The largest and most popular beach on the island (and consequently the most well-developed stretch), Patong Beach is locatedon the west coast of Phuket, about 15 kilometers from the city and 30 kilometers from the airport. This 2 kilometer strip of golden sand offers a wide variety of activities and exciting night life.

During the day, the beach is busy with activities from swimming, snorkeling, jet-skiing, surfing, parasailing to massages for many of the visitors relaxing on beach chairs. From November to April (the Northeast monsoon season) the water is quite flat and calm. But from May to October (Southwest monsoon) there can be some larger waves on some days, but the water is usually safe to swim in most days; pay attention to red flags warning of rough surf and strong undertow.

But Patong is arguably more famous for its kinetic nightlife than the beach itself, with numerous ‘entertainment complexes’ and countless bars and restaurants centered on two main areas of Bangla Road and Paradise Complex. Various large hotel and many chain hotels serving every price bracket are located in Patong.