As the largest island in all of Thailand, Phuket also holds the distinct honour of being the country's leading beach holiday destination. Attracting holidaymakers from far and wide, Phuket is an island playground of truly biblical proportions and the stunning beaches alone make a trip to this region of Thailand well worth the effort. Whether one is flying into the paradise island on holiday or a business trip, here's a list of the best ways to reach Phuket using private and public transport networks.

Those who wish to travel directly to Phuket Island using the most efficient means available can catch a flight to Phuket International Airport although this isn't a viable option for travellers on a budget. As the most costly mode of transportation accessible to those based in other Thai cities such as Bangkok and neighbouring countries including Malaysia and Singapore, catching a domestic or international flight to Phuket can be the best option for those who don't mind splurging on a speedy transfer. Tourists travelling from the United States or countries in Europe, however, will need to catch a connecting flight to Phuket from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok. Asian carriers that fly to Phuket not only include the national carrier Thai Airways but also budget airlines such as Nok Air, Air Asia and Orient Thai. Bangkok Airways and One 2 Go also provide domestic connections to the island from most Thai cities.

Although tourists who have made reservations at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort or any similar Phuket beachfront villas and hotels can arrange for their accommodation provider to send a pick-up vehicle, it is not always necessary. There are more than enough metered airport taxis and limos accessible at Phuket International Airport and these are ideal for those travelling in large groups or as a family. Tourists on a budget, however, can hop on the minibus, which takes passengers to downtown Phuket several times a day. Even though the journey is longer and takes more time than a taxi ride to Phuket Old Town, it is still the most affordable way to reach the hotel of one's choice. There's also an airport bus service that only takes tourists to the heart of Phuket but does not venture into the beach areas where most tourist hotels are situated.

Travellers who are exploring Bangkok and other cities in Thailand can travel to Phuket via long-distance buses. These bus services not only include overnight buses but also VIP buses which provide more comforts onboard. Surprisingly, the long-distance bus fare from Bangkok and most Thai towns to Phuket is only marginally lower than the cost of a domestic flight to the island. Flights to Phuket from major towns in Thailand take about 80 minutes whereas long-distance buses can take a staggering 12 hours to reach the island. Long-distance buses are, therefore, more suitable for those who would like to catch a glimpse of the Thai countryside and the villages between Bangkok and Phuket. Visitors should keep in mind, however, that VIP buses make fewer stops along the way.

Holidaymakers enjoying a beach holiday in islands nearby including Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta can travel to Phuket on a local ferry. Although Phuket is connected to the mainland via the Sarasin Bridge, tourists vacationing in Krabi can also catch a ferry bound for the beach capital. It takes 90 minutes to reach Phuket from Koh Phi Phi and the drop-off point is at the Rassada ferry terminal. Those who wish to travel to their hotel from this point onwards must find a tuk-tuk or a songthaew.

Although there are no trains heading directly to Phuket from most Thai cities, those based in Surat Thani can travel to the island via train. The 4-hour journey is scenic although tourists will need to use a local bus to reach their resort from the train station.