Freedom Beach

Freedom Beach lies in a small cove on the west coast of Phuket, just south of Patong Bay, on the headland between Patong and Karon. It is about 300 metres long and is backed by steep, forested hills, which keep it free of roads and large buildings.

For many years the beach has been known as one of the best hidden beaches near Patong. Its isolation comes from the terrain: there is no road down to the sand, so most visitors arrive by sea.

The beach has fine white sand and clear, turquoise water, with rocks and some coral at both ends that attract fish and snorkellers. Trees provide natural shade at the back of the beach. A small restaurant and drinks stall operate in the high season, and loungers can sometimes be rented. Longtail boats leave from the southern end of Patong Beach, and the ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes. A steep jungle path also leads down from the road between Patong and Karon, but it is hard going and can be slippery.

The south-west monsoon from May to October brings rough seas, which can make boat landings difficult and swimming unsafe.

A small access fee has been collected on the land path in some years, and boat fares are agreed with the boatmen. The best time to visit is from November to April, in the morning before day-trip boats arrive.

What is the best way to reach Freedom Beach? The boat is the easiest choice for most visitors. Longtail boats wait at the southern end of Patong Beach and the fare is agreed per boat for the return trip, with a pickup time set in advance. Agree the price and the return time before boarding, and keep the boatman's phone number in case plans change.

The land route starts from a side road off the hill road between Patong and Karon. From there a steep dirt path drops through the forest to the sand in about 15 minutes. Coming back up is harder in the heat. Wear shoes with grip, carry water, and avoid the path after heavy rain.

What to bring. Facilities on the beach are basic and depend on the season, so pack water, snacks, sun cream and snorkelling gear if you have it. There is no lifeguard on duty. The cove faces west, and late-afternoon light over the water is good for photographs, but plan the boat pickup well before sunset, as the boats do not run after dark. Combine the trip with a few hours at Patong, or continue south to Karon and Kata.