The lower-middle-range Tri Trang Beach Resort falls under the category of “cheap and cheery.” Its location, right on the sands of Tri Trang Beach is its crowning feature. It’s set away from the hustle of Patong, which is a pro for most of its guests, although free shuttles make the trip for anyone that wants to visit. Its 244 guest rooms are also remarkably large, comfortably fitting families and providing a tremendous value. On the downside, this is a somewhat older property and it shows, with worn hallways and floors, discolored loungers, and a fitness room with aged equipment. Still, for travelers that don’t mind trading a spotless environment for low rates and a great location, the Tri Trang will hit a sweet spot. Families willing to spend a bit more could also consider the Deevana Plaza Phuket Patong.

Part of a budget chain based in Bangkok, the Red Planet Patong offers basic and modern rooms to young travelers looking to be in the thick of Patong’s beach and nightlife scene. Patong Beach is a short seven-minute walk away, and Patong’s nightlife hub of Bangla Road is 14 minutes away on foot. The 142 rooms are no frills, each offering little more than a fresh bed, a flat-screen TV, and a bathroom with a walk-in shower. Notably, there are no phones, and the hotel encourages guest to use their app to contact the front desk or fellow travelers in other rooms. On-site features are similarly sparse. The hotel lacks a pool or dining facilities. Another inexpensive option to consider is the Aspira Prime Patong, which adds a breakfast room and a pool to its offerings, sometimes for lower rates.