Phuket is Thailand's largest island, measuring 48 km (30 miles) from north to south and 21 km (13 miles) at its widest. It's one of the most popular holiday destinations in Thailand. Phuket offers more than 30 stunning beaches as well as history, culture, markets, lush jungles, villages, and towns to explore.
Transportation is essential for getting around Phuket, given the island's size and wide range of attractions. The island doesn't have a reliable public transport system. However, with the well-developed tourist infrastructure, there are various options for transportation in Phuket.
It's not hard to get around in Phuket. Your options range from the open-air Songthaew minibus to the comfort of a private limousine with driver. Before deciding which is best for you, consider your destination, budget, and personal preference. So here are your options to help you make informed decisions to navigate effectively.
Table of Contents
- Songthaew Minibus
- Tuk-Tuk Taxi
- Metered Taxi
- Grab Taxi
- Phuket Smart Bus
- Renting a Car
- Renting a Motorcycle
- Private Car With Driver
By Songthaew Minibus
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Songthaews are a popular way to get around. They are converted pickup trucks with open-air bench seats in the back. They are a lot of fun to ride for many tourists and don't look like the buses you usually see back home. Since they are shared rides, you'll be riding with other passengers.
These blue minibuses offer an affordable mode of transportation in Phuket. Often used by locals, they are generally easy to find in tourist areas like Patong, Kata, and Phuket City. You'll find more frequent service during peak hours and high tourist seasons. It's less frequent during the off-peak hours and in less touristy areas.
Songthaews follow set routes and usually run between 7 AM and 6 PM. Fares depend on the distance, usually between 30 and 50 THB (0.80-1.40 USD). The rides are fixed fares, but confirm the price with the driver when mentioning your destination before getting in.
Songthaews often park at popular pickup points, near markets, malls, and major intersections. The driver usually waits for enough passengers to fill the vehicle. There are no fixed stops, and the driver will stop when a passenger presses the buzzer or sees someone waiting by the road.
There are several routes, each originating from the Terminal 1 bus station in Phuket City. Each route connects to a different beach destination on the island's west coast, including Nai Harn, Karon-Kata, Patong, and Kamala. Except for Karon and Kata, the routes don't run from one beach to another.
By Tuk-Tuk Taxi
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Unlike the 3-wheel tuk-tuks in Bangkok, which are from converted motorcycles, tuk-tuks in Phuket are modified mini-vans designed to carry up to 4-5 passengers. Like songthaews, tuk-tuks have open-air bench seats. Unlike Songtheaws, they operate as taxis and are more expensive to ride.
You'll often find these open-air taxis in popular tourist areas such as Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town. They are convenient for traveling to popular destinations like nearby beaches, markets, and shopping centers. You'll find them parked by the roadside waiting for passengers, or you can flag an approaching tuk-tuk on the road.
Tuk-tuks don't have meters. Typically, the driver will initially ask for a higher price. So negotiate with the driver before getting in. Be realistic with your haggling since tuk-tuks are not cheap. The drivers are legally within their rights not to accept fares for less than 200 THB (6 USD), even for less than a minute ride.
To give you an idea, the fare from Kata to Karon, which is 1 km (0.7 miles) away, costs around 200 THB (6 USD). Fares from Patong to Phuket Old Town, 14 km (8.7 miles) away, cost 500 THB (14 USD). It'll cost you more during peak hours and late evenings when you'll find fewer options.
Tuk-tuks are a fun way to get around Phuket but are not a cheap option if traveling alone. Then again, with 3-4 people traveling in the tuk-tuk, you may want to consider at least for the experience. Make sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
By Metered Taxi
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Arriving at Phuket Airport, metered taxis are readily available. You can find them outside the international and domestic arrival terminals. Approach one of the taxi queues, and a staff will assign you to the next available taxi. There's a 100 THB (3 USD) surcharge, and the fare is based on the taxi meter.
Outside the airport, there are not that many taxis on the island. Most are stationed near major hotels, shopping centers, and busy tourist areas like Patong's Bangla Road. Many major hotels and resorts can arrange a taxi for their guests. If you attempt to flag one down on the streets, it's often a long wait.
Even though the sign on the roof reads "Meter Taxi," it doesn't necessarily ensure that the driver will use the meter, especially for long journeys or when traveling to less common destinations. While they should use the meter, if the driver firmly refuses, then negotiate the fare or consider other options.
Most drivers can speak English. While metered taxis in Phuket are pricey, you can expect a comfortable ride with air-conditioning. To give you an idea, here are some indicative fares on the island.
- Patong Beach to Karon Beach, 9 km (6 miles): 350 THB (10 USD)
- Patong Beach to Phuket Old Town, 15 km (9 miles): 500 THB (14 USD)
- Kamala Beach to Karon Beach, 17 km (11 miles): 550 THB (15 USD)
- Surin Beach to Phuket Old Town, 29 km (18 miles): 700 THB (19 USD)
- Phuket Airport to Patong Beach, 35 km (22 miles): 900 THB (25 USD)
By Grab Taxi
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If you're looking for the ride-hailing service Uber in Phuket, there isn't any. But there's Grab, and it's similar to Uber. It's the most popular ride-hailing service in Thailand and many countries in Southeast Asia. You can download the app to your smartphone, and there's an English version.
Although Grab taxis come with a higher price tag, it allows you to view your vehicle options and the ride's price before booking. You don't worry about negotiating fares, unlike tuk-tuk or taxi drivers who may be reluctant to use the meter. Note that Grab taxis can't pick you up from Phuket Airport.
The service is a trusted and secure option, which makes it popular with locals and tourists. You can book a Grab taxi from nearly any location in Phuket, excluding the airport. Input your pickup and drop-off points, and select your preferred vehicle type. The driver may contact you to verify your pickup point.
The app is very reliable. It features a real-time map that tracks the taxi you've reserved as it approaches your location. Additionally, when you select your destination, the driver knows where to go, eliminating the need for you to show the directions. Furthermore, all Grab taxis have air conditioning for your comfort.
Phuket Smart Bus
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Phuket Smart Bus is one of the cheapest modes of transportation in Phuket. The buses travel on the island's west coast between Phuket Airport (north of the island) and Rawai Beach (south of the island). With 15 stops during the journey, they are not the fastest way to travel, but certainly affordable.
The blue and white buses operate every hour from around 8:30 AM until 10:30 PM. The main stops on the route encompass many popular beaches in Phuket, including Laguna Phuket, Surin, Kamala, Patong, Karon, and Kata, all before reaching Rawai. All the stops are near the main attractions.
Tickets cost 100 THB (3 USD) for each trip, regardless of the distance. For cost savings, you can opt for a 3-day pass priced at 499 THB (14 USD) or a 10-day pass at 1,000 THB (28 USD), offering unlimited trips. Payment for the ticket and pass is straightforward. You can purchase on the bus directly from the driver.
All buses are air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable ride. They also provide free Wi-Fi and a USB port at each seat. While the buses follow designated stops, you can flag it down if you spot an approaching bus along the road, except near corners or turning points. For updates and the latest schedules, visit the Phuket Smart Bus website.
Renting a Car
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If you're open to driving in Phuket, renting a car offers the flexibility to explore the island at your leisure. You can make the most of your time driving on your own. Note, that cars in Thailand drive on the left side of the road, and the steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle.
There are several international and reputable local car rental companies at Phuket Airport. International companies include Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, and Budget. Local companies include Chic Car Rent, Drive Car Rental, and Thai Rent a Car. You can also request your hotel to arrange a rented car for you.
Instead of booking a car once you arrive at Phuket Airport or your hotel, it may be better to book online in advance. During the high tourist season, you might find limited options, and the type of car you prefer might not be available. Booking online in advance offers a wider selection of vehicles and better rates.
The minimum age to rent a car is 21 years (this may differ among rental companies). If your driver's license is not in English, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Citizens from the ASEAN countries don't need an IDP and can use their national driver's license.
Ensure you're fully insured to drive the rented car and understand the return procedures. Major roads and highways are generally well-maintained, but some small or less-traveled roads may have potholes or uneven surfaces. A navigation app on your mobile device is a great help to find your way around the island.
Renting a Motorcycle
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Renting a motorcycle or scooter is another great way to explore Phuket on your own, but does carry some risks. Several primary roads on the island can have fast-moving traffic, while hillside routes feature steep inclines. Some less-traveled roads may be in paltry condition. So ride a motorcycle only if you're qualified.
If you plan to ride one, rental shops are widespread throughout Phuket, particularly in tourist areas such as Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town. You'll find plenty, from the small local shops to larger operators. You can also find good deals from several booking sites.
Prices start from 200 THB (6 USD) per day for a basic 150 cc bike to 1,400 THB (38 USD) for a more powerful, bigger, and comfortable 500 cc vehicle. It's cheaper if you rent for the week and even less for a month. You'll need to provide a deposit, which will be refunded when you return the bike.
To rent a motorcycle, you must be at least 18 years old. You need a valid motorcycle license from your home country or an International Driving Permit (recommended). The rider and passenger are legally required to wear a helmet when riding. The operator should provide one, and make sure it fits properly.
Check the insurance coverage offered by the operator, and be aware of the terms in case of accidents or damage. Carefully inspect the bike before accepting, take photographs of pre-existing damage, and ensures the operator is aware. This will avoid disputes regarding damages when you return the bike.
Private Car With Driver
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If you prefer not to drive but want a private vehicle, you can hire one with a driver to take you around. It's one of the most expensive options. That said, it's a relaxing way to explore Phuket without the stress of driving on unfamiliar roads. Besides, you get a personalized service from the driver who can customize your trip.
In popular tourist areas, you can readily find cars with drivers parked by the roadside. Be prepared to negotiate the fare with the drivers. Many hotels and resorts can help you arrange this service. Also, doing an online search using keywords such as "Phuket car rental with driver" will yield results from several local businesses.
The price varies based on your vehicle choice and the duration of your rental. Here's a rough estimate to give you an overview.
- Standard car (maximum 3 passengers): 6 hours - 1,700 THB (47 USD), 8 hours - 2,000 THB (55 USD), 10 hours - 2,500 THB (69 USD)
- Family car (maximum 4 passengers): 6 hours - 1,900 THB (52 USD), 8 hours - 2,200 THB (60 USD), 10 hours - 2,700 THB (74 USD)
- Standard van (maximum 6 passengers): 6 hours - 2,200 THB (60 USD), 8 hours - 2,500 THB (69 USD), 10 hours - 3,000 THB (82 USD)
- Family van (maximum 10 passengers): 6 hours - 2,400 THB (66 USD), 8 hours - 2,700 THB (74 USD), 10 hours - 3,200 THB (88 USD)
English is the common language used by nearly all drivers when dealing with their international customers. They have good knowledge of Phuket, enabling them to customize your trip. Discuss your schedule and where you want to go, and they'll plan the best route. They can even suggest a plan based on your preference.
