Here are all the best places to stay in Phuket, depending on what vibe you're after

The island of Phuket is often an Aussie traveller's first introduction to Thailand. With its pristine beaches, cheap food, legendary nightlife and a plethora of activities, it's a no-brainer when you're after a tropical holiday.As a pretty big island, it can often be hard to choose the right place to stay.While a hotel right in Patong may be great for uni students, it's not ideal for a family of four.Here's everything to know about choosing a place to stay in Phuket.READ MORE: These are the best cruise lines according to social media usersPatongBest for: Backpackers, night owls, and anyone who wants to be in the thick of itThis is often the neighbourhood where most Aussies find themselves on their first trip to Phuket. Patong is the classic, stereotypical area of the island, with crazy nightlife, a ton of massage shops, foreigner-friendly restaurants, and souvenir shops.If you like being in the centre of the action, this is the place to be. Most hotels and resorts are located right by the beach.Bangla Road is the centre of Phuket's nightlife, so if you want a good night's sleep maybe steer clear of any accommodation around here. READ MORE: Scared of turbulence? One pilot says you should sit in this seat whenever possibleKata BeachBest for: Beach lovers, first-time visitorsMany people cite Kata Beach as one of the best in Phuket, and it's easy to see why. With a long stretch of lovely white sand and calm waves, it's the kind of place you want to park up at and never leave.It's still quite touristy so there are plenty of food options, and it's just a short drive from Patong so you won't miss out on any fun. Bang TaoBest for: Those who want a relaxing, all-inclusive resort holidayBang Tao is a more upscale neighbourhood on the west coast of Phuket, with a lot of trendy bars, cafes and restaurants. It's also home to a long stretch of beach where you'll find plenty of beach clubs and bars.It's also home to Laguna Phuket, probably the largest resort complex on the island - perfect for anyone who wants a 'flop-and-drop' experience.READ MORE: Mainland Greece is an affordable way to have a Euro summer - here's where you need to goKalimBest for: Families, people seeking peace and quietRight near Patong and Kata, Kalim is a laid-back beach area that offers a respite from the crowds. It still has enough food and bar options that you won't get bored, but is certainly more low-key than other parts of the island.There are some great resorts to choose from if that's what you're after, but you'll have to head to Patong if you want a taste of the famous nightlife. Phuket Old TownBest for: A local experience, budget travellersPhuket Old Town may be the centre of the island, but it's not really a spot that many tourists frequent. It's got beautiful old buildings, charming boutiques, delicious local food and trendy coffee shops, and is a great place to wander around for an afternoon.However, it's not near a beach and isn't the most tourist-friendly part of the island. RawaiBest for: Beach bums who hate crowdsAt the southern end of the island, Rawai is an area with an interesting mix of locals and foreigners who have moved in long term. Popular with digital nomads, the food scene has everything from authentic Thai to Italian and Mexican. While it's a lively place, it's got a much more local feel than other parts of Phuket.The beaches here are never too crowded, and the neighbourhood is pretty quiet at night.Best time to visit ThailandThe best time to visit Thailand is during the cool and dry season between November and early April, when temperatures range from 29°C to 34°C. However, the climate varies throughout the country so you can visit all year round depending on where you are going.If it's beach time you are after aim for December to February. Not surprisingly then, this time is considered Thailand's high season, when hotel and transportation prices are at their peak. March and April are best for tropical fruit and Songkran, Thailand's New Year celebrations. May to October is best for accommodation bargains.