Travel around Phuket with ease and affordability on the Phuket Smart Bus. Connecting Phuket International Airport to Patong, Karon, Kata, and Rawai for as little as 100 baht, this air-conditioned, Wi-Fi-equipped service offers a scenic coastal journey that’s both convenient and eco-friendly. Whether you’re heading from the airport to Patong Beach or exploring local hotspots like Surin and Kamala, the Phuket Smart Bus is your smartest, safest, and most budget-friendly way to see the island.
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You’ve just landed at Phuket International Airport.
It’s 33 degrees, your phone’s at 12%, your luggage took forever, and now every taxi driver wants 800 baht to take you to Patong Beach.
There has to be a cheaper way to get from the airport to Patong, right?
Good news — there is.
It’s called the Phuket Smart Bus, and it’ll get you from Phuket Airport to Patong for just 100 baht.
Here’s everything you need to know, no fluff — just local tips, schedules, and how to actually find the bus.
🚎 What Is the Phuket Smart Bus?
The Phuket Smart Bus is a local public bus service that runs along the west coast of the island.
Think of it as Phuket’s version of an airport shuttle — just way cheaper and more scenic.
It connects major areas like Phuket Airport, Cherngtalay, Surin Beach, Kamala, Patong, Karon, Kata, Promthep Cape, and Rawai Beach.
The Smart Bus was launched to make travel easier for tourists and locals, and it’s now one of the most budget-friendly ways to explore Phuket.
📍 Where to Catch the Phuket Smart Bus at Phuket Airport
If you’ve just landed at Domestic Arrivals, head out through Gate 3.
Walk straight out, cross the small road, and look for a blue-and-white bus parked opposite.
That’s the Phuket Smart Bus.
There’s usually a small crowd with backpacks waiting — you’re in the right spot.
Don’t expect big signs or digital screens — it’s low-key but reliable.
First bus: 8:15 AM
Last bus: 11:30 PM
🗺️ Map link: Phuket Smart Bus Airport Stop
Pro tip: If you’re confused, ask airport staff or message the Smart Bus team on LINE — they actually reply fast.
⏰ Phuket Smart Bus Schedule and Routes
The Smart Bus doesn’t run on a strict minute-by-minute schedule, but buses come roughly every 60–90 minutes.
Here’s the breakdown of Route 1 (Airport → Rawai) which includes Patong:
Stops include:
- Phuket Airport (Gate 3)
- Cherngtalay (Boat Avenue area)
- Surin Beach
- Kamala Beach
- Patong Beach
- Karon Beach
- Kata Beach
- Promthep Cape
- Rawai Beach
It’s a scenic route that hugs the coastline, so don’t expect lightning-fast travel.
The full loop takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
Check their live schedule and GPS tracker at phuketsmartbus.com — super handy if you’re planning around flight times.
💸 Phuket Smart Bus Ticket Price and How to Pay
Here’s the magic number: 100 baht.
That’s the flat fare from Phuket Airport to Patong.
You can pay onboard, either:
- Cash (exact change preferred)
- QR code via Thai bank app
No advance booking needed.
Just get on, grab a seat, and pay once you’re moving.
It’s one of the few things in Phuket that still costs less than a smoothie bowl.
🎫 Phuket Smart Bus Day Pass Options
If you’re planning to use the bus more than once, check out their Day Passes.
These are great for travellers staying in areas like Kata, Karon, or Rawai, and want unlimited rides.
| Pass Type | Route 1 (Airport – Rawai) | Route 2 (Phuket Town – Patong) |
| 1-Day Pass | 299 THB | 159 THB |
| 3-Day Pass | 499 THB | 299 THB |
| 7-Day Pass | 799 THB | 499 THB |
| 10-Day Pass | 1,000 THB | 699 THB |
| 30-Day Pass | 1,990 THB | 1,590 THB |
| Student 30-Day Pass | — | 790 THB |
💡 You can buy these passes directly on the bus — no app, no registration, no fuss.
📍 Route Highlights – What You’ll See on the Way
The Phuket Smart Bus isn’t just transport — it’s a mini sightseeing trip.
Here’s what’s along the way:
- Cherngtalay: Upscale area near Laguna Phuket, good for brunch spots like Bake or Project Artisan.
- Surin Beach: Luxe hotels and beach clubs like Catch and The Lazy Coconut.
- Kamala Beach: Calm vibes, Cafe Del Mar, and Carnival Magic.
- Patong Beach: You’ll know you’ve arrived — traffic, tuk-tuks, and the sound of Bangla Road.
- Karon & Kata: Great beaches and surf breaks.
- Rawai Beach: Seafood market, Promthep Cape, and local life.
Sit on the left side of the bus for sea views.
Perfect for those “I can’t believe this is 100 baht” moments.
🆚 Phuket Smart Bus vs Taxi vs Grab
Let’s be honest — everyone’s comparing these options.
Here’s the quick, clear breakdown:
| Option | Cost (One Way) | Travel Time | Comfort | Best For |
| Phuket Smart Bus | 100 baht | 1.5–2 hrs | Air-con, Wi-Fi | Budget travellers |
| Airport Taxi | 800–1,000 baht | 45–60 mins | Private ride | Families or groups |
| Grab | 1,000–1,500 baht | 45–60 mins | Private ride | Solo travellers who want convenience |
Verdict:
If you’re not in a rush and want to save cash for smoothies and sunsets — take the Phuket Smart Bus.
If you’re tired or arriving late, Grab might be worth the splurge.
📶 What’s Onboard the Phuket Smart Bus?
It’s surprisingly well-equipped for a 100-baht ride.
Here’s what you’ll find onboard:
- Air conditioning (essential)
- Free Wi-Fi (decent for messaging, not Netflix)
- USB charging ports at your seat
- CCTV cameras for safety
- Standard emergency exits
- Storage space for backpacks and small luggage
If you’re hauling surfboards or massive suitcases, a taxi might be better.
But for 90% of travellers, this bus does the job — comfortably.
💬 Local Tips for Riding the Smart Bus
After years of island life, here are the small things that make the trip smoother:
- Don’t wait inside the terminal. The bus won’t come in — it’s across the street.
- Message them on LINE: Smart Bus LINE — they’ll tell you when the next one’s due.
- Last bus from Patong to Airport: 20:20 (from Bangla Police Station).
- Bring small change or 100 baht note.
- Sit left side from the airport for the best views.
- Grab a snack before boarding — no food sold onboard.
- Keep an eye on your stop; the driver will call out names, but it’s easy to miss when you’re daydreaming at Surin.
📱 Helpful Contacts and Links
- 🌐 Website: www.phuketsmartbus.com and Phuket Tourism Authority
- 💬 Facebook Messenger: Phuket Smart Bus
- 📞 Phone: +66 86 306 1257
- 🗺️ Route Map: Available on their site or via Google Maps
They also have Route 2, running Phuket Bus Terminal 1 – Patong via Bangkok Hospital, Chillva Market, and Andamanda Waterpark — handy for locals or long-stayers.
🚌 How to Catch the Phuket Smart Bus Back to the Airport from Patong
Finding the Phuket Smart Bus stop in Patong is easy once you know where to look.
The main departure point is right by the Bangla Police Station, just off Bangla Road.
- The first bus to Phuket Airport leaves around 8:20 AM.
- The last bus leaves Patong at 8:20 PM.
- The stop is clearly marked, and you’ll usually see travellers with backpacks waiting nearby.
💡 Tip: Arrive 10–15 minutes early, especially if you’re catching the last ride of the day — the Smart Bus won’t wait, and taxis late at night are pricey.
If you’re staying in Kata or Karon, you can also hop on from the main road — just wave when you see the blue-and-white bus approaching.
When you are in Kata or Karon: What to do in Kata & Karon
💳 Payment Options for the Phuket Smart Bus
The best part of the Phuket Smart Bus is how straightforward it is to pay.
Here’s what works:
- Cash: Still king in Thailand, but have small notes (100 baht is ideal).
- QR Code (PromptPay): Perfect for anyone with a Thai bank app.
- Day Pass: Unlimited rides on Route 1 — great if you’re exploring multiple beaches in one day.
If you’re staying a week, the 7-Day Pass (799 baht) is gold.
That’s unlimited travel from Phuket Airport to Patong, Kata, Rawai, and everywhere in between.
🚏 Phuket Smart Bus Route 2 – Phuket Town to Patong
If you thought Route 1 (Phuket Airport to Patong for 100 baht) was handy, wait till you hear about Route 2.
This route connects Phuket Town to Patong Beach, cutting straight through the island’s heart — perfect if you’re staying in town, visiting Chillva Market, or heading to Andamanda Waterpark.
Route 2 is basically the Smart Bus’ city line.
It links key residential, shopping, and hospital zones — so it’s not just for tourists, but for anyone living or working in Phuket.
🚏 Route 1 vs Route 2 – Know the Difference
If you’re planning more travel around the island, knowing which Phuket Smart Bus route to use saves you time.
| Route | Starts At | Ends At | Highlights |
| Route 1 | Phuket Airport | Rawai Beach | Surin, Kamala, Patong, Karon, Kata |
| Route 2 | Bus Terminal 1 (Phuket Town) | Patong Beach | Chillva Market, Bangkok Hospital, Andamanda Waterpark |
If you’re heading to Phuket Old Town, Route 2 is your go-to.
If you’re exploring the west coast beaches, stick with Route 1.
Other options: How to Get Around Phuket – Best Ride-Hailing Apps
🗺️ Route 2 Overview
Starting Point: Phuket Bus Terminal 1 (Phuket Town)
Final Stop: Patong Beach
Fare: 50 baht flat rate — cash or QR payment onboard
Main Stops Along Route 2:
- Phuket Bus Terminal 1 – main station for buses to Bangkok and Krabi
- Bangkok Hospital Phuket – private hospital on the island’s main artery road
- Chillva Market – one of Phuket’s trendiest night markets
- Tesco Lotus Samkong – big supermarket stop, easy for quick errands
- Andamanda Phuket Waterpark – family favourite, huge slides and lazy rivers
- Kathu Fresh Market – local vibes and street snacks
- Makro Patong – wholesale groceries and supplies
- Malin Plaza – cheap food, massages, and souvenirs
- Patong Beach – the final stop near Bangla Road
This route is ideal for expats, students, and long-term travellers bouncing between Phuket Town, Kathu, and Patong.
💸 Route 2 Ticket Prices and Pass Options
The pricing is straightforward, just like Route 1.
You can buy a single ride ticket or grab a multi-day pass if you’re using it regularly.
| Pass Type | Price (THB) | Details |
| 1-Day Pass | 159 | Unlimited rides for a day |
| 3-Day Pass | 299 | Great for weekend trips |
| 7-Day Pass | 499 | Perfect for short stays |
| 10-Day Pass | 699 | For regular commuters |
| 30-Day Pass | 1,590 | Best value for long-term use |
| Student 30-Day Pass | 790 | Discounted for students |
You can buy these passes on the bus — no booking, no app.
Just hop on, pay, and grab your seat.
🕖 Route 2 Operating Hours
The Phuket Smart Bus Route 2 typically runs from early morning until around 9:00 PM, depending on the day.
Expect a bus every 60–90 minutes.
Schedules are available on the official Phuket Smart Bus website or via their LINE account (@PhuketSmartBus).
🌆 Why Route 2 Is Underrated
Most tourists never hear about Route 2, but locals love it because it’s:
- Half the price of Route 1 (just 50 baht).
- Great for day trips between Patong, Phuket Town, and Andamanda Waterpark.
- Air-conditioned and safe, with Wi-Fi and USB chargers like Route 1.
- Less crowded than the airport route — more space, smoother ride.
If you’re based in Phuket Town and heading to Patong Beach for a night out or a gym session, Route 2 is your cheapest and most chill option.
🧭 Insider Tip
The Route 1 and Route 2 day passes are connected — you can use them interchangeably.
So if you buy a Route 1 Day Pass for 299 baht, it also works on Route 2.
That means you can start in Phuket Town, cruise over to Patong, and then continue down to Kata or Rawai — all on the same card.
Perfect for travellers who want to see the whole island without the taxi drama.
The Phuket Smart Bus Route 2 might not start at the airport, but it’s just as useful for exploring the island — especially if you’re already in Phuket Town or staying around Kathu.
And just like Route 1, it’s proof that you can travel smart in Phuket — and still get from Phuket Airport to Patong for 100 baht.
🌴 What to Do Near Smart Bus Stops
Here’s where it gets fun — the Phuket Smart Bus stops aren’t just convenient, they drop you near some great spots worth checking out.
🏖️ Surin Beach Stop
- Grab a smoothie bowl from The Lazy Coconut
- Chill at Catch Beach Club for sunset
🐚 Kamala Beach Stop
- Visit Cafe Del Mar for sunset drinks
- Check out Carnival Magic, a wild lights-and-parade show
🛍️ Patong Beach Stop
- Walk down Bangla Road for nightlife
- Hit Malin Plaza for cheap eats and smoothies
🌅 Rawai Beach Stop
- Grab seafood at Rawai Fish Market
- End the day with sunset at Promthep Cape
Sunset spots: Best Sunset Spots in Phuket
📱 Smart Bus GPS Tracker and Updates
You can actually track the Phuket Smart Bus live using their GPS feature.
Go to phuketsmartbus.com and click “Bus Location”.
It shows you in real time where each bus is along the route.
This is a lifesaver if you’re waiting under the sun at Kata Beach or rushing from your hotel to the main road.
🧭 Alternative Transport Options After the Smart Bus
Say you’ve reached Patong Beach and now need to get around locally.
The Phuket Smart Bus doesn’t cover smaller streets or late-night rides, but you’ve got options:
- Grab / Bolt – Book via app, prices vary (60–200 baht around Patong).
- Tuk-tuks – Always negotiate, they’ll try for 300+.
- Motorbike rentals – Around 250–300 baht/day if you’re confident riding.
If you plan to rent, check out: How to Get a Thai Driver’s License in Phuket
🧳 Tips for Smooth Phuket Smart Bus Travel
Travelling on the Phuket Smart Bus from the airport to Patong for 100 baht can be easy — if you know these hacks:
- Get data before you board. Grab a local eSIM from Airalo or Nomad — Wi-Fi sometimes drops out.
More info: Best eSIMs in Phuket for Tourists - Travel light. There’s limited storage under seats; keep bulky bags at your feet.
- Bring snacks. The ride’s long and you’ll pass endless 7-Elevens you can’t stop at.
- Stay alert for your stop. Buses don’t announce stops — keep Google Maps open.
- Sit left for ocean views heading south from the airport.
These small things make the journey smoother — and keep the 100-baht ride feeling like a win.
🕖 Phuket Smart Bus Timetable Snapshot
Just to make things easy, here’s a quick sample timetable (times can shift slightly):
| From | To | First Bus | Last Bus | Approx. Frequency |
| Phuket Airport → Patong | 8:15 AM | 11:30 PM | Every 60–90 mins | |
| Patong → Phuket Airport | 8:20 AM | 8:20 PM | Every 60–90 mins |
Always double-check the latest times on LINE or Facebook Messenger (@PhuketSmartBus) before heading out.
☕ A Quick Story: My First Smart Bus Ride
When I first moved to Rawai, I hopped on the Phuket Smart Bus with a surfboard bag, no clue where I’d end up.
The driver just smiled and pointed me to the back.
Two hours later, I’d seen Kamala Beach, Karon, and half the island — all for 100 baht.
That’s the thing about the Smart Bus.
It’s slow, scenic, and full of little Phuket moments you’d miss from a Grab car.
Further reading: How Cheap Is Phuket If You Visit Now?
❓ Phuket Smart Bus FAQs
How do I get to Patong from Phuket Airport?
Take the Phuket Smart Bus outside Gate 3 — 100 baht, pay on the bus, around 90 minutes.
Is the Phuket Smart Bus safe?
Yes — it’s a government-backed service with CCTV and professional drivers.
Can I bring luggage?
Yes, small and medium bags fit easily. Large luggage goes in the back.
Do I need to book in advance?
No — just show up and hop on.
What time is the last bus from Patong to the airport?
20:20 (8:20 PM) from Bangla Police Station.
Does the bus run every day?
Yes, daily — from early morning until around midnight.
🌴 Why the Phuket Smart Bus Is Worth It
Look, Phuket isn’t known for cheap transport.
But this little blue-and-white bus is the exception.
For 100 baht, you get:
- A comfy ride from Phuket Airport to Patong
- Air-con, Wi-Fi, USB charging
- No taxi haggling
- Local sights along the coast
If you’re travelling light and have time, it’s unbeatable.
Spend the money you save on a fresh coconut at Kamala or a cold beer in Patong.
✈️ Final Thoughts
If you’re after the easiest and cheapest way to get from Phuket Airport to Patong for 100 baht, take the Phuket Smart Bus.
It’s safe, scenic, and simple — exactly what you want when you’ve just landed in paradise.
So skip the taxi queues, hop on the blue-and-white bus, and start your island trip the smart way — literally.
That’s the beauty of the Phuket Smart Bus: how to get from the airport to Patong for 100 baht.
If you’re still wondering how to make the most of your budget journey, stay tuned — next, we’ll cover the best beach-to-beach travel hacks using the Phuket Smart Bus, plus how to connect it with local tours, ferries, and day trips.
Because getting from Phuket Airport to Patong for 100 baht is just the start of your island adventure.
