Phuket Cities and Regions

Crescent-shaped beach with perfect white sand; though you're never alone here. If it's not the vendors touting fruit, it's the music blasting from the oceanfront bars and restaurants – but you can't get more central.

The island’s capital is a worth the short trip inland from Patong. A myriad of boutiques and art shops cater more to in-the-know locals than flashy tourists, the street food is great, and the town’s ornate Sino-Portuguese houses delight not only architecture buffs.

Long, broad beach bordered by dunes and a promenade. High-rise hotels dominate, though it's much more low-key than neighboring Patong.

A tranquil spot frequented by families and gay folks staying at the boutique resorts lining the beach.

This favorite among many small coves offers some privacy as the beach is dominated by French luxury resort Le Meridien. The surrounding jungle creates an intimate atmosphere, though swimming conditions can be precarious in the monsoon season.

Desperate to escape the crowds? Head for the northern end of this intimate bay and find welcome shade beneath casuarina trees.

With more than six miles of serene, picture-perfect sands, this beach is relatively deserted save for guests of an isolated Marriott Resort.