Phuket
Phuket · Phuket, Thailand
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
Phuket International Airport sits in the north of the island, with taxis and shared minibuses taking 45–60 minutes to Patong. Distances between beaches are long, so most people rely on songthaews, the Grab app, or a rented motorbike at around 200–300 THB a day. Day tours to Phi Phi, Phang Nga Bay and the Similans leave from several piers. The dry season runs from November to February; March to May is hot, and June to October brings short, heavy monsoon showers along with lower prices.
Ticket Price
Beaches: free. Phi Phi Island day tour: 1,000-2,500 THB (30-75 USD) depending on type (speedboat vs longtail, inclusions). Phang Nga Bay / James Bond Island tour: 800-2,000 THB. Big Buddha: free (donations welcome). Old Town: free. Check the official site before booking.
Opening Hours
Beaches: open 24 hours, lifeguards roughly 9 AM-6 PM. Temples: generally 8 AM-5 PM. Day tours: typically 7 AM-5 PM. Markets: Patong Bangla Road at night, weekend markets daytime. Nightlife: roughly 6 PM to late. Check the official site before visiting.
Transportation
Phuket International Airport (HKT): taxi/minibus to Patong (45-60 min, ~500-800 THB). Getting around: tuk-tuks (expensive, negotiate), songthaews (shared pickup trucks, cheaper), Grab taxi app, motorbike rental (200-300 THB/day), private transfers. Beaches are spread out — you need transport to get between them.
Best Season
November to February (dry/cool season) — best weather, lowest rainfall, peak season. March to May (hot season) — very hot (30-35°C+), fewer tourists, lower prices. June to October (wet/monsoon season) — rain most days but usually short and heavy, great deals, quiet beaches. December-January is peak and busiest.
Pro Tip: Choose a base that matches your trip
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
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Choose a base that matches your trip Patong is convenient for nightlife and shopping; Kata and Karon are calmer; the old town is best for food and architecture. Distances are longer than they look, so plan transport.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions4 questions
November-April is the dry season with calm seas. May-October is the monsoon season, with more rain but lower hotel prices.
The airport is about 45 minutes from Patong and 1 hour from Kata. Use a metered taxi, Grab or a shared minivan; public buses are limited.
Patong has nightlife and the most services; Kata and Karon suit families; Nai Harn and Bang Tao are quieter. Choose the beach that matches your evenings.
Yes for Phi Phi, James Bond Island and most nearby islands. Book a licensed operator, check the weather, and expect an early start.