Surin Beach

Surin Beach is Phuket's most elegant and sophisticated beach — a 1.2-kilometre stretch of wide, firm golden sand backed by a distinctive line of casuarina trees and bordered to the north by the rocky headland of Cape Sinnet, which separates it from Bang Tao Beach's long, more developed shore. The beach has attracted a specific kind of visitor for three decades: the kind who stay at the Amanpuri (still regarded by many as Asia's finest resort, opened in 1988 and consistently rated among the world's best), or at the Twin Palms, Surin Phuket, or Manathai hotels that share the beachfront strip. The result is a beach that feels simultaneously accessible and upscale — open to anyone, but with a clientele and an atmosphere that reflects the calibre of the surrounding accommodation.

The Catch Beach Club, set at the back of the central beach beneath the casuarinas, has been Surin's social centrepiece for over a decade: a sophisticated daytime beach restaurant with direct beach access, sun loungers, a pool, and a menu featuring genuinely excellent Thai-inflected seafood. At sunset, it transitions smoothly from a lunch destination to a cocktail and DJ venue without ever losing the laid-back elegance that distinguishes Surin from the commercial atmosphere of Patong. Reservations for sunbeds and tables are advisable from December to March.

The beach itself is excellent for swimming throughout the dry season — the bay faces northwest, giving it clean Andaman Sea swell when conditions are right, and enough protection from the stronger winds to maintain swimmable conditions most days from November to April. The firm sand makes it one of the best beaches on the island for running, and the casuarina shade at the back provides a cool retreat during the midday heat hours. November's higher winds bring kitesurfers to the northern section of the beach — the visual spectacle of dozens of kites against the Andaman sky is one of Surin's unexpected pleasures.

Getting there: 24km north of Phuket Town, 20 minutes by songthaew from Bang Tao or taxi from Phuket Town (350–450 THB). By scooter from Patong: 20 minutes north via the Kamala coastal road. Best time to visit: November–March for prime kitesurfing conditions and the best beach weather; April and October offer warm water and significantly lower accommodation rates.