Phuket is the largest Thai island; world-renowned for its crystalline waters, epic party scene, phenomenal archipelago seascapes and stunning beaches. It’s the place for an incredible and exciting vacation for sure.

There’s a huge variety of places to stay in Phuket, but private holiday rentals are the best option by far. Look no farther than our Phuket Airbnb guide for property recommendations!

I’ve rallied together the best Airbnbs I found while searching for a private villa on the island for a week-long Chang-cation back in October. I’ve included tips I learned while searching for vacation rentals in Phuket plus some lessons from getting ripped off by our host – it happened to me so that it wouldn’t happen to you.

Ready to find your dreamy Phuket Airbnb in paradise (and not get scammed)?

Here’s the list…

Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Phuket, Thailand

OVERALL BEST VALUE AIRBNB IN PHUKET
Studio room & roof top pool at Patong Beach
OVERALL BEST VALUE AIRBNB IN PHUKET

Studio room & roof top pool at Patong Beach

  • > $$
  • > 2 Guests
  • > Pool & Gym Access
  • > Entire Rental Unit
BEST BUDGET AIRBNB IN PHUKET
Spectacular Airbnb w Beautiful Views Phuket
BEST BUDGET AIRBNB IN PHUKET

Spectacular Airbnb w/ Beautiful Views

  • > $
  • > 2 Guests
  • > Swimming Pool Access & free parking
  • > Great Views & Natural Surroundings
OVER-THE-TOP LUXURY AIRBNB IN PHUKET
Contemporary Cliffside Villa Phuket
OVER-THE-TOP LUXURY AIRBNB IN PHUKET

Contemporary Cliffside Villa

  • > $$$$
  • > 20 Guests
  • > Personal Chef Included
  • > Saltwater Infinity Pool
FOR SOLO TRAVELERS IN PHUKET
Sunny and Spacious Apartment Phuket
FOR SOLO TRAVELERS IN PHUKET

Sunny & Spacious Apartment

  • > $$
  • > 2 Guests
  • > Fully Equipped Kitchen
  • > Rooftop Swimming Pool & Gym
IDEAL DIGITAL NOMAD AIRBNB
Stylish Apartment with Amazing Amenities
IDEAL DIGITAL NOMAD AIRBNB

Stylish Apt w/ Amazing Amenities

  • > $
  • > 2 Guests
  • > Stunning view
  • > Balcony with desk

What to Expect from Airbnbs in Phuket, Thailand

Let’s get this out of the way: there’s a “ban” on daily Airbnbs in Thailand. Is it enforced? No. Can a guest get in trouble with the law? Nope.

So is there an Airbnb scene in Phuket? You bet there is! Plus, because so many of these properties are owned and operated by locals, you’ll get a unique flavour in these Phuket accommodations you won’t find anywhere else.

If you want some privacy you can also opt for entire villa rentals in Phuket or maybe entire apartment holiday rentals closer to town. Either way, there’s heaps of option.

Here are the types of Airbnbs you can expect in Phuket.

A 2019 study found that Phuket has the most visiting tourists per year per square mile (a weird metric, granted). The island gets crowded in parts so entire villa rentals are the stand-out way to carve out some extra space for yourself.

Plus, who doesn’t love a glistening swimming pool? That incredible entertainment centre! Mood lighting on a dimmer switch and some good old free parking overlooking the tropical landscape!

But hold on a sec! Yes, your villa will be the dream you expect, but do some fine-print reading to make sure you’re not getting ripped off…. like we were. We booked a beautiful entire villa in the west-central part of the island in October of 2019 and really lived it up for 5 days.

Homestays are what most Americans think of when Airbnb comes to mind – at least, it was near the beginning. When I first used the app, I would get the cheapest accommodation possible, which inevitably meant staying in another person’s spare room or, if lucky, an efficiency attached to their house.

Now, homestays are still usually the cheapest option on Airbnb, but that’s not the only reason to stay in a local’s house. You’ll learn loads more about the area from the locals who live there and can get insider tips on how to fill your Phuket itinerary that’ll probably save you more money too – remember tourist menus are a thing.

Apartments are something of the “default option” for Airbnbs – a step up from a room in a shared house but a step down from a private villa. And yes, even the resort-slash-party island of Phuket has a lot of pretty standard apartment options.

We love a good deal!

We’ve included links to Booking.com as well throughout this post — as we have found many of the same properties available on Booking and they are usually at a cheaper price! We’ve included both button options where we can to give you the choice of where you book 🙂

The 15 Top Airbnbs in Phuket

Studio room & roof top pool at Patong Beach | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Phuket

Studio room & roof top pool at Patong Beach
Yep, we could totally spend a day in this pool.

This Phuket Airbnb brings you incredible value for your money and just a quick couple minutes walk to Patong Beach. Enjoy air-conditioning, WiFi, and a beautiful one-bedroom and bathroom at this entire apartment. It’s at the end of the main road, which affords guests some well-earned peace and quiet, while not being too far away from the action. It’s one of the most incredible rentals in Phuket, Thailand!

The apartment complex has two swimming pools and a fitness centre that guests are welcome to use. For the location, this Phuket Airbnb gives you a lot of bang for your buck!

With a modern and spacious room, the incredible bathroom complete with a bathtub, and a fully equipped kitchen It’s one of the most spectacular holiday rentals. You’ll be sure to fall in love with this entire apartment!

Spectacular Airbnb w/ Beautiful Views | Best Budget Airbnb in Phuket

Spectacular Airbnb w Beautiful Views Phuket
Check out the full listing to see this Airbnb’s beautiful views!

It’s mind-blowing what you can find at budget prices on the Phuket Airbnb scene. This budget-friendly one-bedroom and bathroom Phuket apartment is incredible for those looking to tighten the purse strings a little. There’s free parking, WiFi, and free coffee and cookies at this short-term rental!

There is a beautiful swimming pool to relax by with a good book. If you’re looking for spectacular holiday rentals in Phuket then you can’t go far wrong here.

We love that this apartment building is nestled within nature, there are wonderful views of the most beautiful beach from all the rooms. It’s just a quick walk to Nai Harn Beach, too. In fact, it’s a little bit farther out of Central Rawai Beach, which is likely why the price is nearly half the price than other accommodations around this area of Phuket, Thailand.

Is This the Best Backpack EVER???
audy on top of a mountain in japan with the osprey aether

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

View on Osprey View on REI

Contemporary Cliffside Villa | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb in Phuket

Contemporary Cliffside Villa Phuket
All this and a personal chef? Doesn’t get fancier.

This contemporary cliffside private villa sits on the cliffs near Kamala Beach and offers unparalleled seaside views. There are nine bedrooms and nine bathrooms which makes hosting a huge party of twenty possible. This luxury private villa surely is where Hollywood starlets vacation in Phuket!

There is a saltwater infinity pool, a pool room, and a retreat area under the canopy with a terrace and couches. Plus, a personal chef is included in this rental, so you can focus on nothing but relaxing and enjoying the view.

Airport transfer and daily housekeeping are also included. Hands down, this is the best Airbnb in Phuket if you are hosting a huge group and looking to break open the pocketbook to live in luxury while in Phuket!

Sunny & Spacious Apartment | Perfect Phuket Airbnb for Solo Travellers

Sunny and Spacious Apartment Phuket
Check out that swimming pool!

Calling all solo travellers out there! You don’t have to cram into a bunk-bed hostel room or stay in a sketchy hotel. This sparkling clean, well-equipped short-term rental in Phuket is close to Patong Beach.

With a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, living room area, and huge bedroom with a nice couch, you’re sure to be as happy as a clam. The balcony is also pretty spacious with a nice reclining sunbathing chair, making this short-term rental a dream for solo travellers.

Stylish Apt w/ Amazing Amenities | Perfect Short-Term Airbnb in Phuket for Digital Nomads| 

Stylish Apartment with Amazing Amenities
Not a bad place to take a break from your workday!

This one-bedroom, one-bathroom Phuket apartment is the perfect Phuket Airbnb for the digital nomads out there! With high-speed WiFi and a workspace, you’ll be working in comfort and style. There is also a king-sized bed, a modern bathroom with a bathtub, and a fully-equipped kitchen with high-quality appliances. The views of the most beautiful beach from the balcony are perfect for taking a nice break from work.

This beautiful entire apartment is the best Airbnb in Phuket for you to get good work done. If you’re looking for short-term rentals in Phuket you can’t go wrong with this entire rental unit.

Travel with peace of mind. Travel WITH a security belt.
Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Hide Yo’ Money!

More Epic Airbnbs in Phuket

Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Phuket!

Elegant & Modern Condo | Best Airbnb in Phuket for Nightlife

infinity-pool-phuket
What better place to start your night than here?

Patong Beach is definitely where the party is at! While the party scene is definitely happening on nearly all the Phuket beaches, the party never stops at Patong! From the lively Kangaroo Bar to the great cocktails at Heroes Bar, to the incredible live music at Monsoon Bar, you’re sure to find your favourite local watering hole here in Patong.

This Phuket Airbnb is extra-walkable in the heart of all the nightlife action. You’ll be just a ten-minute walk to bar street and a five-minute walk to the beach! You can’t beat this location.

We love the infinity rooftop saltwater swimming pool, free parking, stocked kitchen and state-of-the-art fitness centre.

Premiere Oceanfront Suite | Best Short Term Rental for Couples

Premiere Oceanfront Suite Phuket
All this and steps to the ocean? We’re in!

This premier oceanfront suite is a spectacular two-bedroom and two-bathroom Phuket apartment located within walking distance to Rawai Beach. It is situated at the centre of the Rawai Beach Seafront and faces the crystal clear waters of the Andaman Sea.

This Phuket Airbnb rental is for the top floor of a small four-story building (with an elevator!). It’s surrounded by a tropical garden which gives a romantic, private vibe.

Enjoy a glass of wine on the balcony, or a cup of tea as the sunrises over the water. Of course, as one of the best Airbnbs in Phuket, there is air-conditioning, WiFi, free parking, a gourmet kitchen, and a Jacuzzi bathtub!

Racha Hifi Homestay | Best Homestay in Phuket

Racha Hifi Homestay

This cute little homestay offers more than just privacy. You get your own little hut, which is equipped with air con, a great bathroom and a tiny terrace. The location is ideal as well. You’ll be within walking distance to the weekend market and Thalang Road. There’s free high-speed Wifi in case you want to get some work done on your laptop. In case you’ve had enough of exploring Phuket, simply relax at home on your comfy bed in front of the massive flat-screen TV. On top of that, the price for this Airbnb is literally unbeatable!

Bright Tangerine Room in Patong | Runner-Up Homestay in Phuket

Bright Tangerine Room in Patong Phuket
Orange you glad you found this homestay?

This Patong Beach Airbnb is for a private bedroom and bathroom in a townhouse. The room is bright, spacious and is filled with warm tangerine vibes. There is a small balcony where you can look at the verdant greenery and the mountainside.

The room also comes with a comfy couch, mini-fridge, TV, table and chairs, as well as a strong air-conditioning unit makes this Phuket Airbnb a great find.

Modernist villa above Surin Beach | Amazing Luxury Airbnb in Phuket

Modernist villa above Surin Beach
Admit it, you want an Instagram in this pool.

This four-bedroom, four-bathroom private villa is drool-worthy. It is situated on Millionaire’s Mile near Kambala Beach, just a quick drive away from Patong beach. The layout of this villa is incredible, with a games room, a glass-walled yoga pavilion, library, and floating fire pits in a stunning infinity pool.

Relax at the water’s edge and gaze out at the sea below. There are also lounge chairs by the swimming pool if you want to relax and nap in the Thai sunshine. Truly, this Phuket Airbnb is straight out of a magazine. This is the best Airbnb in Phuket if you’re willing to splurge!

Comfortable Apt in Quiet Area | Best Airbnb in Phuket for Families

Comfortable Apt in Quiet Area Phuket
This colourful apartment comes fully equipped for your kiddos.

Situated in a nice, quiet neighbourhood and just a two-minute drive from Nai Yang Beach, night markets and a few minutes to Sirinat National Park, your family will love staying at this Phuket short term rental. There are plenty of jungle and forest attractions within a ten to twenty-minute drive of this entire rental unit.

This Phuket Airbnb comes with a crib and high chair, and there are also three beds which make sleeping five people possible, especially if you have a young one in the crib! Guests are welcome to use the entire apartment as well as the pool and the gym. There is a 24/7 security guard on staff, too!

Luxury Penthouse w/ Dream View | Best Airbnb in Phuket for a Group of Friends

view-phuket-airbnb
A group trip to Phuket deserves a view like this!

This four-bedroom luxury penthouse apartment is yours for the taking! Located at Patong Beach, this enormous four-floor penthouse is the perfect place to stay with a group of friends – especially because housekeeping will show up to keep things spic and span every other day.

Throw your own private pool party (or recuperate from the night before!) on the stunning, multi-floor terrace, indoor lounge areas, and game room. Don’t forget to take in the incredible view!

Pristine Mountain View Apt | Best Airbnb in Patong

phuket-pool
A pool big enough for you, and all your new travel buddies!

This Phuket apartment is located in Patong. It’s a brand new studio apartment that is in a modern high-rise building that looks like it could be a part of the Hong Kong skyline! This Phuket Airbnb sits on the seventh floor of the building and gives guests mountain views from the balcony and access to two huge pools in the complex.

This property also features a fully-stocked kitchen, fitness centre, sauna, and 24h security guard. Situated just a five-minute walk to Patong Beach and a ten-minute walk to the Jungceylon Mall, you are sure to love this location.

Modern Condo w/ Rooftop Pool | Another Great Apartment in Patong

Modern Condo w Rooftop Pool Phuket
10/10 view!

You’ll have the entire apartment to yourself in this Airbnb, including a stunning bathroom with a tall glass shower. Of course, there is also air-conditioning, a fitness centre and a rooftop pool.

Speaking of, the pool offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.

Spacious Apt Near Beach | Top Value Airbnb in Rawai

bedroom-phuket-airbnb
The perfect place to rest up for a busy day in Phuket!

Very near to Rawai Beach, this one bedroom and one bathroom Phuket apartment is a total steal! With access to the apartment complex’s three swimming pools, two saunas, and the fitness centre the amenities are to die for.

There also is a wide, open terrace that has a little table and chairs and overlooks the greenery and gardens below. With a fully equipped kitchen, air-conditioning, and WiFi, you’re sure to be sitting pretty in this Phuket Airbnb.

What To Pack For Phuket

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Product
Description
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Ear Plugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Keep your laundry organized and stink free
Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel
Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Make Some New Buddies…
Make Some New Buddies…

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!
Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Don’t Forget Your Phuket Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts on Phuket Airbnbs

Are you ready to head off to Phuket? Now all you have to do is hop over to Airbnb and book your accommodation and activities – there are so many awesome options in Phuket! Whether you’re a solo traveller or a big bachelorette group, our property finds will help you find the perfect home base to explore this stunning region of Thailand.

If you’re going to Phuket, you might want to snag some Thailand travel insurance from our highly recommended travel insurance experts and gurus over at World Nomads. From hang gliding to scuba diving to catching the flu, you never know what might in Phuket after all!

Looking for more info on visiting Phuket?

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!