Phuket
View from the Phi Phi Island viewpoint
Running in Phuket
Patong Beach to Paradise Beach (12km Out-and-Back)
If you’re looking for a scenic yet challenging run, this hilly route is a must.
Distance: ~12km round trip, depending where you start on Patong beach
Terrain: Beach for the start, then footpath along the road with some steep hills
Scenery: Coastal and city views
Best Time to Run: Early morning (to avoid heat and traffic)
Route Details: Start your run at Patong Beach, enjoying the flat section along the waterfront before heading south. The path leads you past Tri Trang Beach (a good turnaround point if you want a shorter run) and continues toward Paradise Beach. Be prepared for steep inclines—this route is a leg-burner! If you make it to Paradise Beach, note that there’s an entrance fee of 200 THB, and it doesn’t open until 9 AM. If you prefer a free stop, Tri Trang Beach is a good place to pause, with places nearby where you can grab a coffee before heading back.
Bang Wad Dam Loop (6km Loop)
For a peaceful escape from Phuket’s tourist hotspots, Bang Wad Dam is an excellent choice.
Distance: 6km loop
Terrain: Paved road with a few rolling hills
Scenery: Reservoir views and lush greenery
Best Time to Run: Sunrise or sunset (cooler temperatures & scenic atmosphere)
This is one of the most popular spots for exercise, so expect to see plenty of walkers, runners, and cyclists, but not as many tourists. The loop around the reservoir is tranquil, offering a refreshing change from the beach crowds.
Walking in Phuket
Phuket Old Town is a charming area perfect for a morning walk. Its historic streets are lined with colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, vibrant street art, and peaceful lanes that feel like a step back in time. Visiting around 8 AM is ideal as the streets are quiet, offering a serene experience before the town fully wakes up. As the morning unfolds, the area begins to hum with life. Quaint cafes open their doors, and boutique shops display unique local goods, making it a great spot to linger over coffee or browse for souvenirs.
Just north along the coast, Surin Beach offers another scenic walking option. A short walk from here takes you to Haad Laem Sing, a lesser-known but stunning beach accessible by foot. This stretch of coastline is especially appealing for those looking to pair a beach stroll with a bit of exploration and ocean views.
For a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path experience, Mai Khao Beach near the airport is ideal. When visited on a Sunday, the beach was almost entirely deserted. Starting from the airport viewpoint, you can head north along the beach for an uninterrupted coastal escape. It's also a popular plane spotting location, where you can watch jets land and take off just overhead. While this can be exhilarating, the noise can be intense so walking further up the beach provides more solitude and a break from the roar of engines. Facilities here are minimal, with a few shaded areas under trees and occasional food vendors, but the natural tranquility more than makes up for it.