The Best Waterfalls in Phuket

What makes Phuket's waterfalls special

Phuket is famous for beaches, but its forested interior hides a handful of waterfalls that make a change of scenery. Most sit within or near protected jungle, so a visit combines a short forest walk, birdsong and a cool pool at the end. They are modest compared with mainland Thailand's giants, but they give you shade, nature and a break from the sun — and the best of them is worth the detour.

The best time to visit

Waterfalls depend on rain, so the green season from roughly June to November is when they flow strongest and look their most dramatic. In the dry high season (December to April) some shrink to a trickle or dry up almost completely. The sweet spot is during a rainy spell or shortly after, when the water is full but the trails are not dangerously slippery.

What to know before you go

• Flow varies hugely by season, so set expectations — a good waterfall on Phuket in April may be far smaller than the same spot in September.
• Rocks around the pools are slippery, especially after rain, so tread carefully and wear grippy footwear.
• Facilities are basic; bring your own water and snacks, and carry out any rubbish.

The island's top waterfalls

Bang Pae — the largest waterfall on Phuket

Bang Pae, in the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park in the island's northeast, is the biggest and most popular waterfall on Phuket. A short walk from the entrance leads to tiered cascades and a pool, and the same protected forest is home to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project nearby, making it easy to combine the two. It is the natural first choice if you only visit one.

Ton Sai — a scenic waterfall in the national park

Also within Khao Phra Thaeo, the Ton Sai waterfall is a shorter, easier option than Bang Pae, surrounded by tropical forest. Trails from here lead deeper into the reserve for those who want a longer walk among the trees and a chance of spotting tropical birds.

Kathu Waterfall — a free attraction near Patong

Kathu Waterfall, tucked in the hills of Kathu district just inland from Patong, is a convenient free attraction with a series of small cascades. It is the closest waterfall to the main west-coast resorts, so it makes an easy half-day trip, best enjoyed after rain when the multiple tiers are flowing.

Ao Yon — a quiet spot in the south

The Ao Yon waterfall, in the south of the island near Cape Panwa, is a quieter, lesser-known spot away from the main tourist trail. It is small and very seasonal, rewarding those who visit in the rainy months with a peaceful, uncrowded stop close to the coast.

Ton Prai — a bigger waterfall beyond Phuket

For a bigger cascade, the Ton Prai waterfall lies just off the island in neighbouring Phang Nga province. It is larger and more powerful than anything on Phuket itself and pairs well with a day trip to the mainland's forests and national parks.

Practical information for visitors

Cost and opening hours

Some waterfalls, like Kathu, are free, while those inside Khao Phra Thaeo National Park charge a national park entry fee set by the Department of National Parks — as of 2026, expect roughly ฿200 for foreign adults. The parks generally open in daylight hours only, so plan a morning or early-afternoon visit and check current times before you go.

How to get to the waterfalls

The easiest way to reach the waterfalls is by rented scooter or car, or by taxi and ride-hailing app. Kathu is a short hop from Patong; Bang Pae and Ton Sai are in the northeast, around 40–60 minutes from the west-coast beaches. If riding a scooter, remember you need a valid licence, and the mountain lanes can be slippery after rain.

What to bring and safety rules

• Water shoes or grippy sandals for slippery rocks around the pools.
• Insect repellent, drinking water and a light snack, as facilities are limited.
• A dry bag for your phone and valuables if you plan to swim.
• Care near the water after heavy rain, when currents and rocks are more hazardous.

Waterfall map and routes

Where they are on the island

Broadly, the waterfalls fall into three clusters: Bang Pae and Ton Sai in the northeastern Khao Phra Thaeo forest; Kathu in the central-west hills near Patong; and Ao Yon in the far south near Cape Panwa. Ton Prai lies off-island to the north in Phang Nga.

Suggested routes for a visit

• Easy half-day: Kathu Waterfall combined with time in Patong or Kathu district.
• Nature day: Bang Pae plus Ton Sai and the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project in one northeastern loop.
• Off the beaten track: Ao Yon in the south, paired with the quiet beaches around Cape Panwa.

Sources: Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation of Thailand (dnp.go.th); Tourism Authority of Thailand (tourismthailand.org).