Phuket is a must-visit destination for travelers to Thailand. With its stunning beaches and charming islands, Phuket is a true paradise. From the weather to the crystal-clear waters, everything about Phuket just feels perfect. Join me as I take you on a journey to explore Phuket, from its scenic mountains to its beautiful beaches and world-class paradise islands. Get ready to fall in love with Phuket and start planning your own trip!
✨👀 If you’re reading this travel review on my blog for the first time, I just want to say hello! My name is Kot and I’m real 100% Thai. Therefore, you can be confident that this Thai travel review is a genuine local review, not a travel review done by foreigners or Farangs. So, let’s travel like real Thai locals. Yeahh!
14 Attractions in Phuket: Beach – Viewpoint – Café – Accommodation
Beach | 1. Banana Beach (Haad Gluay) 2. Yanui Beach |
Viewpoint | 3. Black Rock Viewpoint (Pa Hin Dum) 4. Laem Krating 5. Windmill Viewpoint 6. Phromthep Cape (Laem Phromthep) |
Attraction | 7. Rock Beach Swing |
Island | 8. Phi Phi Island 9. Koh Khai Nok |
Café | 10. Chino Cafe Gallery 11. RYN Authentic Tea & Slow Drop Coffee 12. Dou Brew Coffee & Craft |
Accommodation | 13. Renaissance Phuket Resort and Spa 14. Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort |
OTA Discount | Klook Discount Agoda Discount Booking Discount Expedia Discount Hotels Discount |
Black Rock Viewpoint (Pa Hin Dum)
If you’re looking for a viewpoint with a panoramic view of Phuket, then the Black Rock Viewpoint is a must-visit destination. Although it was once a hidden gem location, it’s quickly gaining recognition and drawing visitors to come and take in the breathtaking sights. When you get there, you’ll be able to see the stunning Nai Harn Beach, the windmills standing tall on Ya Nui Beach, Laem Phromthep, and even Koh Hae (Coral Island). The view is truly awe-inspiring and will leave you speechless.
However, before heading to Black Rock Viewpoint, it’s important to exercise caution when driving. The road leading up to the viewpoint is quite rough and rocky, and it can be slippery and muddy when it rains. While any type of car can make the journey, it’s not recommended to drive up when it’s raining, as the road can get very messy.
When you reach the end of the road, you’ll see a black sign that reads “Pa Hin Dum”. From there, you’ll need to walk about 200 meters through a steep, small forest. This short hike can be considered a workout, but the reward is well worth it. The view you’ll see once you reach the top is simply breathtaking, and it’s difficult to put into words.
All in all, I highly recommend visiting the Black Rock Viewpoint. The breathtaking panoramic view will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, be sure to add it to your Phuket travel itinerary and experience it for yourself.
Banana Beach
This Banana Beach or Haad Gluay is not the one located in Koh Hae (coral island), but it is a small and hidden gem of a beach located in Phuket. It’s tucked away in a hillside, just off the main road near Haad Nai Thon, and unless you’re specifically looking for it, you may not even realize it’s there. The only sign of its presence is a small ‘Banana Beach’ sign on a downward road, which you have to walk down to reach the beach.
Once you arrive at Banana Beach, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what you find. If you visit at the right time, in the evening when the sky is clear, the lighting and seascape are absolutely stunning. The beach itself is of a convenient size, with beautiful rocks on either side that you can walk out to for photo opportunities. It’s simply breathtaking, and the perfect place to lounge and watch the sunset. The entire scene is incredibly picturesque, and you’ll find yourself completely relaxed and rejuvenated by your visit to this hidden gem.
Laem Krating
At first, I thought Black Rock Viewpoint (Pa Hin Dum) was the most difficult to access of all the viewpoint locations in Phuket. But the truth is, it’s a cakewalk compared to Laem Krating. Before you start your hiking journey, be prepared for a challenging route. You’ll need to climb over a lot of rocks and traverse a by-the-sea mountain to reach the tip of Laem Krating.
Accessing Laem Krating can be a bit tricky, so here’s how to do it. First, pin “Baan Krating Phuket Resort” on your Google Map. Park your car in front of the resort. If there are many visitors and cars, it’s better to park outside and walk instead. Then, walk down the forest path at the end of the resort to reach “Ao Sane Bungalows”. Continue walking along the rock on the right seaboard to make your way straight to Laem Krating.
The journey may be challenging, but the view from Laem Krating is truly one of the best in Phuket. With a clear sky, you’ll get to witness the most stunning sunsets that will take your breath away. So, don’t let the climb scare you off, this viewpoint is a must-visit and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Windmill Viewpoint
Windmill Viewpoint is a must-visit location for those who are looking for an incredible viewpoint experience. It boasts a large wind turbine in a renewable energy station, making it a unique landmark in Phuket. This viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the small Yanui Beach, the faraway Laem Phromthep, and the beautiful Nai Harn Beach. It’s not only a visual treat but also a physical relief for those who need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery from a pavilion that’s designed for rest and relaxation. If you’re feeling tired, you can take a break here and enjoy a cold drink while soaking in the picturesque surroundings. On sunny days, the Windmill Viewpoint is a popular destination for those who want to play parachuting or glide back and forth. It’s a soul-stirring experience to watch these thrill-seekers in action while admiring the breathtaking view of Phuket. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a thrilling adventure, the Windmill Viewpoint is an excellent place to spend your time.
Yanui Beach
Yanui Beach is a hidden gem in Phuket, tucked away between Laem Phromthep and Nai Harn Beach. If you’re looking for peaceful and serene vibes, this is the place for you. The beach is of a good size and there is a small rocky island nearby, making it a picturesque location. It is also a popular spot for kayaking and the prices are reasonable, at just 100 baht per person and hour.
I visited Yanui Beach in the late morning and was pleasantly surprised to find it almost deserted. It was like having my own private beach, with the crystal clear sea and pristine waters. Although my visit was during the morning, I heard that visiting during late noon and staying to watch the sunset is an even better experience. Yanui Beach is considered one of Phuket’s best sunset viewing spots, so if you’re a fan of sunsets, this is a must-visit location. The combination of the serene environment and the breathtaking view of the sun setting into the sea is truly breathtaking.
Rock Beach Swing
Rock Beach Swing is a fantastic place for all the amateur models out there who love to pose for some great photos. Located not too far from Yanui Beach, this photogenic attraction is all about capturing memories with beautiful oceanic backdrops. The place is equipped with amazing props and setups like a white staircase stretching to the sky, a bird arch, a Bali-style swing, and many more, making it a perfect spot to get some insta-worthy pictures.
Visitors to Rock Beach Swing will need to pay an entrance fee of 250 baht (for Thai citizens), which will include a small bottle of water and a round trip shuttle from the top of the hill down to the Rock Beach Swing. Please note that the road to Rock Beach Swing is very steep and not suitable for driving on your own, so the shuttle service is essential.
Even though the admission fee might seem a bit steep, the staff is lovely and provides great service. If it were up to me, I would have loved to see the fee include a glass of beverage like a smoothie or fruit juice, but it still is a great place for anyone who wants to capture beautiful memories. So, if you’re in the mood for some photo-taking, head on over to Rock Beach Swing!
Phromthep Cape (Laem Phromthep)
Laem Phromthep, also known as Phromthep Cape, is located at the southern tip of Phuket Island and is definitely worth a visit. It’s famous for its breathtaking scenery, including a group of palm trees on the headland that seems to reach out to the sea. In fact, it’s said to be one of Thailand’s most stunning spots to catch the sunset. How cool is that?!
Unfortunately, my visit to Laem Phromthep was not timed well as I arrived during the late morning when the sky was bright and sunny. Despite not being able to witness the sunset seascape, the view of the cape during the day was still memorable. The surroundings were peaceful, and the palm trees provided a charming contrast against the bright blue sky.
I still highly recommend a visit to this wonderful landmark if you are in Phuket, especially if it is your first time on the island. Whether you are looking to take stunning photos or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Laem Phromthep is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
Day Trip Island Tour: Phi Phi Island – Khai Nok Island
Coming to Phuket and won’t set any plans for an island at all, it’s a pity! Island hopping is one of the main highlights while traveling Phuket. With my trip, I purchased a one-day tour to visit the world-famous Phi Phi Islands where Maya Bay is the filming location of The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Besides traveling to Phi Phi Island, I also visited Khai Nok Island to chill out before heading back to the Phuket shore. Well, I think this is a good choice since these destinations are gems that worldwide tourist dreams of exploring once in their lifetime.
⚡️The Phi Phi Island – Khai Nok Island tour route: first, we’ll head to the Phi Phi Islands, starting at Monkey Bay (Ao Ling) on Koh Phi Phi Leh ▸ Maya Bay – Viking Cave ▸ Pileh Bay ▸ Phi Phi Don Island (stop for lunch) ▸ Khai Nok Island.
Online Purchasing an Island Tour with KLOOK
If you’re lazy to find out where to buy a tour, buying through the KLOOK website is also a pretty good option, plus, KLOOK has monthly discounts you can slowly scroll down, take a good look, and choose. The providing links below are different for the price, the destination route, as well as, each service provider.
Klook.com(function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = u; p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, ‘script’, ‘https://cdn.klook.com/s/dist_web/klook-affiliate-front/s/dist/desktop/affiliate_base_v3.2.js’) Klook.com(function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = u; p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, ‘script’, ‘https://cdn.klook.com/s/dist_web/klook-affiliate-front/s/dist/desktop/affiliate_base_v3.2.js’) Klook.com(function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = u; p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, ‘script’, ‘https://cdn.klook.com/s/dist_web/klook-affiliate-front/s/dist/desktop/affiliate_base_v3.2.js’) Klook.com(function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = u; p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, ‘script’, ‘https://cdn.klook.com/s/dist_web/klook-affiliate-front/s/dist/desktop/affiliate_base_v3.2.js’)
Monkey Beach
The first stop to get off the boat after an hour-long ride was Monkey beach on Phi Phi Don Island. After the approaching, I could cry only ‘Wow’ because it was so beautiful, the fine white sandy was gentle to your feet while stepping on, the ocean water was very clear, I could see everything through the blue transparent surface. Maybe because I came during the covid-19 so there was no tourist at all, this allowed me to get a pleasant image without any crowded. Yeah! This paradise was mine alone!!
Maya Bay
Maya Bay is what I regret the most throughout the entire island trip because when I got there, it was closed due to the conservation and restoration of marine and coastal resources to their original perfection. It was a real pity since Maya Bay is known as a paradise on earth. If there’s a chance, I’ll go back for sure!
Maya Bay is located on Koh Phi Phi Leh, the second largest island in the Phi Phi Islands, Krabi Province. Maya Bay is the creation of nature from the collapse of the surrounding cliffs, cleft in a small crescent-shaped bay enveloped by limestone hills.
Pileh Bay – Viking Cave
Pileh Bay is the highlight of Koh Phi Phi Leh most visitors want to experience with their own eyes. With the emerald green water surrounded by high mountains, there is the narrow passage where the tourist’s boats are gradually entering through the mountain way, routing you to see a magnificent large bay, the water there is very still and clear like a tremendous natural pool. When facing the real image right before the eyes, I started to know why people around the world make a journey to experience the beauty of this destination.
The boat tour will be lingering in the bay for a while, then, the staff will let you swim or snorkeling to see the underwater coral reefs. I didn’t go into the water because one of the tourists wanted to rent a charter long-tailed boat and take a beautiful picture instead. The tour leader managed to find a boat right then, but it took a while since it ordinarily had to be booked in advance. Frequently, we got a charter long-tailed boat for 1,700 baht. That tourist told me the price was very cheap (I got this price due to a visit during COVID-19), the normal price is twice as expensive. But seriously, I think this price is already expensive. Lol
Anyone who needs a cool selfie while sitting or standing at the bow, then, try to rent a long-tailed boat. Coming on a trip and want some good photos, you need to spend. Anyway, try asking your booked tour first whether they can manage a charter boat or not. If they can, let’s them do the arrangement so you don’t have to run around and seek for it.
Khai Nok Island
Khai Nok Island is the last island of this one-day trip. It is like a passageway before returning to Phuket. The Khai Nok island itself is small that you can walk around in circles within 15 mins. Though you see how tiny this place is, among the whole visiting islands, this brings out the most recreation vibe. The tour allows you to have free time and do whatever you want which is the good breath in breath out moment.
If you want to jet skiing, just do it (the cost is 1,000 baht per person). Snorkeling to observe aquatic animals is also granted. On the rocky area near the beachfront, fishes are swimming around. For those who want to do nothing, you can just rent a deck chair and leisurely sit, rest, or sleep to recharge your life energy. It’s all good!
For me, I was strolling and taking pictures. I enjoyed it so much since Koh Khai Nok offers a lot of breathtaking perspectives. The sandy beach is chalky white, the water is clearer than clear, and the outstanding feature of this island is the turtle-shaped horn and the rocky area of the beach sideward. You can get quite a splendor image of each scene.
I was at Khai Nok Island for about an hour and a half, then the tour guide called us onto the boat to ride back to Phuket. The duration of the ride was very fast, it took only about 15 mins. The distance between the island and Phuket is just within one reach!
Purchasing The Exclusive Khai Island Tour
From Phuket, there is an actual tour to Khai Island exclusively with both full and half-day packages. You can easily search for it since they’re a lot of service providers. But if you’re lazy to find and want to make a quick online reservation at an equal price, you can check out through KLOOK. Click on the link below!
Klook.com(function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = u; p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, ‘script’, ‘https://cdn.klook.com/s/dist_web/klook-affiliate-front/s/dist/desktop/affiliate_base_v3.2.js’)
Chino Cafe Gallery
The first Phuket café we will stop by is Chino Cafe Gallery, a multi-service shop that distributes a café, restaurant, dessert, including a clothing and accessories section. The shop is decorated with cute, classic wood tones. The storefront is full of flower arches and bicycles that bring color to make the area looks even more lovely.
Because this was my first café to visit, so, I ordered plenty of foods such as Basil Fried Minced Chicken + Fried Egg on Rice (95 baht), Teriyaki Chicken Salad (160 baht), 4 pieces of Tao Sor (Bean Pastry – 40 baht), and Kopi-O-Cham (Iced Coffee mixed with Milk Tea – 90 baht). That was a lot. Lol
The foods are excellent. The basil fried chicken with fried egg looks and tastes delicious. The Teriyaki Chicken Salad is served with a reasonable quantity of chicken. As for the remarkable local bake, Tao Sor, there are 2 flavors to choose from; sweet and salty. The price is 10 baht per piece. You can order as much as you want. About the taste? It’s indeed palatable! It’s a must-eat while visiting Phuket since Tao Sor is the province’s famous dessert.
For the Chino Cafe Gallery’s coffee, I ordered the signature Kopi-O-Cham, which is 100% Arabica coffee mixed with tea. The drink has a touch of Thai-style coffee because of its sweetness and richness gaining from milk. If you like something sweet, this one is a favored choice.
Besides food and beverages, there also sells Mohom clothes, the well-known dyed fabric from Northern Thailand (How you come this far?!) together with accessories. Those who like this type of clothing can buy it as a souvenir or a present for themselves. I bought a shirt too, then, I instantly put it on because of the feel of wearing this while traveling to a sea city like Phuket, it looks comfortable and casual.
RYN Authentic Tea & Slow Drop Coffee
Let’s continue to the second shop, the brand-new café in Phuket, on Krabi Road, in the heart of the old town, RYN Authentic Tea & Slow Drop Coffee, where is served a variety of drinks made from tea and coffee. I personally like this place a lot. The atmosphere of tea accessories and equipment are fully laid creatively, plus, you can see the tea making right before your eyes are surprisingly great. The café design is minimalist with a slight Japanese feel, causing the relaxation vibe throughout the entire time I sat there.
If you have no idea where the café is, I tell you it’s a little difficult to find because the shop doesn’t put any identity signs. So, when you see a small white shop as the shown picture. Yes, it is! It’s RYN Authentic Tea & Slow Drop Coffee.
he must-try drink is the whole tea family admixture. I ordered Matcha Latte (120 baht) when I visited, the matcha made from real tea leaves straight from Kyoto, Japan. The overall taste is exceptional, Matcha is rich, full of flavor, and aromatic.
Although the shop is strengthened on tea, coffee lovers are also welcomed since there is a variety of coffee menus either drip coffee or a cold brew coffee created. The one I ordered is Cold Brew TH (100 baht) that uses Thai Chom Thong coffee beans from Chiang Mai, served in a cool mug where you can gently pour a drink, one shot at a time. I must say the coffee body is really good, it’s not too intense but refreshing. Anyone planning a visit? I promise, their coffee will not disappoint you.
Dou Brew Coffee & Craft
Those who walk to take a picture with the cute Phuket-style buildings in Soi Rommanee. It’s advisable to drop by the chic-vintage Phuket café, Dou Brew Coffee & Craft, as they have a wide variety of drinks at an affordable price. You can choose to order from coffee, tea, dessert, or even craft beer. Oh! And the shop is spacious with many corners to sit and hang out in. It’s really good, I want you to come and experience it by yourself.
As for my refreshments ordered, they are Coffee Jelly (75 baht) and Coffee Tonic (75 baht) with Homemade Scone (85 baht) to munch on. All of them are delicious and delightful. My pick would be Coffee Jelly, which has tapioca underneath the coffee, making it enjoyable to drink and chew at the same time. this drink menu is tasty and all ingredients go well together. So much love!
The other one I tried is Coffee Tonic, which blends Tonic Water with the coffee. It is quite refreshing, suitable to drink in hot weather. Lastly, the Homemade Scone that its batter comes out soft and appetizing, it’s a very good scone worth try-eating with tea menus (but I ate it with coffee. Lol).
To sum up, all of the eating at Dou Brew Coffee & Craft was pleasant. From the shop atmosphere, the friendliness of the barista and the shopkeeper, as well as, the taste, the affordable price. All of these reasons make me so impressed and satisfied, I have a lot more to compliment honestly Lol!
Accommodation in Phuket
Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort
Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort is one of the Phuket resorts I favor very much. Although the place is old and running for many years, the overall condition is still great. Doesn’t feel obsolete but has a classic mood, I feel like the place has a strong connection with Phuket Island since It has been with the province for such a long time. Another advantage is the resort has a wide-ranging space, the common facilities are fully provided. Specifically, there are 4 swimming pools, 10 bars, and a restaurant. Including having 470 guest rooms. You can say this is an extremely large resort.
The location is superb, apart from Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort is located by Karon Noi Beach, it feels almost you own a private beach. Plus, you can easily walk to other tourist attractions such as Patong Beach, Karon Beach, and Laem Phromthep.
I reserved a Deluxe Ocean View room that faces the Karon Noi Beach scenic. The room considers okay for 2 people at 40 square meters, I stayed without being inhospitable at all. Regarding the facilities, it’s complete according to the resort standard level. They provide a comfortable bed, fast internet. And my fav thing is a terrace where you can relax and observe the ocean scenery in your own room. All of which I’m quite impressed and worth the money to pay.
Check and book via Agoda Check and book via Booking Check and book via Expedia Check and book via Trip Check and book via HotelsRoom rate starting at 2,700 baht / night. View rates and book Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort, click on the link below to check and reserve through your favorite OTA right away.
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa is praised as one of the top 5-star Phuket resorts that guests appreciate with a beautiful room, a pool villa, a full course buffet breakfast, including Mai Khao Beach which is a place for carambola turtles hatching eggs. With the advantage and location gimmick, making Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa an excellent stay. It’s no surprise most of the visitors give a positive review.
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa has 6 types of rooms; Deluxe / R Deluxe / 1 BR Suite / 1 BR Pool Villa / 1 BR Oceanfront Pool Villa / and lastly Duplex Oceanfront Villa. However, I stayed in 1 Bed Room Pool Villa, there are 21 units in total, the room size is about 120 square meters and can accommodate 2 people.
Coming with your lover would be very enjoyable. The reason? It’s because the king-size double bed is placed in the middle of the room, big bathtub, and there is also a clear glass shower for those who want to take a quick shower or tired of tardily soaking into a tub. The private pool next to the villa gives a romantic feel, imagine if you sipping a glass of wine and swimming with your beloved, it would be the best in the world.
The bathroom items here are offering all of the Tokyo Milk brand, which is an American skincare brand. The bathroom size is huge, almost 1/3 of the house.
Other necessary appliances are fully provided. The large TV, the air conditioner is freezingly cool, a desk with lamp, a sofa, a refrigerator, Illy’s automatic capsule coffee machine, and even a fully stocked mini-bar like fruits and fried banana chips. This is the most complete facility I ever experienced, all day long, I didn’t have to go anywhere, just laying down and relaxing here was already fine.
Check and book via Agoda Check and book via Booking Check and book via Expedia Check and book via Trip Check and book via HotelsRoom rate starting at 2,400 baht / night. View rates and book Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa, click on the link below to check and reserve through your favorite OTA right away.
ส่วนลดจองโรงแรมจาก Agoda, Expedia, Booking และบัตรสวนสนุก ตั๋วรถไฟ กิจกรรมท่องเที่ยวจาก Klook และ KKday ปี 2023
⚡️ สำหรับใครที่กำลังจะจองที่พักและหาส่วนลดจองโรงแรมอยู่ ลองดูตามลิงค์ด้านล่างได้เลย มีทั้ง Agoda, Expedia, Booking รวมถึง Hotels.com ด้วย ประหยัดไปได้อีกเกือบ 10-20% ใช้ได้กับโรงแรมทั่วโลก
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