Patong — what kind of area is it?
Patong lies on the west coast of Phuket and is considered the island's main tourist centre. It is one of the liveliest areas: you could spend your whole holiday here without really leaving it. During the day visitors relax on the beach, walk along the promenade, go on tours and try water sports. After sunset the area changes: night markets, bars, clubs and entertainment venues open up. Patong is especially convenient for first-time visitors to Phuket who want to be at the centre of things.
Patong Beach
Patong Beach is a long sandy beach along the central part of the area. You can swim, sunbathe, try water sports or simply walk by the sea. Nearby there are plenty of cafés, restaurants, shops and tourist services.
When to go
For a quiet time, come in the morning. During the day the beach gets much busier. In the evening it is worth coming back for the sunset and a walk along the promenade. In short: 🌅 Morning — fewer people 🏖️ Day — beach and activities 🌇 Evening — a walk and the sunset
Bangla Road
Bangla Road is one of Phuket's best-known streets and the centre of Patong's nightlife. By day it is an ordinary street in the middle of the area, but in the evening it turns into a pedestrian entertainment zone with music, bars, clubs and bright signs. Even if nightclubs are not your thing, it is worth walking down Bangla Road one evening just for the atmosphere.
When to go
Things really get going after sunset and carry on late into the night. For a simple walk, come at around 20:00–22:00.
Night markets and street food
Patong is a good place to get to know Thai street food. At the local markets you will find: - pad thai; - fried rice; - seafood; - satay; - Thai soups; - mango sticky rice; - fresh fruit; - fruit shakes; - Thai desserts. Prices and quality vary, so it makes sense to walk the whole market and look at a few stalls before choosing.
What to do in Patong during the day
Get a Thai massage
The area has a huge number of massage parlours, from small local places to full spas.
Go shopping
Central Patong has lots of shops, markets, shopping arcades and souvenir stalls.
Try Thai food
You do not have to stick to the popular tourist restaurants. Small Thai cafés away from the main streets are sometimes more interesting.
