73points · on 9 of 13 lists: Phuket101, Holidify, Phuket Community, Amaya Escapes, Snorkel Around The World, LUXE Phuket Villas, Vagabond Disposition, Phuket Expat Guide and Phuket Insider
Ao Sane is a cove of about 130 meters, ringed by granite boulders that run from the sand out into the water, reached by a narrow cliff road from the end of Nai Harn. On calm days the boulders make for good snorkeling, with the sound of the sea filling the cove. A small restaurant sits a few steps from the sand, with mostly shaded tables and a view across to Promthep Cape.
“the snorkeling here is great, particularly out to the right following the line of rocks.”
Google review
“Beautiful cozy and clear water.”
a Google reviewer
56points · on 8 of 13 lists: Phuket101, Holidify, Phuket Community, Amaya Escapes, Snorkel Around The World, Sputnik8, Phuket Expat Guide and Phuket Insider
Yanui is a small cove of about 300 meters tucked between Promthep Cape and the Windmill Viewpoint, and the snorkeling starts right off the beach. On calm days kayaks paddle out 700 meters to the islet of Koh Man, where the coral is better still. The north end is the best stretch for swimming, and it fills with bodyboarders whenever a swell rolls in.
“As soon as you step into the sea you can swim with colourful local fish.”
Google review
“The best sunset view overall.”
a Google reviewer
40points · on 6 of 13 lists: Phuket101, Holidify, Snorkel Around The World, LUXE Phuket Villas, Sputnik8 and Phuket Expat Guide
Freedom Beach is a 300 meter crescent of white sand below a forested headland, reached only by longtail boat or a steep trail down through the trees. People come to swim and to snorkel at both ends of the bay, where the fish gather, and the season runs December to May, quietest before 10 in the morning. The walk down takes 15 to 20 minutes with a 200 baht entry fee, and the climb back takes longer, so bring water.
“The water was incredibly clear, the sand felt soft underfoot”
a Google reviewer
“Freedom Beach has a more natural feel, with big rocks and a scenic coastline.”
a Google reviewer
Google ratings from Google on 3 October 2026. Quotes are from the published lists and reviews named beside each one.
Honorable mentions
Fifth, with 37 points from 7 lists.
“The beach is beautiful and suitable for families with children.”
a Google reviewer
Fourth, with 39 points from 7 lists.
“One of the most beautiful preserved island in Thailand.”
a Google reviewer
Sixth, with 29 points from 5 lists.
“Beautiful, kind of secluded beach.”
a Google reviewer
Named on only one list we found, so it cannot be ranked under the two-list rule.
The lists we counted
- Phuket101 · May 2026
- Holidify · 2026
- Snorkelverse · May 2025
- Phuket Community · March 2026
- Amaya Escapes · February 2026
- Snorkel Around The World · March 2026
- LUXE Phuket Villas · January 2024
- Vagabond Disposition · February 2026
- Im Going On An Adventure · November 2025
- getmyboat.com · May 2024
- Sputnik8
- Phuket Expat Guide · October 2026
- Phuket Insider · September 2026
How the points work
We read every independent published best-of list we can find for the question. Each list gives 10 points for first place, 9 for second, down to 1 for tenth, and 5 points to each place on a list with no order. Points are added up. A business must be in the top 10 of at least two lists to be ranked. Rankings are never sold. Full method.
Award badges
Related rankings
