The best things to do in Phuket this weekend (February 13-15)

If you’re still stuck on what to do for Valentine’s, look towards Bang Tao beach. That’s right, it’s Carpe Diem Beach Club and all weekend they’re turning rose-red with freeflow drinks, dinners and private moments for couples in love. Saturday kicks off with ‘Rosé à la Plage’ – a sun-soaked poolside session that starts with strong afternoon drinks and flows into romantic beachfront dining by sunset. With limited private cabanas set directly on the sand for couples wanting something extra special, there’s only moments left to get a seat. By Sunday, the stage is transformed into a ‘La Dolce Vita’ kinda afternoon. We’re talking Spanish chiringuito makeovers complete with live-fire cooking, seafood-heavy brunch plates, paella and a brunch-to-pool-party build-up that rolls into DJs and a signature fire show after dark. Two events, two moods. Now it’s up to you. 

Feb 14-15. B2,000 on Saturday, B3,745 on Sunday. Carpe Diem Beach Club. 3pm (Sat) 12pm (Sun)

For nearly 30 years, Freestylers have stood at the core of UK bass music, shaping and pushing bass, breaks, electro and drum ‘n’ bass forward on all fronts. With chart hits, major festival slots and collaborations spanning Pendulum to film and game soundtracks, their influence runs deep and they’re now here in Phuket. Joined by Gardna (a Bristol-based MC) and Poize Audio (a London-based artist collective) and a stacked regional lineup delivering everything from garage and jungle to dubstep and bassline, there’s no doubt in our mind that this one hits the spot for all you bassheads out there. And with a closing time of 4am, there’s all to play for on the dancefloor. 

Feb 13. B400-500, tickets here. Courage Bar. 9pm-4am

Michael Angelo’s sets the tone for a romantic Valentine’s Eve with a night of smooth jazz and soulful bossa nova in an intimate lounge setting – perfect for charming your loved one or getting a solo drink because it’s not technically Valentine’s Day anyway. Added to the mix is a handful of live performances from special guests Jazzy Phar Lacdao and Siam Jazz Cats, plus a specially curated menu of cocktails and wines that pair perfectly with dinner. It’s cosy, candlelit and ideal for couples looking to swap crowded restaurants for something a little more atmospheric. And with a 2am closing time, those sweet moments can easily flow into something a little more bubbly by the end. 

Feb 13. Reservations recommended. Michael Angelo’s Phuket. 8pm-2am

Global house favourite Syreeta lands in Patong with some serious music making credentials, as they bring the best in house from HE.SHE.THEY. and ANTS residencies to the shores of Phuket. With regular appearances at parties like Music On, Paradise, Elrow and Circo Loco – they’re a hot player in the scene, offering a rare chance to catch international-grade house music on the Thai stage. Word on the street is the set will be slick, high-energy and built for Illuzion’s late-night crowd. You know who you are.

Feb 13. Free. Illuzion Phuket. 9pm-late

When dinner romance is on the cards, Sea Salt Lounge & Grill is making waves with a surf and turf curated dinner that sets the mood for those food-hungry Valentine’s couples. Move from smoked salmon and seared foie gras through truffle ravioli and seafood-steak combos before sweetening the moment with strawberry rose panna cotta and petit fours – all paired with a bottle of wine (included) and uninterrupted sea views from their resort-like position overlooking the island. Sure, it’s classic, but sometimes that’s what Valentine’s needs most. 

Feb 13-15. B6,900 per couple (includes wine), bookings recommended. Sea Salt Lounge & Grill. 5pm-10.30pm

Skip the candlelit cliches and cart the whole fam to Rawai Park for a Valentine’s-themed celebration designed for all ages – because what’s better than celebrating Cupid’s weekend with those you love most. The park’s gardens and play zones set the stage with an early evening sky backdrop which frames live music, karaoke sessions, song challenges, love-themed trivia and lots of dancing opportunities for kids, couples and families. All washed down with a buffet dinner and drinks for the parents. Perfect. 

Feb 14. B750 for adults, B450 for kids. Rawai Park. 2pm-7pm

Flying in from Florence, Italy, and fresh off a standout set at FVTURE Club Bangkok, Rinascimento are now here in Phuket, bringing a mix of melodic techno and Afro house rhythms for a Sunday session built for serious dancefloor heads. If you’re not worried about hitting work on Monday with a hangover, this one’s for you – the basslines are deep, the drinks are flowing and the crowds are ready to squeeze every last drop out of the weekend. 

Feb 15. B500, tickets here. Fira Phuket. 4pm onwards