Find your version of paradise on Phuket’s best beaches
Palm trees rustling in the warm breeze. Shimmering azure water and ruby-red sunsets. Toes sinking into the softest white sand…
Suddenly, the tranquil mood is broken by a sea of rucksacks and gaggle of students. It’s easy to see why Phuket’s picture-perfect beaches are such a draw for backpackers. The good news is that, as Thailand’s largest island, there’s plenty of room for seekers of serenity on the pearl of the Andaman’ – if you know where to look.
There are around 35 beaches in Phuket. But for all-round tropical perfection, the most famous ones lie along the west coast. It’s worth venturing further from your boutique retreat to reach the more secret’, often deserted gems, that are generally off the well-trodden trail. Ask your hotel concierge to arrange a private car, longtail boat, luxury yacht or even helicopter to take you to some of those described below. It beats sharing a sweaty bus with people on their gap year.
Good to know… Don’t be deterred by the main coastal roads. The longest and most beautiful beaches are usually just off them.