A half-hidden rocky cove between Bang Tao and Nai Thon
Photo: Max Bvp · Unsplash License · source
Why go
This is the Banana Beach of Phuket's north-west coast, not the one on Coral Island off Chalong, which is reached by boat and charges admission. The mainland cove is a semi-circle about 180 metres wide, framed by forested headlands, with scrub and casuarina behind the sand rather than hotels. It is also known as Banana Rock Beach, and a rock formation at the south end gives the beach its name.
The pleasure is how undeveloped it is. There is no permanent restaurant, no loungers and no toilets, so visitors come for the water, the rocks and the quiet. In the dry season the enclosed cove gives reasonable protection and the water is clear; casual snorkelling along the rocky edges works in good visibility. Early morning is the time to have it nearly to yourself.
Highlights
The semi-circular cove is framed by forested headlands, and a rock formation at the south end gives the beach its name. The sand is grainier than at nearby Nai Thon. The centre of the cove is the best place to enter the water; the rocks at either end are slippery.
Snorkelling around the rocks just offshore is the main activity, and in good visibility the rocky edges are worth a look. There is no equipment rental on the beach, so bring your own mask and fins, and a dry bag, since there are no lockers.
The path from the road is the cove's natural filter. It descends steeply in places with a loose surface, so wear shoes with grip rather than flip-flops, and take extra care when it is wet. It takes a few minutes and keeps the crowds small.
Before 9 am the beach is nearly empty in the dry season. On clear days between December and March, expect perhaps 20 to 40 people at peak hours. The sun sets behind the headland early, so this is a morning and midday beach rather than a sunset one.
The cove sits on the winding coastal road linking Bang Tao and Nai Thon, about half a kilometre north of Trisara. The drive along it, with glimpses of the sea between the trees, is part of the visit.
Practical information
Coastal road between Bang Tao and Nai Thon (Route 4018), Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110
See on mapA public beach with no gates, open at all hours. Lifeguard flags, where present, set the swimming rules.
Free. Sun loungers and drinks are paid separately to local vendors.
Checked in November 2026. Hours and fees can change: check on the day before you go.
Getting there
About 40 to 50 minutes by car or scooter.
About 35 to 45 minutes by car or scooter.
About 20 to 25 minutes by car.
Roadside parking on the shoulder of Route 4018, north of Trisara Resort on the left heading north; space is limited in peak season and scooters are easier. Look for a handmade sign, then walk down the path. Longtail boats can also reach the beach in high season, November to April. Arrange your return transport first: phone signal can be weak.
Insider tips
The path is steep in places and loose underfoot. Flip-flops are a poor choice, and the path needs extra care when wet.
There is no permanent restaurant, shade structure, shower or toilet, and no snorkel rental. A mobile vendor sometimes sells drinks, but it is not guaranteed, so bring water, cash and a bag for your rubbish.
November to April is calmest. In the rainy season, May to October, waves narrow the beach, clarity drops and rip currents can develop. There are no lifeguards, so check sea conditions first.
The rocky ends are slippery. Enter the water from the sandy centre, and snorkel only in calm conditions.
Nearby
From the Phuket City Guide, each with its own Holiplanet page. Straight-line distances.
Hotel · 0.8 km
Ocean-view pool villas and suites on a secluded cove of Phuket's north-west coast
View hotel →Hotel · 5.7 km
Family-friendly resort of garden rooms and bungalows a few steps from Nai Yang Beach
View hotel →All hotels on the Phuket map → All things to do on the map →
Questions
On the north-west coast, between Bang Tao and Nai Thon beaches, on the winding coastal road (Route 4018) about half a kilometre north of Trisara. It is not the Banana Beach on Coral Island.
Yes. The mainland beach is public, with no gates or ticket counters. The Banana Beach on Coral Island off Chalong is a different place and charges admission.
In the dry season, roughly November to April, the enclosed cove is suitable for swimming in the centre. There are no lifeguards, and in the rainy season waves and rip currents can make it dangerous.
Very few. There is no permanent restaurant, loungers, shower block, toilets or snorkel rental, and little shade. A mobile vendor sometimes sells drinks. Bring what you need.
The dry season, November to April, has the calmest water. Before 9 am the beach is nearly empty, and late afternoon is quieter, though the sun sets behind the headland early.
