Top 15 photogenic places in Phuket that can be reached by car

Phuket is an island renowned for its picturesque spots, ideal for photography. From beaches to viewing platforms, from ancient streets to secluded natural areas, all these places are worth visiting and capturing on camera. Renting a car in Phuket is the best way to explore the island, as it allows you to choose when and where to stop for a photo shoot. In this article, we will introduce you to the 15 most photogenic locations in Phuket that are easy to visit in a rental car.

1. Mai Khao Beach

Description: Mai Khao is Phuket’s northernmost beach, known for its unique shots of aeroplanes. Here you can see airliners landing right above your head at an altitude of 50-100 metres, creating incredible photos.

How to get there: The beach is located in close proximity to Phuket Airport. To get to Mai Khao, take the main road north from the airport and continue to the Renaissance Hotel. Parking near the beach is free, and you can leave your car in the shade of the trees.

Features: Come during the day when regular flights ensure frequent landings. This place is not crowded with tourists, but it is advisable to arrive a little earlier to get a good spot for photos.

2. Wooden staircase on Nai Thon Beach

Description: Naiton Beach is famous for its unusual wooden staircase that leads straight into the ocean, creating a spectacular backdrop for photos. The staircase is especially popular against the backdrop of the sunset sky.

How to get there: The staircase is located on the south side of Naiton Beach, near the car park. To get there, walk about 5 minutes south along the coast.

Features: To avoid the crowds, come in the morning or before noon. The staircase is an ideal spot for photo shoots as well as secluded walks.

3. Main Street in Old Town (Phuket Old Town)

Description: Phuket Old Town is the historic part of the island, where you can take incredible photos of Chinese-Portuguese architecture. Thalang, Dibuk and Soi Romanee streets are particularly colourful, with bright facades, shutters and vintage shops.

How to get there: The old town is located in the centre of Phuket, and you can easily park your car near the main streets. It is best to stroll through the narrow alleys and find quiet corners for photos.

Features: Sunday is the perfect time to visit, as the Lard Yai market is held on Thalang Road on this day. If you want to take photos without the crowds, come in the morning.

4. Café with giant water lilies (Ma Doo Bua Cafe)

Description: This stylish café, located in the Churn Talee area, attracts tourists with its huge Victoria Amazonica water lilies, which form giant circles on the water. This place has become a real photo spot, and you can take spectacular pictures on the platform among the lilies.

How to get there: The café is located in the Laguna area, near the Boat Lagoon Hotel. It is easy to find on a map or by GPS. To access the photo platform, you need to purchase a drink or dessert.

Features: This place is especially popular with lovers of beautiful photos. Come early to avoid the crowds.

5. Bangla Road Arch on Patong Beach

Description: Bangla Road is the centre of Phuket’s nightlife. At the entrance from the beach, there is a neon arch that reads ‘Welcome to Patong Beach – Bangla Road’. It is a great place for photo shoots, especially in the evening when the arch begins to sparkle with all colours.

How to get there: Patong is a tourist area, and you can drive here and park near the beginning of the street. In the evening, the street becomes pedestrianised, and the arch will be visible in the glow of the lights.

Features: If you want to take a photo with the arch in the background, come in the evening. It will be a great souvenir photo that reflects the atmosphere of Patong.

6. Wat Chalong Temple

Description: Wat Chalong is one of Phuket’s most famous Buddhist temples. Its main golden spire and carved statues are perfect for photos, especially in the morning or afternoon sun.

How to get there: The temple is located in the Chalong area, just a 30-minute drive from Patong. Parking is available directly on the temple grounds.

Features: The temple is active, so when visiting, you should be respectful by dressing modestly and avoiding noise. You can take photos at any time of the day, but for the most beautiful shots, it is best to come in the morning.

7. Promthep Cape

Description: Promthep Cape is one of Phuket’s most popular viewing spots for watching the sunset. The cape offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea, and crowds of tourists gather here to watch the sun sink below the horizon.

How to get there: The cape is located at the southernmost point of Phuket and can be reached by car via the Rawai area. There is parking available at the site.

Features: Arrive an hour before sunset to get a good spot for photos. There is also a small souvenir market and café here.

8. Giant swing on Nui Beach

Description: On Nui Beach, located on the west coast of Phuket, there is a giant swing suspended between palm trees. This swing has become a popular photo spot in Phuket, and the photos taken against the backdrop of the turquoise ocean are breathtaking.

How to get there: The road to Nui Beach is difficult, so it is best to go by SUV. There is a sign from the main road between Kata and Nai Harn, and then you need to drive along a dirt road.

Features: Arrive before noon to take advantage of the soft light and avoid the crowds. Admission/parking costs around 100-200 baht, including a drink.

9. Bang Pae Waterfall

Description: Bang Pae Waterfall, located in the Khao Phra Thaeo Tropical Forest Reserve, is a picturesque corner of nature. The water falls from a height of about 15 metres, surrounded by greenery.

How to get there: The waterfall is located in the Talang area and can be reached via Highway 4027. After parking, you need to walk about 500 metres along the trail.

Features: This is an ideal place for photos during the rainy season when the water flow is particularly powerful. You can also take beautiful long exposure shots here.

10. Khao Rang Hill Viewpoint

Description: The viewpoint on Khao Rang Hill offers a panoramic view of Phuket, including the central part of the city and its surroundings. It is one of the best places for photography both during the day and in the evening.

How to get there: The viewpoint is located within Phuket Town. Parking is available on the hill, just a few minutes from the viewpoint itself.

Features: This is the perfect place for sunset photos. There is also a Buddha statue and a café at the top where you can relax.

11. Black Rock Viewpoint

Description: This is a little-known place with stunning views of several Phuket beaches. The panorama opens up against the backdrop of the dark rocks of the cliff on which the viewpoint is located.

How to get there: To get to Black Rock, you need to drive along a dirt road and then walk for 20 minutes along a path. It is better to go in a four-wheel drive vehicle.

Features: This is one of the most secluded places where you can take photos without crowds of tourists.

12. Аквариум Пхукета (Aquaria Phuket)

Описание: Океанариум Aquaria в торговом центре Central Phuket — это крупнейший аквариум на Пхукете. Здесь можно снять удивительные кадры с акулами и скатами, а также сыграть со светом и отражениями.

Как добраться: Аквариум находится в районе Флореста, в торговом центре Central Phuket. Легко добраться на автомобиле, парковка доступна рядом.

Особенности: Аквариум позволяет делать необычные фотографии с морскими обитателями. Для лучших кадров приходите в будние дни, когда меньше людей.

13. Водопад Тон Санг (Ton Sang Waterfall)

Описание: Этот скрытый водопад в густом лесу — одно из самых живописных мест для фотосессий на Пхукете. Мало туристов, много зелени и воды, создающие атмосферу «затерянного рая».

Как добраться: Для того чтобы добраться, поезжайте по шоссе 402 до поселка Thalang, а затем следуйте указателям Phu Pa Sawan Waterfall. От парковки до водопада — около 100 метров пешком.

Особенности: Это отличное место для пикника и фотографий, а также для тех, кто хочет уединиться с природой.

14. Смотровая площадка Самет Нангше (Samet Nangshe)

Описание: Эта смотровая площадка находится в провинции Пханг-Нга и предлагает один из самых потрясающих видов на залив Phang Nga с множеством зелёных островков в море.

Как добраться: Приехать сюда можно за 1 час на машине от Пхукета. Вам нужно припарковаться внизу и воспользоваться пикапом, который поднимет вас на холм.

Особенности: Самет Нангше — это идеальное место для съёмок на рассвете. Лучше всего приехать рано утром, чтобы поймать первые лучи солнца.

15. Пляж Сурин

Описание: Сурин — это один из самых живописных пляжей Пхукета с белым песком и бирюзовой водой. Он идеально подходит для уединённых фото с красивым морем на фоне.

Как добраться: Сурин находится на западном побережье Пхукета. Доехать сюда можно на машине, а затем найти парковку вдоль пляжа.

Особенности: Это отличное место для фотосессий, особенно утром или в пасмурную погоду, когда пляж почти пуст.

Why Holy Cow Phuket is the best choice for car hire in Phuket

When it comes to booking a car, Holy Cow Phuket is one of the best car hire services in Phuket in 2025. Unlike hiring a car locally, Holy Cow Phuket offers several advantages:

• A wide selection of cars — from compact models to spacious minivans and premium cars.
• Transparent rental terms — you can see all the details of the contract at a glance, including insurance and deposit terms.
• Flexibility — the ability to book a car without a credit card and with convenient payment options.
• Russian-language support — 24/7 roadside assistance and support for Russian-speaking tourists.
• Car delivery to the airport or hotel, allowing you to start your holiday without unnecessary worries and waiting.

FAQ

Can all these places be reached by public transport?
Some of these locations may be difficult to reach by public transport, especially remote beaches and viewing platforms. It is best to rent a car to explore the island in comfort and not be dependent on timetables.

What kind of car is best to rent for travelling around Phuket?
Compact cars or crossovers are ideal for most popular places in Phuket. If you plan to visit hard-to-reach places, it is better to choose an SUV or a car with high ground clearance.

What are the best places in Phuket for sunset photos?
The best places for sunset photos are Promthep Cape, Samet Nangshe Viewpoint, and Nai Thon and Surin beaches. These locations offer stunning views, especially in the evening.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Phuket?
The cost of rental depends on the type of car and the season. For example, compact cars can cost from 300 to 600 baht per day, crossovers from 800 baht, and minivans from 1,200 baht.

How can I find the best deals on car hire in Phuket?
To get the best deals and prices, it is recommended to book your car in advance through trusted services such as Holy Cow Phuket.