Phuket, located in the Andaman Sea, is the largest island in Thailand and one of the top beach holiday destinations in the world. With copious amounts of white-sand beaches, surrounded by aquamarine seas, Phuket has everything a beach lover could possibly ask for.

For those researching what to do in Phuket, there are an almost endless array of activities. From nature and wildlife tours to a lively nightlife scene, it’s all too easy to indulge in. That said, as great as the variety of experiences offered in Phuket is, it’s really all about the beaches. Here’s my pick of the top 10 beaches in Phuket.

Freedom Beach

Only accessible by boat, unless you fancy trekking through over a kilometre of dense jungle, Freedom Beach is undoubtedly one of the prettiest and most unspoiled beaches in Phuket. The quickest way to get there is on a longtail boat from Patong Beach. Once you’ve arrived and are enjoying the peace and quiet, you’ll realise it was well worth the effort.

Patong Beach

Patong is Phuket’s most popular beach. While it isn’t the quietest of beaches, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for somewhere to play and party. During the day you can snorkel, rent jet skis or chill in the sun with a drink. Come evening, switch to party mode and head to one of the many bars, restaurants and nightclubs that Patong has to offer. If the neon lights of nearby Bangla Road really appeal, then Patong could well be the beach for you.

Kamala Beach

For a slightly slower pace of life, try Kamala Beach, just north of Patong. This palm tree lined beach, spanning two kilometres, could not be more different to the lights and noise of Patong Beach, offering all the quiet and relaxation you simply won’t find on its more raucous neighbour. Even in high season, this beach never gets too busy and there isn’t the constant revolving door of tourists you often get in Patong and some other parts of Phuket.

Kata Beach

Kata Beach is popular amongst tourists who come to Phuket, but at 1.5 kilometres long, there’s more than enough room for everyone. This beach is a paradise, just not a secluded one. There are plenty of hotels, shops and places to grab a bite in nearby, so if you prefer to stay where the action is, but without having to put up with the hustle and bustle of Phuket’s busier beaches, Kata could be for you.

Kata Noi Beach

Located to the south of the larger Kata Beach, Kata Noi is quieter than its more popular neighbour. Exceptionally clear blue waters make it an ideal snorkeling location, while during the monsoon, the waves are perfect for surfers. The beach has an isolated feel, yet there are a couple of resorts and restaurants nearby, if you’re looking for a bit more action.

Pansea Beach

Pansea is a small, secluded beach situated on the west coast of Phuket. It’s almost impossible to get to, unless you’re staying at one of the two resorts that share the beachfront. This gives the beach even more allure. If your budget can stretch to a room at the Amanpuri Resort though, you’ll have the opportunity to relax on the pearly white sands and swim in the turquoise waters of this truly sensational beach.

Nai Thon Beach

As part of Sirinath National Park, Nai Thon Beach has managed to avoid much of the over-development that many of Phuket’s other beaches have undergone, making it a great choice if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, away from the big resorts. In fact, Nai Thon Beach is the antithesis of over-development, with just a few small hotels and restaurants nearby.

Surin Beach

Surin Beach could be described as an exclusive version of Patong Beach, with luxury resorts and million-dollar houses perched on the hills that overlook the sea. It doesn’t feel like a big seaside resort, but rather, maintains a coastal village atmosphere. The fine, white sand on the beach slopes away steeply, quickly turning from shallow into deep water, making Surin a great swimming destination.

Laem Singh Beach

Located between Kamala and Surin beaches and tucked away within a steep-sided bay, Laem Singh Beach is a picture-perfect Thai beach. It’s just one of the reasons it’s become an increasingly popular beach in recent years, particularly for those looking to swim and snorkel in its clear blue waters. Despite this, scenic Laem Singh has lost none of its charisma.

Nai Harn Beach

To the south of Phuket is Nai Harn Beach, a popular beach destination that has managed to avoid over-development, thanks, in part, to much of the surrounding land being owned by Samnak Song Monastery. With only a few hotels, restaurants and shops in the area, it maintains its quiet charm. Ideal for swimming and snorkeling from November to April, the currents become much stronger between May to October, making it more suited to surfers and kite-borders.