If you’re considering an investment in Thailand’s most visited island, now is the perfect time to buy property in Phuket. With a booming tourism industry, an ever-growing expat community, and a robust rental market, Phuket offers excellent long-term potential for both lifestyle buyers and property investors.
But with dozens of neighbourhoods offering unique characteristics, choosing the right area can feel overwhelming. Some spots are ideal for short-term rentals and tourist appeal, while others are better suited to retirees or families seeking a tranquil home base. To help you navigate, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to the top 10 areas to buy property in Phuket, based on current trends, infrastructure, investment performance, and local insights.
Before diving in, it’s worth noting: a good location doesn’t just enhance your lifestyle—it also boosts your rental yield, resale value, and long-term growth potential. Let’s explore where—and why—buyers are focusing their attention in 2025.
Bang Tao – Luxury Living Meets High Demand
Bang Tao is one of the top areas attracting high-net-worth buyers in Phuket. Situated on the west coast, it offers an elegant mix of lifestyle and investment appeal. The 8-kilometre stretch of beach is home to some of the island’s most prestigious developments, including Laguna Phuket, a large integrated resort complex featuring five-star hotels, golf courses, and beach clubs.
This area is particularly well-suited to families and long-stay visitors, with international schools, supermarkets, and wellness centres nearby. Villas and condos here tend to hold their value well, and rental demand is strong year-round—especially for pool villas and luxury beachfront homes.
If you’re looking for a prime location that offers both lifestyle and stable rental income, Bang Tao checks every box.
Kamala – Quiet Charm with Exclusive Appeal
Just south of Bang Tao lies Kamala, a coastal village that offers a more laid-back atmosphere. It’s popular with retirees and families seeking peace and privacy without being too far from the action. Kamala is also home to Millionaire’s Mile, a headland lined with ultra-luxury villas offering panoramic sea views—some of the most exclusive properties in Thailand.
While Kamala has a smaller tourist footprint than Patong, this works in its favour for those prioritising tranquility and high-end living. Boutique condo developments, hillside pool villas, and sea-view penthouses offer solid rental potential, particularly for short-term stays.
Moreover, with the town’s continued investment in infrastructure and services, property values in Kamala are expected to continue rising steadily.
Patong – Phuket’s Entertainment Hub
For buyers who want to capitalise on tourism and nightlife, Patong is the place to be. As Phuket’s busiest beach town, Patong draws millions of tourists annually and remains a hotspot for short-term rentals. The area boasts endless dining, shopping, and nightlife options, making it one of the most high-demand locations for holidaymakers.
Due to high foot traffic and consistent occupancy, investors often see attractive rental yields here—particularly with well-positioned condominiums near the beach or Bangla Road. While the area is more commercial and crowded, it’s ideal for investors seeking quick returns and a steady stream of guests.
That said, competition is fierce, and choosing the right building and management partner is essential. Fortunately, we can help you find and manage high-performing rental assets through our property management services in Phuket.
Rawai – Southern Phuket’s Laid-Back Haven
Located on the southern tip of the island, Rawai offers a distinctly different vibe. It’s not known for swimming beaches, but its laid-back charm and strong local community make it popular with retirees, digital nomads, and long-stay expats.
Rawai has seen a rise in modern villas and condos, often at more attractive prices compared to western beach towns. Buyers here often prioritise space, peace, and value over proximity to nightlife. There’s also great access to international schools, local restaurants, and stunning viewpoints like Promthep Cape.
Rawai is an ideal location if you’re buying with long-term rental or personal use in mind. Many villas offer large plots, private pools, and garden space—perfect for guests or families staying weeks or months at a time.
Nai Harn – A Nature-Lover’s Dream
Adjacent to Rawai, Nai Harn is one of Phuket’s most picturesque beach areas. Surrounded by green hills and a peaceful lake, this area attracts travellers seeking beauty and serenity. The beach here consistently ranks as one of the best on the island.
Property in Nai Harn tends to be boutique in style—smaller villa developments, unique condos, and hillside retreats that appeal to couples and wellness travellers. As the area maintains its low-rise, eco-conscious character, demand remains strong and steady.
For investors interested in yoga retreats, wellness tourism, or low-density living, Nai Harn presents a rare balance of rental potential and natural charm.
Chalong – Central, Affordable, and Growing
If convenience is your priority, Chalong is worth serious consideration. Though not beachfront, it offers excellent value for money and easy access to major roads, hospitals, and shopping centres. It’s also the gateway to Phuket’s east coast islands, thanks to its large pier and marina.
This area has become increasingly popular with local buyers, long-term expats, and families seeking space without premium prices. You’ll find affordable villas, gated communities, and townhouses that make great starter investments or long-term residences.
Chalong may not have the glamour of the west coast, but for buyers who value practicality, it delivers great infrastructure and solid returns.
Kathu – Smart Urban Investment
Kathu, located between Patong and Phuket Town, is a smart option for those wanting proximity to everything at a more accessible price point. The area is home to golf courses, local markets, international schools, and shopping malls.
Because it sits just a short drive from both tourist zones and business centres, Kathu attracts a mix of locals, expats, and long-term tenants. This makes it ideal for investors targeting long-term rentals or affordable condos in well-connected areas.
If you want to buy property in Phuket without the beachfront price tag, Kathu offers an excellent balance between value and location.
Phuket Town – Cultural Flair and Urban Convenience
For a blend of history, culture, and rising property value, Phuket Town stands out. This charming district features colourful Sino-Portuguese architecture, boutique cafés, coworking hubs, and local art galleries. It’s increasingly popular among digital nomads, young expats, and Thai professionals.
Phuket Town is also where infrastructure is strongest—top schools, hospitals, government offices, and public services are all nearby. Property here is more affordable than on the west coast, yet steadily appreciating due to increasing demand and improved walkability.
Investors are also eyeing historic buildings and shophouses for boutique hotels or creative conversions, making this an area to watch closely.
Layan – Secluded Luxury
If your goal is privacy, exclusivity, and long-term growth, Layan is a top contender. Just north of Bang Tao, it shares access to the beach and upscale lifestyle while offering more space and tranquility. High-end developments here often include sea-view plots, custom-designed villas, and luxury gated communities.
Layan is still developing, which means early investors may enjoy capital gains as the area matures. And with luxury tourism on the rise, premium villas here are already in high demand for short-term holiday rentals.
For high-end buyers or investors seeking capital appreciation, Layan is a hidden gem.
Surin – Boutique Beachfront Living
Finally, Surin offers the best of both worlds: stunning beach access and a boutique atmosphere. Often referred to as “Phuket’s chic corner,” Surin is home to designer villas, elegant condominiums, and upscale beach clubs.
While prices here are higher, so is the rental income potential. Surin appeals to luxury travellers, making it a favourite for investors looking to generate revenue through short-term stays. With limited space for new development, properties here tend to retain—and increase—their value over time.
Need Help Buying the Right Property in Phuket?
Whether you’re buying for lifestyle, investment, or both, choosing the right location is the foundation of success. Each area in Phuket offers a different combination of price, rental potential, infrastructure, and community feel.
At Inter Property Phuket, we offer end-to-end support—from property search and legal setup to long-term property management. Our team ensures that your investment is not only well-chosen, but also well cared for.
Want to browse available listings or speak to a local advisor? Visit our official site or explore additional investment tips at PropertyManagementPhuket.com.
