Archives: Blog

Wat Phra Nang Sang Temple

an exterior view of the main phra nang sang temple

Wat Phra Nang Sang Temple

Constructed more than 500 years ago, the Wat Phra Nang Sang Temple is the oldest Thai temple in Phuket. Much as it is said that the temple dates back over 500 years, one cannot really say with certainty that this is its real age because there have been some renovations and rebuilding that has been done over the centuries. So, it will be more accurate to say that it has been on the grounds that it’s perched on for more than 500 years.

Most people claim that this temple is quirky.  This quirky temple was constructed when at the time, the main city of Phuket was Cherngtalay in Thalang. The quirky bit comes from the fact that it looks like its forever under construction with unfinished buildings that no one is making an effort to complete.

Stories behind Phra Nang Sang temple

There are various stories that have come up about why the Wat Phra Nang Sang Temple was constructed.  One of them claims that some powerful ruler from southern Thailand built this temple for his wife. The other says that it was built to honour a princess who had been sentenced to be executed. Sadly, she was innocent. She had just been framed. Because of her innocence, she oozed white blood which showed people how pure she was. Because of that myth, the temple also goes by the name, Wat Luad Khao which translates to ‘White Blood Temple’.

Here is more… When the Burmese invaded Phuket in 1785, the people who fought them off were led by two sisters. The people of Phuket gathered at front of the temple to watch the battle. Every year in the month of March, this battle is celebrated at the Phuket Heroines Festival that is held in Thalang.

What you will find at Phra Nang Sang temple

The temple grounds have quite a number of main buildings. Most of the buildings are decorated with lots of elaborate ornaments, surrounded by lots of statues of various origins hence they don’t have a similar theme. However, most of the things you will find here have been influenced by a mixture of Chinese and Thai mythology.

The central building at the Wat Phra Nang Sang Temple has a more traditional style, excessively ornamented with gold. Red is the main colour of the building. It also has a lot of paintings that somehow tell a story of Lord Buddha’s life and major historical events.

As you move further through the complex, you will find a human size stature of a police man next to a lion and a tiger. The policeman statue doesn’t have an arm. So, if you are the type to draw conclusions then you will probably think these concrete figures are telling a story of how a cop’s arm was eaten by the lion or tiger.

On the grounds of the temple are statues of Thao Sri Sunthon and Thao Thep Kassatri. There is a larger statue at the Heroines Monument which is located on the main road between Phuket City and the airport. As you drive from Phuket airport, you can see the front part of the temple from the road.

As you go behind the red and gold building at Wat Phra Nang Sang Temple grounds, you will find another building that looks totally different in terms of its style. The gates of the building are guarded by god warriors armed with automatic weapons. There is also a small reclining Buddha which is way smaller compared to the huge one that can be found at Wat Sri Sunthon, towards the south of Thalang area. There are also two Buddha heads made from tin.

A temple with such diverse attractions is definitely worth a visit.

Best areas to stay in Phuket

a luxury villa perched on the cliff overlooking a phi phi island beach

Is it your first time in Thailand? Then you definitely want to know what are the best areas to stay in Phuket. Lots of questions must be running through your mind. You are probably wondering which hotel to book or which beach has the best resorts to stay at. So many questions… So many places to choose from.

If Phuket is your next holiday destination, then the place you will choose to stay at will definitely impact on your holiday experience. There are lots of beaches and hotels. Each one of them have their own distinct ambiance. So, if the plan to have a blast in Phuket, then you need to choose one that will suit your needs, preferences and personality. So don’t rush your search for places to stay in Phuket because this can make or break your holiday.

Now it all depends on what you plan to get out of your holiday. Is it a family holiday? Do you want to party all night or you are looking for a good escape away from the crowds? Are you just there to laze around on the beach or you want places where you can easily go snorkeling? The great thing about Phuket is that you will always find a place that is suitable for whatever activities you plan to engage in.

This is why we are bringing you this comprehensive guide so that it can help you choose the best areas to stay in Phuket based on your preferences. We will highlight the main destinations for you. So, lets dive in. Remember when choosing, to select a place that suits the kind of traveler that you are based on the facilities provided, together with the ambiance.

For Family and Couples

North or South Patong

This is one of the busiest and most commercialized places to stay in Phuket. For people who plan to shop, there are lots of places to venture to. Plus, if you get tired of shopping they also have plenty of bars and restaurants.

Much as it is a lively place, it is ideal if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life without sacrificing on the comfort that the city life has to offer.

There is Patong beach which is just a trek away. And if you are looking for places to stay in Phuket that are surrounded with beautiful beaches, North or South Patong is ideal.  You will have accessibility to fantastic beaches such as Kata, Karon, Kamala and the Laem Sing beach.

It gets crowded though because tourists love the place. But one can survive. The hotels we recommend that are affordable are Sea Sun and Sans Resort and Spa, The Bliss Hotel. For the high-end best areas to stay in Patong, try the Nap Patong Hotel or Kalima Resort & Spa.

For Singles and Party People

Central Patong

For the party hoppers, this is the place to be. It’s the busiest spot in Phuket and the centre of all nightlife in Phuket. The Patong beach is quite close too and is near the craziest street, Bangla Road which is also the party hub of the island. During the day, the street is pretty polite and dramatically transforms at night. Cheap liquor, blasting music, neon-lit bars, you’ll get it all here. Plus, if you are looking for some adult entertainment, you will get it here too. So, if partying is your thing, you will have enough clubs to do your party hopping.

The Swiss Palm Beach Hotel and Patong Beach Hotel are our affordable hotel options. For the premium spots, The Millennium Resort and the Holiday Inn Resort are the options we’d go for.

For couples, families and honeymooners

Karon and Kata Beach

Here, there is the beautiful golden sands of Karon or Kata Beach to feast your eyes on. The places you will find here are pretty polished and there is plenty to do on Karon Beach. The resorts, bars and restaurants are plush. Kata is the smaller beach here. What makes it beautiful is that the beach is lined with palm trees. Don’t get us started on the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.

So, if you are looking for places to stay in Phuket with a serene ambiance, but not too far from the city, head on to Karon and Kata. The nightlife is a bit laid back, the beach bars are fantastic and you can just laze around with your drink as you enjoy some mellow tunes in the background. You can also do some good shopping here.

If you want value for your money, go to Hotel De Karon or Best Western Phuket Ocean Resort. For the high-end options stay at Karon Sea Sands Resort or Centara Karon Resort.

For History and Culture Lovers

Phuket Old Town

Phuket old town is full of historical European architecture. The streets have Sino-Portuguese buildings, shops and cafes and the buildings are certainly old-fashioned and highly photo-worthy. If you are looking for best areas to stay in Phuket away from the urban setting life, Phuket Old Town is where you should be heading. The place is famous for night markets selling clothes and souvenirs. Musicians and performers entertain shoppers.

For hotels, the affordable ones are the Memory at On On Hotel or Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel Phuket.

For Luxury and Privacy

Bang Tao Beach 

If you are looking for places to stay in Phuket that are on the high end, then Bang Tao is the place for you and it has Bang Tao beach, a beautiful beach that is lesser known. The white sand stretches 6 km and you can lounge on sunbeds and under umbrellas.

The reason you would want to stay here is because the place offers both luxury as well as complete isolation from the busy city. You can get very luxurious high-end villas with private pools which cover a large area of the Bang Tao beach. Here, full room service will be provided.

It’s far from the city so there isn’t really much to do here other than enjoy your hotel stay or lounge at the beach.

The luxurious places that we recommend for your stay are Banyan Tree Phuket and the Dusit Thani Laguna Pool Villa for luxury and elegance.

Phang Nga Beaches

sunset as seen with a view of the lighthouse on Khao Lak in Phang Nga, Thailand

The Beaches at Phang Nga

Updated 2023! Now is the time to experience Phang Nga Bay thanks to the rejuvenation and regrowth the region experienced without visitors during the covid Pandemic.  

Have you ever visited the lush, white sandy Phang Nga beaches? Well, you need to if you are looking for a gorgeous, serene place to relax. Lucky for you, these gems can be accessed easily as part of a Phang Nga Bay & Beyond tour or as part of a kayaking tour of Phang Nga.

Phang Nga Bay Beaches are very active too with lots of activities for visitors to indulge in. There are lots of restaurants and they are also great for swimming, snorkeling, doing boat rides and tours. Plus, if you are one that prefers peace and tranquility, there are also some quiet beaches where you can relax and simply stroll along the sand. We can safely and confidently say that if you are looking for a place where there is something for everyone, then you should be headed to the beaches in the Phang Nga region.

The best ones lie from just south of Takua Pa all the way to opposite Phuket. Some of the places are totally untamed with little or no development. Before the 1980s one could practically walk along the stretches of beaches without seeing a hotel in site.

Now that we have given you a little description about Phang Nga,  let’s dive in and talk a little more about some of the main Phang Nga Beaches on the mainland. Let’s start with Khao Lak Beach.

Khao Lak Beach

Khao Lak Beach is a beautiful white sandy beach that you will come across when you will come across as you approach the coastline of Phang Nga Province. Actually, the entire seaside area, 30 km up north, from Khao Lak Beach to end at Takua Pa is actually what is named Khao Lak.

This is one of the Phang Nga Bay Beaches that is perfect for swimming. There are beautiful and eye-catching rocks of different shapes and sizes. The other things that make this place tranquil and perfect for relaxation are the majestic pine trees as well as the majestic pine trees

There is a shrine by the name Chaopho Khao Lak that locals really hold dear and respect.

Satellite businesses are also coming up which have made Khao Lak Beach less dependent on far businesses, hence making the beach more self-sufficient. There are several bamboo-and-thatch seafood restaurants, an Italian food joint, a few bars and shops. That means guests have enough options at their disposal. The one restaurant that you must visit is the Siam Turmeric which is just at the beginning of the road towards Khao Lak Beach.

Bang Lut Beach

Another one of Phang Nga Beaches is the secluded Bang Lut Beach on the west coast. They have a fishing village that has a petite fishing pier. There is no development on the beach giving this powdery beach a serene aura. There is a plush concentration of palm trees and casuarina trees surrounding the beach.

Natai Beach

This one is one of the clean, serene and untamed beaches that are perfect for relaxation. The waves are calmer here and offer a perfect calm backdrop for taking pictures. This sandy beach is perfect for walks on the shores or to the pier. You will love the sunsets here. Plus, its perfect for picnics and soaking the evening sun. It’s not ideal for swimming but it’s safe enough. This could be the reason that you might not find lots of resorts.

Thai Mueang Beach

This is one of the beaches at Phang Nga Bay that has clear waters snuggled against a white sandy beach. The beach slopes up to forests and mangroves as you get to the Tableau Naval Base. It’s also beside the highway making it easily accessible. What makes it special is the sea turtles that come to the beach to lay eggs between November and February. Locals host an annual “Sea Turtle Releasing Festival” in March when the turtles hatch.

Sunset Beach

Another one of the Phang Nga Bay Beaches with clear beaches, soft golden sand and low tides is the Sunset beach. There are beachfront resorts that cover the entire beach have a gorgeous view of the waters. Snorkelling is on the table here if you want to enjoy the great variety of fish and plants.

Khuk Khak Beach

This is one of the beaches at Phang Nga Bay that are alive and lined with resorts. The clear waters extend for a while and there is a small fishing village where visitors can watch the fishermen fish. There are also some eateries, shops, market and a bus station meaning accessibility isn’t an issue. There are small lagoons behind the beach.

Bang Niang Beach

This is one of the main holiday Phang Nga Beaches. It is the perfect beach for families as well as couples. The waters here are shallow enough and perfect for swimming any time of day. You can take a barefoot stroll on the fine sand that has no rocks as you hunt and collect seashells.

As I mentioned that this is a holiday beach, tours can be arranged for visitors by tour agents and there are lots of bars, restaurants and shops to keep you busy while on holiday. The whole beachfront is lined up with hotels. Its more upmarket with luxury hotels and residential homes.

Wakeboarding Phuket

a man performs a difficult trick while wakeboarding in Phuket

Wakeboarding in Phuket

Wakeboarding Phuket is one of adrenaline rushing sports that involve gliding the waves. Some people might be a bit sacred of trying it out but it is surprisingly easily enjoyable. First, its quite easy to learn and you will get so much pleasure with every wave you catch.

Where to wakeboard

There are wakeboarding parks throughout Phuket where a person can get their adrenaline rush. Much as it is a relatively new sport in Phuket, people are warming to it quickly. Lucky for Phuket, there are of beaches where one can enjoy their wakeboarding adventure. But a lot of Phuket Wakeboarding actually used to take place at custom built Wake Parks. This included the Phuket Wake Park which is between Kata Beach and Phuket town, and before one could also go to the Anthem Wake Park which is near Patong Beach. Unfortunately, the Anthem Wake Park is now permanently closed.

The great thing is that at Phuket Wake park, whether a beginner or expert, you can still enjoy the Wakeboarding sport no matter the weather. The lake has 2 Sesitec Cable systems. One for beginners which is shorter and a longer one that goes around the lake basin. It opens all year round and becomes busiest during the monsoon season. This is because the waters of the beaches get too rough for swimming.

You could still try out the IWP International Wake Park which offers family-friendly wakeboarding and this could very well be your kid’s highlight of their vacation. All these wake parks are near the inland waters of Phuket Island.

How much does it cost

The cost of Wakeboarding Phuket starts at 750 Baht per hour. But you can get cheaper options. If you are new, you can get an instructor to train you. This is quite an intense sport so if you think the cost of 750 Baht per hour is too high and are new to wakeboarding, you might not even finish that hour session. Luckily after all that, you can go to the spa for some pampering or get a beach massage.

If you don’t carry your own, wakeboards, life vests, helmets and gloves can be rented at a small cost. There are professional instructors who do offer private trainings for those who are interested in trying out the sport.

What else can you experience?

At Phuket Wake Park there is a swimming pool, shower and also a restaurant which serves Thai, Russian as well as European cuisines. There is also a bar which is located on the top floor of the park building. It has a great view of the lake, rental shop for the wakeboarding equipment and clothes. And if you want to stay overnight or a planning to spend your vacation Phuket Wakeboarding, the Phuket Wake Park has you covered with their 28 hotel rooms.
At the IWP International Wake Park the terrain is diverse which you can take advantage of.

There is some surfing you can enjoy too at thee IWP’s flow rider. There is also paddle boarding and kayaking for those who want to enjoy some relaxing time at the manmade lake. While Wakeboarding Phuket at this park, they also have 2 swimming pools that have steams. Food is available at their restaurant. In public areas of the wake park, they also have Wi-Fi so if you don’t feel like wakeboarding, you will still be sorted.

To book a session, head on to the local vendors in Patong, Kata, and Phuket Town. They could be a bit pricier though. So, if you want to get good prices, visit the website of the park you want to visit and book through the site.

In Conclusion

The thing is Phuket has always been hailed as the heart of Thailand’s water sports. And Phuket Wakeboarding should be on top of your list if you are an adrenaline junky and are planning a trip to Thailand. The Phuket Cable Water Park is the most accessible one as it is at the centre of the island. Great thing is that the two spots that we have recommended, have other activities you can engage in. So, if you find yourself in the midst of adrenaline junkies, you need not worry much. With restaurants and swimming pools where you can leisurely swim, we’re sure that you will enjoy yourself.

Windmill Viewpoint

the windmill viewpoint in Phuket as seen from the top of the hill, looking out towards the andaman sea

The Windmill Viewpoint in Phuket is a panoramic hill which sometimes people also refer to it as the wind turbine. It is located at the southern side of Phuket Island between the popular Ya Nui and Nai Harn beaches. So, when you are on the hill top you get to enjoy the birds eye view of these two beaches.

The Viewpoint isn’t far from Promthep Cape. So, it is no wonder that it houses a number of thin, tall, white windmills that are the property of Promthep Alternative Energy Station.

There isn’t a lot to enjoy here besides the covered sala where one can sit and enjoy a cold drink, some ice-cream or buy some jewellery.

The View from the Windmill

One thing we got to hand to this relatively small Windmill Viewpoint Phuket is the all-round marvellous views. To the north is Nai Harn Beach and Koh Man opposite it, to the south is Ya Nui Beach and further south we have the view of Phromthep Cape.’ The beauty of the sea, sun and sand at these beaches can be captured from this remarkable viewpoint. From here you get to see the deep turquoise sea, smooth white sand and the seasonal yachts that come to these beaches. The view is spectacular.

You can also get the view of long-tail boats as well as fishing boats as they sail into the Andaman Sea. There is a lot of sea activity here, even mega-sized cruise ships and oil tankers heading to and from Singapore.

Model aeroplane enthusiasts and parasailors who operate the tropical thermals usually meet up here as they make their landing at Nai Harn Beach.

The viewpoint is a premium spot for enjoying the sunset. The sunset isn’t the only thing that makes it a great spot. It still is attractive all day through.  The sea is bright and colourful especially at midday.

This spot is very popular with photographers because of its panoramic views. Most couples use it as romantic background for memorable pictures. So, most couples come here to take pre-wedding pictures, honeymoon pictures, you name it. You can also capture he panoramic view of the Phuket town from this point. It is worth taking the shot.

Even with all this air activity, the Windmill Viewpoint Phuket isn’t such a crowded spot especially with the fact that it has a tiny parking area.

How to Get to the Windmill Viewpoint?

If you are going to the viewpoint from Kata Beach, simply go south past another viewpoint called Karon Viewpoint. This one is a bit more famous. Anyway, keep driving up to Nai Harn Beach.

Small as it might appear, the good thing is that this viewpoint is easy to spot. This is because the enormous white windmill that sits here can be spotted from quite a distance. So, if you are visiting Nai Harn Beach, you definitely won’t miss it. All you need to do is just look for the path that leads to the windmill and you are there.

From Nai Harn continue on like you are going towards Promthep Cape. It’s not too far a distance. Just drive up a small street after the lake and you will get to a sharp left turn. You will find a thin dirt road immediately and a few meters of driving will get you to the Windmill Viewpoint Phuket.

You don’t have to drive there. The Viewpoint can also be easily accessed via bikes or motorbikes. These can be found near the main road. That said, just make sure the weather is good and dry enough for the ride up the viewpoint.

However you get there, this viewpoint will offer you the most breath-taking view of Thailand.

 

Bon Island

bon island as seen from a drone view far above the sea

Located just a mile off the South Eastern end of Phuket near Rawai Beach  is Koh Bon Island Phuket, 4,100 feet long that is densely covered trees. That said, its coast is either rocky or covered with some beautiful fine sand. Much as it is near Phuket, a short longtail boat ride away, this tiny island hasn’t been invaded by developers just yet.

How to get there

As I mentioned above, the most convenient way to get to the island is by using longtail boats which you will find waiting for visitors on Rawai Beach. Before you hop onto one, make sure that you settle on the price. Usually, the average price for a round trip by boat is 1,300 baht. Prices can vary a bit depending on the season, the number of people using the boat as well as the demand for the boats. That said though feel free to bargain. The boat rides should take you no more than 10 minutes.

On Bon Island Phuket, there are two drop-off points. The one that’s most popular is the beach that hosts Bon Island Restaurant. This is on the northern side of Koh Bon. Here, there is lots of sand on one side of the beach while the other side is a bit rocky. Here you can throw a beach mat and just chill. You can see this beach from Rawai Beach or Rawai Landing Pier.

The second drop off is towards the southwest side of the island, on Long beach. This is quite deserted. This one is a perfect snorkelling spot.

The island has 2 main beaches. One is near the Evason Resort Phuket and the second one is the hidden restaurant of ‘Dawn’, an English woman who made her home about 20 years or so ago. Being near Phuket, the island is the perfect spot to dash for lunch.

There are other smaller beaches on Koh Bon. However, some are not accessible by boat because of the rocky sea.

Activities to enjoy on the Island

Snorkelling is the most common thing that people love to partake in when they visit Bon Island Phuket. There are various areas to enjoy this sport. Below are three spots to consider:

  • Towards the left side of the island’s restaurant.
  • Where the longtail boats drop people just around the corner.
  • The beach towards the south west corner of the island.

One thing you need to note is that if you plan on snorkeling here, you will need to carry your own snorkeling gear. No rentals are offered here. The water current is also something to watch out for especially towards the left side of the restaurant. There is a strong underwater stream which if not careful, might wipe you into the see. So, the best thing us to try as much as possible and stay as close to the beach as possible.

Where to eat

The restaurant on the island has thatched roofs and wooden salas which gives the restaurant the feel of a little hideaway. During the high season there are usually more people at the restaurant. The thing with looking for a quiet hidden spot for lunch during the high season is that you are not the only one in search of that.

Visitors who discover Bon Island Phuket usually come back because they fall in love with the place. Speed boats also stop by while passing though to other tourist attractions and beaches of Phuket. The moment these speed boats pass by, you can enjoy this tranquil island snorkeling and kayaking, lounging as you watch yachts and sailing boats as you sip on some fresh coconut water. If you didn’t know, this restaurant is electricity free. But that doesn’t stop it from getting some wonderful reviews on the delicious food and casually friendly service.

Remember the English woman, Dawn, we mentioned earlier? Well, tourists really admire her lifestyle. Visitors usually stop by her place to enjoy her Tamarind prawns and pepper prawns. Her tranquil environment just makes everything perfect. Her place, surrounded by the sandy beach and palm trees seems like a little heaven on earth for most, so to speak.

On this island, all you need to bring with you is a relaxed mood. Enjoy the cocktails served in coconut shells and devour the food.

Naithon Beach

Nai Thon Beach as seen from the hill surrrounding with a view of sunbathers soaking in the serene environment

Naithon beach in Phuket

Naithon Beach Phuket (otherwise known as Nai Thon) is a beautiful stretch of sand on the west coast of Phuket. It is roughly a 10 – 15-minute walk from one end to the other along a pristine coastline. The atmosphere is generally laid back and quiet. With just enough restaurants and facilities that make the beach not appear too deserted. It’s a great spot to get away from the crowds and enjoy a quiet swim. Nai Thon is a seasonal village – high and low. During the high season, the hotels fill up, the sea is calm and crystal-clear, and beach restaurants normally come up. In low season, it’s almost a ghost town with an occasionally turbulent sea. Off-shore is a large coral reef which serves as habitat for several species of sea life, particularly the sea turtles.

How to get to Nai Thon

The journey to the Nai Thon Beach is quite enjoyable. The experience getting there is even better than the beach itself. If you are approaching the beach from the southern side of it, you will encounter narrow road that leads through one of Phuket’s last remaining virgin rainforests. This rain forest lies beautifully along the coastline.

If you are driving from the north side, the road will take you through a village into a lush green valley before reaching Naithon beach Phuket. You can choose to explore the island by yourself…Walk! There are also bikes available for rent for 200 baht per day. Motorbikes are 300 baht per day in the high season. Short taxi rides (to your accommodation on the main road, for example) are also available.

What to enjoy at Nai Thon

Nestled on the stunning shores of Naithon Beach Phuket, you will find the luxurious Pullman Phuket resort. If you want to escape the mass crowds and enjoy a piece of paradise then, this is the resort for you. It brings a cosmopolitan feel to a seaside setting.

It is a beautiful long and wide strip that is well shaded. It is separated into two by a small rock location. The sand is as smooth as you’d expect most Phuket beaches and during the high season, the beach is ideal for swimming. The beach is the dream place to check-in and chill out as you will find umbrellas and loungers where you can just relax and enjoy a cold drink.

Where to eat

Small informal restaurants are situated on the sand for the length of Nai Thon Beach, and offer a relaxing meal at low cost. Food is either cooked in tents on the beach or in houses across the road. Tables and chairs are set up on the sand, and range from plastic outdoor settings to solid wooden settings adorned with tablecloth. However, appearances can be deceiving, as the dingy looking restaurants often dish up the best meals.

Main courses start at around 70 baht, offering excellent value for money however, service can at times be slow, and orders confused if made in a different language. Beach-front dining on pocket change doesn’t get much better than this.

Naithon beach Phuket is free of noisy activities. You will find a few local long-tail boats hovering around adding a little Thai charm to the ocean aura. If you love to fish, you can take a long-tail boat and go fishing on the sea. This can be arranged with the local fisherman on the beach. The beach is also a great spot for snorkeling with its clear waters. The available resorts offer fun snorkeling tours for the more adventurous as well.

Other activities you can do on Nai Thon Beach include exploring the rocky coves which are only accessible by long tail boats and scuba diving, which can be arranged by the dive shops on the beach road. Mangrove Forests, situated on the island’s northern tip, cover a large area of about 320 acres. A nature trail has been cleared for the convenience of visitors with signs indicating and explaining the various mangrove species. You can kitesurf during the summer season. However, don’t expect strong winds, so take the biggest kites. This is a great place for beginners to learn how to kitesurf. Kite schools available will help with lessons and gear.

Suwankuha Temple

The reclining buddha statue at Suwankuha Temple in Phuket

They call the Suwankuha Temple Phuket the temple with big Buddha in a cave. That’s right. It is in complex caves near Phang Nga Bay. Also known as Wat Suwan Kuha Temple or Wat Tham if you like, most of the people visiting the regions for excursions such as water rafting and elephant rides or Phang Nga Bay boat tours are the ones who stop by here as they pass through. Plus, the temple is just 10km before one reaches the town.

The good thing about making the visit to the temple a priority is that it connects visitors with the rich and fascinating cultural, historical and religious ways of the Thai people. This temple is a uniquely constructed Buddhist temple, which is a bit unknown to most foreigners. Besides being a great tourist destination, Suwankuha Temple Phuket is a fully functioning and respected holy place of worship for the local Buddhists of Thailand.

What to expect at the temple

There is a four-cave system going on here with the largest, the subterranean Tham Yai, holding a considerable number of Buddha figures as well as other important ceramic spiritual standing and some seated.

The highlight of the temple and the subject of worship for religious pilgrims and Buddhist monks is a spectacular 15-metre reclining gold Buddha. Its golden hue and high level of creativity well definitely have your eyes glued on it. There are two tiny shrines behind it for those on the religious spirit to light up some incense and pray.

There is mystical, unearthly theme going on here. This is because of the of the dimness of the lighting of the cave as well as the limited natural lighting that gets into the Wat Suwan Kuha Temple. What even adds to the other-worldly atmosphere of the temple is the soft echoes of people’s footsteps and voices.  To get to Tham Yai cave, one will have to descend down a gentle staircase.

Despite the holding the temple the cavern complex still oozes the atmosphere of a natural cave with stalactites and stalagmites embellishing the caves. Expect to find lots of birds and bats here.

The external bit of the Suwankuha Temple Phuket cave can be viewed as a tourist site. Get ready to get teased by a troop of cheeky monkeys who reside at the entrance watching out for dropped food as well as hoping for some handouts. Their mischief can quite entertainment for the visitors. Watch out as sometimes, these monkeys steal stuff so take care of your food, bags and purses.

In case you get bored at Wat Suwan Kuha Temple you can trek father to Raman Waterfall National Forests. If you are looking to treat yourself to some appetizing seafood there are plenty of restaurants at the coast of Phang Nga Bay.

Getting to the temple

From Phuket, the road to Phang Nga is amazing.  There is a considerable number of Buddhist temples and mosques as you head to Phang Nga Town. One of the things that might throw you off a bit is that there is no sign at the turn off to Suwankuha Temple Phuket. It’s a bit tricky especially for tourist as the writings at the entrance of the temple is in Thai language.

One needs to follow the sign towards Raman Waterfall National Forest. The temple is nearly half a kilometre on that road. Luckily, you won’t need to worry about packing because there is plenty of it and it can accommodate a good number of tourists.

As you head to the temple, the view itself is as fantastic as the temple itself. You will pass eye-catching limestone cliffs, rubber tree groves as well as high-class views of some of the most spectacular coastlines on Phuket’s mainland.

Ao Sane Beach

Ao Sane Beach as seen from a seated setting overlooking the beach

Pronounced as Ao Sain, Ao Sane Beach in Phuket is one of the few beaches in the region that still appears untamed and undiscovered.  It actually looks like it hasn’t changed over the last 20 years or so. Much as it requires a little effort to get there, it is no longer a secret beach as it used to be years back. Today, the number of tourists visiting there have increased significantly. The roads leading to this quiet, untamed beach have got such lovely sceneries. Compared to how it was before, there is more development that years back.

How to get there

If you have not heard about it, you are not alone. To get there, you will have to get to the larger Nai Harn beach first, then proceed to the northern side of the beach and walk on the road that passes around the main entrance of Nai Harn resort. There is a about another 600 metres of thin, twisted road to cover before you reach the parking lot of ‘Ao-Sane Bungalow and Restaurant. Carry on to Baan Krating Resort. 50 meters down the steep concrete path should get you to Ao Sane Beach Phuket. The parking space isn’t much so you are better off parking at Nai Harn then venturing there via a 1-kilometre walk.

Once there, you’ll find that the beach is only about 130 meters in length and it has granite rocks on both ends. These granite rocks, some much bigger are also residing on both the beach and in the water. The beach has three tiny sandy bays and as you pass through a few bungalows you can walk from one bay to the next.

Things to do

One of the things that most people find appealing here is the ruggedness of the beach and its natural appeal. First off, there is a beautiful view of Phromthep Cape and Ya Nui Beach. At the beach one can rent beach chairs in the shade that can be rented for 200 baht a day. The beach is perfect for snorkeling. In case you forgot to carry your snorkeling gear, you can rent some at the at the Armin’s Dive Shop. If you are a first-timer, Ao Sane Beach Phuket offer snorkeling and beach diving lessons too for approximately 950 baht per person. Even during rainy seasons, it’s pretty safe to snorkel here as the beach is relatively calm.

Here one could chill for hours and enjoy a few cold drinks as the restaurant is just a few steps away. The restaurant has ample sitting space which is in the shade. The prices are fair. The food is good and will set you back between 90 to 200 baht.

If you are looking for some quiet time on the beach, you will get it here as its quiet and relaxing. There is no blaring music, no noises from vehicles, Just the calming sound of the ocean.

Where to stay

If you are planning an overnight trip, there are a few accommodation options to consider around Ao Sane Beach Phuket. You will see some bungalows at the west side of the restaurant. They go for about 500 Baht during the low seasons. One thing that makes these bungalows appealing is the fact that they are right on the beach with the restaurant just a few steps away. A low price of 500 Baht for a beachfront bungalow in Phuket is such a steal.

But if you have a bit more money to spend, then the best accommodation places are at the larger Nai Harn beach like Nai Harn Resort or the Sabana Resort. There is also the 3-star Baan Krating Resort, 500 m to the west of the beach.

Enjoy the peace and quiet…

Tri Trang Beach

tri trang beach looking out into the andaman sea as seen from the foreshore

The 500-metre Tri Trang Beach Phuket is located a few kilometres just to the south of Patong. This secluded piece of gem is very serene and peaceful. Much as it is secluded, it is still convenient and popular with guests at the Marriott Merlin Beach Resort because compared to other beaches near the resort, this one is the largest.

The beach is the perfect spot for people who love sun-bathing. This is because it has an open feel to it as there are no beach-side trees to block the sun from soaking into the bodies of dedicated sun-bathers. That said though, it doesn’t mean that there is no place to shield yourself from the sun. There is a shade near the restaurant and also you can take cover towards the end of the resort.

What to do at Tri Trang

Tri Trang Beach Phuket has great beach facilities that can keep visitors busy when they visit. There is a lot of pampering that goes on here. For instance, you can enjoy a beach massage or have your hair braided as well as get a manicure and pedicure. Here you will definitely find everything you need for a rejuvenating retreat for both body and soul.

Besides the pampering, the water sport kind of visitors can jet ski and parasail. You will also get kayaks as well and snorkeling equipment for rental if you are into such pastimes.

Now if you are a swimming enthusiast, when the tide is low, swimming here be a bit tricky because the water becomes pretty shallow and plus the floor is quite rocky. If you really want to do some swimming you will have to go to the end of Tri Trang closest to Patong Beach.

Where to eat at Tri Trang

These days, Tri Trang Beach Phuket has lots more places where one can get a meal. One of these places is this attractive place called Windsurf with a view of the roof. The place serves basic Thai and European cuisine. It has a pretty rustic feel, with the interior decorated in wood. Besides the food, you can also rent snorkeling gear here.

At the end of the new Rosewood resort there is another very attractive and luxurious restaurant called the Ta Khai restaurant that also serves delicious That cuisine. Its design is also rustic and is the perfect spot if you want to enjoy a romantic evening out.

As you head on to the Paradise beach, up on the hill, you will find a bunch of smaller and more affordable restaurants with a view of the bay. From the hill top, the view of the beach is just breath-taking. These restaurants are perfect if you want to grab a quick bite or refresh yourself with some cold drinks.

The Tri Trang Resort

The Tri Trang resort is another place to grab a meal at the Tri Trang Beach Phuket. Everything has been made to ensure that the guests are comfortable. As people say, the food isn’t that great compared to the other places. That said, seeing as the food is affordable plus you get the beach setting, that makes up for the not so fantastic food.

The hotel offers some great services and amenities. They have facilities like Wi-Fi in all rooms and in public areas, 24-hour front desk customer service and a carpark for hotel guests.

The Tri Trang resort prides itself in having 244 beautifully selected guest rooms. Most of these rooms have great facilities such as flat screen TVs, Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Non-smokers can also have access to non-smoking rooms.

So, if you are a visitor at the beach and are looking for some good accommodation, then the Tri Trang Beach Resort is the ideal place for guests who are looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Plus, there are plenty of recreational things to enjoy while staying there. So, you can be relaxed and keep busy at the same time.

Getting to Tri Trang

Tri Trang Beach Phuket is very close to Patong as earlier mentioned. That said though, most people in Phuket town have no idea how to get to the beach. Do you want to know how to get there? Well, there are several ways.

The first way to approach the beach is by going south along the farthest end of Patong’s Beach Road. Once you get to the Amari Phuket, take a left turn. Keep going past Baan Yin Dee and go down the road that will take you to the Tri Trang Resort.

The other way to get there is to use the road past the Merlin Beach Resort up until you reach Naik Rang at the bottom of the hill. You should be able to see Windsurf restaurant on the sea side of that road. Park there and walk through the restaurant towards the beach when the tide is high.

Getting Around Phuket

a happy woman and a happy man riding in a tuk tuk in phuket

Getting around Phuket is fairly easy because of the fact that there is lots of ways to move through the island. Both public and private transport options are available. So, exploring this beautiful island shouldn’t be a problem. Taxis, Tuk-Tuks, Buses or Boats? All these options are available for you. Whether you are alone or not, you can easily hire any of these transport options.

There are some open-air buses called Songtaew that normally ferry people from Phuket Town and the main resorts as well as air-conditioned minibuses. Good thing is that most resorts are small enough for one to just walk around. Plus, the popular hotels and resorts are close to the beach, shopping malls and restaurants. So, you see how getting around in Phuket can be pretty easy?

Depending on where you are staying and where you are headed to, the good question should be ‘What is the best way to get around Phuket’? If you are a newbie in Phuket, it can be pretty scary. Lucky for you, Tuk-Tuks are just everywhere any time of day or night. Unless you are on a tight budget or a planning to move from one corner of Phuket to another, you need not worry yourself too much about getting around Phuket.

In this article, we are going to show you ways that can make you explore Phuket easily. Let’s hope that this is comprehensive enough to put you at ease and make you look forward to your upcoming holiday in Phuket.

Tuk-Tuks

The Tuk-Tuks of Phuket can be found all over. Much as you can hail one anywhere, the larger clusters are usually in Patong. Most of the ones in Patong Beach come installed with some blaring music systems and colourful lights like those you might see in night clubs. Young people really love this kind as they get to enjoy the music as they explore Phuket.

The Tuk-Tuks are a bit pricey so they are perfect for short distances. Plus, given their small size, they can be pretty uncomfortable for longer distances. Make sure to check the prices displayed on boards at the beaches so that you don’t get overcharged for a ride. You can be charged 100 baht for a 5-minute ride to as high as 400 baht depending on distance. So, when getting around in Phuket by Tuk-Tuk, the price will depend on distance, weather, and your bargaining skills. So, make sure you agree on the price beforehand.

Taxis and Car rentals

If you have just landed at Phuket International Airport, you will find metred taxis outside the airport terminals. There are lots more at tourist areas like Patong and Phuket Town. The metered ones charge 50 baht for the first 2 km and 8 baht for every additional km. Some taxis do charge a flat rate for longer distances.

The best and most convenient way to get a taxi is to install the Grab app onto your smartphone. If you find those unmetered taxis, make sure you agree on the price before getting around Phuket. Some quote higher prices for tourists so get ready to haggle.

As for car rentals, make sure you rent from a reputable international company. You can do this before you arrive at Phuket. Renting from the international companies is more expensive than renting from local companies since they come covered with proper primary insurance. If you can get full coverage to avoid unnecessary headaches in case of anything.

Motorbike Taxis and Rentals

Like the Tuk-Tuks, motorbikes are readily available. For taxis, the fares start at 20 baht. The riders usually were red or green vests with a white number written at the back. Much as they can be a little dangerous, they are very convenient for short trips when in a hurry.

As for the rentals, you need to be careful when riding the bikes as they come without insurance. So, in case of an accident when getting around in Phuket, you will need to cater for your own hospital bills. Make sure you are a qualified rider as the roads can be pretty tricky to maneuverer during the rainy seasons. Also watch out for the other riders as some of them disregard traffic rules.

Buses

There are different kinds of buses for getting around Phuket. From the airport, there are the airport buses that follow a set route, stopping at various bus stops. Take your time to compare bus prices as tickets do vary based on the company, season and seat.

There are modern air-conditioned buses that operate within Phuket city alone as they don’t reach other parts of the island. They have a fixed fare of 10 baht and designated routes and bus stops.

The Songtaew (Thailand’s open-air buses), painted light blue so that one can spot them easily. At least the destinations are written outside the buses in English. You can flag one from the roadside as there are no designated bus stops for the Songtaew. These open-air buses operate between 7am to 6pm. In Patong, they pass the main beach road.

There are also smart buses that hail from beach to beach from Phuket Airport to Rawai Beach. Much as they are relatively cheap with aircon, they take more time as they have designated bus stops. You need to purchase something they call a ‘Rabbit Card’ when boarding the bus which can be refilled at shops within the island.

Boats and Ferries

If you want to visit nearby Islands for fishing or water sports, you can hire boats. Getting around in Phuket by boat, you can hire boats from Chalong Pier and Rawai. The fares are determined by the number of passengers, distance, the time it takes to get to your destination as well as the type of vessel. Longtail boats or speedboats? Longtail boats are way cheaper than speedboats. Much as they are cheaper, they are slower and less comfy. That said, the traditional Thai sea-going experience is better. Point of caution: Make sure they provide life jackets before boarding.

As for ferries, they are the perfect alternative to speedboats if you want to visit nearby islands and neighbouring places like as Krabi. It’s more convenient to book a ticket by going through a tour agent. This includes to and fro transfer from the pier. They get busier in December and January as these are the peak months. So, you better book in advance to avoid disappointments as well as know which destinations they operate.

Have fun exploring Phuket!

Naka Noi Island

an aerial view of naka noi island taken from a drone

This lovely little place is also known as Koh Naka Noi or Pearl Island. The Naka Noi Island in Phuket is a small islet off the north east of Phuket known for its popularity in pearl farming. A trip to the islet inevitably involves a visit to the Pearl Farm – a great way to discover how the shiny pearls (that you wear) are made and extracted. The islet is only 800 meters long and only 200 meters wide and you can reach this tiny island within 20 minutes by boat from Phuket town.

A Naka Noi Island tour is an amazing chance to experience some hours in the tranquility of a private island nearby Phuket town. On the northwest side, there is a lovely beach that comes with its own entertainment. This is wonderful retreat where you can find really satisfying snorkeling; enjoy a sun chair in the shadow of lovely beach trees, or hire a canoe to paddle around the island and have fun with your family or partner. There are pearl shops and seafood restaurants to serve visitors. You can also swim in the clear waters; however, accommodation is not available.

The coasts are generally rocky, but the west and northwest coasts have a marvelous white sand beach. It is a beautiful, pristine, unspoiled stretch of sand with overhanging coconut palms.

How to get to Koh Naka Noi there

To visit the Naka Noi Phuket island, experience it on the way back as part of a Phang Nga Bay tour. You can also hire a boat from Ao Po Pier and explore the entire area properly and at your own pace. Long tail boats are a lot cheaper than speedboats. However, they are slower and not as comfortable. On the plus side they provide a more traditional Thai sea-going experience. So at least you have options to choose from.

The Naka Noi island doesn’t have any accommodation or proper places to have yourself a meal but you can have a picnic in tow with your snorkel gear. It is an ideal place to go and relax for a few hours on the lovely beach. A day trip to the Naka Noi Island in Phuket pearl farm includes a demonstration of how the pearls are farmed and extracted from the oyster. If you want to get some great seafood to eat, you can make a stop at Naka Yai Island, which is just but a short trip by long tail boat.

At Naka Noi Island in Phuket what can you get around you that is not available there?

Considering there is no accommodation, in the nearby Island, the Naka Yai island is the Naka Island Luxury Collection Resort & Spa located within the same Andaman Sea. If you need accommodation in luxury after exploring the Naka Noi Phuket Island this is the place to go. It is nestled in a tropical landscape as well. The resort is just 10 minutes away by speedboat from Ao Por Grand Marina. It offers luxurious villas equipped with a private pool, a private beach, a gym and a world-class spa center. As a visitor you can enjoy a free round-trip boat transfer. This is a fabulous place to rest your heels after Naka Noi Phuket. Their grill offers the freshest seafood and juiciest steaks with a local Thai twist; not forgetting other scrumptious dishes of Thai and international cuisines. It is extensive list of cocktails can be enjoyed at Z Bar.

You have to visit Naka Noi Phuket and experience the lush coconut groves, with the never-ending views of the emerald-green Andaman sea and fabulous landscapes of the Phuket coastline. It is just a speedboat away. It is a uniquely private and intimate retreat.