Mai Khao Beach
Mai Khao is the longest beach in Phuket, an unbroken ribbon of golden sand curving along the island's north coast. Backed by casuarina pines and protected as part of Sirinat National Park, it feels worlds away from the bustle further south. Come here for space, big skies and the simple pleasure of having a beach almost to yourself.
The northern end runs right alongside Phuket International Airport, which makes Mai Khao one of the island's most thrilling spots to watch jets thunder in low overhead. Walk a little further and the crowds vanish entirely, leaving wide flat sand, gentle pines for shade and the steady rhythm of the Andaman Sea.
There is a wilder, slower charm here. A handful of luxury resorts sit discreetly behind the treeline, but much of the shore remains undeveloped, which is exactly why it draws nesting sea turtles each year and travellers in search of genuine quiet.
Highlights
- Phuket's longest, wildest stretch of sand
- Dramatic low planes over the northern end
- Rare nesting season for sea turtles
- Shady casuarina pines behind the beach
- Part of protected Sirinat National Park
- Wide open sands with few crowds
Getting there
Mai Khao sits at the far north of the island, close to the airport, so it is an easy run by road from almost anywhere on the west coast or from Phuket Town. Having your own rented scooter or car makes the trip simple and flexible, letting you follow the coastal road north past the beaches and turn off whenever a quiet access point appeals. Parking near the shore is generally straightforward and uncrowded.
Best time to visit
Visit in the cooler, drier months from roughly November to April for calm seas and reliable sun. Late afternoon brings softer light, fewer people and the best plane-spotting as flights come in to land.
Good to know
- The sea here can have strong currents and waves, especially in the monsoon months, so swim with care and heed any warning flags.
- Facilities are sparse compared with busier beaches, so bring water, sun protection and anything else you need for the day.
- The shaded pines behind the sand make a fine spot for a picnic or to escape the midday heat.
- Sea turtles nest along this coast in season; keep your distance, take rubbish away and never disturb marked nesting areas.
- Sunscreen, a hat and a light cover-up go a long way, as natural shade thins out along the open stretches.
Frequently asked
Is Mai Khao Beach good for swimming?+
It can be lovely in the calm dry season, but the water sometimes has strong currents and surf, particularly during the monsoon. Take care, watch for warning flags and avoid going out far if the sea looks rough.
Can you really watch planes land at Mai Khao Beach?+
Yes. The northern end runs alongside Phuket International Airport, so jets pass low overhead as they come in to land. It is one of the most memorable plane-spotting experiences on the island.
Are there sea turtles at Mai Khao Beach?+
Mai Khao is one of the few beaches in Phuket where sea turtles still come ashore to nest, usually in the cooler months. Nesting sites are protected, so always keep your distance and leave no trace.
