Car Rental in Kamala, Phuket

Where to drive

• Drive south to Patong Beach, just a 15-minute drive (≈8 km), for its lively nightlife, shopping, and dining, then continue to Karon and Kata Beaches for more relaxed atmospheres and surfing opportunities.
• Head north from Kamala to explore the tranquil beaches of Surin and Bang Tao, approximately 10-20 minutes (≈5-10 km) away, perfect for a quieter day by the sea.
• Visit Phuket Old Town, about 30-40 minutes (≈20 km) inland, to admire its Sino-Portuguese architecture, street art, and explore local cafes and markets.
• Embark on a scenic drive to the Big Buddha, a significant landmark offering panoramic views of the island, roughly 45 minutes to an hour (≈30 km) from Kamala.
• Discover the stunning viewpoints along the west coast, such as Laem Singh Viewpoint (north of Kamala, ≈5 km) or Promthep Cape at the southernmost tip of Phuket (≈40 km), offering breathtaking sunset vistas.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Thailand, you typically need a valid passport, a national driving license from your home country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Some rental companies may accept a national license if it's in English and clearly states your license class. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25, and often a minimum of one year of driving experience.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Kamala vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 700-900 THB per day during the low season, while SUVs and larger family cars could range from 1,200-2,500 THB. Premium vehicles can exceed 3,000 THB daily. Prices typically increase by 30-50% during the peak tourist months from November to February.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Thailand, you drive on the left side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50-60 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and up to 120 km/h on highways, though these can vary. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Headlights should be used at night and in poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child seats are highly recommended for young children, though not always universally enforced or provided by all rental companies.

Parking

In Kamala, parking is generally available, especially in designated areas near the beach, restaurants, and hotels. Some parking lots may charge a small fee (e.g., 20-50 THB), while street parking is often free but can be limited, especially during peak hours. Always look for clear signage and avoid parking in areas marked with red and white curbs, as these are no-parking zones.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available throughout Phuket, including Kamala and along major roads. Petrol (gasoline) and diesel are common. Most stations accept cash, and some larger ones may accept credit cards. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across the island, typically around 35-45 THB per liter for gasoline (E10, 91, 95 octane) as of 2026. Self-service pumps are rare; attendants will fill your tank.

Which car to choose

For driving around Kamala and exploring Phuket's coastal roads, a compact or economy car (e.g., Toyota Yaris, Honda Jazz) is often sufficient and easier to park. If you plan to venture into hillier areas or need more space for luggage or family, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV (e.g., Honda HR-V, Toyota Cross) would be more comfortable. Automatic transmission is highly recommended due to local traffic conditions and hilly terrain, making for a much more relaxed drive.

Frequently asked questions