Stunning sunsets, turquoise water, full moon parties and luxury hotels with ocean views: beach hotels in the Phuket region have it all. A large island off the west coast of to the south of Thailand, Phuket is abuzz with the best of Southeast Asia; from conservation reservations to stylish beach bars. It’s also home to some of the country’s most pristine beaches, with golden sand and transparent waters that loop the island from top to tail. This means that no matter where you stay, beach hotels in the Phuket region are the ideal way to experience Thailand at its best.

Beach Hotels in the Phuket Region: The very best of Thailand all in one place

Patong, Karon & Kata: The Pulsating Heart of Phuket

For many a stop in Patong is on the to-do list. The central resort town has everything you need to kick off your beach vacation in Phuket. The center of the action can be found along the golden sands of Patong Beach by day, and the flamboyant Bangla Road by night. Beach hotels in the Patong region of Phuket put you at the center of it all. It’s important to be aware that Patong is a party destination, so if you’re looking to get down in the various nightclubs, bars and clubs that are littered along the coast then this is the place to be. Having said this, Patong isn’t a bad place to make base to explore a little more of Phuket. Just south of Patong is Karon, another popular hangout for young people but slightly quieter than Patong depending on the time of year. From your beach hotel, it’s only a short taxi ride to Big Buddha – a 45-meter tall marble statue providing panoramic views from the top. Another nearby attraction is Wat Chalong, the island’s most important Buddhist temple. Quieter still is the smaller Kata Beach resort. Beach hotels in Kata tend to be more family-oriented and offer a little more tranquility. There is a traditional market off the main road every Thursday, and the nearby Kata Noi Beach is one of the most beautiful in the area. Almost all 5-star beach hotels in this region of Phuket will come with exceptional views of the glittering Andaman Sea.

Thalang District: Authenticity in Northern Phuket

If Patong’s party scene isn’t your thing, then there is plenty more to discover around Thailand’s largest island. Escape the crowds with a beach hotel in the northern region of Phuket and explore the Thalang District. Shimmering with wilder and less developed coastlines, a stop in Thalang is perfect for couples and families looking to escape the hubbub of the south, with plenty of natural and cultural attractions to enjoy. Head inland from the east coast and find delight at the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. Feed baby elephants and watch the adults frolic in lagoons thick with mud. Along the northeast coast you’ll find the stunning Sirinat National Park. The protected beaches of Nai Thon and Nai Yang are ideal for swimming, sun bathing and discovering a world of wonder beneath the waves. Bring a picnic and relax in the shade of the pine trees that run parallel to the coast. There are many beach hotels in this region of Phuket with access to stylish rooftop restaurants and laidback bars to enjoy on a warm Thai evening.

Phang-Nga: Further Destinations to Discover

While beach hotels in the Phuket region are ideal for partygoers, Thailand’s charms are endless and well worth exploring. North of Phuket is the Phang Nga region, famous for its diverse landscape of waterfalls, rivers, jungle and temples. Jungle tours and rafting excursions will all be available through your beach hotel in northern Phuket if you wish to explore more of Thailand’s rich inland. In Phang-Nga Bay, mangrove-covered islands and stunning natural wonders await. One of the most famous is Khao Phing Kan. If turquoise water and spectacular hiking weren’t enough, the island is home to a tall column of rock called Ko Ta Pu. It was once featured in the movie ‘Man with the Golden Gun,’ which has led to the island being affectionately dubbed James Bond Island. Phang-Nga Bay is within easy reach from your beach hotel in the Phuket region, and traditional long-tail boats regularly take travelers to the Phi Phi and Similan islands throughout the day. Here the powder soft sand, blue skies and transparent water will transport you to an otherworldly paradise.