Phuket is synonymous with Thailand, though in reality Phuket is only a 540 square meter island gem in the South Andaman Sea
. The island was virtually unknown some 30 years ago but thanks to those globetrotting indefatigable backpackers circa 1980s; Phuket came to known as one of the most famous beach destination in the world.
The coastline of Phuket boasts of an abundance of pristine beaches and crystal clear blue waters. Though the beaches of Phuket are desirable all-year round, some precautions are needed from the months of May to November because of unpredictable weather brought on by the monsoon rains. The months of December to April are best because this is the time when the water of the Andaman Sea is quite calm.
Patong Beach is the most famous beach in Phuket. It has a teeming night life and boisterous crowd. It is a party place and can be quite overwhelming for new arrivals. There is nothing exotic in Patong except for the discos and beer bars that line Bangla Road.
Karon Beach is not as wild as Patong. The beach front has many guesthouses for the budget-wise travelers. Part of the attraction of Karon is the art community off the south side where Thai painters have built pubs and art galleries as a means to display and sell their artworks.
Kamala Beach is a quiet and more relaxed beach. The beach is actually in an enclosed bay that is surrounded by lush greeneries. The beach is a popular spot for retired foreigners who are in for the long-haul.
Laem Singh Beach is located between Surin and Kamala beaches. The beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Phuket because it is located in a peninsula on a hidden bay surrounded by lush palm trees and boulders. The beach is quite small at 150 meters and has the sense of a secret beach.
Surin Beach is called the "Millionaire's Row" because exclusive celebrity resorts and million dollar-mansions are perched on its hills that has a view of the Andaman Sea. The beach is very popular but it is not quite a busy resort town as the area is venue to high-end hotels and housings.
Bangtao Beach's 6 kilometer stretch of beach has luxurious resorts and villas that do not quite dot the stretch. A large area of the Bangtao Beach is still undeveloped, especially the northern part. Except for a few bars near the town center the luxury hotels and villas in the area are well equipped to answer to your every need from accommodation, shopping and fine dining. The stretch of beach is quite lonely as the hotel guests are the only ones in the beach.
Kata Beach is also quieter than Patong Beach but definitely more lively the Bangtao Beach. It is divided into Kata Noi and Kata Yai where world-class hotels and resorts are available all year-round. Kata Noi and Kata Yai are perfect for surfing, diving and snorkeling.