Bang Tao Beach

Bangtao is a large open bay with one of Phuket's longest beaches. It was once used for tin mining, but has since been developed into a luxury resort.

Most of it is occupied by the Laguna complex, a massive five-hotel development with golf course. There are, however, accommodations available outside Laguna at the bay's south end.

Dry season swimming is excellent, and at the bay's north end is a smaller bay, almost completely enclosed, at the mouth of which is some fine coral.

Plenty of places to eat, tour companies, and other tourist facilities are available either at Laguna or in the nearby town of Choeng Thale.

The beach is located off Srisunthorn Road in Choeng Thale. As for access to Laguna; the south end of the bay may be approached by taking the road north from Surin Beach.

How to get there: To get to the far north end from Srisunthorn Road, take the road leading to Laguna, but do not enter, continue on to the town of Bandon, where there is an intersection of asphalt roads, and take the one leading west toward the sea.

This road leads also to Nai Ton Bay and makes a very pleasant drive. Along the way are some small bays with good swimming and no development.