Where to stay in Phuket with Family: 6 Best areas

In this post, I will help you to find Where to stay in Phuket with Family, best areas to stay in Phuket with kids, and best family-friendly hotels in Phuket (including the hotel Where I stayed).

Phuket, Thailand’s vibrant island paradise, offers a plethora of ideal areas for an unforgettable family holiday. From the bustling Patong with its lively atmosphere and entertainment options to the tranquil Kata and Karon beaches with their family-friendly resorts, Phuket presents an array of choices to suit every family’s preferences and needs.

Where to stay in Phuket with Family?

The best areas to stay in Phuket with family are Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Kamala Beach, Surin Beach, Mai Khao Beach, and Patong Beach. Each area has its unique charm and amenities, so you can select the one that suits your family’s needs the best.

Where did I stayed in Phuket?

When I visited Phuket, I stayed for 2 days in the heart of Phuket Old Town at  The Memory at On On Hotel. It is a popular 3-star family-friendly hotel located on Phang-Nga Road, a central base to explore the area. I really enjoyed my stay with a comfortable room and friendly staff.

I also spent 3 nights in Patong Beach at the children-friendly Rak Elegant Hotel PatongThis is a good value for money accommodation that has a nice location, a short walk away from the beach, while being calmer than the center of Patong.

Map of Best areas where to stay in Phuket with Family:

Map of 6 Best areas to stay in Phuket with Family
Map of 6 Best areas to stay in Phuket with Family

6 Best areas to stay in Phuket with Family:

1. Kata Beach

Kata Beach generally receives positive reviews from families due to its combination of a beautiful beach, family-friendly atmosphere, and convenient amenities.

Kata Beach is located on the southwestern coast of Phuket, close to Karon and Patong Beach. It offers a beautiful stretch of sandy beach with clear waters. Spend quality time with your family building sandcastles, swimming, or simply relaxing under the sun.

Kata Beach has a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great choice for families with children. The beach is relatively quieter compared to some other areas in Phuket, providing a more peaceful environment.

The waters at Kata Beach are generally calm and suitable for swimming, making it safe for children to enjoy the sea. The beach is well-maintained and has lifeguards on duty during the daytime.

Kata Beach is a popular spot for surfing and bodyboarding, especially during the high season (November to April). There are surf schools and rental shops where you can get equipment and take lessons suitable for beginners and children.

There are also various water sports activities such as jet skiing, snorkeling, diving, parasailing, and banana boat rides. These thrilling adventures can add an extra element of excitement to your family beach day.

The area around Kata Beach has numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. You’ll find a good mix of local Thai cuisine, international dishes, and kid-friendly options.

Kata Beach is close to several attractions and activities that are suitable for families. You can take a short trip to the nearby Dino Park Mini Golf, visit the Kata Viewpoint for panoramic views, the Big Buddha, or explore the nearby Kata Noi Beach.

Families can explore the Kata Night Market, which takes place every Monday and Thursday evening. You can browse through stalls selling clothes, accessories, handicrafts, and sample a variety of local street food.  

Kata Beach offers a range of accommodation options, including family-friendly resorts and hotels that cater to the needs of families. Many of these accommodations have facilities like swimming pools, kids’ clubs, and activities specifically designed for children.

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN KATA BEACH

2. Karon Beach

Karon Beach is a popular destination for tourists due to its beautiful sandy beach, clear waters, and a wide range of family-friendly amenities and activities.

Karon Beach offers a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, making it suitable for families with children of all ages. The beach is spacious and not as crowded as some other popular beaches in Phuket, providing ample space for families to enjoy their time together.

Karon Beach provides a range of activities that are suitable for families. You can enjoy swimming, strolling along the beach, and enjoying various water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and banana boat rides.

Karon Beach boasts a diverse selection of restaurants and eateries that cater to different tastes and preferences. You can find international cuisine as well as local Thai dishes, ensuring that there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Families can pay a visit to Wat Chalong, the largest and most important Buddhist temple in Phuket. Admire the architecture, learn about Buddhist traditions, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Visit Dino Park Mini Golf, dinosaur-themed mini-golf course is a hit with kids. Explore the prehistoric setting as you make your way through the 18-hole course. It’s a fun and interactive experience for the whole family.

Visit the Karon Temple Market on Tuesdays and Fridays. This bustling market offers a variety of local food, fresh produce, clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It’s a great opportunity to sample Thai street food and experience the local culture.

Head to Promthep Cape, located at the southernmost tip of Phuket. Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, especially during sunset, and visit the Windmill Viewpoint for panoramic vistas.

Karon Beach is conveniently located, allowing easy access to other popular attractions such as Patong Beach, Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and Phuket Old Town.

There are numerous accommodation options available, including resorts, hotels, and family-friendly villas. Many of these establishments offer spacious rooms, swimming pools, kids’ clubs, and babysitting services.

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN KARON BEACH

3. Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach is located on the western coast of Phuket and offers a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere compared to some of the busier areas like Patong Beach.

Kamala Beach has a relatively calm and peaceful environment, making it suitable for families who prefer a quieter vacation. The beach itself is beautiful, with soft sand and clear waters.

Kamala Beach is located close to the Phuket Fantasea theme park, offers cultural shows, animal performances, and other family-oriented entertainment.

If your family enjoys water sports, head to Phuket Wake Park near Kamala Beach. You can try wakeboarding, water skiing, or kneeboarding on the cable system, suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.

Experience an elephant trekking adventure where you can explore the lush Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket near Kamala Beach. Enjoy a memorable ride on these majestic animals and learn about their conservation efforts.

Take a trip to this beautiful Buddhist temple called Wat Baan Kamala located near Kamala Beach. Admire the intricate architecture, colorful decorations, and peaceful atmosphere.

Join a boat tour or hire a long-tail boat to explore nearby islands and attractions, such as the Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, or the beautiful Phang Nga Bay.

Explore Kamala Friday Market with a variety of local handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, fresh produce, and street food. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and grab some unique souvenirs.

Kamala Beach has a good range of restaurants, cafes, and shops, providing convenient amenities for families. You’ll find a mix of local and international cuisine options to suit different tastes.

There are several family-friendly resorts and hotels in the Kamala Beach area, many of which offer facilities and activities specifically designed for families, such as kids’ clubs, pools, and spacious rooms or villas.

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN KAMALA BEACH

4. Mai Khao Beach 

Mai Khao Beach can be a great choice if you prioritize a peaceful and family-oriented beach experience. However, if you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene or a wide range of dining options, you may find other areas in Phuket, such as Patong or Kata, more suitable.

Mai Khao Beach is known for its tranquility and wide open spaces. It is one of the least crowded beaches in Phuket, offering a peaceful environment for families to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Mai Khao Beach is situated on the northwest coast of the island, near Phuket International Airport, making it convenient for families traveling with young children. It minimizes travel time and eliminates the stress of long transfers.

The beach is part of the Sirinat National Park, which means it has maintained its natural charm with limited commercial development. Families can explore the park’s mangrove forests, spot wildlife, and enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling and walking.

Visit the turtle conservation center, operated by JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, and learn about their efforts to protect endangered sea turtles. You can participate in educational programs and witness baby turtles being released into the sea.

Rent bicycles or book ATV tours to explore the scenic surroundings of Mai Khao Beach. You can ride along the coastline or venture into the countryside, taking in the natural beauty of the area.

Sarasin Bridge is the bridge that connects Phuket to the mainland. It offers scenic views, and you can walk across it with your family. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and take memorable photos.

While Mai Khao Beach is a bit secluded, it is still within a reasonable distance from popular attractions such as the Splash Jungle Water Park, the Blue Canyon Country Club, and the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.

There are several family-friendly resorts and hotels located along Mai Khao Beach. These accommodations often provide amenities and services tailored for families, including spacious rooms, children’s activities, and swimming pools.

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN MAIKHAO BEACH

5. Surin Beach

Surin Beach is one of the best areas to stay in Phuket with family due to its calm and family-friendly atmosphere. It is located on the west coast of Phuket and offers a beautiful sandy beach with clear waters. 

Surin Beach itself is a clean and relatively quiet beach compared to some other beaches in Phuket. The waters are generally calm and suitable for swimming and snorkeling, making it safe for children to enjoy.

Surin Beach offers good surf conditions during the high season (November to April). If you’re an experienced surfer or looking to learn, you can rent a surfboard and catch some waves.

Just a short distance from Surin Beach, Laem Singh Viewpoint offers panoramic views of Surin Beach and the surrounding coastline. It’s a great spot to capture some stunning photographs.

The area around Surin Beach has a variety of restaurants and cafes, offering both local Thai cuisine and international dishes. Additionally, you’ll find convenience stores, pharmacies, and other necessary facilities nearby, making it convenient for families.

Surin Beach is within a short driving distance from popular attractions like Patong Beach, Kamala Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Laguna Phuket complex, and the Big Buddha. You can easily plan day trips to these places and return to the peacefulness of Surin Beach in the evenings.

Surin Beach offers a range of accommodation options suitable for families, including resorts, hotels, and villas. Many of these establishments provide family-friendly amenities such as swimming pools, kids’ clubs, and babysitting services.

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN SURIN BEACH

6. Patong Beach

While Patong Beach is known for its lively nightlife, it is also possible to find family-oriented areas within Patong that are away from the bustling nightlife scene. 

Patong Beach offers a wide range of water activities suitable for families, such as swimming, snorkeling, and banana boat rides. The beach is spacious and well-maintained, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for families to relax and have fun.

Patong Beach is known for its vibrant dining and entertainment scene. There are numerous restaurants and eateries offering a variety of cuisines, including child-friendly options. 

The area features family-friendly attractions such as mini-golf courses, go-kart tracks, and cultural shows that can be enjoyed by all family members.

Patong is a hub for shopping in Phuket, home to the Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Otop Market and Malin Plaza markets. Families can enjoy browsing through the shops and stalls, picking up souvenirs, clothing, and other items of interest. 

Patong Beach is conveniently located on the west coast of Phuket, making it easily accessible from the airport and other parts of the island. It also provides good transportation links to explore other attractions in Phuket, such as the Old Town, Big Buddha, or nearby islands.

Patong Beach has a diverse range of accommodation options, including family-friendly resorts and hotels that offer amenities like swimming pools, kids’ clubs, and spacious rooms.

Due to the popularity of Patong Beach, the area can be crowded and noisy. Families may want to be cautious and ensure they avoid adult-oriented areas such as go-go bars and adult entertainment establishments.

If you value a lively atmosphere, diverse entertainment options, and a wide range of amenities, Patong Beach can be a suitable choice. If you prefer a quieter and more serene environment, you might want to explore other areas of Phuket that are more family-oriented.

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN PATONG BEACH

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Summary – Where to stay in Phuket with kids?

To summarize, Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Kamala Beach, Surin Beach, Mai Khao Beach, and Patong Beach are the best places to stay in Phuket for family with kids. They offer a wide range of family-friendly accommodations and attractions for children of all ages.

Kata Beach and Karon Beach provide a mix of relaxation and activities, while Kamala Beach and Surin Beach offer quieter atmospheres. Mai Khao Beach boasts tranquility and nature, while Patong Beach offers bustling nightlife.

Choose the area that aligns with your family’s preferences for an unforgettable Phuket experience.

About Author: Linda Smith

I'm Linda Smith, the Hotel Expert, an experienced travel blogger who passionate about traveling. I'm here to share with you all my travel experiences and tips. I cover a wide range of travel topics, specializing in sharing information about the best areas, neighborhoods, and hotels in each city. I hope all these things will make your travel easier.

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