Whenever we stay in Phuket, we switch off the email, fix a beach chair in the sand, and order a cocktail by the ocean.

We asked for the five best beaches worth knowing this year. And while Patong Beach sure is there, it seems rather fitting that we would give you the rest of the list. All beaches have received our seal of approval for sunbathing, snorkelling, and playing in the sand — so bring your beach bucket and shovel!

Patong Beach

Trusted and convenient, ​​Patong Beach is the place to stay. Stick your toes in the white sand on this 2,850-metre long ​​beach and enjoy the vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining experiences. The beach stays open until late hours — pleasing a younger crowd. And where do you go after they dim the lights? The comfortable Red Planet Phuket Patong is just a few steps away from Patong Beach.

​​Freedom Beach

If you’re looking for a more hidden getaway, stay at the Freedom Beach on the southern tip of Patong Bay. You can reach the beach with a motorbike, but be prepared for dirt biking, and to pay a small parking fee to access the beach landways. You can also hire a sea captain willing to take you from Patong, Kata, or Karon on one of their long-tail boats, and truly arrive in style.​​

​​Surin Beach

A beach is a place of peace and quiet. And #throwbackthursday photos for the rest of the month. The soft white sands facing the Andaman Sea scream for Instagram while you work on your suntan. On your way to Surin Beach, be sure to drop by Kamala viewpoint for a panoramic shot of the entire Kamala beach.

Kata and Karon Beach

Unlike Patong Beach, Kata and Karon beaches are wide and curvy. This gives near 180-degree views of the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. It’s ​​great for swimming, and you will find amazing opportunities for diving and snorkelling, and it’s just 30 minutes away from Patong Beach. The view up from Karon viewpoint is spectacular, but the real draw is the golden triangle of Karon, Kata, and Kata Noi beaches.

Yanui Beach

There might not be Wi-Fi, but who needs it by the crystal clear and rockless waters of Yanui Beach. The peaceful, private atmosphere is suitable for sunbathing and diving starting from the break of dawn. Not to mention the cape of Laem Phromthep, the famous spot where you must witness the sunset and you can finally cross Phuket off your bucket list.