Summer weekend in Phuket
How locals do summer in Phuket — patios, beaches, festivals and the long-evening rituals that only happen in July and August.
Top spots in Phuket
Kata Noi Beach
OutdoorsKata
Quieter cousin of Kata — palm-fringed crescent, gentle swimming, sunset cocktails at the rocks.
Phi Phi Islands Day Trip
OutdoorsPhi Phi
Longtail or speedboat to Maya Bay — go at first light to beat the day-tour fleet.
James Bond Island (Phang Nga Bay)
OutdoorsPhang Nga
Limestone karsts rising from emerald water — kayak the sea caves at Hong Island.
Patong Beach & Bangla Road
NightlifePatong
Phuket's loudest beach by day, the famous neon nightlife strip by night.
Where to eat
Kopitiam by Wilai
$Phuketian · Old Town
Hokkien-style mee sapam, moo hong braised pork — old-school recipes, cool vibe.
Mom Tri's Kitchen
$$$$Royal Thai · Kata Noi
Cliffside terraces and a 10,000-bottle cellar — sunset is the move.
Raya
$$Southern Thai · Old Town
Sino-Portuguese mansion famous for crab-meat yellow curry — Anthony Bourdain favourite.
Roti Taew Nam
$Roti · Old Town
Roti and chicken massaman in a 130-year-old shophouse — locals' breakfast.
Suay
$$$Modern Thai · Patong / Cherngtalay
Chef Tammasak's tasting menus — playful Thai with great cocktails.
Live & on stage
Laguna Phuket Triathlon
Laguna · Nov 22 · Sport
Loy Krathong
Patong Beach · Nov 24 · Lantern Festival / Free
Phuket Old Town Festival
Thalang Road · Feb 6–8 · Cultural / Free
Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Old Town · Oct 11–20 · Cultural
Frequently asked
- Standouts right now: Phi Phi Islands Day Trip, Patong Beach & Bangla Road, Kata Noi Beach. The shortlist is curated by people who live in Phuket and refreshed regularly so it reflects what's actually open and worth your time.