Updated August 7, 2025
While Patong, Bang Tao, and Kata are Phuket’s most popular beaches, quite a few spots allure the senses of those looking for a more tranquil and slower beach day. Introducing Phuket’s Banana Beach, nestled on the northeastern tip of Koh Hey or Coral Island, where the beautiful azure waters kiss the perfectly soft white sand and coconut trees line the shore.
One of Phuket’s best-kept secrets, Banana Beach was voted Asia’s Best Beach by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards in April of 2025, due to its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Offering a serene escape with its 180-meter stretch of shoreline, it offers calmer and quieter spots, making it a special destination that shouldn’t be missed.
Related article: The Ultimate Guide to Phuket Beaches (Part 2)
Why Phuket’s Banana Beach is Worth a Visit
Here are the top reasons why Banana Beach is a special beach destination in Phuket:
1. Pristine Sand and Crystal Waters
Banana Beach captivates visitors with its postcard-perfect scenery—powdery white sand, crystalline turquoise waters, and a backdrop of dense tropical vegetation that adds to its serene charm. Tucked away on Coral Island, this hidden gem offers an idyllic escape from the more commercialized and bustling beaches of Phuket. The sand is soft underfoot, inviting long barefoot walks, while the clear, calm waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating under the sun.
What truly sets Banana Beach apart is its peaceful atmosphere. Even during Phuket’s busy seasons, the beach remains surprisingly quiet and uncrowded. This sense of exclusivity enhances the overall experience, allowing travelers to connect with nature and unwind without distraction. With no overwhelming tourist presence, loud beach bars, or watercraft congestion, the beach retains a rare, untouched quality. It’s a tropical retreat where natural beauty, tranquility, and relaxation take center stage.
2. Secluded Yet Accessible
Banana Beach offers a peaceful escape that feels far removed from Phuket’s other beaches, yet it remains conveniently accessible for visitors. Situated on Coral Island—also known locally as Koh Hey—the beach is just a short speedboat ride away. Departures from Rawai Beach or Chalong Pier typically take less than 30 minutes, making it an easy half-day or full-day getaway.
Despite its proximity, the beach feels untouched, thanks to its quiet surroundings and limited development. For travelers who prefer a more off-the-beaten-path approach, a jungle hike from Layan Beach provides an exciting and immersive route to reach this serene spot. Whether arriving by boat or trail, visitors are rewarded with clear waters, soft sand, and a calm, relaxed atmosphere.
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3. Thrilling Water Activities
Banana Beach’s waters are calm and shallow on the shore, offering many water activities suitable for families and adventure seekers. Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities to experience in Banana Beach, with its colorful corals and vibrant marine life.
For thrilling activities, parasailing, kayaking, and banana boating are also popular here, perfect for large groups or families.
Though the beach attracts travelers seeking more tranquil experiences, Banana Beach still offers a long list of water activities for the more adventurous visitor.
4. Eco-Friendly Charm
Banana Beach stands out not only for its beauty but also for its commitment to environmental preservation. As part of a designated national park and marine conservation area, the beach is protected under strict environmental regulations that limit overdevelopment and mass tourism. This protected status has helped preserve its natural state—lush greenery, clear waters, and thriving marine life. Instead of concrete structures or flashy resorts, facilities here are built using sustainable materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, and palm thatch, which blend harmoniously into the landscape.
Local operators actively participate in eco-conscious practices, such as minimizing plastic use, managing waste responsibly, and educating visitors about environmental respect. These efforts ensure that tourism doesn’t come at the expense of the ecosystem. By promoting low-impact activities and conservation-minded experiences, Banana Beach sets a strong example of how tourism and nature can coexist. This balance helps maintain its untouched, rustic charm for generations to come.
5. Unique Beach Dining Experience
While isolated from the rest of the hustle and bustle of Phuket, Banana Beach still serves up some unique dining experiences. Beachfront eateries offer fresh seafood and traditional Thai dishes, while the laid-back atmosphere of its restaurants and cafes provides a relaxing setting for tropical lunches with a view.
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Banana Beach’s most popular dining establishments include the Hornbill Restaurant, which is named after the island’s native hornbill birds. An open-air eatery, it is made with bamboo structures for a rustic feel, serving various fresh seafood and Thai dishes.
Other nearby dining options include the Sea Breeze Thai Restaurant, the Nikitas Beach Restaurant, and other local eateries serving fresh seafood, international dishes, and traditional Thai cuisine.
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These establishments present a variety of dining experiences, from beachfront eateries to more formal settings, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
Your Tranquil Slice of Paradise in Phuket
Phuket offers unique experiences for everyone, whether it’s a lively and popular beach or more peaceful spots for relaxing. Banana Beach, the top destination for a relaxing beach in Phuket, is a tranquil paradise that perfectly blends eco-conscious charm, water adventures, and natural beauty.
Take a short boat ride from Chalong Pier and reach Koh Hey in under 30 minutes, allowing you to spend a day of relaxing, water activities, and laid-back dining options. Savor the fresh seafood on Banana Beach’s beachfront restos, swim in its crystal-clear waters, or enjoy an exciting banana boat ride with your group of friends or family.
For guests staying at luxury villas around Phuket, Banana Beach makes for an easy and rewarding day trip. Ask your villa’s Guest Experience team to arrange a visit—whether by private boat, a guided tour, or a custom itinerary including lunch and watersports.
For a slower, more peaceful beach getaway, add Banana Beach to your Phuket itinerary for a truly special experience.
Related article: Top 10 Phuket Best Beaches
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Featured Image: Tripadvisor
The Luxury Signature represents and manages reservations of the finest villa rentals in Southeast Asia, specializing in some of the most stunning destinations including the islands of Phuket and Samui in Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia.
