Phuket is one of Southeast Asia’s most visited islands—but Phuket transportation can be confusing if you don’t know what to expect. With no BTS or MRT and a still-developing public transit system, getting around requires some local knowledge. Understanding your options is essential—whether you’re staying short-term, long-term, or visiting as a digital nomad.

This complete Phuket transportation guide for 2025 will help you navigate the island easily—whether you’re riding scooters, using Grab, catching a bus, or taking a ferry to nearby islands.

🛵 Motorbikes & Scooters – The Most Popular Phuket Transportation

Scooters are the most widely used form of Phuket transportation among locals and tourists. They’re cheap, convenient, and great for beach-hopping or short town runs.

• Daily rental: 200–350 THB

• Monthly: 2,500–4,000 THB

• International Driving Permit (IDP) with motorcycle endorsement required

• Helmet is mandatory, and checkpoints are common

• Always photograph the bike before renting and clarify insurance terms

This is ideal for confident riders. If you’re not experienced or it’s raining heavily, consider a different mode of transport.

🚗 Renting a Car – Comfortable Transportation for Families

For families or groups exploring beyond the beach zones, renting a car is a reliable transportation option in Phuket.

• Daily cost: 900–1,500 THB

• Required: Passport, IDP, and deposit

• Left-side driving; local traffic can be unpredictable

• Hilly terrain requires caution

If you plan to visit Big Buddha, Phang Nga Bay, or remote beaches, car rental offers comfort, flexibility, and air conditioning in the heat.

🚖 Taxis – Pricey but Accessible

Taxis are easy to find in tourist zones, but Phuket transportation by taxi is often expensive and rarely metered.

• Example fare: Airport to Kata or Rawai – 800–1,200 THB

• Always negotiate the fare before the ride

• Hotel taxis can charge more than independent drivers

• Airport taxis use a fixed price system

Taxis are best for airport arrivals, late-night rides, or when carrying heavy luggage—but they’re not the most budget-friendly choice.

📱 Ride-Hailing Apps

Apps like Grab and Bolt are becoming the most efficient way to handle Phuket transportation—especially for short rides around town.

• Grab is more widely available

• Bolt is often cheaper with shorter wait times

• Surge pricing applies during rain or peak hours

• Best for areas like Phuket Town, Rawai, Kata, and Patong

Ride-hailing apps eliminate haggling and offer transparent pricing, making them a preferred option for many travelers.

🚌 Public Transportation 

If you’re traveling on a budget, public transportation in Phuket does exist—though limited.

• Phuket Smart Bus connects the airport to Kamala, Patong, Karon, Kata, and Rawai

• Fares: 50–170 THB

• Accepts cash, QR codes, or Rabbit Card

• Operates mostly during daylight

Local songthaews (blue shared trucks) also connect Phuket Town with nearby beaches. They’re not fast or frequent, but they’re cheap and fun if you’re not in a rush.

🛺 Tuk-Tuks – Iconic but Overpriced Phuket Transportation

Tuk-tuks are fun for a quick ride but aren’t the most practical or affordable Phuket transportation method.

• No meters, fares vary widely

• Expect high prices in Patong and Kata

• Better suited for short, scenic trips

• Not ideal during rain or for long distances

If you’re not in a rush and don’t mind the tourist premium, tuk-tuks can be part of the island experience—but always ask for the price upfront.

🚶‍♀️ Walking – A Limited Option for Phuket Transportation

Phuket transportation on foot is possible—but limited to certain areas.

• Old Phuket Town is walkable and filled with cafés, murals, and colonial buildings

• Some walkable zones in Kata, Karon, and Rawai

• Sidewalks are inconsistent and traffic can be aggressive

Walking is best during cooler hours and for short distances. It’s great for slow sightseeing, but not for island-wide transport.

🛥️ Island Hopping – Water-Based Phuket Transportation

Getting to nearby islands is part of the Phuket experience. Luckily, Phuket transportation by boat is simple and scenic.

• Speedboats to Coral, Racha, or Phi Phi for day trips

• Longtail boats from Rawai Pier for closer islands

• Ferries from Rassada Pier to Phi Phi and Krabi for affordable travel

Book through trusted vendors and check sea conditions, especially during the rainy season (May–October).

✅ Final Phuket Transportation Tips for 2025

• Download Grab, Bolt, and Google Maps before arriving

• Carry cash in small denominations for buses and taxis

• Never ride scooters without a valid license or helmet

• Avoid rental scams—read agreements and take photos

• Ask locals for tips—they often know the fastest and cheapest ways to travel

Phuket transportation in 2025 may not be perfect, but with the right knowledge, it’s easy to move around safely and efficiently. Whether you’re hopping on a Grab, exploring by scooter, or catching the Smart Bus, there’s an option that suits your pace, budget, and travel style.