Phuket Travel Guide: Where to Buy Vacation and Rental Properties
Thailand is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. Before the pandemic, more than 30 million tourists visited the kingdom annually. Among all regions, Phuket is the most popular, with over 10 million tourists visiting the island each year.
Phuket is a paradise island with crystal-clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, well-developed infrastructure, world-class schools, hospitals, vibrant nightlife, serene meditation spots, and more.
The island stretches 50 km in length and 21 km in width, with most of its area covered by low mountains and tropical forests. Many areas of Phuket (including smaller islands) are part of National Parks, which means construction is restricted there. The old town does not attract foreign buyers due to the lack of new developments and its distance from the beaches. Residential areas are mainly centered around the beaches.
The east coast is rocky, with coral reefs, while the west is better suited for beach vacations, with its sandy shores and secluded bays.
Phuket Travel Guide: Where to Buy Vacation and Rental Properties
There are several beaches on the island to suit different tastes and lifestyles. Below are some of the most prominent beaches in Phuket:
- Karon Beach: Popular with families, this large, clean beach with clear water has nearby shops, cafes, and restaurants, though it can be crowded.
- Patong Beach: Ideal for nightlife enthusiasts, this beach is known for its lively clubs and bars.
- Kata Beach: Quiet and developed with cafes and diving clubs, this beach is a haven for surfers during monsoon season but has calm waters the rest of the year.
- Kamala Beach: A peaceful beach with beautiful scenery, often chosen by retirees and families with children due to its tranquility.
- Surin Beach: Phuket's most luxurious beach, surrounded by high-end boutiques, hotels, and upscale restaurants, catering to wealthy tourists.
- Bang Tao Beach: A long, well-developed beach attracting affluent tourists and expats, offering international schools, hospitals, and European cuisine.
- Mai Khao Beach: Close to the airport, offering stunning photo opportunities with landing planes, but the sudden depth makes it unsuitable for children.
- Rawai Beach: Primarily a port, offering a glimpse of authentic Thai life but unsuitable for a beach vacation.
- Nai Yang Beach: Largely undeveloped and less crowded, ideal for divers.
- Tri Trang Beach: Secluded but subject to strong tides, with exposed sea floors making swimming difficult at times.
- Chalong Beach: More suited to yachting and boating, with well-developed infrastructure but not ideal for swimming.
It’s hard to say which beach is best for buying property—it all depends on your preferences and the purpose of your stay. Whether you enjoy nightlife, sports, or yachting, or are moving with children, each area caters to different lifestyles. If you're buying to rent out the property, consider who your target tenants will be. Prices tend to be lower in areas less suited for traditional beach holidays, but most of these locations offer easy access to other beaches.
For the best experience, visit Phuket and explore its various areas yourself before making a decision. The real estate specialists at Thailand-Real.Estate are happy to help you choose the right property and guide you on the most suitable area, especially if you're planning to rent out your property.