The beach is located about 10 kms north of Kamala beach, and just minutes away from Cherng Talay, which is still very much a local fishing and farming town. The contrast between exclusive resorts and a traditional fishing community is what helps to make Bang Tao so charming and unique.

The northern part of the beach is completely undeveloped and virtually no tourists visit. If you are looking for complete isolation, you will actually find it on your doorstep in Bang Tao. The beach is actually one of the longest in Phuket, four miles of golden sands which are largely deserted. There are hawkers and beach vendors trying to attract tourists, and are usually found on the public areas of beach close to Laguna Phuket. They sell a wide range of Thai snacks, light meals, fresh fruit, drinks, clothing and souvenirs. Every hotel has its own private section of beach, stunning pools and enough facilities to keep people of all ages entertained for weeks; giving the average tourist no reason to venture out onto the undeveloped shores.

There are beach bars which welcome tourists throughout the year and these are ideal if you want to meet new people and gain a small insight into the life of local people. Most of these bars are very small, run by local Thais and are very laid back. Many of them host live bands throughout the week and reggae music can be heard blasting out of the speakers as the sun goes down.

Dining
There are also a few restaurants dotted around the beach serving up delicious fresh seafood and traditional Thai dishes. These are usually very intimate places to eat serving a handful of customers every night. They are popular with people who want to escape the resort for a night and explore the local nightlife. Fine dining can be enjoyed at all of the five star resorts which serve up cuisine from all across the world. The hotels also provide outside dining areas with stunning views across the beach as well as cafés and coffee shops. Bars and evening entertainment are on hand and all you can eat buffets are common.

If you want to experience a bit of local life, head into Cherng Talay where you will find local markets, Thai restaurants serving up authentic cuisine and local bars. You will be made to feel very welcome, although most business owners here speak limited English. The town is a sight worth seeing in itself, and is far different during the day than it is at night. The local eateries and bars are also much cheaper than the resorts and offer an experience you will not be able to have if you do not leave the resort.

Activites
There are many activities available on the beach for those with families or who want to enjoy some exercise. Rock climbing, golf, horseback riding and even elephant riding are all available as are plenty of water sports such as windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing and swimming. All of these activities can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age, and if it all gets too energetic there is no better way to relax than indulging in a spa treatment or massage.

Shopping
Bang Tao boasts shopping opportunities which are not found anywhere else on Phuket (with the exception of neighbouring Surin Beach). Instead of cheap souvenirs and fake goods, the focus on higher quality products such as antiques, designer and tailor made clothing, expensive accessories, jewellery and ornaments.

Canal Village is located inland and is a pedestrian shopping arcade which houses over 50 businesses. The village consists of a number of quaint boutiques, souvenir shops, a fine bakery, jewellery shops, a mini-mart and many tailors. There are also factory outlets specialising in leather goods, silk and clothing.

The art and gift gallery found here is particularly popular as are the two Jim Thompson shops (selling quality Thai silk). There is also a children’s playground and a small choice of restaurants. It is a great place to spend a day walking round and also a must for anyone looking to take quality gifts and souvenirs back home.