Mai Khao Beach Phuket – Where Solitude Meets Sky-High Thrills

Escape to Mai Khao Beach, Phuket’s longest and quietest stretch of sand. Discover peaceful seascapes, thrilling plane spotting, and luxurious beachfront stays.

Mai Khao Beach feels like the place time forgot — in the best way possible. Spanning over 11 kilometers along Phuket’s northwest coastline, this is the island’s longest beach, yet one of its most uncrowded. Here, you won’t find rows of beach umbrellas or the sound of jet skis — just long stretches of soft, untouched sand, the rhythmic pulse of the waves, and the occasional airplane soaring low overhead.

Located just minutes from Phuket International Airport, Mai Khao is where quiet relaxation meets unique island experiences — whether you’re sunbathing in silence or standing beneath a 747 on final approach.

A Beach That Offers Space to Breathe

Unlike the more commercial beaches to the south, Mai Khao has remained largely undeveloped thanks to its protected status as part of Sirinat National Park. That protection is part of its magic. There are no noisy bars or water sports zones. Just sea, sky, and serenity. The sand is a pale gold, soft underfoot, and the sea stretches endlessly — offering picture-perfect scenes especially during early morning and sunset hours.

Because of its scale and remoteness, you can walk for half an hour in either direction and see maybe a handful of people, most of them hotel guests or locals enjoying the peace.

One-of-a-Kind Plane Spotting

Mai Khao is famous among photographers and aviation enthusiasts for one very particular reason — the southern end of the beach sits right beneath the flight path into Phuket International Airport. Few other places in the world allow beachgoers to lie back on the sand and watch aircraft fly just meters overhead.

This phenomenon draws crowds to a specific stretch of beach near the runway fence, where people pose dramatically with planes descending directly above them. It’s loud, thrilling, and surreal. But head just 500 meters north and you’re back to total quiet. It’s this odd contrast that makes Mai Khao so unique — peaceful isolation with a dash of high-flying excitement.

Swimming and Beach Activities

Mai Khao Beach is ideal for swimming during the dry season (November to April), when the Andaman Sea is calm and clear. The long shallows mean you can wade out gently, and the absence of crowds makes it feel private.

However, in the rainy season, currents can be strong and the beach shelves steeply in parts. Warning flags are usually posted, and it’s important to respect them. Lifeguards are not always present, so always swim with caution.

For couples and solo travelers, the beach is perfect for yoga at sunrise or long barefoot walks at dusk. The sunsets here are some of the best on the island — with nothing but sea and horizon in view.

Things to Do Nearby

1. Splash Jungle Water Park

Just five minutes from the beach, this family-friendly park is packed with slides, a wave pool, lazy river, and kid zones. It’s a hit with children and parents looking for a day away from sand and sun.

2. Soi Dog Foundation

A short drive inland, this nonprofit animal sanctuary offers educational tours and volunteer experiences. It’s a rewarding stop for anyone who wants to give back while in Phuket.

3. Sirinat National Park

For nature lovers, the park’s nearby mangrove trails and turtle nesting zones provide an eco-friendly way to learn more about Phuket’s wildlife. Turtles occasionally nest on Mai Khao between November and February — a rare sight worth catching.

Where to Eat Around Mai Khao Beach

While the beach itself has few commercial outlets, the area around it is home to several excellent restaurants — many attached to luxury resorts but open to non-guests.

1. Sea.Fire.Salt at Anantara Mai Khao

Oceanfront fine dining with grilled seafood, a salt sommelier, and elegant ambiance.

2. Kin Dee Restaurant

A local favorite just off the main road, known for authentic Thai flavors, friendly service, and reasonable prices.

3. SALA Phuket’s Restaurant & Rooftop Bar

Offering gourmet Thai and international dishes with poolside and rooftop settings. Perfect for a romantic dinner.

For more casual bites, you’ll also find roadside eateries near the main access road to the beach offering fresh coconuts, papaya salad, grilled chicken, and fruit smoothies.

Shopping Near Mai Khao Beach

Shopping in Mai Khao is more laid-back and spread out than in Patong or Kata. That said, there are still worthwhile spots to pick up essentials, souvenirs, or upscale goods.

1. Turtle Village

A compact open-air plaza with cafes, boutiques, beachwear shops, and a supermarket. Ideal for snacks, sunblock, or a chilled coffee break.

2. Mai Khao Plaza

Home to a few convenience stores, a pharmacy, and some local stalls offering sarongs, handmade soaps, and wooden souvenirs.

3. Central Phuket (45 min drive)

If you’re craving a full-scale mall experience, head down the highway to Central Festival and Central Floresta for luxury brands, electronics, and fashion.

Where to Stay

Many of Phuket’s most luxurious beachfront resorts are located along Mai Khao — most blending into the natural environment to maintain the beach’s calm atmosphere.

• Anantara Mai Khao Villas – Secluded luxury with private pools and lush tropical gardens.
• JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa – A sprawling beachfront resort with multiple pools, kids’ club, and restaurants.
• SALA Phuket – Chic minimalist design and intimate villas — perfect for honeymooners.
• Holiday Inn Resort Mai Khao – Family-friendly, affordable, and directly on the beach.

Insider Tips

• Bring your own mat or towel: There are no sunbeds or umbrella rentals on the beach.
• Come early for sunrise yoga or jogs: The beach is especially magical at dawn.
• Be mindful of strong waves during monsoon months: Avoid swimming during red-flag days.
• Don’t miss the plane spotting: Best between 10am–3pm when most international flights land.