Let’s face it, probably the thing that attracts us most strongly to Phuket is its wide variety of picturesque beaches. It’s not just the place where the sand meets the sea, but a place that has incredible charm and commands love and respect. The most popular beaches in Phuket are just a few such as the beautiful Kata, Karon, Kamala and Bangtao, but there are also plenty of gorgeous hidden deserted beaches.
Ya Nui
This charming 500-meter beach is just around the corner from the more famous Nai Harn Beach and is quite rarely crowded. Despite this, you can easily find everything you need here: refreshments, restaurant, kayak rentals, etc. Two small coves are separated by a rocky promontory where you can take stunning photos. About 300 meters from the shore is a small island with a sheltered cove where you can snorkel and watch the many fish swimming among the coral reefs.
Hua Beach
Just south of Kamala Beach is another slice of tropical paradise. This small 200-meter beach is a short walk away. Elephants can sometimes be seen swimming in the sea here. Be careful of the rocks in the water and take a snorkel with you. This beach is best visited during high tide.
Banana Beach
Banana Beach is farther away from the center, making it virtually deserted on any given day. The beach is located between Layan Beach to the south and Nai Ton to the north. Parking with limited spaces is available by the road, with a steep descent through the jungle leading to the beach. The beach is surrounded by many trees, in the shade of which you can hang a hammock. On the sides of the beach are rocky headlands where hermit crabs abound. When the sea is rough, the current here can be quite dangerous, so use caution.
Sai Khoo
This beach is suitable for particularly adventurous travelers as it is off the beaten track. To get here, you need to head to the southern part of Nai Yang Beach and start hiking from here. You can park at the boat ramp and walk around the promontory or climb the hill behind an abandoned hotel, where there is a small parking lot and a highly visible trail.
A hike along the trail will take you to several beaches, which are best visited at high tide if you want to swim. The beautiful path winds through bamboo groves and several headlands. The furthest beach is about 2.5 kilometers away. Here you will find beautiful cliffs, several reefs for snorkeling and a soulful atmosphere.
Mai Khao
Although this beach is not a secret beach, its large area makes it quite deserted. Be prepared for a long walk, as it is 10.5 kilometers long. The sheer size of this sandy strip itself is a delightful sight.
Most of the beach is surrounded by palm trees and pine trees swaying in the wind. The beach is divided into several different sections, but the northernmost 2.5 km looks particularly enticing. Again, the thing to be aware of here is the presence of strong underwater currents. Stay cautious, as it is unlikely that anyone will be able to help you here should you run into problems.
