Two neighbouring beaches on Phuket’s west coast, in the Thalang area. It is quieter than Patong and more convenient for everyday life than the far north: the airport is about 20 km away and Phuket Town about 25 km.
How the areas differ
Bang Tao is a long beach, about 6 km, with the Cherngtalay village behind it. The area includes the Laguna complex with its golf course and hotels, the Boat Avenue and Porto de Phuket shopping areas, and beach clubs. It has the largest choice of villas and new condos, with many families and remote workers.
Surin is a shorter beach to the south, between Bang Tao and Kamala. There are fewer houses, but more seafront condos and small villas on the slopes. Evenings are quieter, but the choice of housing is more limited.
How much does rent cost?
| Area | Bedrooms | Listings | Typical price, ฿/month | Range, ฿/month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bang Tao | 1 | 50 | 19 000 | 7 000 – 75 000 |
| Bang Tao | 2 | 58 | 47 500 | 15 000 – 110 000 |
| Bang Tao | 3 | 78 | 79 000 | 20 000 – 250 000 |
| Bang Tao | 4 | 21 | 85 000 | 22 000 – 300 000 |
| Surin | 1 | 16 | 17 750 | 10 000 – 45 000 |
| Surin | 2 | 17 | 40 000 | 19 900 – 100 000 |
| Surin | 3 | 6 | 100 000 | 65 000 – 150 000 |
“Typical price” means the median: half of the listings are cheaper and half are more expensive. The range is wide because of pools and distance from the sea: a villa with its own pool in Laguna and a townhouse in the village across the road can cost very different amounts even with the same three bedrooms. Prices are monthly rates for a one-year contract; for 3–6 months, they are usually 10–20% higher.
Who are these areas suitable for?
Families with children: HeadStart International School in Cherngtalay is 5–15 minutes by car, while UWC Thailand at Thanyapura to the north is farther away, about 20–30 minutes. People working from home will find plenty of cafés and co-working spaces, plus stable internet in newer developments. These areas also suit anyone who wants to live by the sea without Patong’s nightlife. They are less suitable if you do not have a car or motorbike: public transport is very limited.
Season
From November to April, the sea is calm. From May to October, the west coast has waves and currents, and red flags are raised on the beaches, so swimming is not possible every day. Owners are usually more flexible on price during this period.
What to check when choosing a home
Check what is included in the price: pool and garden maintenance, cleaning, and internet. Electricity may be charged at the government rate (about 4–5 ฿ per kWh) or the owner’s rate (7–8 ฿); with air conditioning, the difference is noticeable. The deposit is usually two months’ rent. Ask whether pets are allowed. Also check how long it really takes to reach the sea by road, not just on the map: in Bang Tao, the beach and the village are separated by a main road.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent a home in Bang Tao or Surin for three months?
Yes, but the choice is smaller and prices are 10–20% higher than with a one-year contract.
Do I need a car to live in this area?
It is recommended: public transport is very limited, and shops, schools, and the beach are 2–10 km away.
Where is it cheaper to rent: Bang Tao or Surin?
One- and two-bedroom condos are cheaper in Surin (17 750 and 40 000 ฿ versus 19 000 and 47 500 ฿ in Bang Tao), while villas and larger homes are cheaper in Bang Tao because there are more of them and the choice is wider.
When is it cheaper to rent in this area?
From May to October, when the west coast has waves and red flags are raised on the beaches, owners are usually more flexible on price.
Read also: Where to live in Phuket · How much does it cost to live in Phuket? · The best areas for families with school-age children