Is it difficult to park near the beaches in Phuket?
Insider's Response
Parking near the beaches in Phuket is possible, but not always easy — it depends on the specific location and time of day.
The most convenient way to get around the island is by rented motorbike or car, and many travelers choose this option.
At the most popular beaches — Patong, Kata, and Karon — parking lots are often full, especially during the day and on weekends. But there are alternatives.
Where to park near popular beaches (besides the beach lots):
● Kata: there’s parking near the hotel, though you’ll need to walk a bit to the beach. In the northern part, there’s a , and in the southern part, there’s also .
● Karon: you can park near the Thavorn hotel, and there are parking spots in the northern part and , as well as in the southern part of the beach — .
● Patong: paid parking is available at the Jungceylon shopping mall, and if you’re lucky, you might find space at the nearby lot.
For popular beaches, it’s best to arrive early (before 10 a.m.) or closer to sunset, when some cars have already left. At quieter beaches like Nai Harn, Rawai, and Tri Trang, there are parking areas too, but spaces can be limited and the access roads narrow.
Not all beaches have designated parking lots. For example, the popular Bang Tao doesn’t have a centralized parking area. In such cases, you can park along the road leading to the beach or near hotels. It’s best, however, to look for official parking areas (usually close to the beach, cafés, or markets), or park at a cafe or restaurant that offers parking for guests.
Important: never leave your car on the roadside in a no-parking zone — the traffic police are strict and may issue fines or even tow your vehicle. “No Parking” signs are common in Phuket, especially near busy beaches. If you see red-and-white or yellow markings on the curb, that also means parking is prohibited.
A few more tips for safe parking:
● Always lock your car and don’t leave valuables in plain sight.
● Never leave documents or keys inside the vehicle.
● Avoid parking under large trees, especially on windy days — falling coconuts can damage your car.
For drivers planning to explore the island by car, check out our guide to Traffic Rules in Phuket — it will definitely come in handy.