Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and the main attraction when it comes to tourism for the southeast Asian country. While it attracts tourists of all types, Phuket is a popular destination for luxury travellers looking to access Thailand’s charm in five-star villas and Michelin-starred restaurants.
The Pearl of the Andaman Sea, Phuket offers travellers expansive white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to explore an island paradise like few others in the world. The beaches of Phuket draw many of its tourists, but its adventurous jungles inland make for great exploring.
Once you have filled your day with beach activities or explored the interior of the island, Phuket’s towns provide a relaxing shopping, dining, and nightlife experience. A holiday to Phuket can be spent in multiple ways. From lounging on the beach to shopping at designer boutiques, Phuket has everything needed for a luxury holiday.
Travellers with kids have a variety of options on Phuket. The Treetops Elephant Reserve is an experience like no other. You can also take the family around the coast of the island on a private yacht tour complete with snorkelling.
Luxury holiday seekers can certainly avoid the over tourism, overcrowded areas of the island. Many of the highly touristic areas of Phuket are situated along the southwest coast of the island. Therefore, many of the best, most luxurious places to visit are away from the towns such as Patong.
Phuket is Thailand’s most famous island and offers visitors a wealth of fun in the sun. A luxury holiday is the perfect way to visit Phuket on an escape to Asia this year.
Neighbourhoods
Ao Po
Ao Po is home to the Grand Marina and it is a gateway to the breath-taking Phang Nga Bay. The neighbourhood is perfectly located. There are no tide restrictions and visitors have 24-hour access. The area is a tranquil region on Phuket located on the northeast coast. The Grand Marina has large berths allowing super yachts to dock. The area around Ao Po is dotted with small Thai villages. The views from the shore are amazing, but so are the sites from the Andaman Sea. One of the best aspects of Ao Po is that it is well away from the heavy tourist areas of Phuket.
Villawonka Recommendations: Ao Po has a variety of luxurious restaurants. Taste Cape Yamu offers fantastic views and delicious foods while Kabang Restaurant and Beach Bar offers the chance to dine with your feet in the sand. Suay Cherngtalay and Project Artisan are two other highly rated dining options.
Bang Tao
Bang Tao is a glorious beach neighbourhood located on the west coast of Phuket. Bang Tao is surrounded by mountains, lush forests, and blue sea waters and the beach is four miles of lush sand. Travellers won’t struggle to find a place to set up for a day out by the sea. Along with the beach, Bang Tao offers up a high-level golf experience thanks to Laguna Phuket Golf Club. You will also find spas and restaurants scattered throughout the neighbourhood. If you are looking for a great beach area to spend your Phuket holiday, Bang Tao is ideal.
Villawonka Recommendations: Situated on the shore of Bang Tao Beach, Palm Seaside Restaurant and Lounge is perfect for food and drinks any time of the day. Of course, sunset is best as the sun goes down over the western horizon. Dedos is another favourite in Bang Tao. Although small in size, it has a big reputation amongst diners. Dream Beach Club and Tatonka Restaurant are two other must-dine restaurants in Bang Tao.
Cape Panwa
Cape Panwa is found on the southeast coast of Phuket. It is a quiet area of the island and perfect for travellers seeking a laid back holiday away from the crowds. Cape Panwa is a small town with plenty of luxury to enjoy. It has white sand beaches and many of the restaurants, bars, and boutiques are within easy walking distance. Cape Panwa is easy to reach upon arrival on Phuket as it is just 45 minutes away from the airport. There is a lot to do in Cape Panwa including a visit to Phuket Aquarium, Ao Yon Beach, and to trek to the top of Panwa Viewpoint for Instagram-perfect panoramas of Phuket.
Villawonka Recommendations: Panwa House is a trip back in time. The 80-year-old mansion is completely retro. It serves up authentic Thai food unlike anything else you will find on the island. Baba IKI is another well-established restaurant. It serves authentic Japanese food and ingredients are shipped in from Japan each week. Top of the Reef and the Bamboo Bar are great for food and drinks after a long day at the beach.
Cape Yamu
Cape Yamu is a secluded, private peninsula east of Phuket Town. It offers mesmerising views of the Andaman Sea and is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations on Phuket. Cape Yamu is surrounded by views of Phang Nga Bay. The bay is a national marine park with large limestone cliffs. The private peninsula is home to luxurious private villas. If you are looking for a sophisticated stay with awe-inspiring views of the bay, then book your holiday in Cape Yamu. The private peninsula means travellers won’t be bombarded by tourists. Cape Yamu is an exclusive area of Phuket and most visitors to the area are looking for an escape from everyday life.
Villawonka Recommendations: Breeze is a chic restaurant with bay views. You will love the French-fusion menu and its farm to plate philosophy. Combining Italian food and western flavours, La Sirena is a modern restaurant with a laid back atmosphere. If you are looking for delectable desserts, then try out Les Diables Patisserie. The bakery is located on the private yacht mooring point. Lay Yamu Seafood provides fresh seafood caught the same day.
Chalong
The most recognisable aspect of Chalong is its giant Bubba statue. It isn’t just the giant religious statue that is a must-see, however. Chalong is a shopping hub and residential area. If you want to combine a luxury holiday with culture, then Chalong is ideal. There is a lot to do around the neighbourhood. Water sports and beach-based activities are very popular. Yet, you will also find Chalong Bay Rum Distillery, Phuket Bird Park, and Phuket Botanical Gardens. You can also hire a yacht to cruise around the sea. Chalong has a variety of exciting things to see and do. If activities are high on your holiday list, book your Villawonka accommodation in Chalong.
Villawonka Recommendations:
If you are looking for sophisticated and upscale, then look no further than Ao Chalong Yacht Club Restaurant. The restaurant serves delicious seafood, tasty Thai, and Italian cuisine. Kan Eang is located at the pier and offers great sea views. It serves up spicy Thai favourites. If you want a taste of South America, Asado Gaucho Grill caters to carnivores with its grilled meats. Herbivores fear not as Chalong’s Pure Vegan Heaven is perfect for plant-based meals.
Kalim
Situated north of Patong is Kalim, a gorgeous beach community away from the hustle and bustle of the more touristy areas of Phuket. While Patong Beach is flush with tourists, Kalim offers touches of traditional Thai culture. If surfing is your vice, then get to Kalim Beach as soon as possible. It is one of the best places in all of Thailand to hang 10. One of the reasons that Kalim is a quiet place to relax is due to the beach itself. It is rockier than other beaches around the island and is better for surfing and snorkelling than simply lounging in the water.
Villawonka Recommendations:
Lim’s Restaurant and Bar is a perfect spot to finish off the day. The modern, fashionable restaurant is perfect for dinner and drinks. It also features a DJ on select nights. Acqua Ristorante offers up a unique futuristic vibe to patrons. The black and white-theme Italian fusion restaurant combines delicious food and fine wines. White Box is another fine dining experience in Kalim. It serves up Italian food and specialises in truffles.
Kamala
Kamala is found 9.5 kilometres away from Patong Beach, but is far quieter than the busier resorts around the island. The best time of the year to visit Kamala is between November and April. The ocean waters around the town are much quieter at this time of the year. If you are looking for a romantic place to stay during a holiday to Phuket, then Kamala is the right place for you. Renting a Villawonka property allows you to spend some quality time alone. Follow up each morning with a romantic day at the beach before drinks and dinner in the evening.
Villawonka Recommendations:
Silk Restaurant is one of the most eye-catching places to sit and have a meal in Kamala. Situated around a pool in which you can relax and catch a cool breeze, Silk serves up a modern take on Thai food. Diavolo provides diners with extraordinary Italian cuisine at a beautiful open-air restaurant. If you want great views of the sunset over Phuket, then head for Sunset Grill, which specialises in grilled seafood.
Kata
Kata Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Phuket. It is claimed to be the second-most popular after Patong – yet it receives far fewer tourists. Kata is known as a family destination. The beach is the main reason to stay in Kata. There are a variety of family activities such as mini-golf and a surf park too. If you fancy some outdoor adventure, parasailing is popular at Kata Beach. For a break from the beach, head inland to Wat Kitti Sangkharam, which can be found in the hills around town. Culture vultures flock to the incredible temple to snap photos.
Villawonka Recommendations:
Kata Rocks is the ideal place to dine for Mediterranean food with sea views. The Boathouse is a long-serving restaurant in Kata and, if you are looking for a good wine, stop by for a glass or bottle. Kampong Kata Hill opened in 1990 and its devotion to providing great food has made it a staple for tourists to Kata. If you want breath-taking views, don’t miss Wok Pagoda, which overlooks the local hillside. Wok Pagoda serves up authentic Thai treats.
Layan
Northwest of Phuket National Park is the five-star luxury resort of Layan. While other parts of Phuket are overrun with tourists, Layan is unspoiled. The resort has its own private beach allowing guests to explore the sands and sea. Visiting Layan is like hitting the luxury jackpot when it comes to a holiday in Thailand. The beach is sheltered meaning your days lounging around on the sands of Layan are peaceful. Layan is far away from the rest of the hustle and bustle of Phuket. The nearest town is 20 minutes away.
Villawonka Recommendations:
Layan has some of the best fine dining restaurants on Phuket. Dee Plee is perfect for traditional Thai dining. Age is a grill for all seasons while the Mojito Factory is a trendy pop-up beach bar. Breeze Bar is another popular spot to grab a cold cocktail and enjoy the end of a glorious day.
Naithon Beach
Naithon Beach is one of Phuket’s lesser-known places to stay. It is located on the island’s west coast and away from the crowded resort towns of Patong Beach or Kata Beach. The peace and quiet of the village are why people choose to book their holiday at the resort. The beach is wide and expansive with shady palm trees providing a cool place to sit throughout the day. Although Naithon Beach is one of the island’s lesser-known places to stay, it is one of the best locations for a vacation. The area is relaxing thanks to a lack of beach activities. It allows Naithon Beach to be laid-back and free from noise pollution.
Villawonka Recommendations:
Coconut Tree is opposite the beach allowing you to dine after a day out. Unpretentious Thai food is on the menu. Zouza Pizzeria does Italian with flare. Pizza is the restaurant’s specialty, but other Italian favourites are on the menu. If you want Mediterranean cuisine, visit Mareblue Corner for a taste of Europe. Macarona is another Italian-Euro-themed restaurant that is a favourite around Naithon Beach.
Natai Beach
The reason to book your Villawonka at Natai Beach is due to it being relatively unheard of. Situated six kilometres north of Phuket Town. The beach stretches 10 kilometres and its strict building restrictions mean it is a rather unspoiled area of the island. If it is an isolated area of Phuket that you want, then it is a relaxing, out of the way spot to spend your vacation. The protected forests and beaches mean the hotels and resorts in Natai Beach are small. Therefore, even if visitors go to Natai Beach, you won’t be overrun with other tourists.
Villawonka Recommendations:
Edge grows its own vegetables and takes the farm to fork philosophy seriously. Its Asian food has a Western twist to give diners something unique. Diners seeking modern Thai food will find it at Natai Restaurant. Club Akyra is a beachside restaurant and bar with a menu of mouth-watering seafood. Wansuk is another beachfront dining option with fresh seafood.
Patong
You cannot consider a vacation to Phuket without thinking about Patong. It is the most popular vacation destination on the island. The famous beach resort attracts travellers from all over the world and is often overrun by tourists. While it is a place you should experience at least once in your life, it can be overwhelming. If you want a quiet, relaxing vacation on Phuket, you should book a villa away from Patong. Patong is thriving and its nightlife is one of the main reasons travellers experience the town. Its bars and nightclubs offer up an unforgettable night out.
Villawonka Recommendations:
La Gritta’s Italian cuisine is topped only by its sea views. Acqua is another fine dining Italian experience, while Royale Nam Tok is a unique place to eat. Royale Nam Tok isn’t just a popular luxury restaurant; it is the home of the chef. The French restaurant is exclusive with a mere six tables. Sam’s Steak and Grill is the perfect place for carnivores. With impeccable service, you won’t regret a night out at Sam’s.
Phuket Town
Phuket Town is the capital of the island province. The town is a mecca of restaurants, bars, and shopping. If you fancy traditional, cultural experiences, then visit – or stay – in Phuket Town. Culture vultures flock to Phuket Town due to its history. The weekend market is a must for travellers seeking a taste of traditional Thailand. One of the town’s most unique attractions is the upside-down house. It is a fully furnished three-storey home.
Villawonka Recommendations:
La Gaetana serves up an Italian-Thai menu. Opened in 1998, it is a long-running restaurant with quaint, authentic decor. Brasserie Phuket is a stylish European-themed restaurant with a menu filled with Belgian and French cuisine. Flavor delivers on its name. Belgian chef Erik Vranckx uses organic produce to make one-of-a-kind meals. The elegant Blue Elephant is located in a Sino-colonial mansion built in 1903. Chef Nooror’s menu is classic Royal Thai.
Rawai
Situated on Phuket’s southernmost tip is Rawai. The beach of Rawai faces the west allowing you to catch the sunset each day. Culture vultures will love a stay in Rawai as it offers a view into the day-to-day life of Phuket natives. The beach is ideal thanks to boats, jet skis, and vendors not being found there. While swimming and sunning yourself on Rawai Beach isn’t common, it is the departure point for boats heading to the islands off of Phuket. Sea Gypsy Village is one of the most famous seafood markets on Phuket. It sells fresh catch of the day seafood.
Villawonka Recommendations:
East 88 Restaurant & Beach Lounge provides views of Rawai Beach and Lone Island. The menu is extensive and filled with a variety of delicious food. Vegan and vegetarian travellers should visit Supernatural Restaurant. It combines a menu of western and Thai cuisine for herbivores. Sea Gypsies Fish Market isn’t a fine dining experience, but it is a venue you shouldn’t miss. You can buy freshly caught seafood and take it to a restaurant to be prepared right away.
Surin
Surin is known as Phuket’s “Millionaire’s Row”. It is home to a resort and the neighbourhood is popular amongst tourists with a bit of money. This isn’t an area in which the average tourist to Phuket frequents. Surin is less crowded than other popular parts of Phuket and feels more like a coastal village. Its beach has smooth, white sands, and gorgeous blue waters. It is popular amongst both locals and visitors from abroad.
Villawonka Recommendations:
Oriental Spoon Grill & Bar delivers western and Thai food all-day long. Its Sunday brunch is popular amongst diners. Oriental Spoon Grill & Bar also has an extensive wine list. Taste Bar & Grill Phuket serves up hearty plates of food including steaks, tacos, and seafood. Pad Thai is located at the Sabai Resort. It is ideal for diners seeking an authentic Thai experience.
