This five-mile stretch of beach offers peace and quiet that you won't find anywhere else on the island. That's because Ao Bang Thao's beach is relatively secluded, and because the resorts and hotels here serve a more moneyed clientele.

The Banyan Tree resort has a golf course open to guests of nearby resorts. All the resorts in the vicinity have swimming pools, and most have good day spa facilities to boot.

The hotels by the beach have reserved areas offering towel service and food and bar services.

To get to Ao Bang Thao from Phuket City, ride a songtheaw from Ranong Road for 25B, or a tuk-tuk for 200B. Getting around Ao Bang Thao is free using the shuttle service, but getting back to town can set you back as far as 600B.