Centara Hotels in Phuket

Phuket, Thailand's largest island, it’s a haven for all kinds of things to do. Patong Beach is the place to go for lively nightlife and water sports like jet skiing, while Kata Beach is a quieter spot, perfect for families and snorkeling. Karon and Kamala beaches are great for those looking to relax and enjoy the sea without the crowds.

There’s much to love about Phuket beyond its beautiful beaches. The island’s Old Town is full of colorful buildings that take you back to the days of tin barons, with markets and street food stalls. You can wander around the old town, enjoy fresh street food, or take a hike through the hills and waterfalls.😉

Getting To & Around Phuket

Though Phuket is an island, getting here is surprisingly easy. With direct flights from major cities around the world, you'll land at Phuket International Airport (HKT) in no time.

Located in the island’s northern part, it's Thailand's second busiest airport, offering frequent flights from Bangkok and direct connections to Asia, the Middle East, India, and Australia. You can also catch seasonal charter flights from Europe. The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 for international flights and Terminal 2 for domestic and charter airlines, both linked by a convenient air-conditioned walkway.

Phuket International Airport is about 32 km (20 miles) from popular destinations like Patong and Phuket Town.

• To get to these areas, you can take the Phuket Smart Bus (100 baht, approx. $3), which runs from the airport to the west coast beaches.
• Alternatively, you can use a municipal airport bus (100 baht, approx. $3) to Phuket Town, or a minibus, which offers door-to-door service and is faster, though prices may vary.
• Metered taxis (500 baht, approx. $15) and limousine taxis (more expensive) are also available directly at the airport.

Got an early morning flight or arriving on a red-eye? Booking a hotel near Phuket International Airport can save you time and trouble.

You can compare more hotels near Phuket International Airport to find your best stay!

For getting around the island, songthaews (public buses) are the cheapest option, with fares starting at 15 baht (approx. $0.45) in Phuket Town. The Phuket Smart Bus (100 baht, approx. $3) covers the west coast, and tuk-tuks are available for short trips starting at 200 baht (approx. $6).

For more flexibility, you can rent a motorbike (300 baht/day, approx. $9) or a car (600 baht/day, approx. $18). For island-hopping, boat rentals are available at varying prices depending on the type and duration.

Where to Stay in Phuket🌴

Patong Beach: Phuket's most famous stretch of sand! 3km of beach with jet-skis, parasailing, and beach chairs everywhere. The water's not the clearest but the vibe is unbeatable. Behind the beach, Bangla Road comes alive at night with bars and clubs. Great street food at Malin Plaza night market, and Jungceylon mall for shopping and air-con breaks. Perfect for first-timers who want action!

Kata Beach: My favorite all-rounder! Crystal clear water (amazing for snorkeling around the rocks), surfing waves from May-October, and the most gorgeous sunset views. More chilled than Patong but still plenty happening. Don't miss the viewpoint at Kata Noi - you can see all three bays! Lots of great Thai restaurants and beach bars without the crazy prices.

Nai Harn Beach: The local's secret! Stunning blue water and the island's best snorkeling spot (tons of fish around the rocky ends). Great for sailing - you can rent small catamarans right on the beach. The hills around here are gorgeous for sunset walks, and there's an amazing fresh seafood market nearby where locals eat. Way quieter than the north beaches.

Surin Beach: The fancy one! Super clear water, perfect for swimming, with million-dollar villas dotting the hills. Famous for beach clubs (check out Catch!) and high-end seafood restaurants. Great spot for stand-up paddleboarding when the sea's calm. Close to Boat Avenue for boutique shopping and cute cafes.

Top Things to Do in Phuket

• Patong Beach You can jump into some parasailing or jet-skiing if you want that thrill, or just chill with a cold beer while you watch the sunset. If you’re feeling bold, head over to the Bangla Road area, where the nightlife comes at you like a truck—bars, clubs, you name it.
• Phuket Old Town While the beaches might steal the show, don’t sleep on Phuket Old Town. Walking through the streets here feels like stepping into another era with its Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful buildings, and amazing street art. Make sure to stop by the local cafes and check out the unique markets for some quirky souvenirs.

• Racha Yai Island If you’re all about diving or snorkeling, Racha Yai Island is your ideal place. Seriously, this place has some of the clearest water I've ever seen. The coral reefs are pretty rad, and there's a ton of marine life swimming around. Take a speedboat out, grab your gear, and let the island's beauty do the rest.
• Phi Phi Islands Picture clear blue waters, towering limestone cliffs, and beaches straight out of a postcard. You can catch a boat from Phuket and spend the day hopping between islands—snorkeling, sunbathing, and just taking in the beauty of it all.

Things to Know Before Visiting Phuket

What to Eat in Phuket

Phuket’s food is straight-up amazing. It’s all about fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a bit of local flair. Here’s what you have to try while you're there:

• Mi Phat or Mi Nam – Noodles, but not just any noodles. You’ll find these fried or in a rich broth, with pork or chicken. Quick, tasty, and always hits the spot.
• Khanom Jin – Rice noodles with spicy curry sauce and fresh veggies. It's light but has that perfect punch of flavor.
• Nam Phrik Kung Siap – A spicy chili dip made with smoked shrimp, paired with fresh veggies. It’s a punchy, savory dish that brings the heat and the flavor.
• Cashew Nuts & Pineapples – Phuket is known for its sweet pineapples and fresh cashews. The nuts come in many forms, from fried to coated in sweet or spicy flavors. The pineapples are juicy and super sweet, perfect as a snack.

When Should I Go to Phuket?

Phuket has two main seasons: dry and wet. If you're looking to escape winter, the best time to visit is late December to mid-April. February and March are the driest months, with daytime highs reaching 36°C (95°F)—perfect for those who want to soak up the sun. However, this is also when prices for hotels can be at their highest.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don't mind a bit of unpredictability with the weather, the shoulder season from late April to early June is a good option. While the rainy season officially starts in June, you can still get plenty of sunny days during this period. From September to mid-October, the island sees the heaviest rains, with storms often making diving difficult. But with lower humidity and fewer tourists, it can still be a great time to visit if you're looking for a quieter experience.