Phuket’s dining and lifestyle scene never stays still and the island’s latest addition proves just that. Rava Beach Club by Banyan Tree Phuket, which soft-launched in August, brings a new kind of beachside energy to Bang Tao, a more relaxed hangout than a high-octane party spot.
Spanning 3,500 square metres, it’s officially Thailand’s longest beach club. At first, I imagined the usual bass-heavy beats and crowds of people dancing under neon lights. But the venue turned out to be something entirely different. It is stylish, easygoing and surprisingly serene.
My first visit was at night. The air was warm, waves rolled in behind the music and the DJ played tropical house that kept things lively without overpowering the scene. People chatted, danced and enjoyed cocktails under the glow of string lights. It had a smooth and unhurried rhythm.
Returning the next day around noon, the atmosphere shifted completely. Under the bright sun, the pools sparkled and the music slowed to a laid-back tempo. A guest singer performed soulful, beachy tunes while guests lounged with cocktails in hand. It was calm, inviting and in tune with its beachfront surroundings.
What stands out most is its sense of space. Despite its size, it never feels crowded or overstated. Its name – Sanskrit for ‘sound’ or ‘reverberation’ – feels fitting, as everything here seems to move in rhythm, whether it’s the hum of conversation, the soft bassline beneath the waves or the gentle clink of ice in glasses.
The beach club is divided into three zones. Young & Fun offers sunbeds, three infinity pools and a beachfront dining area for daytime lounging. Master Grill serves as the culinary hub, where chefs work over open flames to prepare steaks and seafood. Prestige, reserved for Banyan Tree guests, features a private infinity pool, indoor dining area and personal facilities.
In the open kitchen, Chef Joshua Gray, an Australian known for his fire-cooking techniques, grills wagyu tenderloin over open flames, a fitting preview of what’s on offer. The menu highlights flame-grilled meats, charcoal-roasted seafood and shareable plates such as tomahawk steaks, wagyu tenderloin and wood-fired pizza.
The drinks menu is equally impressive, ranging from fresh juices and zero-proof mocktails to signature cocktails such as tropical sunset (dark rum, peach liqueur, passion fruit, yuzu puree and lime) and rava spice (vodka, Cointreau, Malibu, coconut, lime, chili, kaffir lime, lemongrass and soda).
Service is attentive and professional, with staff quick to offer recommendations and keep your glass topped up without missing a beat.
Whether you’re staying in Laguna or visiting for the day, Rava Beach Club makes a great alternative to the typical party-driven beach venues. It’s the kind of place where you can swim, sip and stay all afternoon – a stylish escape that balances energy and ease in equal measure.