How to get from Phuket airport to tourist areas?
Insider's Response
Phuket Airport is located in the northern part of the island, and it’s fairly convenient to reach the main tourist areas from there. The type of transport you choose will depend on your budget, timing, and desired level of comfort.
Buses. This is the most budget-friendly option, and several routes depart directly from the airport.
The Phuket Smart Bus is a comfortable air-conditioned bus that goes to the main beaches: Nai Thon, Bang Tao, Surin, Kamala, Patong, Karon, Kata, and Rawai. The ride takes about one to one and a half hours, depending on your stop.
Another option is the Phuket Bus Express, a private bus that goes directly to Patong and Kata in about an hour. The final stop at Kata Beach is next to Beyond Kata Resort and the Karon Municipality building. The first bus departs from the airport at 8:30 AM, and the last one at 8:30 PM.
If you’re heading to the center of the island — Phuket Town, you can take the government bus Phuket Airport Bus 8411, which takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes.
The bus stop is located outside the Domestic Arrivals terminal. If you arrive at the International Terminal, you’ll need to walk about 200 meters following the signs.
Taxi. If you don’t want to wait for a bus, you can order a taxi. Services like Bolt, Grab, and InDriver operate in Phuket. (More on taxi apps can be found here.) Note that only Grab is allowed to enter the airport grounds, so rides may cost slightly more — around $30 on average. With InDrive or Bolt, a ride to tourist areas will cost approximately $20.
Transfers. Want to get from Phuket Airport without any hassle? Book a transfer in advance. This is especially convenient if you’re traveling with kids, have large luggage, or arrive late at night. Trusted services include GetTransfer, Alpha Travel, and AsiaPhuket. The average cost is around $40 for a minivan for up to 8 passengers. The exact price depends on the service and your destination — the northern areas are closer, while central and southern parts are farther from the airport.
Car rental. Prefer to travel on your own? Then rent a car right away. The vehicle can be delivered directly to the airport, and you’ll travel in comfort to any part of the island. Trusted companies can be found in the Car Rental section.
For other ways to get around the island, check out the Transport section. And before your trip, we recommend reading What to Bring with You to Thailand. You’ll also find the Useful Info section handy — it’s filled with everything you might need for a great vacation or life on the island.