A video of the rescue, shared by Facebook user Witsarut Saman yesterday evening, captured the moment lifeguards used a jet-ski to reach the struggling swimmer.
The footage shows the quick response of the rescue team, who navigated through strong surf to pull the unconscious man to safety.
“May he be safe,” Witsarut wrote in the caption, along with the hashtag #ThankYouBangTaoSurinLifeguards.
The clip received attention online, with several users acknowledging the lifeguards’ timely response.
Once ashore, lifeguards immediately performed CPR on the man, who had reportedly lost consciousness.
Staff from a nearby hotel and several concerned tourists rushed to assist. Emergency services were called to the scene, and the victim was later transported to Thalang Hospital for further medical treatment.
As of the report, the tourist’s identity and current condition remain unknown. Authorities have been unable to find any identification documents on the man.
The video prompted a wave of online support, with social media users expressing concern and well-wishes. “Stay safe,” one user wrote. Others criticised risky behaviour in dangerous surf, with comments like, “Too stubborn, please stay safe,” and “Easy to stop, just listen to the knowledge source, see them all over the beach every day.”
Lifeguards along Phuket’s west coast frequently warn swimmers about strong undercurrents during monsoon season, when conditions can change rapidly and become life-threatening.
Phuket’s beaches are currently under red-flag warnings in many areas due to unpredictable surf conditions. Swimmers are advised to stay within monitored zones and avoid entering the water when lifeguards deem it unsafe.