Phuket Old Town

The cultural area with architecture, cafes, and actual Thai culture. No beach access but good for people who care more about that stuff. Safe during the day, comfortable for eating alone.

Old Town has Sino-Portuguese buildings, street art, and the best cafes on the island. No beach - this is where you go for architecture, museums, galleries, and coffee shops where people work on laptops all day. Sunday Walking Street market on Thalang Road has local food and crafts. Lots of people eat and work alone in cafes here - digital nomads and creative types. English works in tourist cafes and restaurants, local spots need pointing and smiling. Safe during the day with families and tourists around. Quieter at night - some restaurants and bars open, but not a nightlife spot. Most cafes open 8 or 9am, so early risers are out of luck. Old Town is on the southeast part of the island away from beaches - you'll need Grab or tuk-tuk to get to swimming. Works as a day trip or base if you care more about culture and cafes than beach time. No swimming, but actual Thai culture and photogenic streets.