No matter what you are wanting to do during your Thailand vacation, you are sure to find it in Phuket! With a nightlife which is one of the craziest in all of South East Asia and some of the most pristine beaches in the country, traveling to Phuket is a must while in Thailand!

While you are staying on the island of Phuket you will either want to be right in the middle of the action or as far away from those disco beats as possible. Who then can you find a beach that will let you enjoy Thailand the way you want to then?

Find your perfect slice of heaven on Phuket is easy! With this guide, you will find a neighborhood on the island made just for you!

Get ready to do a kegstand or layout your towel on the beach, your Phuket vacation starts here!

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Phuket

• Where to stay in Phuket for your first time? Phuket Town
• Where to stay in Phuket close to everything? Chalong
• Where to stay in Phuket for nightlife? Patong
• Best neighborhood in Phuket for families? Kamala Beach
• Where to stay in Phuket on a budget? Karon Beach
• Where to stay in Phuket for couples? Rawai Beach
• Best least touristy beach in Phuket? Bangtao

Where to Stay in Phuket

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Phuket.

7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Phuket

Here are your best neighborhoods in Phuket! With each district of the city different from the next, be sure to look for the one that fits how you like to travel!

Neighborhood #1 – The Phuket Town

 Best neighbourhood in Phuket for your first time!

• COOLEST thing to do in the Phuket Town – Stroll through the stalls during the weekend market!
• BEST place to visit in the Phuket Town – Get a great view of the city and the island at Khao Rang!

Contrary to what you may think, Phuket Town may be one of the least touristy places of the island. In Phuket’s de facto capital, you will find many people hustling and bustling during the day, but come nightfall most stores close up shop.

While you won’t find insane parties or pristine beaches in Phuket Town, there is a splash of colonial architecture and authentic Thai culture to be found on the urban streets. With cheap street food, local bars, temples, and museums, there are tons of things to do without ever stepping foot out of the city limits.

• Grab a drink at the quirky Zimplex!
• Check out the Daoist religion at the Shrine of Serene Light!
• Learn about Thai-Chinese history at the Thai Hua Museum!
• Pray at the local Jiu Tui Chinese Temple!
• Climb up to the top of Monkey Hill and see some of Phuket’s most furry residents!

Best Budget Hotel in Phuket Town

Remember @ Phuket Town

A budget-friendly accommodation option with all the facilities you need for a pleasant stay in Phuket Town. Remember Hotel provides guests with a beautiful outdoor swimming pool which is surrounded by comfortable seating areas along with air-conditioned rooms for a cool night’s sleep.

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Best Mid-Range Hotel in Phuket Town

The Malika Hotel

This adults-only hotel located in Phuket Town will make sure you have a vacation to remember while staying in Thailand. Boasting its very own swimming pool, terrace, free bikes, and a garden, you will have everything you need to relax at the hotel and explore the rest of this tropical island paradise!

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Best Luxury Hotel in Phuket Town

Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel

When being right smack of the old colonial district isn’t enough, Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel will have you staying in one of Phuket’s very own century-old buildings! Other than the obvious charm and beauty of this hotel, you will also have access to their outdoor swimming pool, cafe, and garden!

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Heading to Bangkok? Save some money with our guide to the coolest hostels in Bangkok!

Neighborhood #2 – Chalong

 Where to stay in Phuket close to everything!

• COOLEST thing to do in Chalong – Climb to the peak and check out Chalong’s Big Buddha!
• BEST place to visit in Chalong – Get one of the best views of the island from Radar Hill!

Putting you right smack in between Phuket Town, the party filled beaches of Patong, and some of the more relaxing beaches on the island, Chalong Bay is the place to go if you are looking to check out a bit of everything on the island!

When you are needing a break from all the day trips around Phuket, you will find tons to do in Chalong itself! With amazing temples and religious statues, stunning gardens and wildlife, as well as boat trips that will show you the best sides of Phuket, Chalong is a neighborhood which never ceases to amaze!

• Smell the flowers at Chalong’s own botanic gardens!
• Spread your wings and check out some of the gorgeous birds at the bird park!
• Pray at Wat Chalong, one of the most beautiful temples on the island!
• Take a drink of Phuket’s own Chalong Bay Rum!
• Take to the high seas and explore Coral Island!

Thailand is alive! And you’ll find these party hostels have some of the best events around!

Best Budget Hotel in Chalong

Shanti Lodge Phuket

A stripped-back hotel bursting with character, Shanti Lodge Phuket, is the perfect place to stay for those savvy travelers who want a budget-friendly private room for the night. The hotel has a beautiful outdoor terrace and BBQ area where there are frequent social events with other travelers. Along with this, they have an on-site restaurant that serves up a storm of tasty meals, with plenty of options for all dietary requirements.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Chalong

The Fisherman Way

If you are looking to really get away from the crowds, The Fisherman Way will hook you up with your very own private beach! After escaping from the tourists and pushy hawkers on the beach, take a dip in the pool or take a free bike for a ride and explore more of the island! No matter which way you look at it, this 4-star hotel will make sure you have as much fun within their doors as outside!

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Not finding the right hostel? Thailand has a selection of full moon party hostels too!

Best Luxury Hotel in Chalong

Ratana Apart

Putting their guests 10 minutes between 3 of the most famous beaches in all of Phuket, Ratana Apart will make sure you have everything you need to explore the island and enjoy pure relaxation at the hotel! With its very own pool, sauna, gym, and convenience store onsite, you will never have to wander too far to have a good time!

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We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack. This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

Neighborhood #3 – Patong

 Where to stay in Phuket for nightlife!

• COOLEST thing to do in the Patong – Take your seat and be wowed at the Simon Cabaret Show!
• BEST place to visit in Patong – Stroll up and down the crazy Bangla Road!

Your holiday in Patong is an experience which you will remember for a lifetime. It’s not just the clubs and bars that make this seaside town one of the most famous places in Thailand. It is the beach parties that propel Patong to its status of being one of the craziest destinations on the planet.

We hope you are not looking to sleep for too long because the nightlife in Patong never stops. With go-go clubs, world-famous pubs, and a chaotic atmosphere, Patong is a place where every day holds a new adventure to be had. Get ready to party as if the world was ending, because Patong is here to blow your socks off!

• Experience true Muay Thai at the Bangla Boxing Stadium!
• Party the night away at the Illuzion Discotheque
• Grab a bite to eat at Pan Yaah Restaurant
• Layout your towel and relax on Freedom Beach
• Party on the beach at Paradise Beach Club

Best Budget Hotel in Patong

Tony Resort

Tony Resort has the perfect mixture of traditional Thai decor mixed with modern and boutique facilities, which creates a great vibe for guests staying in Patong. On-site you can expect to find a huge outdoor swimming pool, a delicious restaurant along with a tour desk which is the perfect place for booking your adventures in Phuket!

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Best Mid-range Hotel in the Patong

Mai House Patong Hill

At Mai House, you are going to truly have a vacation for the books. It is not just the staff who will make you feel right at home in Phuket, but the swimming pool, restaurant, spa, restaurant, and gym will make you consider moving to Thailand all together! With a location close to the action but far away enough to enjoy peace and quiet, Mai House is your home away from home in Phuket!

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Best Luxury Hotel in the Patong

Amari Phuket

We know you have been dreaming about a 5-star beachfront resort for ages. At Amari Phuket, your wildest dreams become a reality with a private beach, outdoor pool, spa, and two restaurants. This is just the tip of the iceberg, you will also have stunning sea views, a fitness center, and bars that will have you living like a king!

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Ko Phi Phi is great! Ko Phi Phi’s hostels are great too!

Neighborhood #4 – Kamala Beach

 Best neighbourhood in Phuket for families!

• COOLEST thing to do in Kamala Beach – Taste some local delicacies at the Friday Market!
• BEST place to visit in Kamala Beach – Soak up some rays on Laem Singh Beach!

Escape the bass beats and neon lights of Patong, and enjoy one of the most peaceful beaches on Phuket Island. Kamala Beach blends all the comforts from the tourist hub to the south with all the natural beauty which can only be found outside the city limits.

This beach community is not looking to change anything any time soon, the peace and quiet of Kamala Beach are what makes people consider moving to Thailand for good. Just because you are getting those deserted island vibes, doesn’t mean you won’t also find some of the best bars and restaurants on the island!

• Find peace of mind at Wat Baan Kamala, one of the best temples in the area!
• Catch a show at the elaborate Phuket FantaSea
• Hit the waves and learn how to surf!
• Drink and dine in style at HQ Beach Lounge
• Grab a bite to eat at Grill Bill!

Best Budget Hotel on Kamala Beach

Cape Sienna Gourmet Hotel

Treat yourself while on vacation in Phuket and check into Cape Sienna Gourmet Hotel! At this 5-star stay, you will have complete access to their very own outdoor swimming pool, 3 restaurants, bars, and fitness center. The fun doesn’t have to stop there. Throughout the hotel you can also find daily events and games, meaning you will never have a dull moment!

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Editor’s Tip: make friends by staying at a cool hostel in Krabi!

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Kamala Beach

The Woods Nature Park Resort Phuket

A beautiful lodge-style hotel with an authentic and natural atmosphere, The Woods Nature Park Resort is an epic place to stay when visiting Kamala Beach. The hotel boasts a uniquely designed outdoor swimming pool along with sleek rooms that are equipped with balconies boasting magnificent mountain views.

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Best Luxury Hotel on Kamala Beach

Novotel Phuket

While vacationing in Thailand, might as well go all out and have the time of your life! Novotel Phuket will pamper you with their onsite bars, restaurants, outdoor pool, gym, and even a children’s club for the little ones. With some of the best food on the island and tour desks taking you to the most remote destinations, you can find all that you will ever need at Novotel!

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Bangkok is alive! And you’ll find these party hostels have some of the best events around!

Neighborhood #5 – Karon Beach

 Where to stay in Phuket on a budget!

• COOLEST thing to do in Karon Beach – Pray at the beautiful Wat Kraon, the areas most famous temple!
• BEST place to visit in Karon Beach – Sink your toes into the white sands of Karon Beach!

Not anywhere as crazy as Patong Beach but with more to do than napping by sea, Karon Beach is a small town where you will always find something to do! After you had your fill of lounging about on the third longest beach on the island, experience the local culture around Karon or go off the beaten track and explore the jungles of Phuket!

Being a tourist hub on Phuket without all the dodgy bars and insane beach parties, Karon is perfect for those who are wanting to have a tropical vacation but on a backpackers budget!

• Ocean views and great food, be sure to dine at On The Rock!
• Strap on your helmet and drive through the jungle on an ATV!
• Crack open a cold one with the boys (or gals) at Walkabout Bar
• Putt-Putt at Dino Park Mini Golf and sink a hole in one!
• Get a great view of the island from Karon Viewpoint!

Best Budget Hotel in Karon Beach

Memory Karon Resort

A stunning resort, with budget-friendly prices, Memory Karon Resort provides beautiful Thai-style rooms that come with either a spacious balcony or patio area. One of the best aspects of this hotel is it provides a daily free shuttle to the beautiful Karon Beach, meaning guests can be swimming in crystal clear waters in no time.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Karon Beach

Baan Karonburi Resort

From your hotel room, you can smell that salty sea air! Baan Karonburi Resort puts you right on the beach so that you don’t have to walk too far to take a dip in the ocean! Other than the hotel’s premium location, guests will also have access to the resort’s own pool, spa, gym, restaurant, bar, and sun deck!

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Need specifics? We also have our favorite hostels near Phuket Airport!

Best Luxury Hotel in Karon Beach

Mandarava Resort and Spa

Mandarava Resort and Spa redefines everything that a true luxury 5-star hotel should be! Not only is the resort itself absolutely stunning, but you can truly enjoy up-scale living at the hotel’s 5 swimming pools, 5 pool bars, gym, and spa! Finding time to tear yourself away from the resort to hit the beach? Mandarava has you covered with their very own shuttle service!

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Neighborhood #6 – Rawai Beach

 Best neighbourhood in Phuket for couples!

• COOLEST thing to do in Rawai Beach – Stroll along the picture-perfect Promthep Cape!
  
• BEST place to visit in Rawai Beach – Layout on Laem Ka Beach and enjoy true island living!

What was once considered a totally remote beach has now been given the status of being a “working beach”. All this means is that you are still going to enjoy a castaway lifestyle at Rawai, but with the convenience of a few supermarkets nearby!

Rawai is the place to go to get back to the whole reason you came to Thailand in the first place: a tropical getaway! What you will find are secluded beaches, island excursions, and a neighborhood which will allow you to enjoy complete relaxation!

Leave the nightclubs and bars in Patong, Rawai is where you can find the real heart of Phuket!

• Take a day trip to the tropical paradise of Koh Bon!
• Experience local culture at Gypsies Fish Market
• Feel truly at peace while strolling through the local temple of Wat Sawang Arom.
• Grab a bite and a drink at Rawai View Cafe & Bar!
• Lets the kids have fun at the local waterpark, Rawai Park!

Best Budget Hotel in Rawai Beach

Good 9 at Home

Good 9 at Home may not have you sharing a dorm room with 10 other strangers, but they will give you the same price for a cozy private room! It is not only the price which will have you wanting to book yourself into Good 9, but the location will have you within walking distance of beautiful Rawai Beach!

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Need to see more of Thailand? These day trips from Bangkok will show you the coolest areas around.

Best Mid-range Hotel in Rawai Beach

Thai Palace Resort

Don’t just settle for staying in a resort, book yourself into a palace! At Thai Palace Resort you will feel exactly like royalty when you step into your spacious room and look out from your balcony over the sea! Boasting its very own spa, outdoor pool, and even a restaurant, you will have everything you need to just kick back, relax, and enjoy your holiday!

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Best Luxury Hotel in Rawai Beach

Serenity Resort and Residences

Once you step foot into Serenity Resort & Residences and look out over the tranquil blue waters of the Andaman Sea, you will know you are home. At this 5-star resort, you will be pampered with an infinity pool, spa, gym, restaurant, and even a bar! Kick-off your shoes and hit the beach, relaxation starts here!

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Neighborhood #7 – Bangtao

 Best overlooked neighbourhood in Phuket!

• COOLEST thing to do in Bangtao – Hit the waves and get your heart pumping at Anthem Wake Park!
• BEST place to visit in Bangtao – Take a dip or relax on the shore at Layan Beach!

Bangtao is an area where you will find both the longest and most deserted beaches in all of Phuket! Along this stretch of coastline between the airport and Patong, you will find some of the most luxurious resorts and hotels on the island. Keeping many of the lively night markets and clubs at an arm’s length distance, Bangtao is a place to enjoy the peace and quiet of high-class living!

The tranquility and relaxation of Bangtao do come at a price. The areas surrounding this beach are home to some of the largest and most up-scale resorts on the island. With exclusive clubs and fancy bars, you can even enjoy a taste of the nightlife, but don’t expect to be hanging from the rafters like you would in Patong!

• Sip on a drink and enjoy the classy atmosphere of Catch Beach Club
• Pray and experience local Thai culture at Wat Cherng Talay!
• Listen to live music and dine in style at Skye Lake Club!
• Go for a round of golf at the Laguna Golf Club!
• Get a bit more local and grab a pint at Peppers Sports Bar!

Best Budget Hotel in Bangtao

Bang Tao Varee Beach

For the exclusive neighborhood of Bangtao Beach, you are getting a true steal with this hotel! Complete with its very own restaurant, terrace, and even a pool, Bang Tao Varee can compete with all those luxury resorts, but for a fraction of the price! Top it all off with staff who will make you feel right at home and you have the starts to a perfect vacation in Phuket!

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Best Mid-Range Hotel in Bangtao

Sunwing Bangtao Beach

The white sands of Bang Tao are calling your name! While staying at Sunwing Bangtao Beach, the sea will never be too far away, but first, you will have to tear yourself away from the comforts of the hotel! With its very own pool, 2 restaurants, a spa, a terrace, live shows at the bar, and even activities for the kids, you will need a month just to enjoy all the things at this massive hotel!

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Want to learn more about Phuket? These are the most AMAZING tours in Phuket!

Best Luxury Hotel in Bangtao

Outrigger Laguna

You deserve the best, so while staying on the best island, on the best beach, you should also check into the best hotel! Outrigger Laguna will make your jaw drop with its own spa, pool, fitness center, restaurants, bar, and club with VIP access. From drinking in style to eating some of the best food on the island, this is the resort for you if you are wanting to truly enjoy the finer things in life!

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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Phuket?

From the quiet tranquil beaches of Rawai to the pumping bass and night-long parties on Patong, Phuket is an island with so many adventures to be had! With each beach embodying its own unique culture and atmosphere, you will find that every day offers something new!

With so many beaches and towns to choose from, you may still be scratching your head on where to stay in Phuket.

Slip-on your flip-flops or put on your dancing shoes, your adventure to Phuket is just a few clicks away! For us, Karon Beach is the best neighborhood to spend your holiday! With both amazing budget and luxury options as well as being quieter than the “party beaches”, Karon is the best place to stay in Phuket!

What are you waiting for? Start packing and get ready for your vacation to the island paradise of Phuket!

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Clair Ricketts

Clair is a travel addict and a staff writer for One Weird Globe! A Nomad since birth, Clair has lived all over the world, calling home wherever she is in the moment. Having traveled half the world, Clair is working on a memoir about her experiences in hopes to inspire others to travel and experience this amazing planet!

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