Patong Beach stands as Phuket’s premier coastal destination, boasting a 3 km long stretch of shoreline and an extensive array of hotels, restaurants, and stores, not to mention its legendary nightlife. Interestingly, what draws many to its vibrant atmosphere is often the very aspect that some find off-putting.

While Patong may be characterized by its grandeur, bustling crowds, vividness, and constant noise during normal times, it magnetizes millions of visitors yearly, akin to flies being drawn to honey. If Bangkok is dubbed the Big Mango, then Patong earns the title of the Big Durian: opinions about it are strongly divided – one either falls in love with Patong or loathes it!

Patong’s initial success and popularity revolve around two things: a fantastic beach and a legendary, lively nightlife. The rest? Make no mistake: shopping, dining and foot massages are just the icing on the cake. In any case, the list of things to do at night in Patong is long!

Just stroll up and down Bangla Walking Street at night and you’ll instantly understand why it’s so popular. Everyone’s there: guys, girls, couples and even families with kids. And why not? Patong offers an array of rooftop bars, beach clubs, and top-notch nightclubs. For many, it’s an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime party experience (and an annual tradition for some).

For others, it’s a curiosity to check off their Phuket bucket list and something to talk about back home. Just look at the crowd watching the sexy, feminine ladyboys dancing on a street stage in very skimpy outfits, and you’ll get the idea. And remember, it’s best to be respectful and open-minded during such experiences.

Patong Beach

Patong Beach stretches for a considerable 3 kilometers, but during the peak season, the central part tends to get heavily crowded. Finding parking for both cars and motorcycles becomes quite a challenge in that area.

However, if you head towards the northern part, not far from Novotel Phuket, Four Points by Sheraton, and Graceland Resort, you’ll discover a more pristine and less crowded section of the beach. This area of Patong attracts fewer people, offers ample parking spaces, and boasts numerous local food and fruit vendors for a delightful culinary experience. The water here also tends to be clearer and bluer during high season, with the added advantage of plentiful palm trees providing refreshing shade.

On the southern end of the beach, the water may not always be as crystal clear as it is in the north. In the past (and possibly still available), visitors could rent umbrellas and deck chairs, but they were only accessible on about 10% of the beach. Additionally, during high season, there was a convenient floating pontoon allowing tourists to board long-tailed boats, which whisked them away to the serene and secluded Freedom Beach, a true hidden gem.

Best things to do at Patong Beach

The main reason people come here is, of course, the beach! If you decide to spend the day on the beach, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, treat yourself to a beach massage, try parasailing, or put yourself in danger by renting a jet ski (you’ve been warned).

Beyond the beach and nightlife, Patong offers a surprisingly wide range of activities for everyone. There are rooftop bars, night markets, zip lines, water skiing, cinemas, bowling alleys and large shopping malls that are more fun than you might think.

Patong Beach Massage

Beach massages have always been popular because they’re affordable, very relaxed and the perfect way to unwind and make the most of your day at the beach. There are several types of massage available: foot and leg massages, shoulder massages, Thai massages that involve strong pressure on muscles or pain points.

Oil massage is a great way to relax, and aloe vera massage is a great way to help those sunburns you probably got on your first day at the beach! Massages are performed on a mattress in the shade of a tent and generally cost between 300 and 400 baht.

Patong Surf House Surfing is popular in Phuket during the rainy season, but you can surf anytime at the Surf House Phuket Patong, a fun activity that’s more like a gentle version of wakeboarding. Fortunately, it’s also a lot easier than real surfing or wakeboarding, with a prime location near Bangla Road and the nearby beach.

Shopping at Patong Beach

You could say that “there’s something for everyone at Patong Beach”, but it’s very tourist-oriented. As you stroll along the streets, expect to see souvenir stores, Thai massages, suitcase boutiques, art galleries and plenty of tailors.

Night markets have become incredibly popular in Patong, and there are no less than four to explore, with Otop Market and Malin Plaza being the most popular. There are also two shopping malls to discover here. Jungceylon and Central Patong offer a more sophisticated shopping experience and a great way to escape the heat with plenty of restaurants, stores and activities.

If you’d like to find out more, read our article on the Jungceylon shopping mall, but don’t miss the Banzaan fresh market just behind it – it’s a great opportunity to see real fresh fruit, spices and local produce!

• On the street

Strolling is fun and practical, not least because it’s entertaining while you’re out and about. People aren’t usually there to shop, but something catches their eye as they walk.

It may be something they need but haven’t thought of, but it’s usually just for the pleasure of buying. The asking price always starts higher than expected, so negotiation is necessary.

This starting price varies according to season, central location (near Bangla) and crowd density: you should negotiate harder during high season, especially if the city is busy.

• Jungceylon shopping center

Jungceylon is a huge shopping and dining complex strategically located in Patong near the famous Bangla Walking Street. Here you’ll find a department store, a huge supermarket, a cinema and numerous restaurants offering all kinds of cuisine. Travelers often spend time here before the party, when it’s raining or even when it’s too hot.

• Banzaan fresh market

Banzaan started out as a fresh market downstairs, a bazaar selling cheap clothes on the second floor and a modest food court. Its popularity increased when it opened the night market where visitors can buy mainly seafood and cook it on the spot. It’s a little cheaper than eating out, but more fun, typical of Southeast Asia.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the best of Patong Beach and beyond. Book your dream vacation with Thai Unika Travel today and embark on a journey like no other!