Where To Stay In Phuket ? Best Area To Stay In 2025

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, located on the west coast in the south of the country. It’s about a 49-kilometer drive from the north to the south, and sometimes it doesn’t feel like you’re on an island at all!

Phuket has over 40 beaches and many places to stay. It can be hard to choose the best area. In this post, I will talk about the eight most popular areas in Phuket to help you decide where to stay in Phuket.

If you’re planning to visit Phuket and wondering where to stay in Phuket, this guide will help you choose the right place! Let’s take a look at the best areas to stay in Phuket.

Table of Contents

where to stay in phuket ? best affordable areas to stay

Are you planning to visit Phuket the next time you’re in Thailand? If so, you might be wondering which area is the best place to stay. Hopefully, this will help you choose the best area for your trip.

Patong

First, let’s talk about Patong, the most popular area in Phuket. Patong Beach is the most well-known beach resort in the area, offering plenty of options for hotels and restaurants. It’s also famous for its lively nightlife, especially on Bangla Road.

Patong attracts a younger crowd, especially party-goers, and it can get quite crowded. The beach and streets are often busy, so it’s not the most peaceful spot. Many first-time visitors choose to stay here because of its popularity.

At Patong Beach, you’ll find umbrellas and sun loungers, and if you’re into watersports, you can try snorkeling, windsurfing, jet skiing, and parasailing.

When the sun sets, Patong turns into the main nightlife hub of the island. Bangla Road is definitely the most famous spot in Phuket, with a wide variety of bars, from go-go bars to live music, sports bars, and nightclubs.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing holiday, Patong might not be the best choice for you.

Kata

we have Kata, which has the second most popular beach in Phuket. This area offers a good balance between crowded and quiet spots. Kata is popular with families and is a great place to stay if you want everything close by. If you don’t have your own transportation, Kata is perfect because most places are within walking distance.

The beaches in Kata are beautiful, with two main beaches: Kata Beach and Kata Noi Beach. Kata Beach is the larger one, stretching 1.5 kilometers. The sand is soft, and the water is a lovely blue.

Kata Beach is more well-known, but personally, I prefer Kata Noi. The sea here is crystal clear and absolutely stunning. Both areas have plenty of shops and restaurants, and you can often enjoy a breathtaking sunset at Kata Beach.

Kamala

Next, we have Kamala. Kamala Beach is popular with families, retirees, and people who prefer a quieter holiday. The beach here is much less crowded than many other beaches on the island. It’s also a favorite spot for surfers, especially at the northern end of the beach.

The beach is beautiful, and you’ll find a variety of restaurants right by the water. Kamala has become more popular recently because of two beach clubs, Cafe del Mar and Pine Beach Bar.

If you plan to visit one of these beach clubs, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance.

Nai harn

we have Nai Harn, and I must say, the beach here is absolutely beautiful. This area is popular with both expats and locals, and it has a relaxed, laid-back vibe. The beach offers soft white sand and crystal-clear blue water. There are also a good number of reasonably priced restaurants near the beach.

Nai Harn is one of those places in Phuket where you can enjoy a massage right on the beach. The land in front of the beach is protected, so nothing can be built there.

You can also find two smaller beaches close to Nai Harn Beach: Ao Sane and Yanui Beach. At Yanui Beach, you can rent a kayak and go out into the sea for some snorkeling. Then, you can head over to Ao Sane Beach, which is very quiet and doesn’t usually get crowded.

Mai Khao and Nai Yang

In the north of the island, not far from the airport, you’ll find two beautiful spots. First, there’s Mai Khao, which has the longest and probably the quietest beach in all of Phuket. This area is perfect for romantic getaways, especially for those who want to stay away from the crowds. You’ll find luxurious hotels and villa resorts here.

A popular activity at Mai Khao Beach is plane spotting, as it’s near the airport. You can also walk between Mai Khao Beach and Nai Yang Beach in about 30 minutes. Nai Yang is a hidden gem that many first-time visitors miss. There are a few beach restaurants here, and you can enjoy stunning sunsets.

Soi Dog Foundation

If you’re an animal lover, a great activity in this area is to visit the Soi Dog Foundation. You can even volunteer and spend your days walking the lovely dogs and getting plenty of affection from the adorable cats.

Phuket Town

For something different, away from the beaches, you can spend some time in Phuket Town. You can appreciate the stunning Sino-Portuguese architecture and relax in the various cafes, coffee shops, and restaurants.You’ll find a variety of local food, as well as some international options. Phuket Town is less touristy than other parts of the island and is not too busy during the week. However, it gets livelier on Sundays.

Thalang Road is the main area people go to on Sundays. At the Sunday Walking Street Market, there’s a wide selection of delicious street food to try. The atmosphere is fantastic, and you can also enjoy watching some street performers entertaining the crowds.

Bang tao

we have Bang Tao, located on the island’s west coast, halfway between the airport and Patong. This area has become livelier in recent years and is a great place to visit if you want to escape the busy, crowded atmosphere of Patong.

Bang Tao is now home to some of Phuket’s most luxurious resorts. The dining and nightlife here are more refined, meaning prices are higher, but still not too expensive. The beach is about six kilometers long, quite narrow, and never feels crowded. There are several restaurants right on the beach, and the area tends to attract couples and families.

Karon

we have Karon, which has a small town at each end of the beach. The beach here is beautiful and usually not crowded. There’s a good selection of restaurants to choose from, and Karon doesn’t attract too many tourists, which can be a good thing.

In Karon, you’ll find a temple called Wat Suwankiriket, which is open every day with no entry fee. You can also see the Naga of Karon Beach, a mystical golden dragon. Thai people often visit here to make donations and show their respect. It’s believed that Phuket was formed by a dragon that came from the Andaman Sea.

Karon is a great choice if you’re looking for somewhere quieter and more relaxing, but if you want a livelier day or night, Kata and Patong are just a short distance away.

We’re diving into a world where affordability meets opulence, unveiling the top 8 cheap hotels and resorts in Phuket, Thailand.

8 best affordable hotel

U Sabai Living Hotel
Located near Jungceylon Shopping Centre and Bangla Road in Patong, this hotel blends modern luxury with Thai elegance. Rooms are stylishly designed and come equipped with flat-screen TVs and other modern amenities. Enjoy 24-hour front desk service and on-site dining that offers both Thai and European cuisine. U Sabai Living Hotel is the perfect cost-effective yet luxurious base for exploring Phuket.
The Front Village Hotel
Situated in Northern Karon, The Front Village Hotel stands out for its stunning Sino-Portuguese architecture. The spacious rooms offer breathtaking sea views, providing a relaxing sanctuary. The expansive pool area and the restaurant’s excellent service promise a tranquil stay amidst Phuket’s natural beauty. It’s a perfect hideaway in Karon’s verdant tropics.
Breezotel
Breezotel combines modern elegance with chic décor and state-of-the-art amenities. The hotel’s spacious rooms, especially those overlooking the mountains, offer spectacular views. Its bar and restaurant provide a sophisticated ambiance, making it a peaceful oasis. Breezotel’s value and style make it a standout choice for a relaxing stay.
Fulfill Phuket Hostel
For the adventurous backpacker and budget traveler, Fulfill Phuket Hostel is a fantastic option. Located in the vibrant heart of Phuket Old Town, this hostel offers simple and clean accommodations. Guests can choose from dorms or private rooms, and the communal areas encourage a friendly and social atmosphere. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring local markets and dining delights.
Bauman Ville Hotel
Nestled at the base of Patong’s lush jungle-covered hills, Bauman Ville Hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms with contemporary amenities. The on-site restaurant serves both Thai and German cuisine, and the hotel features a lovely pool area. The hotel is within walking distance of Patong’s exciting nightlife, offering the perfect mix of serenity and vibrant entertainment.
Little Moon Residence
Tucked away in a serene part of Patong, Little Moon Residence is a cozy retreat with bespoke hospitality. The hotel offers a variety of rooms, from basic ones without windows to spacious options with private balconies. The café on the ground floor and its proximity to dining and shopping venues enhance convenience, while still providing a peaceful escape from Patong’s hustle and bustle.
SR Seaview Apartments
SR Seaview Apartments offers elegantly furnished rooms, each with a balcony that opens to stunning ocean views. Located on a steep incline behind Patong, the outdoor pool offers an exceptional vantage point over the bay. While the incline may be a challenge, the breathtaking views and warm service make it well worth the climb.
Memory Patong Boutique Hotel
Memory Patong earns the top spot on our list. This boutique hotel is ideally located near Bangla Road, Patong Beach, and Otop Market, yet offers a peaceful and quiet atmosphere. The rooms are spacious and spotless, ensuring a comfortable stay. The hotel features a lobby lounge with a pool table and offers a highly praised English breakfast. The central location provides easy access to dining options, making Memory Patong the epitome of affordable luxury for budget-conscious travelers.

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, and there’s something for everyone here. Each area offers something unique, making it a tough decision to choose the best place to stay. If you’ve been to Phuket before, let us know where you stayed and what you liked about it in comment. As always, thanks for reading.

Where To Stay in Phuket ? best area to stay in 2025