14 Popular Districts of Phuket: How to Choose

Choosing a district in Phuket depends on your preferences, travel goals, and the type of vacation you’re looking for. This fairly large island is divided into several areas: some are better suited for a short vacation, others for wintering or even relocation, some will appeal to lovers of unbridled fun, while others are perfect for families with small children. We’ll tell you about the pros and cons of 14 popular districts of Phuket so you can choose the best one for yourself.

• For tourists

Kata, Karon, Patong, Kamala, Surin, Bang Tao, Rawai, Nai Harn

• For nightlife and entertainment lovers

Patong, Rawai, Phuket Town, Bang Tao

• For vacation with children

Kata, Karon, Nai Harn, Bang Tao

• For luxury connoisseurs

Bang Tao, Panwa, Mai Khao

• For those who like to be away from civilization

Mai Khao, Panwa, Nai Yang

• For expats and winter residents

Chalong, Kathu, Rawai, Nai Harn, Bang Tao, Phuket Town

Now, let’s tell you more about each of Phuket’s districts, so you can determine exactly which vibe suits you best.

Patong

Patong is the busiest district in Phuket. It’s a place for those seeking vibrant nightlife and all kinds of entertainment. Patong beach is also popular, but often crowded and, to put it mildly, not the cleanest.

Patong is often criticized for its atmosphere, which may not be suitable for family tourists and generally for anyone who loves peace and quiet. There are many nightclubs and bars in this area, some of which can be too noisy or have a questionable reputation. Although family tourists also come to Patong – this area is considered more budget-friendly, with relatively inexpensive property rentals. In general, Patong is probably the only district that doesn’t really fit in with the rest of the island. The sea is dirtier here, the streets are dirtier, and it’s very noisy, which doesn’t reflect Phuket’s island vibe at all.

In short, Patong:

• The most developed tourist area on the island
• Not the cleanest three-kilometer beach
• Center of nightlife
• Huge selection of restaurants, shops, and entertainment
• High density of hotels of all categories

Cons: crowded, noisy, not the cleanest water near the shore.

Perfect for: youth, groups of friends, lovers of nightclubs, shopping, and active recreation.

Karon and Kata

Kata and Karon are quiet areas with well-developed tourist infrastructure. They have beautiful clean beaches and many restaurants and shops. This is a good choice for families with children and those who want to enjoy a beach vacation in a relaxed atmosphere. Very often “package” tourists come here, as there is all the necessary infrastructure for those who do not plan to rent a motorbike or car, but want to enjoy the beach, sea, and go on organized tours.

In short, Karon:

• The third largest beach on the island (5 km)
• White, “squeaky” sand
• Well-developed infrastructure
• Wide pedestrian sidewalk (a rare feature in Phuket)
• Calmer than Patong, but still offers plenty of entertainment
• Good swimming conditions during the high season

In short, Kata:

• Consists of two beaches: Kata Yai (big) and Kata Noi (small)
• Cozy bay, protected from winds
• Popular among surfers during low season
• Family atmosphere

Cons: can be crowded during high season (sometimes too crowded), limited choice of nightlife entertainment.

There’s an important detail about Kata: most hotels are located across the road, and while it may look like a short walk to the beach on the map, in reality, there’s a concrete wall running along the road and the shoreline that you’ll have to walk around.

Perfect for: families with children, couples, those seeking a balance between developed infrastructure and peaceful relaxation.

Kamala

Kamala is located on the west coast of the island, between the popular areas of Patong and Surin. This makes it convenient for travelers who seek tranquility but at the same time want to be not too far from active nightlife and tourist attractions. Moreover, the famous beach club Café del Mar is located here, attracting top DJs and performers from around the world. Phuket’s most colorful and vibrant shows, Carnival Magic and FantaSea, are also located in Kamala.

Kamala Beach is quite picturesque, secluded, and well-suited for swimming and water sports. There is a much more peaceful atmosphere compared to the center, fresh air, and less urban noise.

In short, Kamala:

• Picturesque bay with a two-kilometer beach
• Moderate number of tourists
• Predominantly family hotels and villas

Cons: limited nightlife, fewer shops and restaurants than in more popular areas.

Perfect for: couples looking for a balance between partying, romance, and tranquility.

Bang Tao

The elite Bang Tao area is famous for its luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants. It’s always clean, with excellent walking areas and pleasant parks with all the necessary infrastructure. This place is ideal for those seeking comfort, high-level service, and privacy.

The flagship of Bang Tao is the large Laguna Phuket resort complex, consisting of several hotels, villas, and private homes. It also includes golf courses, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Wealthy tourists accustomed to high levels of service often stay here.

In short, Bang Tao:

• One of the longest beaches in Phuket (8 km)
• Luxury resort complex Laguna Phuket
• World-class golf courses
• Luxury resort with expensive real estate

Cons: high prices, relative distance from main attractions, traffic jams.

Perfect for: wealthy travelers, golf and tennis enthusiasts, and those who appreciate quality service and privacy.

Phuket Town

Phuket Town is the historical center of the province. This mix of European and Asian architecture with temples, historic mansions, restaurants, and cafes attracts tourists. But expats also like Phuket Town. For long-term living, this area is chosen due to the presence of all necessary infrastructure – decent condominiums, schools, shopping centers, and markets.

In short, Phuket Town:

• The administrative center of the island
• Historic district
• Authentic markets, temples, and museums
• Real Thai life away from beach tourism
• The best local restaurants
• Affordable accommodation and quality condominiums

Cons: no beach (need to travel 20-30 minutes to the nearest one), business atmosphere.

Perfect for: families with children, remote workers, and those who enjoy hiking with a historical focus.

Kathu

Not to be confused with Kata! Kathu is the smallest district in the very center of Phuket. There’s beautiful nature here, but the main advantage is the availability of all necessary infrastructure for living. There are international schools, shopping centers, and hospitals, which is why people choose Kathu for long-term residence. Housing here is rented for long periods, offering various options in terms of cost and comfort, but mainly condominiums.

In short, Kathu:

• Quiet and peaceful atmosphere compared to tourist centers
• Picturesque landscapes, including hills and jungles
• Lower housing prices
• Fewer tourists and a more authentic Thai atmosphere

Cons: no beach, limited nightlife and entertainment, during the rainy season there may be problems with flooding in some areas.

Perfect for: those looking for a compromise between tourist infrastructure and peaceful recreation, especially families and people who prefer a measured lifestyle.

Chalong

The main disadvantage of Chalong that catches the eye is that there are no beaches suitable for swimming, but there is a large bay with a pier from which you can go on sea cruises to paradise islands. Also, the most popular attractions of the island are located here – Wat Chalong temple, the Big Buddha statue, and many others. There’s accommodation, restaurants, cafes, and bars for every taste and budget, international schools, kindergartens, hospitals, shopping centers, and other necessary infrastructure, which is why expats have taken a liking to this area.

In short, Chalong:

• Main pier for sea excursions and diving tours
• Affordable prices for accommodation and food
• Authentic Thai atmosphere, fewer tourists
• Convenient location for exploring the southern part of the island

Cons: lack of good beaches for swimming, limited tourist infrastructure, dependence on personal transportation.

Perfect for: yachting enthusiasts, those seeking peaceful recreation, romantic couples, and families with children.

Nai Harn

Nai Harn is a district in the south of the island with a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. The presence of a beautiful beach makes Nai Harn an excellent choice for vacationers, and prices for food, accommodation, and entertainment here are lower than in the north of the island. There’s housing for a wide variety of needs: inexpensive condominiums, practical apartments, and luxurious villas, plus many cafes and restaurants of different price categories and massage salons.

In short, Nai Harn:

• Small picturesque beach with crystal clear sea
• Popular among expats and knowledgeable tourists
• Relatively uncrowded
• Stunning sunsets

Cons: distance from the center of the island, dependency on transportation.

Perfect for: vacationers who value tranquility and don’t want to overpay for popular resorts.

Rawai

Rawai is the southernmost district of Phuket. It’s a quiet place that has literally everything you need for a full life – schools and kindergartens, sports grounds, beauty salons, cafes, and shops. And all these locations are not aimed at fly-by tourists, but truly maintain quality and service. A significant disadvantage of the area is Rawai Beach, which can hardly be called an ideal place for swimming due to frequent tides, and fishing and tourist boats often park here. But there is a solution: Nai Harn is very close by, and you can also rent a boat and in just 15 minutes reach a neighboring island with perfect turquoise water and white sand, or go deep-sea fishing.

Rawai is also home to some of the best viewpoints on the island – Promthep Cape and Windmill, as well as a unique village of sea gypsies, which means the local market always has the freshest seafood.

There is also nightlife in Rawai, and quite active: there are many good bars and clubs, so you won’t be bored.

In short, Rawai:

• Not a beach vacation (you should go to neighboring beaches for swimming)
• The best seafood market
• Starting point for trips to nearby islands
• Well-developed infrastructure for living: kindergartens, schools, restaurants, cafes
• Lower real estate prices

Cons: swimming at the beach is not allowed, the area is remote from other districts and the exit from Phuket.

Perfect for: experienced travelers, those looking for an authentic atmosphere, seafood and sea excursion lovers, as well as those who appreciate nighttime entertainment.

Surin

The Surin area is gaining popularity among tourists every year, especially those who have decided to stay in Phuket for longer. There is accommodation for any request: luxurious villas on a hillside or more budget-friendly options. You’ll also like Surin Beach: it’s incredibly beautiful and clean. The beach is 800 meters long, tropical trees grow along the entire coastline, there are tents with beach goods and street food, sun loungers, and massage services.

In short, Surin:

• One of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket with white sand and clear water
• Availability of high-class restaurants and establishments
• Good opportunities for snorkeling during high season

Cons: high prices for housing and rentals, traffic jams, distance from major tourist attractions, sometimes difficult to get a taxi, and strong waves and undercurrents may occur during the low season.

Perfect for: those looking for a balance between high-class comfort and relative tranquility, willing to pay for quality, and not in need of a noisy nightlife.

Panwa

Panwa is a remote area in the eastern part of Phuket with expensive hotels and private beaches. But the main advantage of staying here is the opportunity to enjoy unspoiled natural beauty. The water here is crystal clear, and the shore offers incredible views of islands near Cape Panwa. Panwa has beautiful cafes with panoramic views and interesting restaurants, while the atmosphere is calm and relaxed.

In short, Panwa:

• Privacy and luxury
• Unspoiled nature
• Scenic establishments

Cons: high housing prices, distance from the center of the island, dependence on personal transportation.

Perfect for: those who appreciate tranquility, nature lovers, and remote workers.

Mai Khao

A quiet area near Phuket Airport. One of its main attractions is a beach where you can watch planes landing very low, just above the water. Mai Khao has luxury hotels, but there is almost no infrastructure around them. This will appeal to those who are tired of hustle and bustle (and civilization in general) – in short, true hermits.

In short, Mai Khao:

• Long, uncrowded beaches
• Part of the territory belongs to Sirinat National Park
• Close to the airport
• Limited development
• Unspoiled nature

Cons: minimal infrastructure, need to rent transportation, strong waves and dangerous currents in some seasons.

Perfect for: lovers of solitude, nature, those who want to take a break from civilization.

Nai Yang

A quiet coastal area located on the northwest coast of Phuket, close to the international airport. It is also part of Sirinat National Park, with coastline surrounded by pines and casuarina trees providing natural shade. From November to March, it’s a popular spot for kitesurfing thanks to steady winds. There are several small and medium-sized hotels and guesthouses here. Development in Nai Yang is low-rise, so there’s a limited number of villas and apartments available for long-term rental. There are no large supermarkets either, of course.

In short, Nai Yang:

• Close to the airport (5-10 minutes drive)
• Quiet, peaceful beach without crowds of tourists
• Part of Sirinath National Park with beautiful nature
• Clean sea and picturesque coastline with pine trees
• Authentic Thai atmosphere and local character

Cons: limited tourist infrastructure, small selection of restaurants, shops and entertainment, virtually no nightlife, airplane noise due to proximity to the airport, limited choice of accommodation for long-term rental

Perfect for: those who value tranquility, nature and authenticity, as well as transit travelers or those who frequently fly from Phuket.

Regardless of the district you choose, you can have a great time everywhere. In any case, you will bring yourself along, so your attitude is 100% the secret to success. If worse comes to worst, you can always change districts if you don’t like something. Follow your feelings!

To find the needed locations in each of Phuket’s districts, our website will help you, and it’s most convenient to have our Telegram bot handy https://t.me/phuket_insider_bot