Phuket travel guide: what to know before you go
Phuket has its driest, calmest weather from November to April on the west coast beaches. Plan 4 to 6 days, and note that there is no train, so airport transfers are by road.
Photo: Luxure, CC BY 3.0 au, Wikimedia Commons
Best time to visit
The dry season runs from about November to April and has the calmest seas on the west coast. December to February is the busiest and most expensive period.
From May to October the southwest monsoon brings rain and strong waves. Rip currents are dangerous on west coast beaches, and red flags mean do not swim. Boat trips to far islands may be cancelled. The Similan Islands marine park closes for the monsoon, usually from mid-May to mid-October, so check dates.
How many days you need
Four days is a good minimum: two days of beaches, one day for Phuket Old Town and viewpoints, and one day for a boat trip to Phang Nga Bay or the Phi Phi Islands. Add two days if you want a quiet beach base or a diving course.
Distances are long on the island. A beach day in the north and a dinner in the south needs about an hour each way.
Getting from the airport to the centre
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is in the north of the island. There is no rail. Options are the slow airport bus to Phuket Town, a private minibus towards Patong and Kata, official airport taxis from the counters, pre-booked private transfers and a few hotel shuttles.
Travel time is about 30 to 40 minutes to Bang Tao and Surin, 45 minutes to Phuket Town, and about 60 to 90 minutes to Patong, Karon, Kata and Rawai. Traffic on the hill roads is slow in the evening.
Getting around
Phuket has no metro. Most visitors use taxis, private drivers, hotel shuttles, and the Grab app where it works. Prices are higher than in Bangkok, and you should agree the fare first if there is no meter.
Songthaews are shared pickup trucks on set routes, mostly between Phuket Town and beaches. Many visitors rent a scooter. Roads are steep and wet, accidents are common, and you need a valid licence for the vehicle class and helmet. Check that your travel insurance covers it.
Where to stay
Patong has the most nightlife, shops and restaurants, and is busy and loud. Kata and Karon are calmer, good for families and have long beaches.
Phuket Town suits visitors who prefer food, history and low prices, but it is away from the beach. Bang Tao and Surin are upmarket and quiet. Rawai and Nai Harn suit those who want sunsets and fewer crowds.
What to book in advance
In the high season, book boat trips to Phi Phi, Phang Nga Bay and the Similan Islands a few days ahead, because the best boats fill. Fewer visitors need to book far ahead for beaches and viewpoints.
Elephant sanctuary visits and diving courses also fill in peak weeks. Check that elephant visits do not include riding or bathing shows.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not swim when a red flag is flying. Do not leave bags unattended on the beach. Do not rent a scooter without experience.
Do not accept a taxi price without checking. Do not book the cheapest speedboat tour without reading the safety information. Do not touch or feed monkeys. Do not walk on the beach roads at night in flip-flops.
Money, tipping and practical notes
The currency is the Thai baht. Cards work in hotels, malls and larger restaurants. Cash is needed for markets, boats, songthaews and small restaurants. Use ATMs at banks in a daylight area.
Tipping is not required but a small amount is welcome in restaurants and spas. Plug types A, B, C and F are used, at 220 volts. Do not drink tap water. Use reef-safe sun cream near marine parks. Foreign visitors must fill in the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online within 3 days before arrival. Check official government sources for visa rules.
Facts on this page were last checked in November 2026. Routes, rules and opening days change, so confirm important details with the official source before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Phuket?
Four to six days is enough for beaches, Old Town and one island boat trip.
When is the best time to visit Phuket?
November to April is dry and calm on the west coast beaches. May to October is the rainy season with strong waves.
How do I get from Phuket Airport to Patong?
Use a taxi or pre-booked transfer. The trip takes about 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. There is no train.
Is it safe to swim in Phuket in the rainy season?
Not on many west coast beaches. Rip currents are strong, and red flags mean do not swim.
Where is the best area to stay in Phuket?
Patong suits nightlife, Kata and Karon suit families, and Bang Tao suits a quiet upmarket stay. Phuket Town suits food and culture.
Do I need a licence to rent a scooter in Phuket?
You need a valid licence for that vehicle class, and insurance may require it. Check with your insurer before you rent.