Beach Lover's Guide to Phuket: 6 Secret Shorelines
Discover Phuket's Hidden Beaches
If you’re looking for a secluded beach escape, head to the Phuket’s secret beaches and enjoy a tranquil day away from well-trodden paths and large crowds. Travelers to Phuket might be very familiar with the long lines of sunbeds along Patong, Kata, and Nai Harn beaches, but Phuket offers quaint surprises to those seeking some peace and solitude during their vacation.
With an adventurous spirit, a set of wheels, and a map of the island, you can discover many pristine sands that will have you coming back for more. Check out our guide to secret beaches in Phuket.
1. Ao Sane Beach
A snorkeling haven with some shade
Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo
Ao Sane is an attractive place to spend the afternoon, as it’s shaded by its groves of tropical almond trees. This sandy expanse has three mini-beaches, hulking granite boulders, and excellent snorkeling just offshore.
Ao Sane Beach has a simple yet charming beach restaurant, public toilets, and showers. It’s a yacht-mooring spot between November and May but remains relatively peaceful year-round. To get to the beach, head past the luxury hotels at Nai Harn Beach’s northern end. Follow the road and keep going until you see Ao Sane Beach. Read more
Location: Q7HW+7R7, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Ao Sane Beach
2. Ao Yon Beach
A favorite with locals
Good for: Budget, Families
Ao Yon Beach is an archetypical tropical beach in Phuket, complete with palm trees, white sand, and shallow waters. This kid-friendly beach is like a small beachside village in its own right. You can even see to oyster farming rafts just a few hundred meters out to sea.
This south-facing beach can get busy with locals on weekends but is pleasantly peaceful on weekdays. Ao Yon Beach is between Cape Panwa and Novotel Cape Panwa. If you’re driving, park on the hillside road and walk down to the beach. Read more
Location: 5/13 Soi Ao-Yon Khaokhad, Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Ao Yon Beach
3. Banana Beach
Ideal for a relaxing day enjoying the views
Good for: Budget, Photo, Unusual
Banana Beach gets its rather interesting name from its crescent-shaped strand. It might be challenging but rewarding to find. You’ll need to trek downhill through a wooded area to reach the beach. There’s a beachfront restaurant if you need to refuel throughout the day.
This unique beach is at its best during low tide and when the weather is calm. It might be a good idea to skip swimming here between May and November, but otherwise it’s made for tranquil sunbathing and leisurely walks along the shore. Point your camera to the sea and capture the glimmering shades of blue and turquoise. Read more
Location: 27RG+PHH, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Banana Beach
4. Nui Beach
A remote beach with stellar snorkeling
Good for: Adventure, Budget, Unusual
Nui Beach is one of the most beautiful ‘secret beaches’ in Phuket. This 120-meter strip of sand is roughly 3 km through a lush jungle, after the famous Karon Viewpoint. It’s a charming little cove offering good snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing.
Nui Beach has a bar/restaurant with thatched huts overlooking the ocean, as well as beach umbrellas on the sands. There’s also a spa offering traditional massages and sauna facilities. Bring your snorkeling mask and flippers and explore the exciting marine life or explore the hiking trails nearby. Read more
Location: Soi Laemmumnok, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Open: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm
Nui Beach
5. Khao Kad Beach (Panwa Beach)
For peaceful days and stunning sunsets
Good for: Budget, Photo
Khao Kad Beach, also known as Panwa Beach, is located in Wichit, near Cape Panwa. You’ll find it on the southeastern coast, and it’s known for its tranquil atmosphere rather than for swimming, as it features shallow, sometimes muddy, waters at low tide.
This secluded and serene beach with coarse sand and beautiful views of Chalong Bay and Lone Island might not be ideal for swimming due the muddy waters during low tide, but many visitors come to enjoy the peace, watch the sunset, explore the surrounding area, or visit the beach bars for fresh seafood and drink. To stay overnight, check in to one of the luxury villas and condominiums along the beach.
Location: 5/16-19 Soi Ao-Yon Khaokhad, Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Khao Kad Beach (Panwa Beach)
6. Yae Beach
A sunbather’s heaven
Good for: Budget, Photo, Unusual
Yae Beach is secluded enough to be quiet on any given day, but still features sun loungers, western-style toilets, and a beach bar for your convenience. This 200-meter-long beach is around 7 km north of Patong, with a feeder road leading to it from the main road. Yae Beach isn’t ideal for swimming but is a nice spot for relaxing on the sands.
To fuel your beachside adventures, bring a picnic or go for the nearby restaurants and food stalls for snacks, meals, and cold drinks.
Location: Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket, Thailand
Yae Beach
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