Getting Around Phuket
Local Transport – Buses, Tuk Tuks,
Taxis & more
Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Phuket may be a relatively small island, but its charm and beauty extend far and wide. With just a couple of days to explore, you’ll find that getting around this tropical paradise is a breeze. Phuket offers a diverse array of transportation options to suit every traveler’s needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you’re heading to a serene beach, a bustling market, or a hidden gem, the choice of transport can make all the difference.
Affordable Travel
Transportation Options
Exploring Phuket on a budget? You’re in luck! The island offers a range of economical transportation choices that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re a savvy backpacker or simply looking to save on your travel expenses, Phuket’s public transportation has you covered.
Buses for the Budget-Conscious: Phuket’s bus network is a wallet-friendly way to navigate the island. These buses follow specific routes during their operating hours, making them a reliable and cost-effective choice for travelers. If you’re all about stretching your baht, this is an excellent option.
Microbuses, Smart Buses, Songthaews and More: Beyond traditional buses, Phuket also boasts microbuses and smart buses, designed to cater to various travel preferences. The convenient “songtaew” shared trucks offer another unique local experience, while the iconic tuk-tuks provide a lively and colorful mode of transport
Embrace the local rhythm of life as you explore Phuket on these affordable rides. Whether you’re headed to the vibrant markets of Phuket Town or embarking on a culinary adventure in Patong, these budget-friendly transportation options ensure you can see and experience it all without worrying about your wallet.
Microbus price [indicative prices]
If you’re staying in Phuket Town, consider taking a microbus for transportation. These air-conditioned vehicles run from 6 am to 8 pm and have a fixed fare of 20 Baht per person.
From Patong to Phuket Town 40/50 Bath ($ 1.15/1.40)
I suggest inquiring about the bus stops and schedules at the hotel reception or seeking guidance from local residents.
Smart Buses [indicative prices]
The Phuket Smart Bus runs from the Phuket International Airport and stops only at these beaches along the west coast:
1). Bangtao Beach
2). Surin Beach
3). Kamala Beach
4). Patong Beach
5). Karon Beach
6). Kata Beach
7). Rawai Beach
A short trip costs 50 Baht ($ 1.40), payable with a Rabbit card (cash not accepted). Remember to tap your card when exiting, as fares are distance-based, with a maximum of 170 Baht ($ 4.70). Reload cards at designated spots. Each passenger requires a card, but kids under seven ride free; show the driver your child’s passport for age verification.
Rabbit cards can be purchased directly on the Smartbus at Phuket Airport.
Songthaews [indicative prices]
Tourists and locals use bright blue songthaews, the local buses, for trips from Phuket Town. They operate from 7 am to 6 pm, following fixed routes with no designated stops.
The main bus terminal is in front of Central Market in Phuket Town, and you can flag down a songthaew from any major road.
To catch one, wave as it passes, and when you want to disembark, press a buzzer on the roof. Pay the driver after reaching your destination, but agree on the fare before getting in.
Songthaews are cost-effective at 20 to 25 Baht ( $ 0.50/0.60) per person, though they can take longer due to traffic and stops.
They lack air conditioning and don’t travel directly between beaches, but they do offer rides from Phuket Town to various west coast beaches. If you’re at a beach, you may need to return to Phuket Town to connect to other locations. Destination names are displayed in English on the sides of the songthaews.
The main destinations for songthaews are:
1). Patong Beach
2). Chalong
3). Karon Beach
4). Kata Beach
5). Kamala Beach
6). Makham bay
7). Nai Harn
8). Nai Yang
9). Rawai Beach
10). Surin Beach
11). Thalang
Tuk Tuks [indicative prices]
Tuk-Tuk fares (short distance) typically begin at 200 Baht ($5.50) during the day, but prices may increase at night. Always inquire whether the rate is for one person or a group.
Tuk Tuks, often painted red, are readily available throughout Phuket. Unlike the three-wheeled tuk tuks seen elsewhere in Thailand, Phuket’s tuk tuks resemble mini trucks with four wheels. When hiring one, specify your destination, as some drivers may offer scenic detours to increase fares.
Hailing a passing tuk tuk is usually cheaper than taking one waiting outside hotels or buildings. Discuss the rate with the driver before boarding, considering factors like weather, distance, and travel time. Negotiating a slightly lower fare may be possible, but clarify if it’s per person or for your group. In the evenings, when transport options are limited, tuk tuk fares tend to be higher.
Taxi
Taxis are one of the most convenient ways of getting around Phuket. I advise you to define the price with the taxi driver before your ride to avoid any surprises. You can download the Grab app to your phone and use that to hail a taxi, SUV, or limousine. Simply enter your location and destination, and nearby taxis will bid on the job. You’ll get a price estimate, but the final fee will be determined by the meter. The metered rate will include a surcharge for pickup. Taxis with private firms may charge a fixed rate rather than using a meter, which typically ends up costing more than a metered taxi.
Metered taxis are readily available just outside the airport terminal and in popular tourist areas like Patong and Phuket Town. The fares typically commence at 50 baht for the initial 2 kilometers and then add 8 baht for each additional kilometer.
Sample Price
Phuket International Airport – Phuket Town 700 THB ($ 15)
Phuket International Airport – Rawai 800 THB ($ 18)
For one-way transportation from the airport to various locations in Phuket, the cost can range from 500 to 1000 THB, depending on the distance and traffic conditions. When traveling from your hotel to the airport, the price is typically slightly lower because the driver doesn’t have to wait for your pickup.
It’s important to use only official taxis to avoid scams and overcharging.
Motorbike taxis (mototaxis)
Motorbike taxis in Phuket are easy to locate, with drivers wearing brightly colored vests for identification. They’re adept at recognizing lost tourists and may approach you proactively. This mode of transport is both speedy and reasonably priced, with fares negotiated with the driver before the ride begins. If you’re traveling to a remote destination, consider arranging a return time with your driver or paying them to wait for you. While motorbike taxis can take you almost anywhere in Phuket, they tend to navigate through traffic swiftly and maneuver around blind corners. Therefore, it’s a better fit for adventurous travelers. Always prioritize safety by wearing a helmet; most mototaxi drivers provide helmets for riders.
Driving Yourself Around the Island
While numerous public transportation choices are available, some travelers prefer the freedom of driving and exploring at their own pace. If you’d rather not be concerned with bus schedules and taxi costs, think about renting a car or a motorbike.
Renting a car
For budget-conscious travelers seeking to explore Phuket, renting a car is a cost-effective choice. This option provides you with the freedom to roam the island comfortably in air-conditioned comfort, without the variable costs of tuk-tuks and taxis. If you aim to keep your travel expenses low, this may be your top choice. To ensure vehicle availability upon your arrival, it’s advisable to book in advance with an international rental company. Alternatively, you can rent a car at Phuket International Airport from providers like Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, or Sixt. Another option is to inquire at your hotel for recommendations on renting a car or hiring a driver for the day.
Renting a motorbike
Motorbike rentals are easily accessible in Phuket, with rates beginning at just 200 baht ( $ 5.5 )per day for a small bike and going up to approximately 1,000 baht ( $ 21 ) for a larger one. You can often secure a better rate when renting for a week or even a month. A deposit is typically necessary, which will be refunded upon the return of the bike in good condition with the same or more petrol than when you initially received it. Don’t forget to inquire about the insurance coverage included with your rental.
It’s crucial to wear a helmet while driving, as the police strictly enforce a 500 baht ( $ 10.5 ) fine for not wearing one. Given the busy and winding roads, travelers navigating Phuket by motorbike should ideally be experienced drivers rather than beginners.
Additionally, it’s important to note that you need to possess an international driving license translated into English, and it must have been valid for at least one year.
Final tips for getting around Phuket
- Drive with extreme caution and stay vigilant because some other road users may not adhere to traffic regulations.
- Remember to drive on the left side of the road.
- Buses and larger animals always have the right of way, so exercise caution when sharing the road with them.
- Ensure that you have a valid Thai or international driving license with you while driving.
- Before renting a vehicle, thoroughly inspect it with the owner and make a note of all existing damage.
- Never surrender your passport; renters may request a photocopy, but do not permit them to retain your passport.
To earn respect from Thai locals while traveling, it’s essential to show appreciation for their customs and culture.
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