Chalong, Phuket

Chalong sits inland in the south of the island, at the meeting point of several main roads, and that central position is exactly its appeal. It's not a place you come for the sand, but as a convenient, affordable and well-connected base it's hard to beat.

The vibe and who it suits

Chalong suits long-stayers, budget-conscious travellers, and anyone training, diving or exploring the island by scooter. It has a local, everyday feel rather than a touristy one, and it's popular with people who want space and value over a beachfront address. Its central location puts Rawai, Nai Harn and Kata all within a short drive.

What it's known for

Two landmarks define Chalong. Wat Chalong is the island's largest and most revered Buddhist temple, a genuine highlight of our attractions coverage, best visited with shoulders and knees covered. Chalong Pier is the main departure point for diving trips and island-hopping tours to Phi Phi, Coral Island, Racha and beyond, so it's the practical gateway to the Andaman.

What you'll find here

Chalong has a growing cluster of cafés, restaurants, gyms and Muay Thai camps, along with dive centres and vehicle-hire shops. Accommodation is generally affordable, browse our hotels for guesthouses and long-stay options. Nightlife is low-key, with a handful of local bars and pubs; see our nightlife section for livelier spots elsewhere.

Getting around

There's no beach in Chalong itself, so a scooter or car is important, and it's well placed for reaching most of the south coast quickly. Chalong Circle is the island's main road junction, connecting to Phuket Town, Patong and the beaches, which is a big part of why long-stayers value the location. The airport is around 45 to 55 minutes to the north. Because it isn't a tourist beach town, Chalong stays fairly steady across the seasons; the main thing to note is that island boat trips from the pier are calmer and more reliable in high season (November to April), while the green season can bring rougher crossings and the odd cancelled tour.

Browse the Chalong listings below, or return to the Phuket overview to plan your stay.