Ao Bang Thao
A large open bay that is the location of one of Phuket's longest beaches, Ao Bang Thao has a long history related to the economy of the island. Previously a tin mining area the location has been transformed into an area where Phuket's luxurious resorts and golf courses, especially Laguna complex, are located. Additional accommodations outside Laguna at the bays south end are also available.

Nai Harn Beach
Along the rocky shores of the southern-most tip of Phuket Island, Nai Harn is another of Phuket's great beaches. Seriously lacking in shade, the beach is a favourite among sunbakers -- without an umbrella you will burn to a crisp here. The water is calm and very clear, with some ok snorkelling off the southern headland. In wet season though the watrs can be pretty rough.

Most of the accommodation along here is upmarket hotels, though there are budget spots on hideaway Yu Nui beach to the south, and Ao Sane to the north (via the yacht club) has one good budget choice and a mid-range option. Compared to Nai Harn, Ao Sane feels like a different world -- enroute the grassy hills along the shore slope sharply downwards to the secluded, rocky beaches, and the winding road crosses several wooden bridges over streams running into the ocean. It's a great little hideaway.

The main reason Nai Harn is so undeveloped is thanks to the Samnak Song Nai Harn monastery which occupies most of the land off the centre and southern stretch of the beach. It's a shame more of Phuket's beaches didn't have temples like this to keep the developers at bay.

Ao Chalong
This bay, which has the islands largest and most visited pier, is located 11 kilometers south of town. From this pier, holidaymakers can get chartered boats to some nearby islands south of Phuket. The bay area is dotted with dive shops, a few travel agencies and superb seafood restaurants. Although the bay has a stunning setting and relaxing ambience, swimming is not recommended here. Accommodations are available at the Phuket Youth Hostel.

Rawai Beach
Known locally as Haad Rawai and located 17 kilometers to the south of the town, this palm-fringed beach is best known for Phuket's, “Chao Le” people, or “Sea Gypsies”--a nomadic fishing minority believed to be of Melanesian descent. As picturesque as the beach itself is the breathtaking drive down to it.

The entire coastline is strung with short, sandy stretches of curved beach, some untouched by human feet. Several nearby islands also have gleaming white beaches and dazzling underwater scenery, which attract fishing enthusiasts and scuba

Kamala beach
Located approximately 26 kilometers from Phuket City, Hat Kamala is a relatively secluded 2-kilometer beach that is suitable for total relaxation. Accommodations are available.The beach is near Patong beach, you can actually see it from there. Follow the 'Thaweewong Rd.' to Kamala and Surin. 300 meters from Novotel. Go with your motorbike.


Laem Ka
This Cape is located approximately 16 kilometers from the town center at the extreme southwest end of Chalong Bay. Ideal for swimming, the beach is clean, quite and dotted with rocks.

Laem Sing
Located just one kilometer from Surin Beach, Laem Sing is a relatively small quite beach perfect for a break from the crowd. Laem Sing has a white sandy beach that glitters in the sun and is dotted with uniquely shaped rocks.