Phuket’s Secret Beaches: Escape The Crowds At These Underrated Gems

Phuket is connected to the world through flight, bus, and ferry routes. Moreover, some countries like India offer direct flights to Phuket.

However, if your country doesn’t have such a facility, you can opt to go from Bangkok to Phuket by bus or rent a car.

But why Phuket? It all happened with my friend’s social media post! The amazing snaps she shared took me to the land of white sands and turquoise water.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and “stunning” is an understatement for the beautiful Phuket beaches.

With Patong being the most famous among the beaches in Phuket, some other beaches here offer a more relaxed vibe. And this Dream and Travel guide aims to find the hidden gems with some important details you would love to know.

This Is The Best Time To Visit Phuket Beaches | Plan Your Tour Right

With the temperature hovering around 22-34 degrees Celsius, Phuket is a year-round destination. However, November to March is the ideal time if you have plans to hit the Phuket beaches.

During these months, the temperature remains between 23-28 degrees Celsius. Moreover, the long hours of sunshine make these months ideal for sunbathing and watersports.

Further, if you prefer tranquility, May to October will be the ideal months to visit the Phuket beaches. You will face a smaller crowd on the beaches during these months and I find rain-drenched beaches very romantic.

Secret Phuket Beaches For Couples | Only The Locals Know About These

In 2024, tourism in Phuket was stable, with some losses and gains. For example, the overall footfall of 4.3 million in 2024 was less than expected. However, the number of international tourists went up to 2.6 million, recording a 42% hike year on year.

So, with the steady numbers and records, the beaches of Phuket remain hotspots for mass tourism. However, the following secret Phuket beaches are great for an idyllic detour and these beaches are soaked in romance.

Phuket today is more than a travel destination for fun and leisure.
With “Phuket Sustainable Tourism Flagship Projects,” Phuket is aiming for a sustainable transformation. Further, it is trying to diversify the tourism or overall economic landscape by working on the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) and wellness sectors.

These beaches are clean and have a groomed appearance, as tourism in Phuket is highly reliant on them.

Moreover, over the years, initiatives like “Hearts with Hands, Keep Phuket Clean” by The Phuket Hotels Association have been crucial for the branding of Phuket and its beaches.

1. Banana Beach

Hidden away between Bang Tao and Nai Thon, Banana Beach is one of the best secret Phuket beaches. The crescent shape of the beach resembles a banana, and thus, it got its name.

Banana Beach has stretches of powdery white sands. Further, its crystal clear waters are embraced by lush greenery. Also, the calm waters here are ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

There are no permanent facilities. However, the local vendors, at times, set up some temporary stalls for refreshments.

2. Ao Sane Beach

Ao Sane Beach is a secluded paradise on the west coast of Phuket, famous for its clear waters and vibrant marine life.

It is divided into three sections by large granite boulders, each area offering a unique landscape of soft sands and rocky outcrops.

The calm, transparent waters make it an ideal spot for snorkeling. You will love the colorful coral reefs and schools of fish found after a short swim from the shore.

Moreover, a small beachside family-run restaurant offers fresh seafood and Thai dishes with sea views of the Andaman.

3. Nui Beach

Nui Beach is a secluded cove located south of Kata Beach. Its remote location has preserved its pristine beauty.

The beach offers soft sand, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Moreover, a small beach club operates here, providing sunbeds, umbrellas, and refreshments.

4. Freedom Beach

Take a longtail boat from Patong, and you will reach Freedom Beach with a pristine stretch of white sand surrounded by lush hills.

Freedom Beach is great for swimming and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs just offshore. Further, the absence of commercial development here makes the environment more serene or immersive.

Do you want some adrenaline rush at Freedom Beach? Take the steep path to the beach from the main road. The ride is a bit bumpy, but the effort is well rewarded by the unspoiled beauty that awaits.

5. Laem Singh Beach

This beach is now not open to the public and has become a better secret. It has golden sand, palm trees, and granite boulders between Kamala and Surin beaches.

The waters are crystal clear and turquoise, and swimming and snorkeling are very good, with plenty of marine life around the rocky areas.

6. Ao Yon Beach

Ao Yon Beach is a peaceful beach located on the southeastern coast of Phuket, with its waters being very calm and its views stunning.

The beach is divided into two parts by a rocky headland, with the northern part being more secluded. It is an excellent swimming location, especially during the low season when other beaches may have rougher seas.

Local seafood restaurants along the shores provide fresh catches every day and give a fantastic taste experience. The beach is accessible by road, but the tourist population remains low.

7. Ya Nui Beach

Situated between Nai Harn Beach and Promthep Cape, Ya Nui Beach is a small cove with clear waters.

It is popular for snorkeling and kayaking, with equipment available for rent. Further, the nearby islet of Koh Man provides a scenic backdrop. You can even kayak from Ya Nui Beach to Koh Man.

8. Ao Yon Noi Beach

Adjacent to the more frequented Ao Yon Beach, Ao Yon Noi offers an even more secluded experience.

The calm, shallow waters make it suitable for families with children, and the beach often has smaller crowds, providing a private atmosphere.

The surrounding area is residential, with a few local eateries offering authentic Thai cuisine. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture away from tourist hotspots.

Koh Mak | A Hidden Gem In Thailand That Demands Your Attention

Are you in for some serious beach combing in Thailand? Besides the Phuket beaches, you can now visit Koh Mak, a hidden gem that caught my attention.

This quaint island 16 square kilometers, has around 1200 permanent residents. Most of the island’s land has private owners and only 5% of it is used for tourism. Moreover, the simplicity of the island takes you at least 50 years back.

Tourism on this quaint island started in 1985 with Jakrapad Taveteekul, a local coconut plantation owner. Today, the eco-tourism model of Koh Mak is an inspiration for many Phuket beaches and other beach destinations in Thailand.

So, if you want an authentic Thai experience and enjoy the culture and heritage of the country, Koh Mak will be the go-to place. Above all, the relaxed ambiance here is ideal for a couple on a romantic holiday.