Layan & BangTao Beach
PHUKET’S NORTHWEST COAST IS A world class DESTINATION

On the central west coast of Phuket, Bangtao Beach is a beautiful coast of white sands that stretches for as far as the eyes can see. Along its shores are many casuarinas and coconut trees, under which there are numerous beach bars and restaurants which Bangtao is renowned for, where you can enjoy the sea breeze, have a bite to eat, or sip cocktails at sunset.

Many years ago, Bangtao was the centre of Phuket's tin mining industries, where large deposits of tin lay metres off the actual coast. Today, Bangtao Beach is where Phuket residents of the Bangtao and Surin areas go to enjoy a quiet day of sun and sea. It is six kilometers long, offering plenty of space, and it is the one of the best beaches to visit on Phuket if you would like some peace and privacy.

Bangtao Beach, when viewed from the sands, is a perfectly symmetrical beach flanked by two headlands. The southern end is known as Bangtao, home to the world-acclaimed Laguna Resorts, whereas the northern end is known as the Layan area. Off the Layan stretch of Bangtao, there is a small island known as Koh Ghai - or Chicken Island. It is a solid piece of rock extending to the sea bed. From December to February, it is possible to swim out to the island and do some snorkeling.

On the Laguna side of Bangtao Beach, starting from the southern most end of the beach, there are some small resorts offering beach huts for rent. Farther up the coast, there is the only Laguna resort - Dusit Laguna - offering direct beach access from the resort itself. Once past the Dusit Laguna, the only accommodation option is to rent one of the many newly developed apartments or villas found on the roads running parallel or perpendicular to the coast.

The area of Bangtao has seen rapid development in the last few years. Many multi-million homes and apartments are being developed for the holiday rental market. These private properties are usually let out through the many real estate agents on the island. For long staying holiday makers, the area of Bangtao is appealing for its many rental choices, and proximity to the beach.

Layan - the northern end of Bangtao Beach - has evolved to become one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods on Phuket. This stretch of Bangtao Beach is home to many multi-million dollar developments including the acclaimed Layan Gardens. A popular resort in Layan in found in the hills of Layan - Pavilions Resorts - have won numerous awards and has been voted "Hottest Resort 2007" by Conde Nast Traveller.