Beaches & Bays
Phuket’s glory is its magnificent coastline. Beaches ranges from gentle crescents of white sand to rocky headlands. Counter-clockwise, from the island’s northern tip, where the Sarasin Bridge connects with the mainland, the major beaches and bays are:
Hat Mai Khao
This pine-fringed stretch of sand is Phuket’s longest beach.
Each year, from November through to February,This forms part of the Sirinat National Park and is backed by casuarina pines, as well as a mangrove forest. The tranquil surroundings are ideal for relaxation, picnics, swimming and snorkelling.
Hat Pansea & Hat Surin
The two scenic coves offer very picturesque settings although dangerous undercurrents can make swimming unsafe.
Hat Kamala
Another fine stretch of sand. The northern end, which is partly shaded by casuarinas, is suitable for swimming.
Hat Karon & Kata
Both beaches are impressive, peaceful and eminently suitable for swimming, snorkelling, windsurfing and sunbathing.
Hat Nai Han
This white sandy beach fronts a shallow lagoon between rocky headlands. Conditions for swimming, windsurfing, sailing and sunbathing are all excellent.
Hat Rawai
The palm-fringed beach is best known for its village of “Sea Gypsies”, formerly a nomadic fishing minority believed to be of Melanesian descent.
Hat Patong
Phuket’s most developed beach offers numerous leisure, sporting, shopping and recreational options along its 3 km. crescent bay. In addition to its daytime attractions, Patong is also known for its vibrant nightlife among which seafood restaurants prominently feature.
Ao Chalong
A location popular for its several restaurants serving some of Phuket’s best seafood.
Laem Phanwa
The southern tip of the cape is the location of the Marine Biological Research Centre and Phuket’s Aquarium, where visitors can see several hundred exotic and colourful marine species.
Sirinat National Park
The park, located near Phuket International Airport along Routes No. 402 and 4026, some 30 km., occupies a total area of 90 square kilometres and has an uninterrupted 13 km. long stretch of beaches: Hat Nai Thon, Hat Nai Yang, Hat Mai Khao, and Hat Sai Kaeo.
