Patong Beach is the busiest, most developed, and most popular destination in Phuket, although its seedy reputation is definitely well-earned. Away from the beaches, Patong offers a full-bore tourist experience, with many accommodations, dining, sporting, and shopping options.
Patong's 1.8 miles of beachfront house an amazing variety of watersports activities. You can dive, play beach volleyball or soccer, or go parasailing. If you prefer to be a little more laid-back, you can get a massage or just enjoy the casuarina-lined beach.
At night, Patong comes alive with a club scene that caters to every appetite. Patong's clubs, bars, karaoke lounges, massage parlors, go-go bars, katoey (lady-boy) bars, discos, and cabarets are open till the wee hours, illuminating Soi Bangla and other side streets with their garish neon signs.