Phuket Luxury Travel Guide: Beaches, Island-Hopping and Where to Stay
Kamala, Surin and Nai Harn beaches, Phang Nga Bay, the Phi Phi Islands, Old Phuket Town and how to choose a luxury resort – a guide to Phuket for high-end travellers.
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Phuket is Thailand's largest island and one of Asia's great beach destinations. Beyond the busy strip of Patong, it has quiet bays, luxury villa resorts, superb food and easy island-hopping – a serious rival to the Maldives for a high-end holiday.
1. The west coast beaches
Kamala, Surin, Bang Tao and Layan in the north-west are calmer and more upmarket than Patong, with sunset views over the Andaman Sea.
2. Nai Harn and the south
A beautiful bay near Phuket's southern tip, close to the Promthep Cape viewpoint for sunset.
3. Phang Nga Bay
Limestone karsts rise dramatically from the sea. Explore by long-tail boat or sea kayak, including the famous "James Bond Island".
4. The Phi Phi Islands
Turquoise lagoons and dramatic cliffs. Go early on a private or small-group speedboat to avoid the crowds.
5. Old Phuket Town
Colourful Sino-Portuguese shophouses, cafés, street food and a Sunday walking street market.
6. The Big Buddha
A giant marble statue on a hilltop, with sweeping views over the island.
7. Thai food and cooking classes
Try southern Thai curries and fresh seafood, and join a cooking class with a market visit.
8. Spa and wellness
Phuket's resorts are known for their spas – Thai massage is a must.
Choosing a luxury resort
Look for private pool villas, a quiet beach, good dining and a location suited to how much you want to explore. Book an airport transfer – distances on the island are longer than they look on a map, and traffic can be slow.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Phuket?
November to April, during the dry season, when the sea is calm. May to October brings monsoon rain and rougher seas on the west coast.
Which part of Phuket is best for luxury?
The west coast north of Patong – Kamala, Surin, Bang Tao and Layan – and the quieter south around Nai Harn have many high-end resorts.
Is Phuket better than the Maldives?
Phuket offers more variety – culture, food, nightlife and island trips – often at lower prices. The Maldives is better for complete seclusion and over-water villas.
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