🚗 How to Get Around Phuket: Best Ways to Travel with Pros and Cons (2025 Guide)
Wondering how to get around Phuket during your trip? Whether you’re arriving at the airport, heading to the beach, or exploring local markets, Phuket offers many transport options. This guide breaks down the best ways to get around the island—based on budget, comfort, and convenience. From buses to boats, tuk-tuks to taxis, here’s everything you need to know in 2025.
⚡ Quick Comparison Table
| Transport Type | Price 💰 | Comfort 😌 | Flexibility 🗺️ | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuk-Tuks | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | Short local trips |
| Songthaews | ★★★★★ | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | Budget local travel |
| Phuket Smart Bus | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Airport & beach-to-beach rides |
| Motorbike Rentals | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | Explorers & solo adventurers |
| Grab / Taxis | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Comfort & convenience |
| Private Car Rental | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | Families or group travel |
| Bicycle Rentals | ★★★★★ | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | Short scenic rides |
| Boats & Ferries | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Island hopping & transfers |
| Private Yachts | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Luxury travel & group charters |
| Walking | ★★★★★ | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | Exploring local neighborhoods |
🛺 Tuk-Tuks in Phuket
Tuk-tuks are easy to find, especially around tourist hubs like Patong, Kata, and Phuket Town. While they’re fun and iconic, they can be costly for longer distances.
🚚 Songthaews: Local Truck Transport
One of the cheapest ways for how to get around Phuket is by songthaew—shared open-air trucks used by locals. They’re not fast, but they’re part of the local charm.
🚌 Phuket Smart Bus: Cheap and Reliable
The Phuket Smart Bus is an excellent way for getting around Phuket on a budget. Running from Phuket Airport to Rawai, it stops at all the popular beaches and tourist areas.
- Flat fare: 100 THB
- Live tracking available at phuketsmartbus.com
- Air-conditioned
- Discount passes for long-term visitors
✅ Related: Phuket Old Town Guide
🏍️ Motorbike Rentals: Most Flexible Way to Get Around Phuket
Motorbikes are the go-to option for many travelers. They’re cheap and allow you to explore at your own pace—but be cautious if you’re new to riding.
🚖 Grab & Taxis
These are ideal for comfort or rainy days. Use the Grab app for pre-set fares.
🚘 Car Rentals
Renting a car is the most practical option for families or small groups who want to travel together. Just expect heavy traffic in popular beach areas.
🚲 Bicycle Rentals
Great for local exploration in areas like Bang Tao or Phuket Old Town—but not ideal for long distances or main roads.
⛵ Boats & Ferries
Want to know how to get around Phuket’s surrounding islands? Ferries and boats depart daily from major piers to destinations like Phi Phi, Racha Island, and Coral Island.
🛥️ Private Yachts
Luxury travelers can charter yachts for full-day or sunset cruises around the islands. This is the most exclusive way to travel in Phuket.
🚶 Walking
In areas like Old Town, Nai Harn, or beach promenades, walking is one of the best ways to get around Phuket slowly and safely.
🚐 Airport Transfers
Book ahead for a stress-free arrival. Many hotels offer free or paid pickup options, and private transfers are also available.
✅ Which Way is Best to Get Around Phuket?
| Travel Style | Recommended Transport |
|---|---|
| Budget Backpackers | Smart Bus, Songthaew, Motorbike |
| Families | Car Rental, Hotel Transfer |
| Solo Travelers | Motorbike, Smart Bus, Walking |
| Rainy Season Visitors | Grab, Taxis, Smart Bus |
| Luxury Travelers | Yacht Charter, SUV Transfer, Private Driver |
🗺️ Final Word on How to Get Around Phuket
However you travel—by land or sea—getting around Phuket is part of the adventure. Choose your ride based on comfort, budget, and destination. Plan ahead, stay safe, and enjoy every moment of your trip.
