Phuket Tides: What Tourists Need to Know
Phuket is one of the most popular resorts in Thailand, and its beaches delight tourists all year round. However, when planning a vacation, it is important to consider natural phenomena such as tides, which can significantly affect your beach experience. In this article, we will look at why tides occur, how they change in Phuket, and which beaches are most susceptible to these changes.
Causes of tides
Tides are natural fluctuations in the ocean's water level caused by the gravitational influence of the Moon and the Sun. The Moon, being closer to the Earth, exerts a strong attraction on it, causing the water to rise - the tide. A second tidal wave is formed on the opposite side of the Earth due to the centrifugal force created by the planet's rotation.
Low tides occur when water recedes from the shores, moving towards the tidal zones. In Phuket, as in other coastal regions, these changes occur twice a day, approximately 6 hours apart.
How the Tides Change in Phuket
Phuket is located in the Andaman Sea, where the tides follow a semi-diurnal cycle (two high tides and two low tides per day). The difference in water level can reach 2-3 meters depending on the time of year.
- During the full moon and new moon, the low tides are more pronounced and the high tides are higher than usual.
- During the monsoon season (May – October) the difference between high and low tide becomes more noticeable and the currents become stronger.
- During the dry season (November – April) the water level changes are gentler, making swimming more comfortable.
Which beaches in Phuket are most susceptible to low tides?
At low tide, swimming becomes difficult or impossible at some Phuket beaches due to shallow water, rocky bottoms, corals, or a strong receding tide. Here are the beaches where swimming at low tide can be problematic:
Beaches where swimming at low tide is inconvenient or dangerous
- Rawai – at low tide the water recedes hundreds of meters, revealing the seabed covered with seaweed and marine life. Instead of swimming, starfish walks and shell collecting are popular here.
- Nai Yang - shallow water and coral make the edges of this beach unsuitable for swimming at low tide. You have to walk a long way along the exposed bottom to reach deep water. Swimming in the center of the beach is possible.
- Tri Trang is a very shallow beach, and at low tide the water goes down tens of meters, exposing the rocky bottom and corals. To get to the deep end you have to walk a long way, but even there the water will be knee-deep.
- Paradise Beach – although the beach is protected by a bay, during a strong low tide the bottom becomes rocky and slippery due to exposed corals. Entering the water is difficult, and swimming is almost impossible.
- Yanui - in the central part of the beach you can swim at low tide, but at the edges the water recedes and reveals rocky areas with coral fragments.
- Panwa (Ao Yon, Cape Panwa) - at low tide, the muddy bottom with stones is exposed, which makes swimming almost impossible. On the Ao Yon beach in the central part, swimming at low tide is possible, but it can be uncomfortable and beware of stingrays.
Where are low tides less noticeable?
In Patong, Kata, Karon and Surin the water level remains relatively stable and the bottom is deep enough to make swimming comfortable even at low tide.
If you plan to swim, it is better to check the tide schedule in advance and choose beaches with deep water.
How to take into account the ebb and flow of the tides when on holiday?
To enjoy a beach holiday without any unpleasant surprises, we recommend:
- Check the tide chart on special websites or apps.
- Plan your beach visits during high tide hours , especially if you want to swim.
- Keep in mind that during low tide, rocks and corals may become exposed, making entry into the water less comfortable.
Conclusion
Phuket's tides are a natural phenomenon that can affect your holiday. Knowing which beaches are more susceptible to changes in water levels can help you plan your visit in advance and choose the best time to swim. Keep an eye on the forecast and enjoy your holiday on this tropical island.
