Phuket’s Beaches – 7 of the Best

A perfect arc of pristine sand and crystal water

Finding your perfect stretch of sand among Phuket’s beaches may be harder than you think.

Thailand’s largest island is blessed with an extraordinary coastline. Along its shores, jungle-clad headlands tumble into the Andaman Sea, framing everything from hidden coves and undeveloped bays to bustling beach towns lined with restaurants, massage huts and colourful longtail boats.… Read the rest

Racha Yai Diving

Racha Yai Diving (photo credit Roberta Martinotta)

Today starts with a crackle of anticipation as the alarm sounds in the early morning. We’re all excited about our our family scuba diving tour to Racha Noi and Racha Yai Islands. We have been promised coral gardens, curious marine life and just enough unpredictability to keep things interesting.… Read the rest

Tri Trang Beach

Tri Trang Beach

Just a few minutes south of Patong Beach, one of Thailand’s most famous strips, Tri Trang Beach feels like a different world altogether.

While Patong, Phuket’s most famous beach, buzzes with jet skis, beach clubs and a constant stream of visitors, Tri Trang occupies a quieter corner of the coastline.… Read the rest

Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn Beach

At Phuket’s southernmost reaches, Nai Harn Beach occupies a sweet spot that many of the island’s better-known beaches have long since lost. Beautiful without being flashy, developed without feeling overbuilt. It has become a favourite among locals, expats and repeat visitors who know exactly what they’re looking for.… Read the rest

Rang Yai Island

Rang Yai Island

There’s something quietly seductive about islands you can see but haven’t yet reached. From Phuket’s east coast, Rang Yai Island sits just offshore, it’s close enough to feel accessible, distant enough to promise escape. At 110 acres, this privately owned island has built a reputation as a tranquil paradise, known for its white sand beaches, calm waters and a long association with pearl farming.… Read the rest

Kata Beach

Kata Beach

Kata Beach is the perfect Phuket beach all-rounder. A distinct crowd pleaser, Kata Beach has it all.

We set out in the morning, walking from nearby Karon beach. There’s a gradual unfolding of the day, step by step and we navigate the headland with it’s shops, traffic and noise.… Read the rest

Freedom Beach

Freedom Beach

A day at Freedom Beach is a day earned and a day remembered. Tucked just south of the relentless energy of Patong, Thailand, Freedom Beach exists in quiet defiance of its neighbour – hidden, hushed and requiring a little commitment to uncover.… Read the rest

Kuta Beach

Kuta Beach

Arriving at Kuta Beach can feel like stepping from one world into another. We have driven from the relative peace and seclusion of Ceking Rice Terraces to arrive in Bali’s bustling streets. Here the chaotic pulse of local traffic is impossible to ignore.… Read the rest

Bebek Joni

Bebek Joni

Just 5km, or 10 minutes by car, from Kemenuh Village and Tegenungan Waterfall, is Bebek Joni. This restaurant is renowned for its duck dishes. Having said that, on arrival, it feels more like entering a spa than a restaurant.… Read the rest

The Greenroom

The Greenroom

The Greenroom does a mean traditional English roast. It’s not what immediately comes to mind on a 48°C day in Dubai. Nevertheless, we find ourselves here for an afternoon of multiple pool(s), table soccer and Sunday roasts.

The first round of pool

Indoors

Arriving from the heat of the afternoon into the cool bistro style of The Greenroom, we are promptly seated although not quite ready for dinner.… Read the rest