Joanna Matlub

Christmas in Phuket might look a little different from the usual snow-covered postcards, but who needs a white Christmas when you have sunshine, swaying palms and the Andaman Sea? Across the island, restaurants and resorts are pulling out all the stops, with festive feasts ranging from traditional roast turkey to extravagant seafood spreads and leisurely lunches by the beach. Whether you are gathering the family, celebrating with friends or simply not in the mood for all that cooking, here is where to book your Christmas lunch in Phuket this year.

There is considerably more to Phuket’s bar scene than beachfront cocktails and sunset happy hours. Behind unassuming doors, talented mixologists are getting creative with local ingredients, while elsewhere, jazz musicians, charismatic bartenders and lively neighbourhood crowds are making a compelling case for another round. Whether you are looking to impress on a date, catch up with friends or discover somewhere you never knew existed, Phuket has plenty of surprises up its sleeve. Here are eight of the best bars to put on your list.

When your pet is part of the family, leaving them behind can take some of the fun out of a staycation. Thankfully, Bangkok’s luxury hotels are increasingly making room for the whole family, paws included. These hotels go well beyond simply allowing pets through the door, with proper five-star treatment that can include plush beds, welcome treats, dedicated pet menus and plenty of fuss from the staff. So why should you have all the fun? Pack their favourite toy, prepare them for a little pampering and check into one of Bangkok’s best luxury hotels where your furry companion gets to come along for the holiday too.

Jana Beydoun has been teaching music around the world, with roles taking her from the UK and Tanzania to Kazakhstan and Hong Kong before settling in Phuket 11 years ago. Today, she teaches music and is Head of EAPA (Expressive & Performing Arts) at Kajonkiet International School Phuket, where one particularly talented 12-year-old arrived for a music scholarship interview four years ago. That student was Nene Royal, or Praew, as Jana calls her. Fast forward four years and she remains Jana’s student, although their relationship has grown well beyond the classroom. ‘She’s still my girl,’ says Jana.  After travelling to Los Angeles to watch Praew win America’s Got Talent, Jana is now back in Phuket and just about over the jet lag. She talks exclusively to Time Out about the shy girl behind the rock star, the first time she heard that extraordinary voice and what happened when Praew suddenly became famous. Photograph: Jana BeydounExclusive interview with Jana Beydoun Time Out: What do you remember about first meeting Nene Royal? Jana: My first real memory of Praew is when she came to do her scholarship interview. She was 12, with this beautiful smile on her face, and she started playing guitar with these crazy solos and my colleagues and I were sitting there with our jaws on the floor, thinking, ‘Wow, what kind of student is she going to be?’ Then she opened her mouth and started singing and I was blown away. The sound and colour of her voice were out of this world for her age,

From October 10-18 Phuket becomes a very different island. Shrines fill with worshippers, incense hangs heavy in the air and white-clad devotees gather for nine days of prayer, purification and ritual. For Phuket’s Chinese-Thai community, the Vegetarian Festival is one of the most important events of the year. Photograph: Suppanattaa KawaralangkankulPhuket For most devotees, that means following a strict jay diet (a form of religious veganism), visiting shrines and taking part in religious ceremonies. For Kru Taa, it can mean walking barefoot through fire, spending six or seven hours in procession and having metal spikes pierced through her body. She does all of it while, in her words: ‘the deity Cheng Hoo is inside her.’ Born and raised in Phuket in a Thai-Hokkien Chinese family, Kru Taa says her connection to the Vegetarian Festival began before she was born. Her mother prayed at Chinese shrines and followed the festival while pregnant with her, and those traditions remained part of family life throughout her childhood. Thirty years later, that connection took an extraordinary turn. ‘I had been sick for almost a month. When the festival started, something suddenly changed.’ Photograph: Suppanattaa KawaralangkankulPhuket   When Cheng Hoo came through her In 2007, an unexpected illness left Kru Taa bedbound for almost a month. She saw a doctor but was given no clear diagnosis and medication did little to help. Then, as the Vegetarian Festival began, after weeks with barel

Phuket has officially caught the racquet-sports bug. Padel courts are popping up across the island, pickleball sessions are filling fast and suddenly everyone seems to have a racket in the boot of the car. The two games might be different, but they share much of the same appeal: easy to pick up, highly addictive and considerably more social than your average workout. Better still, Phuket's clubs have moved well beyond a couple of courts and a vending machine, with covered courts, tournaments, cafés and plenty of post-match hangout space. Whether you already know your bandeja from your dink or are starting completely from scratch, these are six of the best places to play padel and pickleball in Phuket.

Thailand’s south serves up some of the country’s best seafood, but not everything pulled from the Andaman is entirely harmless. From horseshoe crab eggs that can harbour powerful neurotoxins to barely cooked blood cockles carrying potentially dangerous bacteria, there are a few local delicacies where knowing exactly what’s on your plate matters. Elsewhere in Thailand, things get even more adventurous. Raw pork can turn you deaf, raw freshwater fish can harbour parasites and wild mushrooms are easily mistaken for poisonous ones. Welcome to the more dangerous side of Thai food, and why flavour often supersedes risk. 

Some islands are built around packed itineraries. Koh Yao Noi isn't one of them. Floating between Phuket and Krabi in the heart of Phang Nga Bay, this small island has resisted the rapid development seen elsewhere in Thailand. Fishing boats still leave the beaches before sunrise, water buffalo graze beside rice fields and many of the island's best discoveries aren't attractions at all, but places you stumble across while exploring. That slower pace is exactly the appeal. Spend the morning riding through coconut plantations, pause for lunch overlooking the rice paddies, wade through peaceful mangroves and finish the day with a drink as the sun dips. Luxury resorts sit alongside family-run cafés, offering plenty of choice without taking away from the island's character. Whether you're visiting for a long weekend or staying a little longer, Koh Yao Noi rewards curiosity more than careful planning. Leave time to take the scenic route; more often than not, those unexpected stops become the moments you'll remember most.

School's out, which means the annual search for ways to keep the children entertained has officially begun. Thankfully, Phuket has plenty to offer beyond the beach – whether you're escaping tropical rain showers or trying to burn off some seemingly endless holiday energy, there’s heaps to keep you (and more specifically, your little ones) entertained.   From climbing walls and rainforest ziplines to obstacle courses, laser battles and one of Thailand's biggest waterparks, these are some of the best family attractions in Phuket for the never-ending summer holidays.

Brunch has become something of a weekend ritual in Phuket. Across the island, long lunches stretch into the afternoon as friends gather around the table, families make a day of it and beachfront tables quickly become some of the island's most sought-after seats.  Some places put on impressive spreads, others showcase changing menus, while some are simply an excuse to spend a few unhurried hours in good company. However you like to brunch, Phuket offers plenty of reasons to clear your diary for the afternoon. These are the Phuket brunches showcasing the best of the island's diverse brunch scene.   

Updated June 2026: We've refreshed our guide to Phuket's best burger restaurants to bring you the most up-to-date picks from across the island. New addition Millionaire Burgers earns its place thanks to its playful personality and indulgent loaded fries, while Prime Burger joins the list for its consistently strong smash burgers and island-wide popularity. We've also revisited OOO Burger and found its hidden gem setting is as appealing as ever.  Whether it's a quick burger fix, a late-night craving or a full-blown cheat day, Phuket has plenty of options. Favourites Pan Burger, Treasure Burger, EAT. Burgers & Beers and Madcow Burger continue to prove why they've earned their place among Phuket's standout burger restaurants, while top burger spots are claimed by some of the island’s most talked about restaurants. And before you ask, these are the best burger restaurants – focusing on the best spots in Phuket that are dedicated to the patty. And while there are some amazing burgers served elsewhere, we’re giving those who double down on a double cheeseburger in this one.  From smashed patties and classic cheeseburgers to towering stacks loaded with toppings, these are the burger restaurants worth adding to your list.

You might come here for the steaks, but the upstairs bar is well worth a visit in its own right. With its low lighting, good-looking bar and sophisticated vibe, you could easily be mistaken for thinking you have been transported to Bangkok rather than Surin Beach. The bar is where I would choose to sit, although there is a small terrace if you prefer somewhere a little more tucked away. The cocktail menu covers the classics to more inventive creations, although the Pornstar Martini is done particularly well here. There is also an extensive wine selection if cocktails are not your thing. And if whichever drinks you end up choosing leave you feeling peckish, the restaurant downstairs is a tempting next stop, especially if you appreciate a seriously good steak. Wagyu Steakhouse, Twinpalms Phuket, Cherngtalay. Open daily 5.30pm-midnight

If live music is your thing, Bebop is hard to beat. This Phuket Old Town favourite has recently moved into bigger premises on the second floor of VELA, where velvet curtains, brass detailing and a grand piano give the place a touch of old-school glamour. The man behind it all is jazz guitarist Boy Navio, who has even brought a musical twist to the cocktail menu. Look out for soulful vocalist EKA Soundz, whose performances alongside Boy have become something to block your diary for. Live music starts around 8pm, with the main bands taking over from 9.30pm. Arrive early for a good seat and check the latest line-up before heading over. Bebop Live Music Bar, 2nd Floor, VELA Phuket Old Town, 20–24 Yaowarat Road, Phuket Town. Open Mon-Fri 6pm-midnight, Sat-Sun 3pm-midnight

From the team behind Suay Restaurant and Daily Dose, Chef Tammasak’s Alchemy Phuket deserves a pin on your Phuket cocktail map. With its feng shui-inspired design and circular features, it might just be the place to restore your balance after a particularly trying day. There are several spaces to choose from, but the main dining room, with its eight-metre bar, is where you want to be for cocktails. The highball menu is fun, with some unexpected twists on the classic. Our recommendation is the Shibuya Snow, although sommelier Khun Pix also has an interesting wine selection if you are not in a cocktail mood. Weekend live music is gentle enough to allow for chats without shouting to be heard, and with food this good, you may as well stay for dinner too. Alchemy Phuket, Srisoonthorn Road, Thalang District. Open daily 5pm-midnight

Sipping Tiger is one of those bars that makes everyone’s favourite sound the same – but for very good reason. Tucked away inside InterContinental Phuket Resort, it feels more like a private members’ club in Hong Kong, with moody jungle-print wallpaper, marble tables and dimly lit corners. The cocktails are seriously good, with unusual techniques and clever use of Thai botanicals, including ingredients grown in the bar’s own herb garden. Leaf & Brine, made with oyster gin, kaffir lime-infused Bianco vermouth and Lustau Oloroso sherry, is something of a love-it-or-hate-it cocktail. I am firmly in the love-it camp. Do not miss the Jamón Bellota 42 Months, served on sourdough with tomatoes and rich pata negra. It is worth returning for alone. Sipping Tiger, InterContinental Phuket Resort, Kamala. Open daily 5pm-1am

Fairmont’s new Sukhumvit address gives four-legged guests a suitably polished welcome, with up to two pets per room, botanical-inspired interiors made for a few excellent pet photos and no reason for anyone to get left behind.

Padel If you are down in Rawai, this is the kind of place that makes squeezing in a game dangerously easy. Four courts, a laid-back set-up and enough going on around them mean it feels more social club than simple court booking. The extras make it more than a quick hit-and-run session too. There is coaching, equipment rental and a café and lounge area, but the sauna and ice bath are the real bonus if you are taking your post-match recovery seriously. Rawai Padel. 83/105 Rawai, Phuket. Padel. Open daily 8am-10pm

Padel Destination Padel Club is built for players who want a little more than an hour on court and straight back home. There are six courts, including four covered options and two outdoors, plus coaching, racket rental and regular social mix-ins if you are looking to join a game. The off-court set-up is a big part of the appeal, with food and drinks overlooking the courts. It makes this an easy place to play, refuel and hang around afterwards rather than heading straight home. Destination Padel Club. 220/2 Thep Krasattri Road, Thalang. Open daily 7am-11pm  

Pickleball The Peak is a solid pick for pickleball players, with four dedicated outdoor courts and regular social sessions that make it easy to join in without arriving with a full group. There are organised OpenPlay sessions, socials for different levels and coaching for anyone still getting to grips with the game. It feels more community-driven than clubby, which is a big part of the appeal. The Peak Racquet Park. 168 Srisoonthorn Road, Si Sunthon. Open daily 7am-10pm

Padel Blue Tree is one of the easiest places to get into padel in Phuket, whether you already play regularly or have no idea where to start. There are six courts, including four covered ones, so a sudden downpour does not necessarily mean game over. There is a strong social side too, with coaching, leagues, tournaments and regular events, plus racket rental and a pro shop if you have turned up empty-handed. It is polished without feeling intimidating, which is probably why it has become such a reliable all-rounder. Padel Phuket @ Blue Tree. 4/2 Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang. Open daily 8am-10pm

Padel + Pickleball WAREHAUS is one of the slicker new arrivals on Phuket's racquet scene, with championship-level padel courts, pickleball, fitness facilities and a pool waiting for the post-match cool-down. The padel set-up is the main draw, with courts by Spanish specialist Greenset and weekly tournaments, but this is not somewhere you need to arrive playing like a pro. Coaching is available for all ages and levels, while there is enough going on off court to make hanging around afterwards part of the plan. WAREHAUS.club. Cherngtalay, Thalang. Open daily 8am-10pm

Padel Heading south? Xplore gives Chalong a strong padel option, with three fully covered courts and an easy going feel that makes it simple to drop in for a game without making a whole day of it. There is coaching, equipment rental and regular tournaments for different levels, but it never feels overly serious. Showers and a chill-out area make it just as easy to hang around afterwards, especially if one match has somehow turned into three. Xplore Padel Phuket. 5/30/3 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Road, Chalong. Open daily 8am-11pm

Some islands are built around packed itineraries. Koh Yao Noi isn't one of them. Floating between Phuket and Krabi in the heart of Phang Nga Bay, this small island has resisted the rapid development seen elsewhere in Thailand. Fishing boats still leave the beaches before sunrise, water buffalo graze beside rice fields and many of the island's best discoveries aren't attractions at all, but places you stumble across while exploring. That slower pace is exactly the appeal. Spend the morning riding through coconut plantations, pause for lunch overlooking the rice paddies, wade through peaceful mangroves and finish the day with a drink as the sun dips. Luxury resorts sit alongside family-run cafés, offering plenty of choice without taking away from the island's character. Whether you're visiting for a long weekend or staying a little longer, Koh Yao Noi rewards curiosity more than careful planning. Leave time to take the scenic route; more often than not, those unexpected stops become the moments you'll remember most. Your ultimate guide to Koh Yao Noi

There is already a giant Hanuman sitting on the seabed off Koh Racha Yai. By the end of this year, he should have considerably more company. Four new sculptures are being created for the RAYA Underwater Art Museum in Siam Bay, adding to the underwater attraction that began taking shape earlier in 2026. The new works will depict Rama, Ravana and Suphannamatcha, along with a sculpture called The Road, recreating part of the story of the attack on Lanka from the Ramayana. The sculptures are expected to be completed and installed in November and December 2026, when conditions around Racha Yai are typically calmer. Photograph: Phuket Art AssociationThe RAYA Underwater Art Museum For divers, that means a much bigger underwater playground. The museum is part art attraction, part artificial reef, with the structures designed to give coral somewhere new to grow and marine life extra places to shelter. It also gives divers another site to explore, helping to take some of the pressure off Phuket’s natural reefs. Racha Yai is already one of Phuket’s most popular diving islands, but this adds something a little less expected to the usual coral gardens and reef fish. The enormous Hanuman was the first major character to arrive on the seabed, and the next additions will gradually turn Siam Bay into an underwater cast of Thai mythology. And unlike most museums, there is no gift shop at the end. Just remember your air tank.

Dinner with a show is nothing new in Phuket, but CLC takes the idea several notches further. Short for ‘Come Leo Come’, the venue is packed with nods to Leonardo DiCaprio's best films – the lavish dining room has an unmistakable Great Gatsby feel. Before the show begins, settle into deep blue and burgundy velvet banquettes beneath oversized chandeliers while imaginative drinks arrive at marble tables. The room gradually fills with a mix of Phuket regulars and visitors, although you’ll find everyone waiting for the same thing. The show, tantalisingly just minutes away. Photograph: Time OutCLC Phuket Then, almost without warning, everything changes. Smoke rolls across the dining room, masked figures appear between the tables and laser beams slice through the haze as the soundtrack suddenly surges. Within moments, a stylish dinner gives way to a full theatrical production. What can you expect from a night at CLC? Quite simply, it’s a lot. Singers, dancers, DJs, a roaming saxophonist and aerial performers move between the stage, bar and dining room. On the night we visited, the production had a flight theme, taking guests – or passengers, in this case – through destinations including France and Spain, with the music, choreography and costumes changing at each stop.  CLC runs a rotating programme of themed shows, so the experience can be very different depending on when you visit. Honestly, not every performance was exactly my cup of tea. But judging by the overall applause, pho