Patong Beach - Phuket
Phuket’s most famous beach does not disappoint. The infectious mix of stunning white sand, crystal clear water, hedonistic nightlife and huge choice of activities draws singles, couples and families. It’s bold, it’s brash and it should not be missed.
This long, crescent-shaped beach brims with cafes, restaurants, bars and exclusive hotels. Patong is famous for its nightlife, yet there is a huge range of leisure and sports activities too. Parasailing, surfing, jet skiing, zip lining, cooking classes, volleyball, batik painting, mini golf, go kart racing… it could take years to explore all Patong has to offer.
Swimming is good in high season when waters are calm. The biggest waves appear in low season reaching around 1.5m. Surf no matter the weather at Surf House Patong Beach. Great for all the family, you can learn to surf in a safe environment. As well as surf lanes there are bars and restaurants, a co-working space and plenty of surf themed shopping.
Nightlife
At night Bangla Road becomes a neon-lit party paradise. Beer bars, go-go bars, nightclubs, massage parlours, cabaret shows and literally hundreds of restaurants serving every cuisine imaginable line the street and side streets. Listen to live music, explore the local market, dance the night away or dine under the stars in one of the beachfront restaurants. Muay Thai, Thailand’s national sport, can be watched at several venues in Phuket, though the most famous fighters compete at Bangla Boxing Stadium.
The Paradise Complex is the centre of Phuket’s gay scene. Just 5 minutes walk from the beach, the complex includes hotels, restaurants, shops and over 20 gay bars and clubs.
Shopping
Opposite Bangla Road is the Jungceylon Shopping Complex. There are over 200 shops in this air conditioned space, selling everything from imported and local clothes, sunglasses, electronics, cosmetics to handcrafted souvenirs. There is a restaurant and fast food section, day spa’s and massage parlours, a Robinsons department store and Big C supermarket. Should you need to fill a rainy day there is also a 5 room Cinema showing films in English and Thai, a bowling alley and gaming arcade.
Accomodation
Patong hosts thousands of visitors from all over the world and this shows in the variety of accommodation on offer. You will find something for every budget and taste. As expected, the most spectacular luxurious hotels are found along the beach. If you plan to visit during high season it is wise to book accommodation in advance.
Beaches & areas:
Kata Noi Beach
Kata Noi is a small, but stunning beach located at the southern end of Kata Beach. Around 700m long, the beach is surrounded by thick jungle. The white powdery sand and crystal clear waters make it one of Phuket’s most popular beaches. Waters are calm during low season (November – April) and perfect for surfing in low season (May – October).
Karon Beach
Karon Beach is 5 kms of fine squeaky white sand, clear water and activities for the entire family. Stroll uninterrupted along the beach, pamper yourself in one of the many world-class spas, swim, snorkel, windsurf or jet-ski. Shopping is diverse here too, with local markets alongside larger shopping complexes. If you fancy something more relaxing test your skills at Thai cooking, cocktail making or take in a yoga class.
