By Phuket News Property Editorial Team · January 7, 2026
Phuket is often described as an island, and while that is geographically true, daily life here feels far less isolated than many people expect. One of the most overlooked aspects of living in Phuket is how easy it is to travel beyond the island and explore large parts of southern Thailand by road.
For residents, this connectivity shapes how people live, work, and spend their time, making Phuket feel less like an endpoint and more like a well-connected base.
The Sarasin Bridge and everyday mobility
The Sarasin Bridge provides a direct road link between Phuket and the mainland. For residents, it is not a landmark or attraction, but a practical piece of infrastructure used daily by commuters, families, and businesses.
Crossing the bridge takes minutes, not hours, and once on the mainland, drivers have immediate access to Thailand’s southern highway network. This makes spontaneous trips and regular travel part of everyday life rather than a logistical exercise.
Heading north toward Chumphon and Bangkok
Travelling north from Phuket opens up a long stretch of coastline, rural towns, and provincial centres that many residents visit regularly. Chumphon, often seen as the gateway between southern and central Thailand, is an easy overnight drive and a popular stopping point.
For longer journeys, driving north continues toward Hua Hin and eventually Bangkok, offering flexibility that air travel does not always provide. Many residents appreciate the ability to travel at their own pace, stop where they choose, and explore places that are rarely part of standard travel itineraries.
East toward Surat Thani and the mainland interior
Heading east from Phuket connects residents to Surat Thani and the wider mainland interior. This route is commonly used for ferry connections to the Gulf islands, but it also provides access to national parks, agricultural regions, and quieter provincial towns.
For long-term residents, these trips are often about variety rather than escape, offering a contrast to island life without requiring flights or complex planning.
South toward Krabi and Trang
Travelling south from Phuket leads to Krabi, Trang, and other coastal provinces known for their dramatic landscapes and slower pace of life. These areas are frequently visited by Phuket residents for weekend breaks, family visits, or short road trips.
The ability to reach these destinations by car reinforces the sense that Phuket is part of a wider region, not a self-contained bubble.
Why connectivity matters for long-term residents
For people living in Phuket year-round, connectivity changes how the island is experienced. It reduces the feeling of confinement, supports business and education needs, and makes regional travel part of normal life rather than a special occasion.
This ease of movement is one reason many residents feel comfortable settling long term. Phuket offers island living without the trade-offs that isolation often brings.
