Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is home to some of the best for ocean lovers. Travelers often spend their day playing in the water, snorkeling along the reef, or diving from the top of cliffs. For the best water views and easy beach access, consider staying at a hotel with its own beachfront. Check out our picks for the best beach hotels in Phuket, Thailand, and get inspired!
1. Beyond Resort Karon
For
The only hotel located on Karon’s white sand beach
Beautiful contemporary decor in common areas
Rooms are spacious, fresh, and modern with sea views
Two beachfront pools with a swim-up bar
Walk-in shower with a tropical-rain shower
Buffet breakfast included in the price
Adult-only resort (a con for some)
Disadvantages
A key to the room policy
Mosquitoes can be a problem
Free Wi-Fi in the lobby only
What you must remember
Beyond Karon Resort is an upscale, adults-only resort claiming the distinction of being the only resort located right on Karon Beach. The location offers beautiful ocean views, two pools, and a restaurant. Spacious units are furnished with balconies, though there have been reports of mosquitoes. Rates are pricey, but you’re paying for its setting and stunning sea views.
2. Banyan Tree Phuket
For
Exquisite luxury villas with outdoor pools or hot tubs and stylish decor
Five-minute walk to a sandy beach with lounge chairs and umbrellas
40-meter pool and stunning freeform pool with adjacent bar and hot tub
Multiple dining options include a cafe, upscale Thai restaurant, and wine bar
Relaxing spa with gorgeous treatment rooms and a variety of massage options
18-hole golf course with an adjacent cafe
Daily activities like yoga, cooking classes, and lagoon boat rides
Kids’ club with supervised activities
Fitness center, free bikes to borrow, and tennis courts on-site
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Disadvantages
The ocean can be too rough to swim
Huge property can be difficult to navigate
A 25-minute drive from Patong (pro for some)
The beach is five minutes away on foot or by shuttle.
What you must remember
The Banyan Tree Phuket is one of Phuket’s largest luxury resorts. It has 175 villas on 89 acres of sprawling gardens that can be tricky to navigate. The man-made lagoons and beach — a five-minute walk away — offer great views over the water, and the multiple outdoor pools are perfect for lounging. Villas are spacious and include luxurious details such as private outdoor spaces with hot tubs or pools, designer furniture, and pillow menus. Among the many amenities available are an 18-hole golf course, yoga and cooking classes, lagoon boat rides, a kids’ club, and bikes to borrow. In addition, several restaurants offer Thai, gourmet, Japanese and international cuisines. Downsides include a beach that’s often too choppy for swimming and a huge property that can be tricky to navigate, though guests can request cart service. Compare rates with similar Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas.
3. JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa
For
A luxury hotel on Mai Khao beach and close to Phuket International Airport
Large, spacious rooms, some with sea-view balconies and private hot tubs
Three landscaped outdoor pools with waterfall decor, a swim-up bar, and small slides
The charming Mandara Spa has an indoor pool, steam room, and outdoor daybeds
12 on-site restaurants and bars, including a cafe, gourmet Thai cuisine, and a breakfast buffet
The hotel hosts a cooking school, the Ginga Cook Cooking School
The children’s club has a trampoline, video games, and a pool table
Modern and spacious gym with Nike products for sale
Loan of bicycles
Free Parking
Disadvantages
No lounge chairs or services on the beach
Paid Wi-Fi
Staff not enforcing the ban on children in the adult-only pool
Nothing interesting that is within walking distance
What you must remember
The JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa is one of Phuket’s most luxurious (and expensive) hotels. A vast tropical enclosure and friendly service are almost impeccable. Its location, close to Phuket International Airport, is very convenient for the plane but also for exploring the surroundings of Phuket. There are three high-end pools, a luxury spa, and 12 different restaurants and bars. The contemporary-style rooms have balconies and mini-fridges, and the Villa has a private pool. Among its negatives, the beach is not suitable for swimming, and some guests have reported that children can go everywhere on the property, sometimes to the detriment of the calm of other guests. It may be worth comparing the rates with those of the nearby Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa, which offers the same services and facilities but is however quieter.
4. Trisara
For
Modern, sea-facing rooms, suites, and villas with private pools and epic views
The private white-sand beach, clear blue water, and kayaks (in season) to borrow
Chic loungers front a gorgeous beach-facing infinity pool
Three gourmet restaurants and Jazz Brunch on Sundays
Free airport transportation
An on-site spa and spacious fitness center
Wi-Fi is free throughout
The supervised kids’ club has toys and a Wii
Stunning grounds with lush landscaping and a multi-level reflection pool
Private barbecues on the beach or in the villas can be organized (for a fee)
Disadvantages
Prices are high
The secluded location is 30 minutes from Kamala Beach
Beach facilities are available from December to April
Mosquito complaints (a common problem in Thailand)
No pool or hot tub at the spa
What you must remember
Trisara Phuket is one of the most luxurious and private five-pearl properties in Phuket. Guests are met at the airport by an SUV and shuttle to the sleek resort, with a private sandy beach, infinity-edge pool, three restaurants, and gorgeous rooms with private plunge pools and the Andaman Sea views. In addition, there is a private boathouse and a popular Jazz Brunch on Sundays. Prices are high, but freebies include airport transportation, a breakfast buffet, chocolates, and Wi-Fi. For honeymooners and families who can afford it, Trisara is hard to beat.
5. SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort
For
Beautiful and convenient location near Phuket International Airport and Mai Khao Beach facing the Andaman Sea
Two chic infinity pools facing the ocean
Sleek, minimalist rooms have open-air bathrooms (and some have private plunge pools) that look straight out of a design magazine.
Lobby bar, beachfront bar, and sophisticated restaurant on-site; Breakfast gets rave reviews
SALA Spa uses Clarins products and has a private outdoor treatment area
Gorgeous lobby with a reflection pond and high-end furnishings
Bright, modern fitness center
Free Wi-Fi and parking
Bikes and kayaks to borrow
Room service and a rooftop table are available
Disadvantages
Prices are higher than at comparable (and even nicer) resorts
Past complaints about maintenance and cleanliness issues throughout
45 minutes drive from Phuket Town
Open-air bathrooms don’t appeal to everyone (and they’re not air-conditioned)
No lounge chairs or service on the beach (a common theme in this part of Thailand)
No kids’ activities (a pro for some)
What you must remember
SALA Phuket Resort is a romantic option in a series of upscale to luxurious resorts on Mai Khao Beach near Phuket International Airport. What sets this property apart from its many competitors is its intimate size, rooms with great open-air bathrooms and soaking tubs, and a swimmable beachfront. Two infinity-edge pools border the ocean, and there’s not much to do on-site beyond borrowing one of the two kayaks, biking, visiting the spa, or dining at the fine-dining restaurant. Families with kids will be much happier down the road at the JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, with larger waterslides and pools, plus a kids’ club. Overall, prices here are higher than elsewhere (though parking and Wi-Fi are free), and outdoor grooming (and restroom) arrangements aren’t to everyone’s liking.
6. Movenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket
For
The upscale resort is set in beautifully manicured tropical gardens
Located in the center of Karon overlooking the white sand beach
Four pools, including a lagoon pool with a swim-up bar
free breakfast buffet
Four restaurants serve a wide range of international dishes
Rooms and villas open onto terraces or balconies; some ocean views
The separate spa offers a wide selection of massages
Kids’ club activities and playgrounds are available
Large ballroom space and meeting rooms
Wi-Fi connection
Disadvantages
Report of ants in rooms
Some rooms show signs of wear
What you must remember
This location Movenpick Resort, part of a global chain, is a vast, upscale property set in sprawling tropical gardens overlooking Phuket’s beautiful Karon Beach. Amenities are plentiful and include four pools, four restaurants, a spa, and plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. A buffet breakfast is included in the room rate. Most rooms and villas have sea-view balconies, though while generally well-maintained, some units are starting to show signs of wear. Rates are on the high side, but it’s a solid option for this type of upscale vacation retreat.
7. Cape Panwa Hotel
For
On the beach on the Andaman Sea near the Phuket Aquarium
Rooms, suites, and villas with elegantly decorated balconies; some have private hot tubs and plunge pools
The outdoor pool, surrounded by chic lounge chairs, offers ocean views
Sandy beach with deckchairs; snorkeling, and boat trips can be arranged for a fee
Five restaurants and eight bars range from fine dining to authentic Thai food to a cute cafe
Freebies include: breakfast, welcome drink, parking, shuttle to town, and Wi-Fi in public areas
Fitness center, sauna, and beach massages are available
Tropical gardens include a funicular to the beach
Cultural activities like Thai cooking classes and fruit carving
Disadvantages
Charge in-room Wi-Fi
Complaints about housekeeping and maintenance throughout
Reports of ants (a common problem in tropical regions of Thailand)
Some establishments and restaurants are located at the nearby sister hotel, Kantary Bay
Free Wi-Fi code and connect to changes every day; guests must request it at reception
What you must remember
The 205-room Cape Panwa Hotel is an upscale property located directly on Panwa Beach. It’s a solid pick for families and couples who want quick access to the hustle and bustle nearby Phuket but prefer to sleep and eat somewhere quieter. The hotel makes transportation easy with a free shuttle and parking. Guests who want to stay on the property can take advantage of the white sands, outdoor pool, multiple restaurants, and cultural and fun activities. Rooms are spacious and well-equipped with creature comforts like pillow menus and balconies, but past guests have reported occasional cleanliness issues. Larger groups (or honeymooners) can upgrade to a Lodge or Villa with a private infinity pool.
8. The Racha
For
Eco-chic and intimate all-villa resort on tiny Racha Yai island in the Andaman Sea
Elegant villas with outdoor spaces; Some have private pools and outdoor bathrooms.
Outdoor infinity pool overlooking the beach and a stunning garden pool
Free breakfast buffet, Ice Bar, and several on-site restaurants
Sandy beach on a quiet cove
Anumba Spa includes private treatment villas and reflection pools
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Recreational facilities include a PADI dive center, mountain bikes, bikes, and water toys.
A bright fitness center with cardio machines and weights
Room service is available
Disadvantages
Prices are high
Boat transfer fees
35-minute boat trip to leave the island
Newspaper lovers force the beach
Some wear and tear in some villas
No kids’ club (a pro for some)
What you must remember
The Racha is a five-pearl eco-chic resort on the tiny island of Racha Yai in the Andaman Sea. It’s a 35-minute boat ride from Phuket to get there, and there’s an extra charge for the transfer. Once guests arrive at the island, they are greeted with the sight of whitewashed villas built with clean lines in harmony with the natural surroundings of the tropical landscape and water. The villas are clean and comfortable; Some have private pools and spacious outdoor bathrooms. Leisure facilities are top-notch: mountain bikes, water toys, tennis courts, a spa, and more are all available. But, beware: The stunning sandy beach is a must-visit spot for Phuket tourist boats and is swamped with daytime treasures, making it ideal for those wanting a quiet, romantic tropical vacation. Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa Phuket, is another five-pearl option on Ko Nakha Yai with a more peaceful beach and many of the same facilities.
9. Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort
For
Secluded vacation resort with beautiful private sandy cove
Located within easy reach of Phuket Town and the airport
The largest swimming pool on the island
Many activities and sports facilities on site
Spacious and elegant rooms, all with furnished balconies
Wide range of restaurants and bars
Half-board and full-board options are available
Disadvantages
The resort feels dated in parts
Landscaping Lackluster
WiFi
What you must remember
Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort is a massive stand-alone resort surrounded by lush jungle that overlooks its sandy beach. The hotel’s large size can make it feel a little impersonal, but its sheer scale does mean a huge range of facilities, including an enormous pool and a range of sports facilities. Spacious rooms have been sleekly renovated, and many include beautiful sea views. This doesn’t come cheap, though, and you may also find yourself paying for lots of extras — including Wi-Fi — if you book the room rate only.
10. Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach
For
Family-friendly luxury hotel on a laid-back private beach
Free shuttle service to Patong (limited hours)
Three large swimming pools; one has a kids’ area for kids, and one has a swim-up bar.
The rooms renovated in 2017 are contemporary and have a furnished terrace.
Separate showers and tubs, desks, and coffeemakers come standard
Quality international, Italian, and Thai restaurants, plus a beachfront grill
Sleek spa and modern fitness center
A kids’ club with daily activities and an outdoor playground
Butterfly sanctuary and a reef education center
Activities such as yoga, Thai boxing, and water sports are on offer
Free Wi-Fi (for those who join the Marriott Rewards Program)
Disadvantages
Little within walking distance
The ocean is very rocky
Some units have minor wear and older bathroom fixtures
A few complaints of poor soundproofing
Rooms are generic and lack a lot of Thai flairs
What you must remember
A six-minute drive from Patong Beach, the luxury Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, is a large, contemporary property that can entertain guests of all ages. Its beach is private and generally calm, but the sea is extremely rocky, and water shoes are necessary. Fortunately, there are three large pools — one with a waterslide and another with a swim-up bar, plus a spa, kids’ club, and muay Thai boxing stage. Several restaurants offer Thai, Italian, and international cuisines and a cafe and smoothie place. The 414 rooms are spacious and modern but feel chain-like and lack Thai charm. They all come with furnished terraces, separate tubs and showers, coffeemakers, and some add pool or ocean access. Noise is a notable drawback. Consider the JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa for something closer to the airport.
11. Andaman White Beach Resort
For
Quiet, semi-remote coastal location with a lovely white-sand beach
Elegant rooms and suites, some with private pools and beach views
Big pool and hot tub surrounded by palm trees and lounge chairs
Three on-site restaurants, including a Thai restaurant with seafood
Buffet breakfast included
On-site Dala Spa with massages and beauty treatments
A spacious fitness center with free weights and cardio machines
Free Wi-Fi and free parking
Disadvantages
Limited activities for children
Not much within walking distance
What you must remember
The intimate but stylish Andaman White Beach Resort is located directly on the beach in a secluded and quiet stretch of western Phuket. Rooms range from romantic sea-facing rooms to lavish suites, some with private plunge pools. On-site dining options include a Thai restaurant with fresh seafood dishes and a more relaxed beachfront pizzeria. Dala Spa adds to the overall relaxed vibe of the hotel, as does the semi-remote location with not much to do within walking distance (apart from the beach). The waters off the hotel can be dangerous for swimming in the summer, but there’s a long pool for guests who want to swim during the off-season.
