Phuket’s international airport has direct flights from many Asian countries, such as Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore and Tokyo.

Regular domestic flights to/from Bangkok take about one hour. Phuket also has connections to the airport of Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Koh Samui, Krabi, Surat Thani and Trang. Low cost regional airlines, such as Air Asia, Bangkok Air, Nok Airways and the national Thai Airways, all fly in and out of Phuket.

If you have not arranged transport with your hotel, you can either rent a car at the airport or take a taxi. Touts hang outside the terminal, offering rides in cars or mini vans for a fixed rate. Metered taxis are yellow and red and have a stand outside in the parking lot. Pay 100 Baht at the meter taxi stand and the rest of the journey will go by the meter. This is a cheaper option than the non-metered taxis.

Buses from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal regularly make the 12 hour trip to Phuket. There are day buses and overnight buses.

Trains do not go to Phuket. The nearest train station is in Surat Thani, 12 hours from Bangkok. From there you can either take a plane or bus to Phuket.

The most popular form of ‘bus’ transport in Phuket, are songtaews or bus/trucks. These vehicles, painted bright blue in Phuket are easily identifiable. They offer a cheap, if slow way of getting around, covering the main routes between the beaches and Phuket Town. As there are no official bus stops, passengers can get off or flag them down anywhere on their route. Fares run from 10 Baht (US .25 cents) for a short trip to about 40 Baht for a lengthier journey.

Tuk-tuks, small red mini-vans, are a common mode of transport. These like the rest of the public transport on the island, can be hailed anywhere along a particular route or you will find them parked waiting for passengers. The price is negotiable and it’s a good idea to agree on the fare before you climb in. 

Motorcycle taxis are everywhere. Easy to find in their usually red or yellow numbered vests, they hang around most of the busier intersections. Again it is wise to sort out the price before departure. A trip anywhere within the boundaries of one town is 20-50 Baht. Longer journeys cost more.

Car and jeep rental is reasonably priced and readily available. It is one of the best ways to explore the island. Check that the vehicle you are hiring is covered by insurance. Unless hiring from a reliable source you may find it is not insured- then it is the driver’s responsibility to pay for any damages. Also note the condition of the vehicle before leaving, so there are no ‘surprise damages’ upon return. By law seat belts must be worn by the driver and front seat passenger. To rent a vehicle you need a driver’s license from your home country or international driver’s license obtained in your home country. Bring a copy of your passport as some rental agencies will request to keep the original.

Motorbike rentals are easy to find and very inexpensive-about 150 Baht per day. Insurance is not available for motorcycles and any damages incurred are the driver’s responsibility. The law requires motorbike drivers to wear helmets.

Keep in mind that Phuket and Thailand for that matter has the world’s highest road accident rate per capita. Be careful and stay alert at all times! If you are travelling with children, don’t risk renting a motorbike. Rent a car or jeep.