Distances on Phuket are short, but traffic and hills can add time. Start early, keep left, and plan sunset stops on the west coast. You can begin from Patong/Kata-Karon (south) or Bang Tao/Surin (north) and reverse the routes.

Day 1 — Southern coastline classics

  • Karon Beach (08:30) — Wide, easy parking along the beach road; great for a first swim.
  • Kata Noi (10:00) — Smaller, scenic; limited roadside parking—arrive before 10:30.
  • Karon Viewpoint (11:30) — Photo stop overlooking Kata/Karon bays; quick in/out parking.
  • Nai Harn Beach + lunch (12:30) — Family‑friendly; park near the lake or at the southern end.
  • Ya Nui (14:30) — Calm cove for snorkelling if the sea is flat; tiny lot, be patient.
  • Promthep Cape sunset (17:45) — Sunset classic; arrive early as lots fill up. Dinner options in Rawai nearby.

Notes: Expect bikes filtering on both sides; use engine braking on hills. Avoid leaving valuables in the car.

Day 2 — Central west: hidden coves to long sands

  • Freedom Beach (08:00) — Access via a steep road/path; limited parking. Go slow, wear good shoes.
  • Patong (11:00) — Brunch and a quick stroll; municipal/lot parking available.
  • Kamala (13:00) — Family vibe; easy beachfront parking on side streets.
  • Surin (15:00) — Great water color; park along the central strip or side lots.
  • Bang Tao/Layan sunset (16:30–18:30) — Long, relaxed beach; parking near Layan National Park end is usually easier.

Tip: Patong Hill gets congested late afternoon; cross it earlier if you can.

Day 3 — Northern stretch + plane spotting

  • Nai Thon (08:30) — Quiet, scenic; street parking along the beach.
  • Banana Beach (10:00) — Short, steep path from the roadside; limited pull‑offs—be considerate.
  • Mai Khao plane spotting (12:00–14:00) — Near the runway fence; check wind/arrival direction on a flight‑tracking app. Parts sit inside Sirinat National Park—entry fee may apply (bring cash).
  • Nai Yang (15:30) — Smooth water in many seasons; shaded parking by the trees, cafes steps away.
  • Sunset at Mai Khao or Nai Yang (17:45) — Wide horizons and fewer crowds.

Seasonal swap: In monsoon months (May–Oct), west‑coast waves can be strong—consider sheltered east‑side beaches like Ao Yon (Panwa) for swimming.

Parking, fees, and timing

  • Most beach parking is roadside or in small private lots; some charge a small fee. Have small cash ready.
  • Sirinat National Park (Nai Yang/Mai Khao) may collect an entry fee.
  • Download offline maps; set Google Maps to avoid “unsealed roads.”
  • Best beach window: 08:30–11:00 and 16:00–sunset; take a shady lunch break midday.

Safety and etiquette

  • Drive on the left; overtake on the right. Keep extra distance in rain.
  • Watch for motorbikes when turning left and at U‑turn bays.
  • Carry your national license, a 1949 IDP, rental agreement, and emergency contacts.

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