Thailand's Little-Known Paradise Beach Is The Perfect Place To Avoid Crowds In Phucket

Thailand is a hub of flavor, culture, history, and natural beauty and has been capturing the attention of travelers for ages. From intricate Buddhist temples to the bustling streets of Bangkok filled with the aroma of street foods, the country offers an intoxicating blend of tradition and modernity. Its culinary scene is renowned for fiery curries and mango sticky rice, drawing food lovers from around the world. Yet, it's Thailand's coastline that captivates most.

With over 1,500 miles of coastline and over 1,400 islands dotting the sea, the beaches easily steal the spotlight. Beaches like Railay, Patong, and Chaweng are celebrated for their powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees, intoxicating sun-seekers and partygoers worldwide. However, these popular shores can often feel crowded, especially during peak season. For those craving solitude, Nui Beach in Phuket offers a hard-to-reach yet serene setting. Hidden on the island's southern coast, this hidden gem rewards visitors with its relaxing cove and pristine beauty, making it worth the effort.

Located in Phuket's far south, near the Kata-Karon Viewpoint, Nui Beach is a secluded haven. To get to Phuket, travelers can fly into Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport and take a 12-hour bus ride or opt for a direct flight to Phuket International Airport, just a 24-minute drive from city center. From there, reaching Nui Beach requires about a two-mile trek through jungle terrain or a rough truck ride for about 100-Baht per person from a parking area near the viewpoint. The best time to visit is February to early March when the dry season brings the sunniest weather, enhancing the draw of the beach. The shoulder season from April to June offers fewer crowds and lower costs, but might be hit with rain and storms. 

Nui Beach is a petite 393-foot strip of soft sand framed by towering coconut trees and rugged boulders. It feels like a secret whispered by the jungle itself. Unlike Phuket's busiest beaches like Karon or Patong, Nui remains under the radar, partly due to its challenging access. Navigating the steep two-mile trail from the Kata-Karon Viewpoint or hopping in the truck bed of a mysterious stranger for a jolting ride down a dusty road that you hope is the right one, might not be the holiday adventure everyone is searching for. The effort is rewarded with a tropical oasis that feels worlds away from Phuket's hustle. 

The beach's small bay, now a part of the Water Beach Club, offers visitors a well-maintained shoreline complete with thatched huts and wooden terraces perched above the sand. Crystal clear ocean offers some of the prettiest waters from around the world, with large boulders inviting great snorkeling opportunities with rental gear available for exploring vibrant marine life. Beach volleyball and sea kayaking offer a playful energy, and an onsite spa, elevated to overlook the bay, near a stream-fed pond highlights the vibe. 

What sets Nui apart is its intimate charm. The beach's photogenic swings and framed seats make it a favorite for capturing travel memories, yet it rarely feels overrun, thanks to its remote and involved location. Visitors can lounge under big palm trees, sip cocktails, or paddle on calm waters, while surrounded by sounds of nature. Reviews on travel platforms praise its private beach ambiance, making it ideal for those looking for solitude without sacrificing beauty. 

When you're ready to venture beyond Nui Beach, Phuket offers a wealth of experiences. Phuket Old Town is a must-see, enchanting visitors with its Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful shops, vibrant street art, museums and old mansions. Stroll along Thaland Road to discover quaint cafes, Thai temples, and Chinese shrines, or visit the Sunday Walking Street Market for local crafts and decadent street food. 

For nature lovers, the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary, a rainforest of more than 5,000 acres, is a must. Home to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center, it also shelters moon rats, slow lorises, and colorful birds like blue-winged pittas. Hike to Bang Pae Waterfall, Phuket's most famous cascade, where visitors can swim in the stream-fed pools underneath. The nearby Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is tucked in the dense jungle and offers ethical encounters with rescued elephants, allowing visitors to observe these gentle giants in their natural setting.

A trek to Kata-Karon Viewpoint offers panoramic views and is an easy stop on the way to Nui Beach. Also known as Three-Beach Viewpoint, it over looks Karon, Kata, and Kata Nui Beaches. Adventurous hikers can explore trails around Kata Hills for more temple discoveries and lush and scenic vistas on this popular Thailand tourist destination.