Airport transfers 
The airport is far from most of the beaches. Many, if not all, hotels offer a pick-up or drop-off service, but check the charges before ordering hotel transportation.

Songthaew
These are small pickups fitted with benches along the side of the bed. They operate like buses, picking up and dropping off passengers as they go along, except that they have no fixed route. You need to flag one down and find out if where you want to go is on his way before boarding in the back.

Motorcycle taxis
Motorbikes are the most common transportation on the island and the easiest and cheapest way to get around. To rent a motorbike — or car for that matter – you must have a valid driver’s license from your country. Rental is normally between Bt120-Bt150 during the low season and Bt150-Bt250 during the high season for a standard motorbike. Note that helmets are required.

Cars
There are a number of car rental agencies around town, including some of the international chains such as Budget, Avis and National. Driving in Phuket is not as difficult as Bangkok, but you’d still be well advised to rent a car with a driver.

Tuktuk
Almost all tuk-tuks in Patong are small Daihatsu and Isuzu pick-ups remodeled with seats and a roof to fit their new purpose. Tell the driver where to go, ask him for the price (don’t forget to haggle) and climb into the back.

Longtail boats
Longtails are available on most beaches for short sightseeing trips. Rental rates range from Bt400 to Bt1,200 depending on destination.