Last updated on December 21, 2023
To be honest, I was worried Phuket would be the epitome of over tourism in Thailand – but, while I prefer the smaller islands, like Koh Lanta and Koh Phangan, Phuket still has a lot to offer, and it’s certainly one of the easiest places to travel in Thailand.
If you’re heading that way and are looking for the best Phuket family resorts and hotels, I’ve created a round-up of our favourites. They range from boutique hotels with personality to luxurious 5-star experiences. And all these family-friendly Phuket resorts are the perfect place to relax.
Also see our guide to the best things to do in Phuket with kids. And if you’re off to Koh Lanta too, we have a full Koh Lanta guide, plus a round-up of the best Koh Lanta hotels and resorts. And here’s a bunch of inspiration for the best Thailand family vacations.
The best areas to stay in Phuket for families
When choosing where to stay in Phuket with kids, think about what kind of vibe you’re looking for and the amount of amenities you’d like on hand.
As a rule of thumb, the beaches on the west coast are more developed and have epic sunsets. But they also come with bigger waves and stronger ocean currents, especially in the rainy season. Whereas the beaches on the east coast are smaller with calmer waters, but far less developed and without the epic sunsets. In general, the west coast is the most popular, followed by the southern tip.
Here are some of the best Phuket beach options and areas for families…
Kamala Beach
We enjoyed our stay at Kamala Beach, a lovely 2km stretch of sand with shallow waters and plenty of places to eat, drink and stay. There’s a path that runs alongside the beach lined with little restaurants and street food stands. And the beach itself is set up with sun loungers and parasols that you can rent for the day. It’s all very convenient. And they also have play areas along the sand.
There are more restaurants, bars and restaurants along the main road parallel to the beach. And Kamala is also home to Carnival Magic and Phuket FantaSea. It’s just 10 minutes from Patong but a much more laid back, calm place to stay.
Mai Khao
Mai Khao is apparently the closest to how Phuket used to be and has the most desert-island vibes of the island. This is because the beach is protected so there’s less development along the sand. It’s mainly large resorts who have agreements with the Thai authorities and have created places sympathetic to the landscape.
Of course, being big resorts, they aren’t the most culturally interesting, and you’ll need transport to get to restaurants and shops outside the resorts. But the beach is gorgeous. The south end of Mai Khao is very close to Phuket Airport so you can see planes landing thrillingly close overhead.
Bang Tao
This 8km stretch of sand, just south of the airport, has calm, clear waters in the high season and is a good place for beginner surfers. It’s home to the Laguna complex, a collection of fancy resorts, plus plenty more hotels and restaurants.
It’s quieter and less developed than Kamala Beach, but more so than Mai Khao. The southern end is more developed than the north. Bang Tao is known for being a fairly luxurious place to stay, but the northern end is also popular with local families.
Kata
Kata, alongside Kamala, is one of the most popular beaches in Phuket for families. There are loads of watersports, fabulous sunsets, and plenty of hotel and restaurant options. There’s a playground at the southern end. It’s popular for surfing, and is also fairly close to the Big Buddha.
Nai Harn
Nai Harn is a beautiful beach at the southern tip of Phuket. There are some great hotels down there to choose from and it’s a world away from the seediness of Patong.
The water is slightly calmer than the west coast and there’s lots of shade along the beach. You can hire sun loungers on the sand.
The area is particularly popular with expats and digital nomads and there are lots of cafes and restaurants to choose from.
Phuket Old Town
Phuket Old Town was one of the highlights of our time in Phuket. It’s one of the most culturally interesting places on the island, featuring a historic old quarter of colourful houses and a brilliant Sunday market. There’s no beach so it’s often overlooked as somewhere to stay. People tend to day trip there instead. But we liked having an overnight stop to see a little more of the area. It’s very close to Rassada Pier, so also a good option for an overnight when you have an early boat to catch the next morning.
Where to avoid in Phuket with families?
We don’t recommend Patong, which is home to the sex industry in Phuket and famously seedy. It’s the main party part of the island. However, if you stay away from the main part of town and stick to the beach, it’s still popular with some families as it’s well set up for tourism. We’d opt for something else though seeing as there are so many other good options.
Rawai Beach is one of the most dirty on the island due to the fish market and multiple fishing boats.
Best Phuket Family Resorts and Hotels
Best family hotels and resorts in Kamala Beach
The Pe La Resort
We stayed at The Pe La Resort near Kamala Beach. It’s a gorgeous, tranquil place, set in a tropical garden with 20 stylish suites around two central pools. It reminded me of Bali.
It’s a 15-minute walk to the beach, although you’ll need to walk another 10-15 mins to get to the main stretch. Or you can easily order a tuk-tuk instead.
There are a few restaurants/bars in the immediate vicinity, but you’re not in the central part of Kamala, which in some ways is a bonus as it’s quieter out here. And they also have their own on-site restaurant, which serves an excellent breakfast as well as a small selection of lunch and evening meals (check ahead as evening meals aren’t always available or are served at set times). The restaurant has open sides overlooking the lush gardens and pools, which makes for an attractive dining experience.
It was the first place we stayed on our Thailand trip and a perfect spot to unwind after the long-haul flight. They also have an on-site spa, which I’d have loved to sample had we more time.
Check availability and book now.
Namaka
Namaka Resort is located on the hillside above Kamala Beach, just 1.5km from Kamala Center. While the resort is not beachfront, each room offers a balcony and epic views. Plus, they have a complimentary shuttle to take guests to and from Kamala Beach.
Rooms feature traditional Thai bedding (a mattress on a raised platform) and the resort is styled with Ayudhaya-inspired Thai decor. There are three outdoor pools for days when you don’t feel like hitting the beach, and a restaurant onsite so you don’t have to leave unless you want to.
Check availability and book now.
Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach
If you prefer to stay right on Kamala Beach, Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach is a great option. Note that not all rooms face the ocean, so ask for a sea view if that’s important to you. While they offer a variety of different rooms, if you’re traveling with multiple kids I highly recommend the two-bedroom villas. Not only do they give you extra space, they open right up onto the beach.
Novotel does offer a basic kids club – worth checking out if you’d like to enjoy a kid-free dinner or two. Other amenities include a rooftop bar (complete with a kids’ menu!) and a pool.
Check availability and book now.
More family-friend resorts in Kamala Beach
- Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort. Another resort located on the hillside overlooking the beach, Hyatt Regency offers a free shuttle and they have all the amenities you’d expect from a higher-end Hyatt property. Check availability and book now.
- Sunwing Kamala Beach. The main draw of Sunwing Kamala Beach is the 8 (!) swimming pools. They also have daily “Splash and Play” games in the pool. Check availability and book now.
- Radisson Resort and Suites Phuket. Previously the Swissotel Suites Phuket Kamala Beach, the Radisson is within walking distance of the beach and offers a large outdoor pool with a water slide. Check availability and book now.
Best family hotels and resorts in Mai Khao
Melia Phuket Mai Khao
We stayed at the Melia Phuket Mai Khao as the last stop on our trip to Thailand and it was a gorgeous way to end the vacation. The luxury resort has a focus on wellbeing and has the feel of a high-end wellness retreat. You might wonder how this is compatible with children, but, while it’s well suited to couples, we weren’t the only ones with kids in tow, and they were welcomed with open arms. I think it’s partly due to the spaciousness of the resort that it’s able to blend a sense of serenity with the presence of kids (no mean feat!).
The beach’s national park status means you feel like you’re on a desert island, even though you’re still on Phuket. There’s miles of golden, umbrella-free, palm-fringed sand, and from the beach in front of the hotel you can’t see the next resort. There’s a little bar and massage hut on the sand, but aside from that it feels secluded.
I especially loved the pool (one of two) that faces the beach. And we ate well in the onsite restaurant, including the kids. There’s even a small kids playroom, and you ride bikes around the resort.
The rooms are a highlight, including 30 suites and 70 villas. We stayed in a wellness villa, which included a daily spa treatment and little extras like a vitamin-C shower. The private plunge pool and outdoor bath were a beautifully luxurious touch.
A final highlight was the spa where I had one of the best massages of my life
Check availability and book now.
Splash Beach Resort
Splash Beach Resort is the ultimate Phuket family resort for those who can’t get enough of the water. The resort is located right on the beach, has a pretty epic pool, and the Splash Jungle Waterpark.
Splash Beach Resort also offers a playground and kids’ club, movie nights, and beachside fire shows. The rooms are bright and spacious and many of them have ocean views.
It’s definitely the more family-focussed optionif you’re tryign to choose between that at the Melia (although we personally loved the Melia’s style).
Check availability and book now.
More family-friend hotels in Mai Khao
- Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas. Another elegant family resort in Mai Khao is Anantara, offering villas with private pools. Check availability and book now.
Best family hotels and resorts in Bang Tao
Banyan Tree
Banyan Tree is one of the smaller family resorts in Phuket, offering villas with private pools and a personal villa host. There are no basic hotel rooms here! The whole place is focused on luxury and wellness, tucked away in a private oasis surrounded by greenery.
Each villa is modern and bright, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls looking out over the pool and outdoor sitting area, and decorated with Thai artwork.
Check availability and book now.
Cassia Phuket
With spacious suites offering separate bedroom and living spaces plus a kitchenette and private balcony, Cassia Phuket is definitely a contender for the best family resort in Phuket.
A shuttle boat will take you from the lake to the beach and they offer additional shuttle services as well.
Decor at Cassia Phuket is bright, colorful, and fun, with pops of blue and yellow creating a youthful and tropical atmosphere that the kids will appreciate.
Check availability and book now.
More family-friendly hotels in Bang Tao
- Angsana Laguna Phuket. Angsana’s claim to fame is the largest kids’ club in Phuket. If your kids tend to enjoy spending their days playing away, this is a great option. Check availability and book now.
- SAii Laguna Phuket. Formerly known as Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort, SAii Laguna Phuket is another family-friendly hotel in Phuket with several pools. They allow two kids under 12 in all rooms, with bigger rooms available as well. Check availability and book now.
- Pai Tan Villas. Pai Tan offers both hotel rooms and villas with private pools, including a two-bedroom villa that’s perfect for families. Check availability and book now.
- Dusit Thani. Dusit Thani is another beachfront family resort in Phuket, with lots of water sports activities plus a kids’ club and playground. Check availability and book now.
- Sunwing Bangtao. Sunwing Bangtao is one of the few resorts that actively markets itself as a Phuket family resort, offering an interactive kids’ program and plenty of activities to ensure no one gets bored. Check availability and book now.
Best family hotels and resorts in Kata
Mom Tri’s Villa Royale
If you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Phuket for families, Mom Tri’s Villa Royale is the answer. It’s perched on the cliffside overlooking the ocean yet still just a short walk to the Kata Noi Beach.
The villa was previously the summerhouse of Mom Luang Tridosyuth Devakul, architect, artist, and descendent of King Rama IV. It’s since been turned into 42 separate suites with a saltwater pool, two freshwater pools, and amenities fit for royalty.
Check availability and book now.
Katathani
Katathani Phuket Beach Resort is a beach-front luxury hotel in Kata Noi Bay. Suites in the Thani Wing are the best for those who want direct beach access, but all rooms are are spacious and bright with a tropical Thai design and wood accents. They do offer a family suite specifically for those traveling with kids as well.
One of the best amenities at Katathani is the kids’ club, which is open daily from 9am to 5pm, with various activities specifically for kids. It’s nice to have a place for the kids to hang out if you just want to relax or have a romantic seaside lunch.
Check availability and book now.
Other family-friendly resorts in Kata
- Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket. Centara is one of the best Phuket family resorts if your kids are old enough to enjoy the onsite waterpark and lazy river. Check availability and book now.
- Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort. Le Meridien Phuket offers all of the amenities you’d expect from the chain, including family-friendly activities like mini-golf and a kids pool. Check availability and book now.
- Kata Palm Resort. Recently updated, Kata Palm is a family-friendly hotel in Phuket with traditional Thai decor, a large pool, and onsite decor. Check availability and book now.
- Thavorn Palm Beach Resort. Thavorn Palm Beach Resort is another family resort in Phuket with an onsite waterpark. They have a kids club too. Check availability and book now.
- Ozone Kata. Ozone is located just 150 metres from the beach and a three-minute walk to the night market, giving you great access to the best parts of Phuket. Check availability and book now.
Best family hotels and resorts in Nai Harn
Sunsuri
Sunsuri is one of the best family resorts in Phuket if you’re looking for a bit of opulent luxury and privacy. Located just 500 metres from the beach of Nai Harn, Sunsuri offers elegant Asian design and elevated amenities.
They sometimes promote specific family packages include dinner and cooking classes, but the kids’ pool and kids’ club are always available. They also offer free shuttles to Patong Beach, if you want to visit a busier section of town.
Check availability and book now.
The Nai Harn
The Nai Harn is a well-known 5-star luxury resort in Phuket, offering both sea views and beachfront access. Rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated with wood accents and the occasional pop of color. Perhaps more impressive, though, is the outdoor space.
There are several different areas to relax around the pool or to sit down and appreciate the ocean view. They also have a restaurant and spa on site.
Check availability and book now.
Best family hotels and resorts in Phuket Old Town
Isara Boutique Hotel and Café
When it comes to stylish family-friendly hotels in Phuket Old Town, Isara is at the top of the list. It’s certainly not a huge or luxurious resort like the others on this list and instead has a true boutique hotel feel to it.
They offer family rooms and suites which provide plenty of space for everyone to sleep. The aesthetic throughout the hotel is modern and youthful and they do have a cafe on site so you never have to wander far for a snack.
Check availability and book now.
More family-friendly resorts in Phuket Old Town
- Westin Siray Bay Resort. The Westin Siray Bay Resort is a bayfront property overlooking Siray Bay, with a kids club and restaurant onsite. Check availability and book now.
Best family hotels and resorts in Patong
If you really want to stay in Patong (although we advise you don’t), the Holiday Inn Resort Phuket is a well-reviewed family-friendly option.
Other cool places to stay in Phuket with kids
There are a surprising number of family resorts in Phuket. The ones above made our shortlist when we were researching our trip, but there’s so many others worth checking out. Here are an additional handful of popular family hotels in Phuket you may want to consider.
- Rosewood. Rosewood is a 5-star luxury resort located along the Emerald Bay. The design is the perfect combination of innovative and traditional Thai and the amenities are exactly what you’d expect from a 5-star beach resort. Check availability and book now.
- Laguna Holiday Club. If you prefer extra space or plan to stay for a while, Laguna Holiday Club is a great option. Each suite is set up as a mini studio, complete with a kitchenette. Check availability and book now.
- The Slate. The Slate’s industrial decor is what sets it apart from the other family resorts in Phuket, with art and nature incorporated throughout. Check availability and book now.
- Trisara. Located on the Northwestern tip of Phuket, Trisara offers luxurious villas with private pools and has won many best-of awards over the years. Check availability and book now.
- Anantara Layan Phuket Resort. Antara Layan is a luxury resort in the hillside of Phuket overlooking the sea. They offer unique amenities such as a Muay Thai stadium and Thai cooking classes. Check availability and book now.
- Amanpuri. Amanpuri is definitely a wonderful Phuket resort for families, as it offers several kid-centric activities, such as the Eco-Beach Discovery Centre, which offers all types of cooking, art, and dance classes for kids. Check availability and book now.
- Pullman Phuket Panwa. Pullman Phuket Panwa is a 5-star resort in Makham Bay that combines luxury with contemporary Thai design. Check availability and book now.
- The Village Coconut Island. The Village Coconut Island is unique because it’s not technically located in Phuket but rather on Coconut Island right off the coast. The resort offers endless activities, including mountain biking, sailing, kayaking, cooking classes, boat trips, and more. Check availability and book now.