SURIN BEACH

Surin's casuarina-lined beachfront is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike to snack on barbecued seafood, enjoy a cool drink and escape the heat of the day.

Unlike the other busy beaches of Phuket, there's a refreshing absence of jet-skis and speed boats here since Surin lacks a launch area.

Surin is a magnificent long uncluttered beach, but in low season care must be taken when swimming as surf can be rough and tides strong. Boogie boarding and surfing are popular activities.

While there are few facilities in Surin, the narrow road back from the beach is filling up with some classy cafes, bars and shops.