methods to suit different travel paces and styles. Let’s break down the most common forms of transportation in Phuket and get useful tips and information. If you’re looking for an interesting and unique place to add to your trip itinerary, consider a pearl farm tour in Phuket.
Phuket Transportation Options
Tuk-Tuk
In Phuket, tuk-tuks are small, four-wheeled vans ideal for short trips within town. They have open backs and sides and can carry about five passengers. You can find them around popular beaches like Patong and Karon. Tuk-tuks are fun, fast, and a great way to add a local flavor to your trip, though fares can be higher in tourist-heavy areas. Always agree on the price before hopping in.
Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps
You’ll typically find metered taxis at designated stands near the airport, hotels, and popular tourist areas like Old Phuket Town and Patong Beach. Or, you can opt for ride-hailing apps. Grab, Bolt, and InDrive are some of the popular ride-hailing apps that offer convenient alternatives for private transportation.
Songthaews
Songthaews are local buses that are a standard and affordable mode of public transportation. They’re essentially modified pickup trucks with bench seating, easily recognized by their blue color and open-air design. They run on fixed routes, usually within Phuket Town and major beaches. They’re often one of the cheapest ways to travel within Phuket.
Motorbike Taxis
Motorbike taxis, also known informally as moto-sai or moto, are a common mode of transportation in Phuket, especially for short distances. Quick and inexpensive, they’re the preferred choice for many locals. Drivers of motorbike taxis wear brightly colored vests and wait for passengers at designated areas. Fares vary depending on the distance.
Phuket Smart Buses
The Phuket Smart Bus is a public transport system that operates on a fixed route and follows a set schedule. The fare is 100 Baht, and the bus stops at the international airport, Surin, Patong, Kata, Karon, and Rawai. These modern, air-conditioned buses are suitable for passengers traveling one way along the bus route.
Rental Cars and Motorbikes
If you’re confident on the road and prefer to have full control of your itinerary, you can rent a car or a motorbike. Cars may be the better choice if you’re traveling as a family or a group and planning to visit several places in one day. Motorbikes are more ideal for solo travelers or couples who have experience riding on Thai roads and are familiar with the road rules. Prioritize safety, like wearing seatbelts and helmets, and consider insurance before renting.
Tips for Using Public Transportation in Phuket
Be cautious with motorbikes: Phuket roads can be unpredictable. If you’re not confident driving a motorbike, consider other options. If you do rent a bike, be sure to wear a helmet and avoid driving at night or during heavy rain.
Plan around traffic: Tourist-heavy areas like Phuket Town and Patong Beach tend to get congested, especially on weekends and holidays. Try to avoid peak hours and plan your travel mid-morning or mid-afternoon.
Use Google Maps: Use navigation tools like Google Maps to check directions and estimate travel times so you can save time and avoid getting lost.
Travel to Amorn Phuket Pearl Farm
Now that you have an idea of how to get around in Phuket, you can explore the island with ease. If you want a unique and interesting experience, add Amorn Phuket Pearl Farm to your trip itinerary. Visit the oldest pearl farm in Thailand, offering pearl farming tours. See firsthand the rich tradition of pearl cultivation and the harvesting process of world-class quality pearls. You’ll also get to visit our workshop, where pearls are crafted into jewelry, and our showroom, where you can view exquisite jewelry pieces. Book a tour today.
References:
Getting Around Phuket. Retrieved on May 27, 2025 from: https://travel.usnews.com/Phuket_Thailand/Getting_Around/
Phuket Taxis, Tuk Tuks and Buses – Getting Around Phuket. Retrieved on May 27, 2025 from: https://www.phuket101.net/getting-around-phuket/
