Naithon Beach ⛱️ Phuket

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Discover Naithon Beach: Phuket’s Hidden Coastal Paradise

Naithon Beach (often spelled Nai Thon) is a tranquil 1-kilometer stretch of golden sand located on the northwestern coast of Phuket. Tucked away from the high-traffic tourist hubs of Patong and Kata, Naithon remains one of the island’s best-kept secrets. Whether you are a luxury traveler staying at the world-class Pullman Phuket Arcadia or a backpacker seeking a quiet escape, Naithon offers a rare glimpse into the “old Phuket” charm.

Aerial view of Naithon Beach's turquoise water, golden sand, and lush jungle. — Naithon Beach

Why Visit Naithon Beach?

Unlike the more developed southern beaches, Naithon is part of the Sirinat National Park. This ensures the coastline remains lush and fringed by ancient casuarina trees rather than concrete high-rises.

Key Highlights for Your Visit

The “Singing Sand”: Naithon is famous for its fine, golden sand that emits a unique “squeaking” or “singing” sound when you walk on it—a phenomenon caused by the high silica content.
Crystal Clear Snorkeling: The rocky headlands at both the northern and southern ends of the bay are teeming with marine life. It is widely considered one of the best snorkeling spots in Phuket accessible directly from the shore.
Sunset Views: Facing due west, the beach offers unobstructed, panoramic views of the Andaman Sea sunset, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
A Foodie’s Quiet Haven: The single beach road is lined with authentic Thai seafood stalls, fruit vendors, and acclaimed Italian restaurants like Vero Trattoria.

Showing aerial Naithon Beach and turquoise waters — Aerial image of Naithon Beach

Things to Do at Naithon Beach

Relax Under the Trees: The abundant Casuarina trees provide natural shade, meaning you don’t always need to rent a beach umbrella to stay cool. There is not an umbrella area on the beach.
Explore the Hidden Cove: Walk across the wooden bridge at the southern end to discover a smaller, even more secluded private beach area.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): During the calm months, the flat water is ideal for beginners to rent a board and explore the coastline.
Traditional Thai Massage: Local therapists offer open-air massages along the beach road, allowing you to relax to the sound of the waves.

Showing a hammock and tress with blue sky in the background — Relax

Best Beaches Near Naithon: Exploring Phuket’s Hidden Gems

While Naithon is a paradise in its own right, the surrounding coastline is home to some of the most stunning hidden beaches in Phuket. Just 5 minutes south, you will find the legendary Banana Beach (also known as Banana Rock Beach), a secluded 180-meter cove that is widely considered one of the island’s best-kept secrets for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and raw, tropical atmosphere. To the north lies Nai Yang Beach, a sprawling 3-kilometer stretch within the Sirinat National Park known for its shallow, child-friendly waters and local picnic vibes.

For those seeking luxury and tranquility, Layan Beach and the northern tip of Bang Tao Beach are a short 15-minute drive away, offering upscale beach clubs and a unique sandbar walk to the tiny Koh Kala Island at low tide. If you are a fan of dramatic coastal scenery, the drive between Naithon and Surin Beach via the winding Route 4018 offers several unnamed rocky viewpoints and tiny secret coves, perfect for those wanting to escape the mass tourism of the southern beaches.

Best Places to Eat Nearby: From Street Food to Fine Dining

The culinary scene at Naithon Beach offers a delightful balance between authentic local flavors and world-class international cuisine. For a premium beachfront dining experience, Vero Trattoria & Wine Bar at the Pullman Phuket is a must-visit, renowned for its authentic Italian wood-fired pizzas and stunning sunset views. Travelers seeking a more traditional taste of Thailand can head to the beach road for fresh Phuket seafood at local favorites like Baan Phutawan or Coconut Tree Restaurant, where the “catch of the day” is served in a relaxed, open-air setting.

For those on a budget, the vibrant Naithon street food stalls appear every day along the beach road, offering affordable grilled satay, fresh fruit shakes, and spicy papaya salad, making Naithon one of the most versatile spots for dining in North Phuket.

Shameena Restaurant

Shameena Restaurant & Bar stands out as a premier destination for travelers seeking quality, flavor, and a stunning view. Situated directly across from the golden sands of Naithon, this restaurant offers a sophisticated yet relaxed alternative to hotel dining and local street stalls. It serves authentic Thai seafood and Western delicacies all at affordable prices.

Showing restaurant with tree red umbrellas and small green plants — Shameena Restaurant

PRU Restaurant Phuket: A Symphony of Sustainable Fine Dining

Experience the pinnacle of fine dining in Phuket at PRU, the island’s first and only Michelin-starred restaurant to also hold the prestigious Michelin Green Star. Located within the luxurious Trisara Resort, PRU (which stands for Plant, Raise, Understand) is redefining the culinary landscape of Thailand through its visionary “Eco-System Cuisine.” Check out the full review >>>

Showing the brown kitchen counter and the team — Pru Restaurant

Inthanin Naithon Bar & Restaurant

Inthanin Naithon is a relaxed, beachside establishment located along the scenic Naithon Beach road in Phuket. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, it caters to both travelers looking for a quick caffeine fix and those seeking a casual meal with a view of the Andaman Sea. The restaurant serves a mix of authentic Thai favorites—such as Pad Thai and green curry—alongside international comfort foods like sandwiches and light snacks. In the evenings, the focus often shifts toward fresh local seafood, which can be enjoyed while watching the sunset.

Showing few tables and umbrellas with blue sky in the background — Inthanin Naithon Bar & Restaurant

Beach and Bubbles: Chic Sunset Vibes on Naithon Beach

Beach and Bubbles is Phuket’s premier destination for luxury beachfront relaxation. Located on the quiet northern end of Naithon Beach, this “boho-chic” beach bar offers a sophisticated escape from the island’s crowded hubs.

Showing two loungers and two talbes with a bamboo hut bheind — Beach and Bubbles

Where to Stay on Naithon Beach: Top Resorts and Luxury Villas

Finding the perfect accommodation in Naithon Beach depends on whether you seek clifftop luxury or family-oriented comfort.

Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach

For travelers looking for the best 5-star resort in Phuket, the Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach is the area’s crown jewel. Perched on a headland with direct beach access, it offers award-winning ocean-view rooms and private pool villas.

Naithonburi Beach Resort

If you are traveling with children, the Naithonburi Beach Resort is a highly recommended family-friendly hotel in Naithon, featuring expansive lagoon pools (including a man-made sand pool) and large family suites just steps from the sand.

Trisara Phuket

Experience unparalleled luxury at Trisara Resort, Phuket’s premier private pool villa beach resort. Nestled in a secluded cove with a private beach, “The Garden in the Third Heaven” offers the ultimate romantic getaway with world-class comfort under the Montara Hospitality Group.

Shot of the swimming pool of the Ocean View Pool Villa — Ocean View Pool Villa

Other nearby accomodations

For groups and long-term stays, the Malaiwana Estate and Pearl of Naithon offer high-end luxury apartments and villas with stunning views of the Andaman Sea. Those searching for mid-range hotels near Phuket Airport will find Wyndham Garden Naithon Phuket to be an excellent choice, combining modern amenities with a peaceful location away from the island’s more crowded tourist zones.

How to Get to Naithon Beach: Transport and Directions

Getting to Naithon Beach is remarkably convenient, as it is located just 10–15 minutes south of Phuket International Airport (HKT). For the most seamless experience, travelers often book a private Phuket airport transfer or use the Grab app for a fixed-rate fare, which typically costs between 350 and 500 Baht. If you are coming from the south, such as Patong to Naithon Beach, the scenic 30-kilometer drive takes approximately 45 minutes via the coastal road (Route 4030).

While there is no direct public bus to the shore, budget-conscious travelers can take the Phuket Smart Bus to the Baan Khian intersection and complete the final leg via a quick motorbike taxi. For maximum freedom, renting a scooter in Phuket is a popular choice; the winding roads leading to Naithon offer some of the island’s most beautiful jungle vistas, though caution is advised on the steep curves. Most luxury resorts in Naithon, like the Pullman Arcadia, also offer dedicated shuttle services for their guests, making it one of the most accessible “hidden” beaches on the island.