Where to stay, what to do and where to eat in Phuket
While Thailand has long been a prime destination for Mr Worldwides (read: jet-set travellers), 2024 had its boom thanks to our girl, Moo Deng. I mean, I think I can speak on behalf of the entire universe when I say that that pygmy hippo single-handedly stole our hearts and put Thailand back on the map last year (not that it ever went off the map... but you get my drift).
And yet, 2025 is set to be an even bigger year for the country and in particular, for Phuket, thanks to season three of White Lotus. The next instalment of the hit HBO show is based in the southern Thai city, proving just how chic it can be. As Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand said when speaking of The White Lotus setting its sights on Thailand: “The kingdom’s exotic natural beauty, rich historical sites and diverse landscapes are the perfect settings to share our fascinating culture, fantastic cuisine, top-notch wellness and luxury offerings, and most importantly our people and Thai hospitality.”
So, to get ahead of the hype, I travelled to Phuket in November (the country's cool season, when the weather transitions from rainy to dry) and scouted out some of the best hotels to stay at, as well as activities to plan and restaurants to visit. You can thank me later...
Where to stay
Twinpalms Bangtao Phuket Tented Resort
Picture this: It’s day seven of your Thailand travel trip and after a tiresome yet adventurous moped-filled day, you’re seeking a beach bum haven (bc who can refuses some TLC when backpacking, right?). Well, maybe it’s the Cosmo girl in me, but the sentiment of ‘treat yourself’ never falls short when it comes to a great bed, and great beds Twinpalms Twinpalms Bangtao Phuket Tented Resort has! It's a sexy, rugged boutique set on the shores of Bangtao Beach.
The safari aesthetic resort is made up of 24 generously sized tented suites, all of which channel a seamless indoor-to-outdoor style, while 16 have their very own plunge pool. Think: we’re stepping off-grid but in a fully-air conditioned, king-sized bedded, wifi-surrounded, mini fridge at hand type-a-way. It’s, quite literally, giving camp…
The adult-only site is within easy reach of foodie heaven with Catch Beach Club, The Lazy Coconut, KALIDO, Shimmer and Wagyu Steakhouse all being nearby. Not to mention that Muay Thai classes and spa facilities are both within reaching distance, too.
It is worth mentioning, however, that other than the stocked mini bar in each tent, there is no food service at the resort itself; this is due to a high risk of attracting animals in and around the tents (yep, we’re talking snakes, ppl.)
Twinpalms MontAzure Phuket Resort
Like its sister locations, Twinpalms MontAzure is an exclusive and curated hotel with just 53 suites on site – some of which are penthouses with their very own private pool. Every unit features separate living, dining and bedroom areas, making this an ideal location for families or couples looking for a private and spacious retreat.
The biggest selling point? Well, as well as having an infinity pool, MontAzure has direct beach access and its very own beachfront restaurant named Shimmer. In the high-summer season, it's the ultimate relaxation destination. Spicy margarita with a side of swimming? You bet!
What to do
Private Andaman Yacht afternoon cruise
What says holidaying more than a yacht trip? Spoiler: Nothing! And Andaman Cruises is where it’s at. With a group, you can pick from a luxe selection of motor yachts and powerboats and indulge on a day or overnight excursion in marine paradise.
Café del Mar
If you’re a groovy music fiend looking for a day of fun on the beach, Café del Mar is the place to be. Located along Kamala Beach (a rumoured The White Lotus filming location and white-sanded haven), the beach club encompasses the Ibiza vibe with DJ mixes and residencies like no other (aka, Solomun plays here in high season!). Plus, it’s just a stone's throw away from the bustling nightlife of Patong, meaning the fun knows no bounds…
Ethical elephant excursion
There are several ethical elephant excursions in Phuket, including sanctuaries that allow elephants to roam free and others that offer tours where you can learn about the elephants' behaviour. Head to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary to enjoy an up-close encounter with the animals; walk with them and observe as they wander, bathe, play, and socialise naturally – free from human touch!
Lard Yai Sunday Night Market, Phuket Old Town
Prepare to do your daily 10,000 steps in just a few hours because the island's famous Walking Street (locally called Lard Yai) hosts 100+ stalls selling local fare, handcrafted products and delicious street food every Sunday night. Sidenote: expect big, busy crowds, and remember to take cash!
Friday night Boat Avenue Night Market
Local to the Bangtao Beach is Friday night Boat Avenue Night Market. Like the Lard Yai Market, the street comes alive from 4pm until late, with vendors selling local foods, souvenirs, jewellery and more. It's the perfect after-dinner shopping experience as it’s a far smaller market than the one in Phuket Town.
Take a day trip to Phi Phi Islands
If you didn’t know, the Phi Phi Islands are around an hour and a half from Phuket via public ferry, making for a great day trip. Alternatively, you can take a speedboat cruise from Phuket to discover Phi Phi which includes a trip to Maya Bay and the Viking Cave, and snorkelling on the heart-shaped Bamboo Island. Its white sand, stunning limestone cliffs and natural beauty rank it a top destination in Asia, so, don’t miss the opportunity to visit when in Phuket.
Where to eat
Phuket Coffee Lab
Transport to Australia with this Melbourne-style café that serves breakfast, lunch and yep, you guessed it, freshly roasted coffee. It’s conveniently located at Boat Avenue in Cherngtalay, meaning you can dine before or after checking out the local shopping on offer.
Bartels
This Thai chain coffee shop has five locations dotted around the island, two of which are situated in Phuket (around the Bang Tao Beach area.) So, if you’re looking to bring a sandwich to the beach, you know where to head. The in-dining experience, however, is one to note – its modern aesthetics and laid-back vibes are unmatched.
Little Bukit Farm
Embark on a culinary adventure at Little Bukit Farm where an authentic farm-to-table service is provided. Farm owner Melinda Briend-Marchal heads up a guided tour of the gardens where you can learn about the usage of locally grown, sustainable produce before heading to the café for refreshments.
Catch Beach Club
Catch Beach Club is the ultimate food venue embracing contemporary Thai fusion and Western flavours. Pop in for an indulgent lunch, Sunday brunch or Friday night BBQ, all of which offer both fine dining and relaxed culinary experiences. On the menu (which does change depending on season), you can expect vibrant salads, seafood platters, classic Thai dishes and more – though, IMO, the seafood soup is a winner all year round! Enjoy each dish with a glass of wine, champagne, cocktail, mocktail or soft drink of choice. The options are endless.
Say Cheese
Perhaps ignorant but I would have never pinned Thailand as a country with a tasty cheese offering. Sweden, France, Germany, yes. But Thailand? I wouldn’t have thought. That said, Thailand's cheese production is, in fact, growing and Phuket is now producing a variety of flavours which you can explore at the recently opened Say Cheese restaurant. FYI, the desserts here are *chef’s kiss*!
Wagyu Steakhouse
The most luxurious food offering in this lineup comes from Wagyu Steakhouse, a Michelin Guide 2023 awardee blending fine dining with elegant design. At the entree bar, I recommend opting for a delicious tomatini (a savoury martini cocktail with a base of tomatoes and vodka) before heading downstairs to your table. As its namesake would suggest, Wagyu serves fresh meat from the steak counter, but for the veggies and pescis among us, fear not: seasonal vegetable delicacies and seafood options are available.
Kalido
I know, I know; you’re more than likely travelling to Thailand for their authentic food offering, however, if you are looking to switch things up, Kalido’s Mediterranean flavours are the perfect excuse. The dinner menu has been curated by one of Thailand’s most renowned gastronomic artists, Chef Tammasak, and spotlights the best of fresh seafood. Oh, and did I mention that the restaurant is surrounded by panoramic sea views? Gorg.
The Lazy Coconut
Acai bowls, river prawns, and Aperol spritzes are just some of the delicious food and drink options that make up The Lazy Coconut, a family-friendly beach club situated on the west side of the island. I recommend going here for a slow brekkie or lunch as the venue encourages easy-going dining; it's all about a barefoot, beach-bum lifestyle!
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