Is Phuket the Ultimate Base for Digital Nomads? My One-Month Review

After living in Bangkok for four months as a digital nomad, I was itching for a beach, and as the seasons changed in Thailand, I decided it was time for a new adventure… in Phuket. I always envisioned myself working by the beach, sipping a coconut, and listening to the sound of the ocean, so I took a chance on island life. Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, giving me peace of mind that it wouldn’t be fully secluded, and I would still be able to access malls and supermarkets easily while attending events. 

There are many other reasons why I chose Phuket. I already had friends here, which made it easier to be a part of a community. There are also beautiful and practical cafes and coworking spaces to work remotely, making it a great choice for digital nomad life in Phuket. It also has some of Thailand’s award-winning hotels and Michelin Guide restaurants, making it a perfect base for a travel journalist like myself. Besides this, the thought of waking up to a beach each morning excited me. This guide will provide an honest review and whether digital nomad life in Phuket is worth it. 

As a city girl living in Bangkok, I was craving island life.

Where I Stayed

Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your experience as a digital nomad in Phuket. With the island offering everything from laid-back coastal neighbourhoods to lively resort hubs, each area comes with its own lifestyle, convenience, and price point. Whether you’re looking for a quiet base near the beach, a community of remote workers, or a touch of luxury between work sessions, Phuket has options that cater to every style of nomadic living. In the following section, I share my personal experiences with both long-term and short-term stays to help you understand what different areas and accommodation types Phuket offers.

Utopia Condominium

Before arriving in Phuket, I explored various Facebook groups in search of monthly rental options. I was surprised by the abundance of listings, which is excellent for digital nomads. Phuket offers far more accessible and convenient monthly rental arrangements than many other parts of Thailand, where securing short-term accommodation can be challenging. As the island attracts large numbers of visitors during the high season, it’s common for travellers to stay for a month or longer in a condo or villa. However, I quickly noticed that rental prices were significantly higher than in Bangkok, with many owners increasing their rates during peak months due to heightened demand.

For the longer stretch of my stay, I secured a one-bedroom duplex condominium in the Rawai area for 20,000 THB (£600) per month — a reasonable rate by Phuket standards, particularly in high season. The property offered three swimming pools, a fitness centre, a fully furnished kitchen, a television, and a weekly cleaning service, providing all the essentials for a comfortable stay. Its location was especially convenient: just a 15-minute walk to Nai Harn Beach and 25 minutes to Rawai Beach. Directly outside was a local fruit stall, with several 7/11 stores also within easy reach. Nai Harn Lake was right on my doorstep, making it an idyllic spot for daily walks.

For short-term digital nomads seeking a balance of comfort, convenience, and lifestyle, I highly recommend Utopia Condominium and the Rawai area. However, for maximum ease and mobility, renting a motorbike is advisable; otherwise, you may find yourself limited in exploring.

There are so many options for short-term rentals in Phuket.

Avista Hideaway Patong

For a little luxury, I checked into Avista Hideaway Patong for a short-term stay as part of a press trip. Patong itself has never particularly appealed to me — its energetic nightlife and constant sense of chaos don’t align with my personal style or long-term living preferences. However, for a brief retreat, the location made perfect sense.

The five-star resort is just a five-minute drive from Patong Beach, yet it feels worlds away. Nestled on a lush hilltop and surrounded by greenery, it offers a secluded sanctuary that completely shields you from the bustle below. I stayed in the Hideaway Suite, which felt every bit as spacious as my Utopia condo, if not more. The suite featured both indoor and outdoor bathrooms, a dedicated dressing area, a king bedroom with a work-friendly desk, and a generous outdoor terrace complete with a private pool and kitchenette. If I were a millionaire, I could easily imagine myself settling in here long-term. It was ideal for digital nomad life in Phuket.

The suite truly provided everything a digital nomad could need — privacy, tranquillity, and ample space to both work and unwind. I alternated between taking a refreshing dip in the pool, working outdoors on the terrace, or settling at the desk inside before heading to the spa or main pool for a change of scenery. The resort is also conveniently located near several major attractions, including Freedom Beach, one of Phuket’s most picturesque and pristine stretches of coastline.

Avista Hideaway Patong is a digital nomad's haven with a pool terrace and four desks to work from.

The Best Cafés & Coworking Spaces for Digital Nomad Life in Phuket

Phuket has no shortage of inspiring places to work, whether you prefer quiet cafés or beachfront coworking hubs. The island offers a mix of environments that cater to every working style, from hilltop hideaways with calming views to community-driven workspaces where you can stay productive all day. Below are a few of my favourite spots — each offering its own blend of ambience, comfort, and convenience for digital nomad life in Phuket. 

Summore Day Café

For a relaxing morning, make your way to Summore Day Café, a serene escape perched above the coast with soothing sea views. Its minimalist design and outdoor terraces create the perfect setting to unwind with a fresh smoothie or tasty brunch. 

Find your favourite spot here, whether you want to relax on a hilltop in privacy, sit upon the viewing deck area, or retreat indoors to cool off from the beaming sun. It’s the perfect place to bring your laptop and headphones, and zone out from the world with full focus on your work. The cafe has free Wi-Fi, delicious food and refreshing drinks to keep you fuelled all day long. The best part is that you can switch where you sit and actually stay here as long as you need to complete work. 

Beautiful scenery to enhance your work mood.

Selina

This beachfront hotel is a haven for digital nomad life in Phuket. Not only does it have a beautiful coworking space, but it also offers activities, day trips, and yoga classes to everyone. The coworking space at Selina is the best I have experienced in Thailand; it makes that dream of working by the beach a reality. You can purchase a monthly pass for 4,000 THB (£94), or a daily pass for 350 THB (£8.30), and visit as you please, as it's open 24/7. The office features a fridge, microwave, water dispenser and coffee and tea, making it the perfect place to work all day. Y

You can bring your own food, or eat at the restaurant next door, where you'll receive 10% off for being a member of the coworking space. It's a peaceful and comfortable environment with rattan decor, large tables, plug sockets, meeting rooms and an outdoor area to work from or simply enjoy a dip in the pool and views of the beach. For me, this is the perfect working spot away from the city, giving me the chance to embrace island life. There's nothing quite like soaking up the sun by the pool during your lunch break.

A coworking space by the beach - What more could you want?!

Canelle Bakery

With two locations in Phuket, Kata and Nai Harn, Canelle Bakery offers a relaxed café experience ideal for digital nomad life in Phuket, if you are seeking both comfort and productivity. Each branch features complimentary Wi-Fi and a hydration station, ensuring you remain refreshed throughout the day. The interiors are thoughtfully designed, providing a serene and air-conditioned environment conducive to focused work. You can indulge in a delicious selection of freshly baked pastries and decadent treats, or opt for a smoothie, protein shake, speciality coffee, brunch dishes, pastas, and gourmet burgers. With its extensive menu, Canelle Bakery combines a fresh bakery with a welcoming workspace, making it a great choice for digital nomad life in Phuket.

Not only is Canelle Bakery delicious, but it's the perfect working environment for digital nomads.

Food & Drink

The island offers a diverse food scene, ensuring that dining options are never in short supply. While Rawai lacks the typical Thai street food culture that defines Bangkok — where vibrant markets and street vendors are found on virtually every corner — it makes up for this with an array of cuisines. 

Whether enjoying a meal by the beach, beside the tranquil lake, or exploring local eateries, there is a versatility to the island’s offerings. It caters equally well to solo travellers seeking authentic local cuisine or groups wishing to indulge in more sophisticated establishments. Prices are generally higher than in Bangkok, with an average meal from 500 THB (£11.80), depending on the type of dining you choose.

Phuket Old Town Night Market

For an authentic taste of Phuket’s local life, the Phuket Old Town Night Market is an absolute must-visit. Bursting with energy, it offers an incredible variety of street food and casual dining options, where both traditional Thai dishes and Western favourites are available at very reasonable prices.

Visitors can explore an array of unique flavours, from fresh smoothies and seafood to sweet treats such as pandan and coconut pancakes, and sweet potato balls. Beyond the food, Phuket Old Town features cosy rooftop bars with live music, inviting visitors to relax and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Wondering through the side streets, you’ll also discover boutique shops, ice cream parlours, and charming local stalls.

For digital nomads and travellers alike, the Old Town Night Market offers affordable, delicious food in a lively setting — perfect for casual dining or evening exploration.

Explore the food markets, traditional buildings and boutique shops.

Vida Nova

Nestled along Phuket’s stunning coastline, Vida Nova is a go-to place for coffee lovers and those seeking a relaxed dining experience. Their signature “Nutty Lover” blend, crafted from 100% Thai Arabica Grade A beans sourced from Chiang Mai, is roasted weekly to preserve freshness, offering a rich, nuanced flavour with every cup.

The restaurant blends a calming, western-style ambience with dishes suitable for all-day dining. Breakfast favourites such as smoothie bowls, chia seed pudding, and poached eggs on toast are available throughout the day. The evening menu offers comforting classics, including club sandwiches, burgers, and indulgent platters like the Party Platter, Smart Sampler, and Super Sampler. This restaurant balances comfort food and healthy options, making Vida Nova a versatile spot for both work breaks and leisurely meals. Average meal prices hover around 300 THB (£7), offering excellent value for quality and atmosphere.

The chia seed bowl topped with fresh fruit was my all time favourite.

Su Va Na

For those seeking a truly unique culinary adventure, Su Van Na offers an extraordinary fine dining experience in the heart of Phuket at the Central Floresta Mall. Renowned as one of the world’s most impressive underwater restaurants, it immerses diners in an aquarium teeming with over 25,000 marine creatures, complemented by an enchanting mermaid performance that makes every visit highly Instagram-worthy.

The restaurant presents a 13-course seasonal menu, alongside vegan offerings, designed to delight the senses and provide a sophisticated dining journey. With dishes prepared and artfully presented, Su Van Na caters to digital nomads who appreciate luxury, creativity, and an unforgettable setting. While the experience is upscale — approximately 7,800 THB (£183) per person — the combination of culinary excellence and visual performance makes it a standout destination for special occasions or simply indulging in Phuket’s finer side.

A unique experience at the world's best underwater restaurant.

Things to do Around Phuket

Even as a digital nomad in Phuket, downtime matters. Phuket offers incredible ways to unwind without drifting into “holiday mode.” These options strike the right balance between relaxation and premium experiences.

Fira Beach Club

A modern and elegant beach club known for its modern, spacious layout, events, and sweeping ocean views. Located in Kata, an appealing yet touristy area, Fira Beach Club offers an upscale escape with comfortable loungers, good music, and breathtaking views.

Fira Beach Club can be enjoyed by day or night.

A Day Trip to the Similian Islands

A must-do full-day excursion including two snorkelling sessions, meals throughout the day, and catamaran transport. The Similan Islands boast crystal-clear waters, a pristine national park beach, and a short climb to a panoramic viewpoint.

One of the most beautiful places I have visited.

Nai Harn Beach

One of Phuket’s most picturesque beaches, known for its calm turquoise waters and scenic surroundings. While high season attracts more tourists, the nearby beach cafés, relaxed bars, and lakeside walking trail create a peaceful and enjoyable day out.

One of Phuket's most beautiful beaches in Rawai.

Central Phuket Mall

A large, modern shopping complex featuring major international brands, designer stores, and a wide range of dining options. Conveniently located in central Phuket, it’s ideal for errands, shopping, or simply escaping the heat or rainy-season downpours.

Although an island, Phuket still has many malls.

The Pros & Cons of Phuket as a Digital Nomad Base

Pros

• Wide Range of Accommodation Options

  Phuket offers both premium hotels, luxury villas, and wellness-focused retreats, alongside a significant number of mid-range and budget-friendly rentals, making it accessible for various lifestyles and budgets.

• Lots of One-Month Rental Opportunities

  Monthly rentals are easy to secure, with serviced apartments and long-stay packages widely available. ideal for digital nomads testing the island before committing long-term.

• Strong Fitness and Wellness Community

  The island is home to numerous gyms, Muay Thai camps, yoga studios, and active running groups, making it easy to maintain a consistent wellness routine and meet people.

• Versatile Food Scene

  From authentic Thai street food to high-end international cuisine, Phuket offers a diverse culinary landscape suited to both everyday meals and luxury dining.

• Growing Network of Coworking Spaces

  Coworking hubs and laptop-friendly cafés are increasingly common, providing reliable Wi-Fi, business amenities, and networking opportunities with other remote professionals.

• Balanced Lifestyle and Natural Surroundings

  The availability of beaches, outdoor activities, and a generally relaxed pace of life contributes to an appealing work–life balance. The island encourages a slower, more mindful pace to enhance your overall living experience.

• Easy Access to the Beach

  Many nomad-friendly areas are situated close to the coast, allowing for morning swims, sunset walks, or beachside breaks between work sessions.

Phuket is a great base for digital nomads craving a beach and relaxation.

Cons

• Heavy Traffic in Popular Areas

  Traffic congestion, especially around Patong, Phuket Town, and key tourist hotspots, can make commuting time-consuming and unpredictable.

• Impactful Rainy Season

  During the monsoon months, rain showers can be prolonged and intense, disrupting outdoor plans and affecting overall productivity or mood.

• Tourist-Dense Environments

  Some districts cater heavily to Western tourists, which can dilute the sense of Thai culture and make certain neighbourhoods feel overly commercialised.

• Transportation Limitations Without a Scooter

  Getting around often requires renting a motorbike. Those who do not ride may rely on Grab or taxis, which can become costly and contribute to feeling geographically restricted, as things can be quite far.

• Limited Access to Large Supermarkets in Some Areas

  Depending on where you stay, major supermarkets or speciality stores may be relatively distant, requiring planning or longer trips for grocery shopping.

Although Phuket has many beautiful beaches, they can be overpopulated during high season.

Final Verdict: Would I Live Here Again?

Digital nomad life in Phuket particularly suits travellers who prioritise fitness, enjoy being close to nature, and prefer island life over a fast-paced city environment. It’s ideal for Western nomads who like having familiar amenities nearby and for entrepreneurs who are already established, as the cost of living is higher than elsewhere in Thailand.

Would I live in Phuket long-term? Probably not. While I enjoy staying active, fitness isn’t the core of my lifestyle, and because the fitness community is the main social hub on the island, I would have struggled to build a network if I didn’t already know people there. I loved being near the beach, but day-to-day life meant I didn’t visit as often as I imagined. Although the dining scene is excellent, I find Bangkok more exciting, more affordable, and more aligned with my personal and professional goals.

That said, I do recommend digital nomad life in Phuket for those who want a large island with a strong expat presence, great wellness options, and an easy balance between work and nature. It may not be my ideal base, but I genuinely believe it’s on its way to becoming the new Bali.

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