A 'drunk' American tourist drowning at a beach was rescued by lifeguards in Phuket, Thailand on Friday.

Larry Robert Rumble, 72, was swimming with two friends off Surin Beach on the tropical island when he began to struggle in the currents on November 10.

Jet ski operators based at the beach were shocked when they later noticed the pensioner floating face-down in the water some 150 metres from the sane. They shouted to the beach lifeguards, who pulled the unconscious American onto land and administered CPR with the help of a beachgoer.

Footage shows medics pumping the holidaymaker's chest as they tried to resuscitate him.

Officers said they were able to revive Larry, but he remained unconscious and was taken to the Thalang Hospital by the local emergency medical services.

Rescuers said the tourist had 'smelled strongly of alcohol' and suspected he had been drinking before going for a swim.

Larry was reported to have been transferred to the Vachira Phuket Hospital for further treatment.