Hotels & Places To Stay In Phuket
HOTELS & ACCOMODATION
Phuket offers a wide range of options, from luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hotels and hostels.
Hotels & Places to Stay in Phuket, Thailand
Â
Â
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs, from luxurious all-inclusive resorts to mid-range hotels and budget-friendly backpacker hostels. With over 3,000 hotels spread across the island, finding the perfect place to stay is easy.
However, when it comes to scuba diving day trips, PADI Courses, or other water-based activities and tours, the southern region of Phuket is the ideal choice to stay. Areas like Chalong, Rawai, Kata, and Karon provide convenient access to Chalong Pier, where many diving and snorkeling day trips depart. While Patong is the most popular destination for tourists, offering vibrant nightlife and a variety of amenities, it’s located a bit further from the pier. Nevertheless, it remains a good option for those looking to combine a lively atmosphere with their diving adventures.
Phuket offers a vibrant experience beyond just diving! From surfing and stunning beaches to cultural temples and exciting day trips, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Finding Your Stay
Phuket boasts a wide range of accommodation options, catering to all budgets and preferences. To explore the best options across the island and find the perfect fit for your needs, we recommend Agoda.com to find your Phuket accommodation.
Since most diving day trips in Phuket depart from Chalong Pier in the south, staying nearby can save you significant travel time (typically 60-120 minutes). Phuket’s traffic can be especially heavy during peak season, making proximity to the pier an important factor when planning your stay.
For those doing scuba diving courses or daily dive trips, we highly recommend staying close to Chalong Pier, at least during your diving days. Dive trips are full-day tours, and staying nearby can save 60-90 minutes of travel time each day. Some great accommodation options within 5-10 minutes of our main office near Chalong Pier include Arch39, Phuket Paradiso, Chalong Seabreeze, Xen Pool Access, and DLUX Chalong.
If you prefer to stay in other areas, consider accommodations in Patong, Kata, Karon, Rawai, Nai Harn, Kamala, or Kalim. If you stay further north, in areas such as Bang Tao, Laguna, or Mai Khao, be aware that you may incur additional transfer fees (THB 800-2,400 depending on location) due to the longer distances.
For convenience and proximity to our dive centre and the pier, we strongly recommend staying near Chalong Pier to make the most of your diving experience.
You can find some further hotel recommendations, plus information on each area of Phuket, below.
*Please note that the travel times to Chalong Pier listed below may double during Phuket’s peak high season due to increased traffic.*
Send us an Enquiry
Chalong (5 -20 min to pier)
Chalong is the perfect base for dive enthusiasts looking to make the most of their underwater adventures in Phuket. With the Aussie Divers Phuket training centre located nearby and most dive boats departing from Chalong Pier, you’ll be just minutes away from all the action. While the area might be quieter, with nightlife and beaches a short taxi ride away, staying in Chalong allows you to maximize your rest for those early morning dives, with convenient pick-up times between 7:30 and 8 AM and drop-offs around 5:30 to 6:30 PM. If diving convenience is your top priority, Chalong offers the ideal balance of proximity and tranquillity.
Deluxe
Mid Priced
Rawai (20 - 40 min to pier)
Rawai is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing retreat in Phuket, offering a laid-back vibe with a touch of local charm. This area is popular with expats and families, thanks to its peaceful village atmosphere, excellent restaurants, and beautiful beaches. Just minutes away from Chalong Pier, Rawai provides convenient access for dive enthusiasts, with pick-up times between 7:20 and 7:40 AM and return times around 5:30 to 6:30 PM. If you’re looking for a tranquil escape where you can unwind after a day of diving, Rawai’s relaxed ambience, range of restaurants, and close proximity to the pier make it an ideal choice.
Deluxe
Mid Priced
Patong (30 - 60 min to pier)
Patong is the beating heart of Phuket’s tourism scene, known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling streets, and endless entertainment options. As the most popular tourist area on the island, Patong offers a lively atmosphere where you can find something happening at any hour of the day or night. From bustling night markets and high-end shopping malls to an array of restaurants offering everything from local Thai cuisine to international favourites, Patong has it all. While its beach may not be the most pristine on the island, the sheer variety of activities and attractions more than makeup for it.
For dive enthusiasts, Patong offers a great balance of daytime underwater exploration and evening excitement. With dive pick-up times between 6:50 and 7:20 AM and return times around 6 to 7 PM, you can enjoy a full day of diving and still have plenty of time to immerse yourself in Patong’s energetic nightlife. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a cocktail at a beachfront bar, dance the night away in one of the many clubs, or simply stroll through the vibrant streets soaking up the atmosphere, Patong is the ideal choice for those who love to stay in the center of the action after a day of diving adventures.
Deluxe
Mid Priced
Kata (20 - 40 min to pier)
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Patong, Kata offers a more relaxed and tranquil environment. This charming area is known for its beautiful beach, which is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the picturesque scenery. Kata’s family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for travelers seeking a quieter experience, while still having access to a good selection of restaurants and amenities. Although dining options in Kata may be slightly pricier than those in Patong, the quality and variety make it worth it. With dive pick-up times between 7:20 and 7:40 AM and return times around 6 to 7 PM, Kata provides the perfect balance for those who want to enjoy both their diving adventures and a peaceful, relaxing stay.
Karon (20 -40 min to pier)
Located just north of Kata, Karon offers a laid-back and peaceful atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those looking to escape the more crowded parts of Phuket. With its spacious, surfable beach (best enjoyed during the low season), Karon provides a perfect blend of relaxation and mild adventure. The area features a good selection of hotels and restaurants, catering to a variety of tastes without the hustle and bustle found in busier locations. Dive enthusiasts will find Karon an ideal base, with pick-up times around 7:20 to 7:40 AM and return by 6 to 7 PM, allowing for a tranquil stay with easy access to diving activities.
Kamala (50 - 70 min to pier)
Nestled just north of Patong, Kamala offers a serene and chilled atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to unwind after a day of diving adventures. This area is renowned for its excellent restaurants and bars, providing a perfect setting to relax and indulge in delicious cuisine. Kamala is also conveniently close to the popular Phuket Fantasea show, adding a touch of entertainment to your stay. While the commute to the Chalong pier is longer, with pick-up times between 6:40 and 7:00 AM and return times around 6:30 to 7:30 PM, Kamala’s peaceful environment and relaxed vibe make it well worth the extra travel time. It’s the perfect spot for those who value a quiet escape with easy access to both diving and dining experiences.
Deluxe
Phuket Old Town (30 - 60 min to pier)
Phuket Old Town, located just north of Chalong where the dive boats depart, offers a charming and historical contrast to the island’s more famous beach destinations. This vibrant area is filled with winding side streets and hidden alleyways, known for its stunning Portuguese-influenced architecture. Visitors will find a treasure trove of hidden gems, from cozy cafes and local eateries to trendy bars and boutique shops. Every Sunday night, the streets come alive with the bustling Walking Street Night Market, offering everything from delicious street food to handmade crafts, making it the perfect spot to explore after a day of diving.
Bang Tao (60 - 90+ min to pier)
Bang Tao is a secluded and luxurious area of Phuket, known for its stunning beach and high-end dining options. Just a 15-minute drive from the airport, it offers the perfect blend of convenience and tranquillity for those seeking a peaceful retreat. While Bang Tao is quite a distance from Chalong Pier (outside the included pickup zone), with early pick-up times between 6:20 and 6:40 AM and return times around 7 to 8 PM, it’s an ideal location for those who prioritize relaxation and luxury after a day of diving. Staying in Bang Tao means enjoying the best of both worlds: the serenity of a world-class beach and the comfort of upscale accommodations, all while being close to the island’s main gateway.
Cape Panwa (30 - 60 min to pier)
Cape Panwa offers a peaceful and secluded retreat for those looking to escape the busier parts of Phuket. While dining options outside the hotels are limited, the area’s serene atmosphere provides a true getaway experience. However, being located outside the included dive pickup zones, Cape Panwa requires a longer commute to the dive sites, as the route passes through southern parts of Phuket Old Town. Pick-up times are typically between 6:50 and 7:10 AM, with return times around 6 to 7 PM. Despite the extended travel time, the tranquillity and stunning coastal views of Cape Panwa make it an ideal choice for those who prioritize relaxation and a more intimate connection with nature after a day of diving.
