Staying in Bang Tao and Laguna, Phuket
A long west-coast beach with Phuket's biggest integrated resort area. Who Bang Tao and Laguna suit, getting around and what to expect.
Bang Tao is one of Phuket’s longest beaches, on the north-west coast. Its central section is home to Laguna Phuket, a large integrated resort area built on a former tin-mining site, with several hotels around a network of lagoons, a golf course and shared facilities.
What it is like
- Laguna feels planned and green, with internal shuttle buses and boats connecting the hotels, restaurants and shops.
- The southern end of Bang Tao, near Surin, has beach clubs and a growing number of upmarket restaurants.
- The northern end is quieter, with fewer buildings and long stretches of sand.
- Cherng Talay, the town inland, has supermarkets, cafés and local restaurants, plus many new villa and condo developments.
Who it suits
Bang Tao is a good choice for families, golfers and travellers who want a resort holiday with space and facilities. It is not a nightlife destination, and the beach is long enough that most hotels feel uncrowded even in high season.
Getting around
Bang Tao is about 25–35 minutes from Phuket International Airport, one of the most convenient major beaches for arrivals. Patong is roughly 30 minutes by road. You will want taxis or a hired car for trips beyond the resort area.
Sea conditions
The sea is generally calm from November to April. From May to October, waves and rip currents can make swimming dangerous; follow the lifeguards’ flags.