Overview of paid beaches in Phuket

Although all beaches in Thailand are formally considered public, there are several places in Phuket that can only be accessed for a fee or under certain conditions. Most often, this is due to the privatization of the territory by hotels or the organization of beach clubs. Let’s take a look at the main paid and closed beaches, their features, visiting conditions, and additional details.

Paradise Beach (Paradise Beach)

Paradise Beach is located just 5 km from Patong and is considered the most famous official “paid” beach on the island. It is a small bay about 150 meters long, surrounded by green hills.

• Cost: 200 baht for admission (sometimes includes a pouf or welcome drink).
• Facilities: bars, restaurants, sun lounger rental, volleyball court, toilets, and showers.
• Features: regular full moon parties and special festivals. The water here is clear, but the bottom is rocky, so swimming shoes are recommended.
• Pros: amenities, cleanliness, safety, club atmosphere.
• Cons: crowded and noisy on peak days and during parties.

Tip: come during the day for a quiet rest and snorkeling, and in the evening for parties.

Freedom Beach

Freedom Beach is one of Phuket’s most picturesque beaches, surrounded by tropical forest. It is about 300 meters long.

• Cost: there is no direct entrance ticket, but you will need a boat from Patong (~1000-1200 baht for a round trip; for a group, it comes out to about 300 baht/person).
• Infrastructure: several cafes, toilets. Sun loungers are only available during high season.
• Features: you can only get here by sea, as the footpath through private land is officially closed. The beach has a secluded atmosphere.
• Pros: white sand, crystal clear water, no mass tourism.
• Cons: more expensive and logistically difficult.

Tip: come in the morning — the sea is calmer and there are fewer people.

Nui Beach

Nui Beach is a small lagoon only about 120 meters long, located near the Karon viewpoint.

• Cost: ~100 baht for admission, up to 300-500 baht during high season (often includes a drink or a place to relax).
• Infrastructure: bar, restaurant, sun lounger and mattress rental, swings, and photo zones.
• Features: the road here is unpaved and steep, so tourists are usually brought here by SUVs or motorbike taxis. The waves can be strong, so swimming is only suitable for confident swimmers.
• Pros: photogenic, few people, unusual atmosphere.
• Cons: difficult to get to, depth increases quickly.

Tip: visit Nui Beach for a photo shoot and a secluded getaway — it’s a great place for a “one-time” visit.

Karon Noi (Le Meridien hotel beach)

Karon Noi is located between Patong and Karon and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It is about 500 meters long and belongs entirely to the Le Meridien Phuket hotel.

• Cost: Access is limited to hotel guests. Sometimes you can get in by purchasing a day pass to the restaurant or spa, but there are no guarantees.
• Infrastructure: Sun loungers, bars, restaurants, a swimming pool, and a full range of hotel amenities.
• Features: The bay is enclosed by mountains on both sides, creating an atmosphere of privacy.
• Pros: wide sandy beach, warm sea, ideal conditions.
• Cons: virtually inaccessible to ordinary tourists.

Tip: if you are looking for a luxurious vacation, book accommodation at Le Meridien to enjoy Karon Noi.

Pansea Beach

Pansi Beach is located near Surin and is known for its beauty. It is small (about 250 meters), but completely occupied by two expensive hotels.

• Cost: admission is only for guests of Amanpuri and The Surin.
• Infrastructure: hotel facilities — restaurants, swimming pools, sun loungers.
• Features: private beach, no outsiders allowed.
• Pros: high level of service and quiet.
• Cons: completely inaccessible to “outsiders.”

Tip: if you want to see Pansy, book a stay at one of these hotels.

Other restricted beaches

• Laem Singh Beach: previously accessible via a private path for 100 baht, but now only accessible by boat. A beautiful but little-visited place.
• Cape Panwa Beach: adjacent to the Cape Panwa Hotel. The sea is shallow, so swimming is not very comfortable. Access is restricted to outsiders.

Which beach to choose?

FAQ

1. Which paid beach is best for active recreation?
   Paradise — thanks to its sports facilities and parties.
2. Where are the most beautiful views?
   Freedom and Nui — because of their seclusion and picturesque bays.
3. Are there beaches that are completely inaccessible?
   Yes, Pansea and Karon Noi are essentially only available to hotel guests.
4. Can paid beaches be visited with children?
   Paradise is suitable thanks to its amenities, while Nui is only recommended if children are strong swimmers.
5. Are paid beaches worth the price?
   For the atmosphere of exclusivity and tranquility — yes, but in terms of beauty, many free beaches (Kata Noi, Surin, Nai Harn) are just as good.