Mai Khao Beach

Located just north of the airport is Mai Khao beach, an incredibly long and deserted stretch of sand. There is no tourist development here except for the JW Marriott Resort & Spa. Mai Khao is the longest beach on the island and also the most deserted. If you really want to get away from it all this is the beach for you. Mai Khao is part of the Sirinath National Park, which also includes Nai Yang and Nai Thon, the next beaches along to the south. The area was declared a national park in 1981 to protect the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles that lay their eggs here from November to February.

Many kilometers of deserted beach characterize Mai Khao where there is little tourist business. The water is fine for swimming during the dry season; the rainy season brings big waves and strong currents that are dangerous. This lonely beach is another area where sea turtles come to lay eggs. It is also home to what the Thais call a sea cicada, which is a form of marine life.

An endless stretch of fine sand; the only real getaway on the west coast of Phuket. Aside from the JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa, the area is largely undeveloped with only a few bungalow operations and a campground on the beach. Take a stroll and watch the crabs scuttle, swing on a hammock under the trees or enjoy a refreshing swim.