Phuket isn’t just about beaches. If you look a little deeper, this island is full of natural routes truly perfect for cycling. Over many years, I’ve had the opportunity to cycle around Phuket Island numerous times whether short morning rides, half-day long rides, or serious rides through rural routes. What I’ve discovered is that Phuket is one of the provinces with the most diverse cycling routes in southern Thailand, encompassing sea, forest, mountains, villages, and local lifestyles.
Why Phuket is Ideal for Nature Cycling
From the direct experience of local cyclists, Phuket has several advantages. First, the island’s area is just right—you can design cycling routes from 10 kilometers up to more than 120 kilometers. Second, the terrain is diverse—in a single day you might cycle past the sea, forest, rubber plantations, fruit orchards, and old communities.
Additionally, there are many secondary routes, with many rural roads having little traffic, good safety, and more beautiful views than main roads. Importantly, the weather is suitable for cycling year-round, especially if you choose morning or evening times—you can cycle comfortably even during the hot season.
Types of Cycling Routes in Phuket
Before choosing a route, you should understand the characteristics of the main routes in Phuket:
Coastal Routes This type is suitable for beginners and casual riders, with relatively flat roads, beautiful sea views, and photo spots throughout. Examples include the Rawai, Nai Harn, Kata, Karon, and Laem Panwa areas.
Rural and Village Routes In contrast, this type of route is suitable for those who want to see real local life, with characteristics of little traffic, quiet atmosphere, and community contact. Examples include the Thalang area, Ban Pru Champa, Ban Bang Tao, and Ban Mai Khao.
Mountain and Forest Routes However, this type of route is suitable for experienced cyclists, as they include steep sections requiring strength and good bicycle control. These include Khao Rang, the road to Laem Phromthep, and the road along Bang Wad Reservoir.
Recommended Nature Cycling Routes Around Phuket Island
Route 1: Rawai – Laem Phromthep – Nai Harn
Distance approximately 15-20 kilometers. I cycle this route very often in the morning. I usually start from Rawai Beach, climb up to Laem Phromthep, then descend to rest at Nai Harn Beach.
The route’s highlights are panoramic sea views combined with good quality roads and many coffee shops and rest points. Therefore, it’s suitable for road bikes and touring bikes.
Recommendation: From experience, you should start before 7 AM because the sea breeze will make climbing the hill easier.
Route 2: Bang Tao – Laguna – Cherngtalay
Distance approximately 12-18 kilometers. This route is suitable for family cycling or leisurely rides on rest days, particularly cycling past lagoons, lawns, canals, and local communities.
What I like is there’s no rush, so you can stop to take photos or rest anytime. Suitable for hybrid bikes and electric bikes.
Route 3: Phuket Old Town – Khao Rang – Saphan Hin Park
Route length approximately 10-15 kilometers. This combines culture, nature, and city views. Start from Phuket Old Town, then cycle up Khao Rang, then descend to the sea at Saphan Hin.
According to the old town community, this route is popular with both Thai and foreign cyclists because you see Phuket in many dimensions.
Route 4: Thalang – Mai Khao – Sirinath National Park
This is a true nature route with a distance of approximately 25-35 kilometers. Throughout the route you’ll pass rubber plantations, fruit orchards, and long beaches.
I recommend this route for people who want to escape the city and want to do continuous long-distance cycling. However, you should prepare water and food because there aren’t many shops along the way.
Route 5: Bang Wad Reservoir
Distance around the reservoir approximately 8-12 kilometers. This is considered a favorite route of local cyclists, with characteristics of being quiet, shady, and safe, making it suitable for training practice, physical recovery, or evening rides.
What Type of Bicycle is Suitable for Cycling Around Phuket Island
From experience and actual use:
Road Bikes – Suitable for main roads and coastal routes
Hybrid Bikes – Suitable for tourist cycling and rural routes
Mountain Bikes – Suitable for forest trails and dirt roads
Electric Bikes – Suitable for beginners or elderly people
Best Times for Cycling in Phuket
Morning 5:30-8:30 AM is considered the time with the best weather, little traffic, and beautiful views.
Evening 4:30-6:30 PM is suitable for short rides, but you should use front and rear lights.
Best Season November-March is the period with cooler weather and less rain.
Safety for Cycling Around Phuket Island
From direct experience, basic equipment that shouldn’t be overlooked includes:
- Helmet
- Front and rear lights
- Bright colored clothing
- Drinking water
Moreover, you should avoid cycling during midday and on main roads during rush hour.
Real Experiences from Local Cyclists
Many local cyclists choose Phuket as their training ground because of the diverse routes and ability to adjust difficulty levels in a single day. Meanwhile, many foreign tourists choose to rent bicycles and cycle around the island, taking 2-3 days. They say this is the most authentic way to see Phuket.
FAQ: Cycling Routes to Experience Nature Around Phuket Island
Conclusion: Nature Cycling Routes Around Phuket Island
In summary, cycling in Phuket isn’t just exercise, but a slow journey to experience nature and people. Therefore, if you’re looking for health tourism activities, local experiences, or cycling routes with both sea and mountains, Phuket is the clear answer.
