Getting Around Phuket Transport · Boats · Transfers · Phuket

Phuket International Airport (HKT) is located about 45–60 minutes from the main tourist areas such as Patong, Kata, Karon and Phuket Town. Grab and Bolt are the easiest and safest ways to reach your hotel directly from the airport. Airport taxis and private transfers are also widely available, typically costing around 1,000 THB depending on your destination.

Phuket Thailand
Getting around

Local Transportation

Songthaews

  • · Open pickup trucks — Phuket’s local buses
  • · Routes mainly between Phuket Town and beaches (Patong, Kata, Karon)
  • · Limited schedules and slower than other options
  • ·
    Fares: around 100 THB depending on distance
    ≈ €2.50

Grab & Bolt

  • · Widely available across Phuket
  • · Safe and reliable with transparent pricing
  • · Ideal for both short and long distances
  • · Prices can vary depending on traffic and demand

Tuk-tuks

  • · Common in tourist areas, especially Patong
  • · More expensive than in other parts of Thailand
  • ·
    Short rides: 200–400 THB
  • · Always agree on the price before riding

Scooter Rental

  • · Most convenient way to explore the island
  • ·
    125cc Scoopy: 250–300 THB/day
    ≈ €6–8 / $6–8
  • · Motorbike licence required (car licence not valid)
  • · Fine: 500 THB — 3-day grace period before another fine
  • · Always wear a helmet

Get lost… but only in the best way

Phuket is a large island with no metro system — transport relies on Grab, Bolt, taxis, tuk-tuks and scooters. Distances can be longer than expected due to traffic, especially between beaches, so plan your routes in advance.

Island hopping

Boat & Island Transfers

Longtail Boats

  • · Traditional way to reach nearby beaches
  • · Available mainly from Rawai, Kata or Patong areas
  • · Price: variable depending on distance and negotiation

Speedboats & Tours

  • · Main way to visit islands like Phi Phi, James Bond Island or Coral Island
  • · Depart from Chalong Pier or Rassada Pier
  • · Prices: 1,500–3,500 THB depending on destination and type of tour

Ferries

  • · Connect Phuket with Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Krabi
  • · Depart from Rassada Pier (Phuket Town)
  • · Prices: 500–1,200 THB depending on destination
  • · Check schedules in advance — some routes stop in the evening or during rough seas

Book ferries in advance

We recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season (November–April). Some routes sell out quickly and schedules may change depending on weather conditions.

Book ferries →