About Phuket

Phuket is one of those daydream destinations to transport yourself to on your daily commute; perfect white, sandy beaches which stretch on until you reach sharp limestone cliffs, and you’ve lush tropical jungle on one side and the famously bright turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea on the other side. Relax, dive, snorkel, explore the jungle, island hop, drink well, eat well and be well looked after. That’s Phuket Island for you. Our Guru’s recommendations for the best places to stay in Phuket are a fairly luxurious collection, with a plethora of upscale beach hotels, but there are still a couple of really good value options — so the dream is open to everyone!

Some of our Phuket collections:

Just back from the coast, Phuket Town is significantly cheaper than staying in one of the beach resorts. This city is a real historic melting pot, with people and influence from China, Portugal, India and the Arabian Peninsula helping to build this place up - when it was just an island of tin mines and rubber plantations - before the tourist dollar arrived. As well as uncovering Phuket’s cultural side, and having your pick of the textiles shops and markets, if you’re exploring Phuket Town you might also be interested in visiting some of the city’s many shrines, strolling past some of the beautifully grand old Sino-Portuguese buildings and popping round a couple of museums.

What not to Miss

  • Phuket is the kind of place where you can pack in a lot of adventure, or do very little. Go sailing or jet-skiing, try parasailing, or diving, snorkelling or free diving, kite-surfing, canoeing or deep sea fishing.
  • The island’s spectacular coastline is well worth seeing, and you can do it under your own steam or someone else’s. Phuket isn’t the only island in these parts and it’s definitely worth visiting some of the others.
  • If you fancy a bit of sightseeing beyond the beautiful beaches and the hilly interior with its dramatic roads, then there’s a fair bit to choose from, including an aquarium, a crocodile farm, a butterfly garden and Wat Prathong with its half buried golden Buddha.

The best places to stay in Phuket are always busy destinations, so don't leave your booking till the last minute....you might well be disappointed!

The Best Places to Stay in Phuket

Best Beach Resorts

  • The Nai Harn is a Phuket stalwart which has just undergone a renovation. Now the 130 room property has a Mediterranean feel with stylish rooms and open views. There are great family rooms and you’re just two minutes from the beach.
  • Kata Rocks has fantastic sea views from its luxurious rooms and villas, and chic, contemporary decor. Small and secluded there’s a Mediterranean restaurant on site and access to a chaser yacht.
  • SALA Phuket is located right on Mai Khao beach. As well as a selection of luxurious rooms and villas, you can expect three pools, superb food and an award winning spa.

For luxury

  • Amanpuri, an Aman spa resort, offers a haven of tranquility with private villas, private pools and a choice of five restaurants. This is a relaxingly low-tech resort with plenty of activities and spa treatments on offer if you need help filling your time.
  • Paresa Resort is a secluded, jungle property offering pared back luxury. Villas boast stunning views through floor to ceiling glass walls, and are decorated with natural wood for example. Some also have a private pool, and all have spa baths. The menu is Mediterranean.

For Honeymooners

  • Keemala’s accommodation is in ‘birds nest villas’ arranged within the treetops. Each ‘nest’ has a canopied bed, a huge egg-like bathtub and a private pool. There are just 38 ‘nests’ and two restaurants serving food which is largely grown on site.

For Families

  • Sri Panwa is a chic collection of glass-fronted villas filled with every modern comfort and offering spectacular sea views. There are just 59 rooms/villas and you’ll have just the right facilities, including a private assistant for your kids if that would help you relax and enjoy yourself.

For Great Value

  • Twinpalms is a chic resort with 97 rooms, a gorgeous pool, a spoiling spa and beach butlers! Lively Surin beach with its white sand is just steps from the property and the contemporary style is unfussy. Rooms start from around £105 per night.
  • The Slate is a fabulous five star property that won't break the bank. It offers slick rooms, suites and villas, excellent food and pampering spa and prices start from as litle as £115 per night!
  • The Indigo Pearl is an easy-going resort with 177 rooms, a choice of restaurants, a simply gorgeous infinity pool and clever, tropical landscaping. You’re close to a public beach and there’s a seemingly endless list of activities going on to suit all ages - including its own dive school. If you want to up-scale you can have private pretty much everything too!
  • £150 per night isn’t inexpensive, but the Como Point Yamu is a great value option if you want to treat yourself to a proper Phuket experience. With an enviable position overlooking the Andaman Sea, two excellent restaurants, an award-winning spa, rooftop infinity pool and daily menu of sporting and cultural activities, this is classic Phuket.

For a self-catering apartment

  • If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Phuket Airport is 30kms to the north of Phuket Town, about 30 to 45minutes by taxi, or an hour and 20 minutes by bus - but traffic is often bad. It’s only loosely connected to the UK and Europe, most visitors will need to travel via Bangkok. Phuket is known for having relatively expensive taxi prices and very limited public transport.
  • If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer.
  • The peak time for visiting Phuket is between November and February when it’s cool and dry, after than it gets quite hot until about May then the monsoon season starts.

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The best hotels in Phuket

COMO Point Yamu

Phuket (Talang)

This island resort fuses traditional Thai style with splashes of Mediterranean colour that reflects its enviable position overlooking the Andaman Sea. An award-winning spa, daily menu of sporting and cultural activities, and two outstanding on-site restaurants make it even harder to leave.

  • Sea Views - Located on the Cape Yamu overlooking the Andaman Sea and Phang Nga Bay.
  • Sights nearby - Khao Phra Thaeo National Park within five miles.
  • Swimming Pool - Pool with view, rooftop pool, infinity pool.
  • Kids Club
from $190 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Twinpalms

Phuket (Cherng Talay)

A chic property to satisfy both tranquility seekers and night revellers. A gorgeous pool, spoiling spa and beach butlers will tend to all your needs and lively Surin beach is just steps from the property. The style is cool and contemporary and staff ever efficient. Beach perfection.

  • Beach Life - An uber chic property set in lush surrounds and just minutes from a white sand beach.
  • Cooking classes - Learn to cook a three course thai meal in the hotel kitchen.
  • Fishing - The hotel organises deep sea fishing excursions.
  • Views
from $179 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Slate

Phuket (Sakhu Thalang)

The Slate is a stunning 5* hotel located just a stone's throw away from Phuket's coast. This peaceful oasis boasts gorgeous suites furnished in a chic manner and with plenty of wooden influences. Their truly unique Coqoon spa is a must visit! Utterly divine cuisine. A luxurious and magnificent stay!

  • Beach Life - The Slate is just three minutes from the beach so you can spend your days lounging by the seaside
  • Foodies - The property boasts eight exquisite eateries, all of which are definitely worth a visit!
  • Total relaxation - Forget about all your worries as you unwind in their rainforest spa!
  • Great walks - Hike through the stunning Sirinat National Park
from $179 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Nai Harn

Phuket (Muang District, Phuket)

The Nai Harn is a stalwart on the Phuket luxury hotel scene, but a recent renovation has kept this Mediterranean-inspired seaside resort as relevant as ever. Stylish rooms include open views. Perfect for a getaway with a loved one or total relaxation.

  • Families - Stay together in family rooms and make use of the babysitting services offered to have a relaxing evening without the kids!
  • Beach Life - The Nai Harn is located just 2 minutes away from the beach so you can easily spend your days lounging by the seaside
  • Romantic Break - Stunning accommodation, a beachfront location, ocean views and excellent cuisine
  • Kayaking - The hotel provides kayaks if you fancy heading out for a splash on the water
from $258 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
SALA Phuket

Phuket (Thalang)

SALA Phuket enjoys a splendidly tranquil location along Mai Khao Beach. Offering well-lit, private one or two bedroom villas decorated with plenty of light hues and chic furnishings. Relax by one of the 3 pools or rejuvenate with a massage! First-rate cuisine served. A divinely romantic spot!

  • Great walks - Walk along Sarasin Bridge and marvel at the wondrous views or head over to the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park
  • Short break - The hotel's situated just 4 miles away from Phuket International Airport
  • Sights nearby - Spend your day at Splash Jungle Water Park for a fun-filled day out!
  • Romantic
from $259 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Amatara Wellness Resort

Phuket (Tambon Vichit, Cape Panwa)

Set on stunning Cape Panwa with fantastic views from all angles, amid lush gardens and overlooking a private beach. Wellness is the real focus here; the design gives a real sense of calm and there is a fabulous and extensive spa. A choice of three restaurants are sure to please. An indulgent stay.

  • Groups - Accommodation consists of private villas, ideal for group stays
  • Local markets - Phuket town is a 20 minute drive from the property, featuring charming markets, craft shops, cafés and bars
  • Kayaking - Canoeing and kayaking can be arranged thorough the hotel
  • Views - All villas have beautiful views over the sea
from $236 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Noku Phuket

Phuket (Phuket)

A hilltop oasis overlooking Chalong Bay which blends sustainability, traditional architecture and warm hospitality. An outstanding restaurant, spa, and private pool suites are perfect for a private getaway, whilst the open-air terrace offers the perfect spot for a sundowner.

  • Spa breaks - Total relaxation guaranteed with an array of rejuvinating massages at the spa, and an infra-red sauna and steam room
  • Local exploring - Explore Old Phuket Town or take a boat excursion and visit nearby isalnds with breathtaking views of Phang Nga Bay
  • Beach nearby - Make the most of the hotel's complimentary shuttle bus to the nearby beaches
  • Chic - Elegant rooms with neutral colours, earthy furnishings and parquet flooring
from $248 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Akyra Beach Club

Phuket (Khok Kloi)

This elegant Beach Club is a rare peaceful moment on the Thai beach scene. Rooms offer floor to ceiling windows to allow room for the show stopping views of palm trees and white sandy beach. Chill out by the pool, head to the beach for a massage or read a book on your private terrace. Utter Bliss!

  • Beach Life - The beautiful white sands are a central focus here- from beach yoga, to seashore massages and private dining on the beach
  • Other Activities - Feast on locally caught seafood at the excellent beach restaurant- or better yet book private dining on the beach
  • Hotel Entertainment - Sip on cocktails at the poolside cabana while the music cranks up and guests and locals settle in for the night
  • Diving - Plan a scuba trip to explore the fish filled waters- highlights include shipwrecks and leopard sharks!
from $368 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Paresa Resorts

Phuket (Kamala, )

Drawing upon the surrounding beauty to create a secluded resort that places super-luxe simplicity at its core. Villas make the most of stunning vistas with plenty of floor to ceiling glass walls and natural wood. Some have private pools, all have spa baths. A fresh Mediterranean menu is served.

  • Kayaking - Through the surrounding lagoons for a true jungle experience
  • Fishing - Fishing and snorkelling trips can be arranged
  • Great walks - To the nearby temples
  • Views
from $386 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Sri Panwa

Phuket (Vichit, Muang)

As stylish as it is luxurious, Sri Panwa has raised the bar on boutique chic holidaying. Glass fronted villas not only allow for enjoying the spectacular sea views but are filled with every modern comfort you could conjure up. Ideal for families and couples alike this is a truly spoiling retreat.

  • Total relaxation - Merging contemporary comforts with natural beauty you'll be left wishing for nothing in this oh-so-cool hotel.
  • Families - The hotel's thought of everything to keep kids happy and entertained (including a private assistant).
  • Sailing - Cruise through the Phuket archipelago in style aboard one of the two hotel boats.
  • Diving - Explore the tropical seas on a scuba diving expedition.
from $485 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Mom Tri's Villa Royale

Phuket (Kata Noi Beach)

A private home turned luxury hotel, with fantastic views over the Andaman Sea. Each private villa comes with a terrace overlooking the sea, and is traditionally decorated with stencilled antique doors and local artworks. The restaurant is one of the best around and the spa services are excellent.

  • Foodies - The food is absolutely fantastic, East meets West taking the cream of both-plus the wine list is phenomanal
  • Hotel Entertainment - Veranda Bar often holds live performances, it's worth grabbing a cocktail and checking them out
  • Diving - Phuket offers some of Thailands best diving, ask at reception about local schools
  • Sailing - Book a day trip or even just a sunset crusie with your loved one
from $501 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Keemala

Phuket (Chang Wat)

A unique and utterly luxurious resort. Sleep up in the trees with your own birds nest villa - complete with private pool. Plus eco-luxe interiors complete with canopied beds, luscious views and huge egg bathtubs. Two restaurants serving largely home grown dishes and spice route flavours.

  • Eco break - A contributor to non-profit organisation Kamala Green Club plus employing green principles and serving locally sourced food.
  • Romantic Break - Villas are suited to twosomes and feature private pools and stunning views. No children allowed.
  • Spa breaks - Mala spa features eight treatment rooms, traditional treatments and healing therapies.
  • Cooking classes - Learn some thai dishes at the culinary academy. Pick your vegetables from the "enchanted garden".
from $524 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Trisara

Phuket ( Cherngtalay, )

A luxury resort on a secluded cove nestled in the tropical hills of Phuket boasting a stunning private beach. Secluded villas are luxurious and modern with sharp lines, pale wood and fabulous sea views (the best have their own pools). Offering a glorious spa and numerous water sports. Superb!

  • Back to Nature - On a secluded cove nesting in the tropical hills of northwestern Phuket, on the shores of the crisp blue Andaman Sea
  • Beach Life - With its own private beach offering stunning views and breathtaking sunsets
  • Traditional - With elements of the traditional Thai aesthetic – peaked-roofs, teak wood, open-air salas and ornate stone carvings
  • Cooking classes - Learn the joy of Thai cuisine. Choose what to cook, work alongside our kitchen team and enjoy the meal at the end
from $640 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Rosewood Phuket

Phuket (Kathu )

A family-friendly luxury resort with great eco credentials tucked away in a bay, surrounded by lush gardens with a private beachfront. Accommodation is spacious and tasteful with enormous panels of glass giving fabulous views and minimalist style. Expect all the luxury trimmings. Fabulous.

  • Beach Life - The phenomenal, family-friendly Rosewood Phuket is beachside beauty made for fun in the sun and spa pampering
  • Eco break - A lot of the building budget was spent on ecologically-sound architecture and sustainable practices
  • Active Holiday - The resort has various watersport facilities
  • Kayaking - The shingley beach is great for kayaking, organised by the resort
from $765 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Amanpuri

Phuket

Divine Aman offering and absolute haven of tranquility. Enjoy signature Thai and Chinese inspired treatments in the secluded spa, and dinner at your choice of not one but five restaurants. Something for everyone. Rooms are relaxingly low-tech - there are enough outdoor activities to keep you busy!

  • Families - Plenty of watersports on offer, tennis courts and baby sitting services.
  • Romantic Break - Tranquil villas, private pools and couples spa treatments.
  • Spa breaks - Aman spas are world renowned and this one is no exception.
  • Back to Nature - Boasting its own stretch of white sandy beach.
from $984 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Kata Rocks

Phuket (Kata Beach)

Kata Rocks enjoys a prime location on the coast of Phuket, boasting fantastic sea views. The hotel offers 1-4 bedroom luxury villas designed in a chic, contemporary fashion. Relax with a cocktail and take in the sunset! Mediterranean cuisine served. A truly stunning stay!

  • Total relaxation - Bask in the beautiful sea views as you relax in the infinity pool
  • Beach Life - Kata Rocks is just a ten minute walk from the nearest beach
  • Sailing - Speak to Bristol Charter Phuket to charter a luxury yacht-the perfect way to explore the seas and all around Phuket!
  • Fishing - Head along the coast and find yourself a nice quiet spot for some fishing
from $1012 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Iniala Beach House

Phuket

An uber chic collection of design penthouses and villas on a gorgeous stretch of white sandy beach. Be utterly spoiled with your own butler, driver, chef, spa therapist and housekeeper. Style is sleek and contemporary throughout; think clean lines, soft hues and plenty of glass. Achingly cool.

  • Beach Life - Relax in the lap of luxury in one of the gorgeous design beach front villas.
  • Diving - With easy access to the Similan and Surin Islands find some of the world's best diving within reach.
  • Sights nearby - Find two 18-hole championship courses in the vicinity.
  • Secluded setting
from $2061 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia