxing massage at one of the shops in Patong.

When past sunset, Patong Beach turns itself into a gigantic party town. The infamous Bangla Street is situated in the Patong area. Here you can be partying all night in the amazing bars and clubs that are open all night long.

Party at Bangla Road

Nightlife in Thailand is always colorful and this can be seen on the famous Bangla Road. Bangla Road is also known as Bangla Walking Street, Thanon Bangla, or even the Phuket Nightlife!

During the day, Bangla road is a very anonymous one-way traffic street, and it turns into a crazy pedestrian walking street starting that never sleeps when the sky gets dark.

There are tons of bars, pubs, and nightclubs in the area to enjoy the night. Whenever everyone walks past the street, smiling ladies will invite you to take a seat or have a drink inside.

While not everyone is enjoy the same type of party, it is still tempting to have a look on how’s the lively nightlife in Thailand at least once!

Strolling along the Beach

Phuket is never lacking the awesome beaches with nice waves and Sunset. Plenty of beaches to stroll on to enjoy the picture-perfect moment on the seaside. Crystal clear water, white sands, palm trees with food and drink stalls. One can easily spend hours lazing, sunbathing, swimming, doing water activities, and walking along the sandy beach to enjoy Phuket.

While the Patong beach may be too overcrowded for travelers who looking for a laidback holiday. Here are a few recommendations to have your precious time on the island.

• Bang Tao beach is quieter compared with other beaches in Phuket. Rather clean and a wonderful place for sunset. Many restaurants along the beach.
• Freedom Beach is an absolutely beautiful beach in Phuket. It is like a little paradise with a longtail boat ride from Patong Beach.

Phuket Night Market

If you are in Phuket during the weekend, don’t miss the night market on Walking Street or the Weekend Market.

Phuket night market is a great place to sample local food with plenty of food stalls that offers an unlimited variety of Thai cuisine. Start your foodie quest with grilled meat and seafood, mango sticky rice, noodles soup, and many more Thai street food. Try to resist the temptation of Thai food for the whole day so that you’ll have maximum stomach space for the night market!

You can also pick up souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing as well as electronic goods to bring back home at a very affordable price here. Generally, the night market in Phuket is started from 16:00 to 22:00.

Popular Night Market on Phuket Island: 

• Phuket Walking Street ‘Lard Yai’: Thalang Rd, Talat Yai, Muang, Phuket (Sunday)
• Phuket Weekend Market: 7 Wirat Hong Yok Rd, Phuket Town, Muang, Phuket (Saturday and Sunday)
• Indy Night Market: Limelight Avenue, Dibuk Road, Phuket Town (Thursday and Friday)

Massage & Relaxing

When you’re in Thailand, you will need to do at least one massage during your trip! Nothing could be better than a relaxing and unwinding massage after a full day of water activities. Go for the authentic Thai massage and spa and you’ll feel totally recharged and energized. You can also try a foot massage if you 

There are many cheap parlors everywhere on the island to experience this at a reasonable price. The prices are varies depending on the services and of course the grading of the shop. Try to look for the shops with more patrons and agree with the price before the session. But generally, this is starting from 250 Baht for one hour of a foot massage and 400 Baht for a Thai massage!

If you are interested, you can check out some of the reward-winning or quality good retreats here:

• [Special Offer] Let’s Relax Spa Experience in Phuket – Redeem at multiple locations in Patong, Kata.
• Oasis Tropical Retreat Spa Experience at Bangtao Beach in Phuket

Phuket Travel Guide Tips: Good deal from Klook, and it is cheaper than if you book directly from the Spa center directly. Easily find locations and simply redeem with an e-voucher.

Phuket Fantasea

Alternatively, you can also experience a showcase of Thailand’s cultural heritage and explore the Carnival Village for a night you won’t forget. Phuket Fantasea is a popular show that immerses you in the rich and exotic heritage of Thailand through the performances. A great activity that is good for families with kids.

Phuket Fantasea Ticket For Southeast Asia + Korean Market

Religion and Culture Visit

Above Phuket itinerary is best for 3 to 4 days of holiday gateway to Phuket. Most of my Phuket trip was focusing on the beach and relaxing activities. If you have more days in Phuket, you can add more unique things to do that you can include in your Phuket itinerary.

To know more about the Thai religion and culture, there are numerous temples and gardens with beautiful architecture and statues to visit in Phuket. All are located not too far and can be coupled together as a leisure half day of visit. You will get to know the stories about Phuket by visiting these Phuket attractions. You can rent a scooter, hire a Tuk-tuk, or join the local tours to those attractions hassle-free.

Phuket Discovery Half-Day Tour

Phuket Old Town – The old town of Phuket is a remarkable mix of the remains of Portuguese colonial architecture and Chinese influence. Strolling in the old town will get a feel of Phuket’s past when you explore the Sino-Portuguese buildings.

Besides, there are also some iconic attractions such as Big Buddha, Wat Chalong Temple, and Wang Talang scattered all around the island. All are historical landmarks on Phuket island to immerse yourself into the Thai culture and religion.

What To Eat in Phuket

In this section, we will share with you some of the best restaurants and what to eat in Phuket.

No.6 Restaurant: Our favorite restaurant for the best Thai food in Phuket! This locally run restaurant serves authentic Thai dishes at a reasonable price. This popular Thai restaurant in Phuket is located beside Bangla street and is easily spot the restaurant. The reason is simple. There is always a long queue in front waiting to be seated.

We had a feast of delicious, authentic Thai food at Restaurant number 6 and highly recommended it. The food is utterly divine and most importantly the prices are reasonable. The best restaurant in Phuket if you are looking for a dining option.

Limited seat, come here early to enjoy the super delicious meals here.

• Address: 69, Soi Phrabarami 3, Phrabarami Road, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand
• Business Hours: Open daily from 8:30 to 00:00

There are also many little cafes that serve great coffee and breakfast in Phuket. Sometimes, we just simply walk into one of the hipster cafes and enjoy having a cup of aroma coffee to kick start our day in Phuket.

Food stalls along the street – Food is everywhere in Thailand and the same in Phuket!

Final Tips on Phuket Travel Guide

Our final quick tips for having a great time when planning on the Phuket itinerary:

Overview: A Trip to Phuket

Last but not least, we hope we do provide you with some good tips on what to do in Phuket as well as some practical information when planning your Phuket itinerary. A trip to Phuket will bring you heavenly beaches and crystal clear water. Enjoy your relaxing time exploring the surrounding island, visit the beaches, or take a stroll in the Patong area and Phuket town. Have a great time on this island!

You can look for your Phuket travel blog here:

• Accommodation: Where to Stay in Phuket: Top 7 Areas with Best Hotels
• Koh Phi Phi: Island Hopping Tour to Koh Phi Phi: A Travel Guide Blog

Thank you for reading my Phuket travel guide blog. If you need more Thailand travel tips, feel free to check out the below travel post to popular travel destinations in Thailand.

Travel to Bangkok:

• Bangkok Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
• Day Trip to Ayutthaya Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where To Stay in Bangkok: Best Areas and Hotels

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

In this accommodation guidepost, I explained everything you need to know about the 8 best areas when looking for where to stay in Phuket, with carefully chosen hotels in each of the areas. A quick guide to finding your perfect Phuket hotel for your holiday.

Phuket is one of Thailand’s best holiday destinations. With crystal clear water and a sandy white beach, tourists can experience stunning sea views in the various places in Phuket. Thanks to its mass tourism, the infrastructure is very good, making Phuket easy to access by domestic and international travelers.

The island is also one of the popular places for wedding and honeymoon venues with many luxury villas along with the island.

However, it can be a headache when looking for where to stay in Phuket. This island paradise is much larger than you might think with a wide range of accommodation available. You’ll find various luxury villas, 5-star beach resorts, high to mid-price hotels, and even a range of budget hostels to stay in Phuket.

This quick and easy guide to Phuket’s best hotels and accommodations will help you decide where to stay. Whether you’re in the mood for a luxury gateway or budget solo holiday, we’ve got the best of the Phuket for you.

How to Plan Your Phuket Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Where To Stay in Phuket

As a first-time traveler to Phuket, it is always ideal to know where to stay in Phuket prior to planning your trip. Most tourists will choose to stay on the west side of the island. This area houses many great bays and resorts that offer beach and sea views with a sunset.

The infamous Patong beach is the most popular beach on the west side of Phuket. From there, you can choose the Karon and Kata beach (south of Patong), or Kalim and Kamala (north of Patong). It tends to be quieter and more laid back, away from the hustle and bustle of the main action area of Patong.

Alternatively, the Old Phuket Town will be away from the beach area. But here you can know more about the history of Phuket. The accommodation here will be cheaper and recommended for budget travelers.

Where to stay in Phuket – Top 7 Areas on Island

• Patong Beach – The best places to stay in Phuket for first-time travelers. It is also most happening area on the island. 
• Karon Beach – Adjacent to Patong. Another popular place when looking for where to stay in Phuket.
• Kata Beach– The best place to stay for the familiar in Phuket.
• Kalim Beach – Located in the north of Patong and offers a more calm neighborhood.
• Kamala Beach – Another great option to stay in Phuket with a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Rawai Beach – The best place to stay in Phuket for the local vibe.
• Old Phuket Town– Central of the island without sea view. A historical stay in Phuket.

Phuket Travel Tips: Make sure to book your stay as far in advance as you can if you want to secure the perfect accommodation for you and save some money as well!

Patong Beach

Being the most popular place in Phuket, Patong Beach is the busiest beach on the island. You can do various water activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and more here. Besides, this happening area is home to all kinds of restaurants, shopping malls, night markets, and shops. The most happening street, Bangla Road is also located in this area. Here you’ll find the dance bar, bistro, go-go bars, and live music restaurants.

With tons of interesting things to do and water activities, Patong beach is a great place to stay in Phuket for holidaymakers or groups of friends. The party scene makes this place an exciting place in Phuket. Plenty of accommodation can be found here, from luxury 5-stars holidays to cheap budget hostels. If you think Patong Beach is the perfect area for you, here are the hotels I recommend in these areas.

Where to stay in Phuket – Patong beach:

• Luxury: Burasari Phuket Resort & Spa, Amari Phuket
• High Range: Hotel Clover Patong Phuket, Tropica Bungalow Beach Hotel, Patong Resort Hotel
• Mid-Budget: Lub d Phuket Patong

Best Hotels in Patong Beach – Luxury

Burasari Phuket Resort & Spa will give you the most luxurious experience in Phuket. Excellent located along Patong Beach which is far enough out from the main busiest area to have a good night’s sleep yet still everything still within walking distance. The infamous Bangla street is  just10 minutes on foot. Huge clean room and friendly staff. Absolutely wonderful stay in Phuket.

The luxurious Amari Phuket pampers you with gorgeous rooms and luxury amenities. This awesome Phuket accommodation offers a beautiful room display with a spectacular sea view from its private beach. A couple of nights’ stay here is guaranteed to give you the best holiday. Free shuttle bus to Kata beach.

Best Hotels in Patong Beach – High Range

Hotel Clover Patong Phuket is a fantastic hotel with a great location. It is closed to the beach, with a few minutes’ walk to the lively Bangla street. A lot of shops, nice cafes, eateries, and convenience stores are nearby with a wide range of food choices. They have an amazing pool with a magnificent view from the rooftop. Staffs are very friendly and helpful.

Tropica Bungalow Beach Hotel has a perfect location if you want to be in the middle of the hustle and bustle. This tropical settling hotel is just located directly next to Bangla street and everything is in action. 1-minutes walk to the beach is truly amazing. Staffs are friendly and very helpful. The room is also clean and comfortable.

Patong Resort Hotel is one of the best hotels to stay in the island with everything you need for a great stay. The location is excellent with just a 2-minute walk to Patong Beach and a 5-minute stroll from Bangla Road. Many cafes and restaurants are just nearby the property. Spacious room with nice interior design for your comfortable stay in Phuket.

Best Hotels in Patong Beach – Budget

Lub d Phuket Patong is an incredible modern-style hostel situated only a short walk from Patong Beach. The city’s entertainment hub Bangla street is also within a few minutes walking distances. The property offers a choice of mixed-sex dorms, female-only dorms, and private rooms with air conditioning. Great facilities on site including a lovely pool, bars, bicycle rental, and a variety of activities. Excellent value for money.

Karon Beach

Not too far from Patong Beach is Karon Beach. The location is excellent and centrally located between the infamous Patong Beach and Kata beach. This is Phuket’s second-popular area to stay on the island for all sorts of travelers. You will find all types and ranges of accommodation for all budgets on Karon beach for families, honeymooners, to backpackers.

Beach lovers will fall in love with the quieter atmosphere at the long wide beach here. Many shops, bars, and restaurants are just a short walk away as well from the main beach area. You’ll also find the best, high-end resorts and villas in this area providing the perfect getaway from the city.

Where to Stay in Phuket – Karon Beach

• Luxury: Mandarava Resort, Thavorn Palm Beach Resort Phuket, Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa
• High Range: Secret Cliff Resort & Restaurant, Karona Resort & Spa
• Mid-budget: Phuket Golden Sand Inn

Best Hotels in Karon Beach – Luxury

The stunning Mandarava Resort and Spa, Karon Beach is an amazing, luxurious hotel on Karon beach with great sea views. The accommodation was impressive with all the facilities you need for a great stay in Karon Beach. Many beautiful pools to choose from to enjoy your stay in the resort. The room was spacious and had all the necessary amenities. Super friendly and helpful staff that gladly help with arranging trips, and transportation.

Thavorn Palm Beach Resort Phuket is a family-friendly hotel with several different beautiful pools to choose from. The location is excellent, right across the road from Karon beach. Guests can enjoy a beachfront location on Karon Beach with just a short 1-minute walk to the beach. The charming rooms are spacious and feature Thai-style décor and furnishings. Easy access to the surrounding towns. Friendly staff and large breakfast selection.

Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa is the perfect base if you want to enjoy a spoiled stay and also explore the great facilities in the resort. The rooms are comfortable and feature a private balcony boasting stunning views of the Andaman Sea. The location was good for beach access, and easy transport to Patong and Kata beach. Exceptional staff guarantees your best stay in Phuket.

Best Hotels in Karon Beach – High Range

Secret Cliff Resort & Restaurant is another gorgeous option in Karon Beach that comes with a fantastic atmosphere. The accommodation offers spacious villas with a private balcony featuring garden or sea views. It also has an infinity pool overlooking the Andaman Sea. If you’re looking for a quiet place to relax, then you should book this resort. Free shuttle service to Karon and Patong Beaches.

Karona Resort & Spa comes with a local atmosphere and some accessible prices. The entire resort is decorated with traditional ceramic art pieces. The tropical-themed rooms are super clean and cozy. The property is so close to the beach with a 2-minute walk and easy access to the food options nearby.

Phuket Golden Sand Inn – This mid-budget hotel in Phuket offers a very good service for affordable prices. It is located just directly at the beach across the road. Rooms overlook the tropical garden. The staff is extremely kind and helpful. It’s just great if you are traveling to Phuket on a mid-budget range of accommodation!

Kata Beach

Compared with the popular Patong beach, Kata beach tends to be less noisy. It is best well-known for being family-friendly and a great place to stay for family and kids. The town is very walkable with some beaches or bays located in the south. The important sights such as Big Buddha and Wat Chalong are not far from here.

If you prefer a more private area, the Kata Noi Beach is also located slightly away from the popular area in Kata beach. Many trendy hotels in peaceful surroundings are located here. It is less crowded and great for couples and youngsters. The pristine beach and clear sea with sizeable waves are perfect for spending a day outdoors enjoying the sand and warm water.

Best places to stay in Kata Beach:

• Luxury: Katathani Phuket Beach Resort, The Shore At Katathani
• Mid-High Range: Ibis Phuket Kata
• Budget: iNest Poshtel, The Orchid House

Best Hotels in Kata Beach – Luxury

Katathani Phuket Beach Resort is the best place for a great family break with lots to do at the resort. Located across from Kata Beach, this award-winning Katathani Phuket features 6 pools, 6 dining options, and many kid’s facilities. Guests can enjoy massage and spa, snorkeling, strolling at the beach, and enjoy your restful beach holiday here. A great choice for where to stay in Phuket for family and kids.

The Shore At Katathani – Adult Only is great for couples and honeymoons to enjoy your private time with a magnificent sea view. This pristine hotel provides a group of villas right at the beachside with sensational views of the peaceful end of Kata beach. The villas are huge, with an amazing view, and super well equipped. Staffs are professional and super friendly. Amazing place for a relaxing holiday in Phuket.

Best Hotels in Kata Beach – Mid-High Range

Ibis Phuket Kata offers a very good service for affordable prices. Located about 10 minutes from the Kata beach, it is one of the top-value accommodations with shopping, dining, and nightlife nearby. The staff is friendly and very efficient.

Best Hotels in Kata Beach – Budget Range

If you’re on a budget, check out iNest Poshtel. It is a modern new Hostel and you’ll enjoy bright rooms and modern amenities. It is well maintained and everything is sparkling clean and in great condition. 10 to 15 minutes walk to the Kata beach.

The Orchid House is a clean and comfortable boutique inn located in Kata. The rooms are pretty and you feel very comfortable when staying here. The location was good within a 5-minute walk from Kata Beach. and Karon beach. Plenty of restaurants, shops, and a night market nearby.

Kalim Beach

Located the north of Patong Beach, the Kalim beach offers a more calm neighborhood, slightly away from the chaotic tourist scene. It is a small beach located just next to the famous Patong Beach on the way to Kamala Beach. It is still walkable to popular Patong beach with a 10 to 15 minutes walk. You will have a more cozy place here yet still close to the popular Patong area. 100-200 Baht will bring you to the busy Patong area. Some accommodations even offer a free shuttle to Patong.

Kalim Beach offers an amazing sunset view during the evening. Many beachfront restaurants and bars along the beach. You will also find amazing street food along the Kalim beach every night. Even locals come here for their dinner. Plenty of transport available and good access to the local beach. A good family spot.

There are a few notable resorts and villas located at Kalim Beach when looking for where to stay in Phuket. Few high-range hotels with good prices are located here.

• Luxury: Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa, Andamantra Resort and Villa Phuket
• High Range: The Nature Phuket
• Mid-Budget: Kalim Resort

Best Hotels in Kalim Beach – Luxury

Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa – I definitely recommend this luxurious 5-star resort to all travelers out there that want to feel spoiled during their stay! The property is set within 20 acres of beautiful gardens above Patong with all facilities nearby. Just a 3-minute walk from the beach and the beautiful comfortable rooms feature stunning sunset views from private balconies.

Andamantra Resort and Villa Phuket is another recommendation for families who want to be spoiled with luxury during their stay in Phuket. The spacious rooms offer comfortable stays with amazing sunsets that can be seen from the pool and balcony. This great hotel awaits you with a spa, fitness center, and 3 outdoor pools. The location is also excellent, walking distance to the center of Patong. Everything you might need for a great stay in Phuket.

Best Hotels in Kalim Beach – High Range

The Nature Phuket is another amazing value for money for a luxury stay in Kalim Beach. It offers super comfy beds and nice rooms. The property has a big pool for adults and a separate kids pool for families with kids to enjoy. The staffs are very polite and helpful. Free shuttle to Patong 3 times per day.

Kalim Resort is located on Phuket’s charming Kalim Beach, within a 2-minute walk from the beach. Spacious rooms fitted with wooden flooring and furnishings. It also features a great big pool for adults and kids. A 20-minute walk to Patong beach.

Kamala Beach

If you prefer to stay in more relaxed areas in Phuket, Kamala beach is another top option. It is located north of Patong Beach with about 20 minutes of Tuk-tuk drive. This area has a very family-friendly atmosphere, surrounded by hills which offers a more authentic village feel. Kamala is also home to FantaSea, which is considered a “Cultural Theme Park” and very popular with tourists.

There are a number of incredible hotels in Kamala and here are our best picks:

• Luxury: Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach
• High Range: Amala Grand Bleu Resort
• Mid-Range: Kamala Beachfront Apartment

Best Hotels in Kamala Beach

Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach is a popular pick for anyone who wants a holiday gateway in Phuket! It is situated at an absolutely stunning location with a beautiful wild Kamala beach within a few minutes walk. This beautiful hotel offers modern air-conditioned spacious rooms with a private balcony in a comfortable atmosphere. It’s one of the best accommodation options out there if you want to be totally spoiled. Excellent value for money.

Amala Grand Bleu Resort is another great 4-star hotel for your perfect weekend gateway. Located down a steep hill, every room features views of the Phuket Andaman Sea. The swimming pool offers a stunning view overlooking the sea. It also help with the tuk-tuk service to the beaches every day which was very convenient.

Kamala Beachfront Apartment is located at an amazing beachfront location with plenty of bars and restaurants to walk to. It offers well-appointed apartments and boasts a saltwater pool with a hot tub and panorama views of the Andaman Sea where you can relax! Everything you need for your Phuket stays.

Rawai Beach

Located in the south of the island, Rawai beach is situated in a calm area 17km from Phuket town. The beach itself is lovely and quiet compared to the hustle and bustle of Patong. However, it is not a swimming beach and is used primarily as a boat harbor. 

Rawai beach is known as a great place to sample some fresh seafood thanks to the fantastic seafood market and plenty of good seafood restaurants. An off-the-beaten-path area of Phuket to stay if you are looking for a local vibe in Phuket.

Best Hotels in Rawai Beach

Rawai Palm Beach Resort offers a relaxing getaway, boasted of exquisite contemporary Thai décor. It is easy to access several beaches and numerous restaurants nearby. It also offers a great on-site restaurant, free form pools, and a well-equipped fitness center where you can relax!

Phuket Signature Glamping offers you an unforgettable stay in Phuket. Your unique stay is from the clean and nicely decorated glamping tent. Recommended to choose with the tent with aircon. The bathroom is separate from the tent but each tent has its own bathroom that can be locked with a key. Food stalls at night within a 10 minutes walk on the main road. A fun and relaxing activity in Phuket.

Old Phuket Town

If you want to be away from the beach and learn more history of Phuket, we recommend staying in Old Phuket Town. It’s full of history and charming when strolling along the streets. The Thalang Road is lined with colorful 19th-century shophouses and Sino-Portuguese buildings, with a decent cafe scene. Phuket Old town comes to life during the weekend with more people coming to the town for the Weekend Night Market and the Sunday Walking Street Market.

Old Phuket Town with a wide range of mid-budget accommodations. Here is our best pick for where to stay in old Phuket town:

• High Range: Blu Monkey Boutique Phuket Town
• Mid Range: The Memory at On On Hotel
• Budget: Na Siam Guesthouse

Best Hotels in Old Phuket Town

Blu Monkey Boutique Phuket Town offers comfort and convenience at a great price. Central location in the old town, the property is a family-friendly accommodation that is close to​ the bus​ center and​ is a famous tourist place in ​the​ city. Free water, juice, bananas, and crackers are available all day for guests which was a great bonus.

The Memory at On On Hotel is my recommendation for a great value for money in Old Phuket Town. The location of the hotel was perfect right in the middle and the property had that old rustic feel. The classic rooms are beautiful, with comfortable beds. The staff is always friendly and helpful.

Na Siam Guesthouse is a lovely place in Phuket’s old town. The guesthouse is in a nice style with a large room. Bed is comfortable with well-equipped amenities. The location is perfect and the price is very reasonable. Good value for money.

Final Tips on Where To Stay in Phuket

Overview: Best Hotel To Stay in Phuket

Last my not least, we hope this Phuket hotel guide can give you some idea of where to stay in Phuket. We reveal what we think are the best places to stay in Phuket and hope you find this guide helpful in finding the best hotel for your perfect gateway.

In my opinion, there are many beaches where you can chill out widely spread across Phuket Island. It is not too difficult to find your best hotel stay in Phuket. For families with kids, stay slightly away from Patong at Kata beach and Kamala beach with a more calming vibe. You can still get to Patong beach with a short walk or tuk-tuk services.

If budget is not a concern, we highly recommended staying at Diamond Cliff Resort and Spa at Kalim beach. The resort featured everything you need for a perfect gateway. Plus, it is still walkable to popular Patong beach if you are looking for entertainment and nightlife activities. Alternatively, Lub D Patong will be my next recommendation for a group of friends and budget option.

Here you can find some travel inspiration from our Phuket visit:

• How to Plan Your Phuket Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Island Hopping Tour to Koh Phi Phi: A Travel Guide Blog

Did you enjoy this Phuket accommodation guide? We have more Thailand travel stories to share for your holiday. Free feel to check it out.

Travel to Bangkok:

• Bangkok Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
• Day Trip to Ayutthaya Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where To Stay in Bangkok: Best Areas and Hotels