A nice hotel in Phuket is the Patong beach resort, it is close to the beach, shopping and eating establishments. The Thara Patong is also nice, as is the Holiday Inn/Merlin resorts and they are also within walking distance of shopping and eating. The BanThai is basic, but very smartly done with unusual minimalistic asian fusion design. It is just next to Post Office Street and the best restaurant scenes are just 30 seconds away from the beach sands.

 

Another nice place is the Ramada Karon Beach. Expecially if you are travelling with kids. It's only been open for a few months and is super clean and friendly. It's got a great kids club with really friendly and caring staff. They have a waterslide and lots of pool toys sporting equipment that anyone could use.  The kids club has it's own movie theatre and a playstation game room. Free ice cream, popcorn and fruit slushies for everyone. The theatre is great at night, kids can stay and be supervised by the staff while parents enjoy an evening in the restaurant. Good restaurant on site as well - Joe Kools and The Castle Grill, both have an interesting and creative menu.