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If you’re after something unique to add to your Phuket itinerary, Mai Khao plane spotting is one of those experiences that’s easy, fun and surprisingly memorable. Mai Khao Beach sits right next to Phuket International Airport (HKT), and it’s become a bit of a cult favourite for travellers who want to watch planes land and take off incredibly close overhead.
It’s one of the few places in the world where you can stand on a public beach with jets flying just metres above your head, and yes, it’s as thrilling (and loud) as it sounds. It’s free, great for photos and videos, and honestly just a cool way to spend a couple of hours in Thailand.
Where do I go to watch planes land at Mai Khao Beach?
Mai Khao Beach is located at the western end of Phuket International Airport’s runway, and that’s exactly where you want to be. We booked a Bolt from our hotel in Surin Beach to Coriacea Boutique Resort, which cost 392 THB. Cars can’t drive to the viewing area, but I’d read that you could walk straight from this hotel to the beach and reach the plane spotting area easily.
Our driver asked if we were heading for plane spotting (must have looked like tourists, ha), and ended up dropping us a block further away from the airport instead. From there, we could have walked about 30 minutes along the road (which is flat and follows along the beach) or jump into one of the many tuk-tuks waiting. The tuktuks were all fixed price of 40 THB one way.
Maybe our Bolt driver dropped us there instead because he got a kickback from the tuk-tuk drivers, or maybe cars can’t go down the road we had first directed him to? Either way, it was all good. We opted for the ride, and it only took 7 minutes and saved us the sweaty walk.
The tuk-tuk drops you off right by a shaded area filled with trees and local stalls selling cold drinks and snacks. You can see the planes from here too, but to get that dramatic overhead view, you’ll want to walk a bit further up the beach.
Bonus tip: Don’t come from Naiyang Beach as it’s in Sirinat National Park and you’ll have to pay 200 THB for the NP park entrance.
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When is the best time for Mai Khao plane spotting?
Phuket International Airport is pretty busy, so you won’t be waiting too long between flights. The best time to visit depends on what you’re hoping for. If you want to see the specific aircraft type (something bigger than your average A320), it’s best to check flight radar before arriving.
If you want the best lighting for photos and videos, go in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is softer. The middle of the day gets hot, and the glare can ruin your shots.
The direction planes land from will change depending on wind conditions, but you’ll always catch some action. So just be patient and have your camera ready.
Is it safe and allowed to plane spot at Mai Khao Beach?
Yes – Mai Khao Beach is a public beach, and plane spotting here is currently allowed. I’d read that in the past, authorities were concerned about distractions to pilots and safety risks, but right now it’s completely legal to be on the beach and enjoy the experience.
That said, you’ll be very close to the planes, and they’re very loud, especially if landing overhead. The sound can be intense, so if you’re sensitive to noise, bring ear protection or cover your ears as they approach.
There’s no security presence at the beach, but it’s important to keep away from the airport fence and any restricted areas. That’s where airport authorities may step in if you cross the line.
How to get good photos while plane spotting at Mai Khao Beach
If you’re into photography or just want an epic shot for Instagram, Mai Khao plane spotting is perfect. I got some great photos by holding down the shutter button to shoot continuously as the plane flew overhead. And, a tripod would be ideal, particularly for videos.
I didn’t have my tripod so I propped my phone up on a log to film. It was nothing fancy, but turned out well I think. Click here to see it on Instagram.
There were quite a few people on the beach when we went, but it didn’t affect the photos at all. You’re pointing your camera up anyway, so the crowd stays out of frame.
Is there anything else to do at Mai Khao Beach?
Once you’ve had your fix of plane spotting, there’s a shaded area with trees and stalls nearby, so you can grab a drink and relax. From here, you can still see the planes flying overhead, you just won’t be right underneath them.
I wouldn’t recommend swimming at the beach. The waves were rough and the water looked deep, plus, I had read others saying the same thing. If you want a swim, head to one of the other (more beautiful) beaches in Phuket instead.
Just one more thing – please remember to take your rubbish with you. There are bins, but not many and not enough to support the volume of daily visitors. It’s a good way to keep the area enjoyable for others, too.
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Hotels Near Mai Khao Beach
Distance: 10-minute walk to the plane spotting area
Why stay here: This is one of the closest hotels to the action. It looks pretty stylish, and the pool looks out to the ocean. Plus, a great base for walking to the beach and catching flights overhead.
Distance: 15-minute drive
Why stay here: This 5-star resort offers spacious rooms with kitchens, so ideal for longer stays or families.
Distance: 15-minute drive
Why stay here: This 3-star hotel offers great service, lovely rooms and has big family rooms if needed. This hotel is very close to Phuket airport, just located on the other side of the runway – that’s why the drive is 15 minutes to Mai Khao beach.
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Final Thoughts on Mai Khao Plane Spotting
Mai Khao plane spotting was such a fun and easy thing to do in Phuket. It doesn’t cost much, it’s easy to get there, and it makes for a cool travel memory (and some fun content).
I recommend adding it to your Thailand itinerary, even if you’re just in Phuket for a few days. It’s a simple way to break up your beach-hopping, and where else can you say you stood under a landing plane with your toes in the sand?
I hope this guide has helped you plan your visit to Mai Khao beach for plane spotting and understand the logistics of it.
If you’re looking for more things to do in Phuket, check out my 5-day Phuket itinerary.
Have fun
Happy Travels.
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Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.
This is a very fun article to read. I have been to Thailand but never knew about plane spotting being “a thing” there.
Thank you. Maybe you could visit during your next trip to Phuket 🙂
I wouldn’t have thought to go plane spotting, but standing with your toes in the sound and watching planes come in overhead would be a great change of pace from a day at the beach.
Yeah it’s certainly not your average day at the beach, and was a lot of fun
What a unique experience and fun photo opportunity! Thanks for sharing!
I’ve been to Phuket many times (it’s a popular beach destination for Malaysian tourists), but never heard of this before. Now I have something new to do on my next visit, thanks!
Oh that’s so awesome, I hope you love it