The Grab and Bolt apps
Grab is the most widespread and most reliable app according to the guides; it lets you pay by card and see a price before leaving. Bolt is said to be 20 to 30% cheaper but with fewer cars available. In some areas, local taxi or tuk-tuk drivers may refuse or obstruct ride-hailing cars: if the driver asks you to sit in the front or walk away, follow their instructions to avoid a conflict.
Taxis
Official taxis are recognisable by their colour, but many drivers refuse the meter and set a high price. Negotiate before getting in or use an app. Also check the address: show it on your phone.
Tuk-tuks
Tuk-tuks have no meter and prices are set by agreements between the drivers of each area. According to one guide, expect 200 to 300 baht for a short ride, 400 to 600 baht between Patong and Kata or Karon, and up to double after midnight; another guide gives lower ranges (100 to 200 baht for a short trip). Negotiate before getting in.
Motorbike taxis
Motorbike taxis can take you almost anywhere for 50 to 150 baht according to one guide, depending on the distance. A helmet is not always provided: be careful and check your insurance.
Scooters
Renting a scooter costs about 250 to 350 baht a day according to one guide, with weekly discounts. You need a passport and preferably an international licence. Driving is on the left, hill roads are steep and scooter accidents are frequent: only ride one if you are used to it, wear a helmet and check that your insurance covers two-wheelers. Photograph the scooter before renting to avoid disputes, and read scams in Phuket.
Songthaews and the Smart Bus
Songthaews (pick-up trucks with benches) link Phuket Town to the beaches: about 30 to 60 baht per person according to two guides, with few departures, mostly in the daytime. The Phuket Smart Bus links the airport to Rawai for 100 baht according to the guides; see from the airport to the beaches. Check the timetables, which change.
Which option for which trip
| Trip | Recommended option |
|---|---|
| Airport to hotel | Official taxi, pre-booked transfer or Smart Bus |
| Between two beaches | Grab or Bolt, or negotiated tuk-tuk |
| Phuket Town from the beaches | Grab, taxi or songthaew |
| Day excursion | Car with driver, or scooter for the experienced |
The transport budget
For a beach stay without excursions, plan a modest daily budget if you walk or take the bus, and clearly more if you use tuk-tuks and ride-hailing between beaches. For the price of meals and activities, see travel budget for Phuket. To pay, see money and tipping in Phuket.
Going further
To choose your area according to distances, read where to stay in Phuket. For a solo outing, see Kata beach, Patong beach or the old town.
