Rawai Beach, the southernmost spot, is used for boat parking and not for swimming because of its shallow and coral-covered seabed. Nearby, there’s a famous fish market. It’s a good place to stay for bike renters looking to explore the area.
Rawai Beach: What You Want to Know
Rawai Beach, on the west side facing the Andaman Sea, has many trees for shade, great for relaxing afternoons. It’s near Phuket Town and a favorite for family picnics, especially on Sundays.
Can You Swim in Rawai Beach?
Swimming at Rawai isn’t ideal due to the moored boats and shallow waters. The beach has mudflats and rocks at low tide, offering an insight into the daily lives of local fishermen. A stroll to the east end past the Rawai Seafood Market leads to a more suitable spot for a dip in the sea.
What to Do in Rawai Beach & Facilities
Rawai is a departure point for island-hopping adventures to Coral Island, Phi Phu & more.
The Sea Gypsy Village
The Sea Gypsy Village at the beach’s eastern end hosts a regular seafood market. Caution: park correctly to avoid fines. Read More >>
Ton Mai Spa
Excellent sauna near Rawai pier. Offers great massages that leave you feeling like after a gym session. Admission to a sauna with a pool is 200 THB. Thai massage with oil for 400 THB; other services (scrub, aromatherapy, etc.) for 500-650 THB. Subtracting the average sauna cost elsewhere (~200 THB), the price is excellent. Cozy with a bar, sunbeds, and a decent-sized pool.
More Places in Rawai You Can Find Useful
- Copy Color: Photocopying and document printing – 10 THB per page, clothing repair.
- MoneyShop: Authorized currency exchange point. Offers exchange services for cash and non-cash USD, EUR, RUB, and cryptocurrency.
- Evening Market in Rawai (Wed/Sun): Vegetables, fruits, ready-to-eat food, seafood, meat, clothing. Open Wednesdays and Sundays until 8 (sometimes 9) PM. Google Maps Link
- Evening Market in Rawai (Mon/Thu): Vegetables, fruits, ready-to-eat food, seafood, meat, clothing. Open Mondays and Thursdays from 4 PM to 9 PM. Google Maps Link
- Super Cheap Rawai Store: Part of the Super Cheap supermarket chain, opposite the market. Behind the main supermarket area is a door to a huge warehouse-like room where you can find a variety of interesting products, cosmetics, household goods, fans, dishes, food items, and much more. Open 24/7, sells alcohol according to regulations.
Rawai Park Kids Club
For families, Rawai Park Kids Club is a hit, offering a colorful swimming pool and numerous games.
Boat Trips from Rawai
Rawai is a gateway to the surrounding islands, with no need for prior reservations. Just choose a traditional boat and set off on your adventure.
Must-Visit Islands from Rawai
- Bon Island: Known for snorkeling and lunch options.
- Buddha Island (Koh Kaeo): Features two large golden Buddha statues.
- Coral Island: Perfect for relaxing at Banana Beach and Long Beach.
Read also: Koh Yao Noi Island: Full Guide with Transport & Things to Do 2024
Don’t Miss The Best Tours in Phuket
Where to Eat in Rawai: Best Cafes and Restaurants
El Greco Greek Restaurant Cocktail Bar – Phuket
A Greek café, perfect for breakfast. Offers delicious herbal tea brewed from mountain herbs, homemade Greek yogurt, and pancakes.
- Address: 13, 3, Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83130, Thailand.
- Menu
Baan Klang Nam
Possibly one of the island’s oldest Thai restaurants with over 30 years of history. Highly recommended for its delicious dishes, especially Tom Yum, which is slightly pricier than average but worth it.
- Open: from 11 AM to 11 PM.
- Address: Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand.
Delicious Rotti by a Husband and Wife on the Road
Known for their tasty roti and generous with condensed milk. Always welcoming. Google Maps Link
Crepes Factory Phuket
Finally, divine crepes with various fillings in Rawai! Excellent coffee and homemade berry drinks, a children’s playground, cozy hanging chairs, and friendly staff. The chef’s crepe with avocado and red fish is unbeatable.
- Address: 30, 3 Wiset Rd, Rawai, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Phuket 83130, Thailand
- Open: 8 AM–7 PM
- Menu
Atsumi Raw Cafe
Vegan/vegetarian/organic café in Rawai. Salads, smoothies, shakes. Small garden, Wi-Fi.
- Address: Wiset Rd, Rawai, Muang, Phuket 83130, Thailand
- Open: from 9 AM to 8 PM.
- Phone: +66 86 905 2947
Nightlife in Rawai: Bars & Clubs
Mad Mohally’s Irish Pub
Mad Mohally’s is known for its good vibes and great draft Guinness. It’s a favorite for cider fans. The bar has the cheapest Guinness in Phuket, and many say it’s the best. It’s a casual place where you can hang out, though they don’t serve food. Local groups often meet here. The bar is on the main road, so it might be a bit noisy, but there are friendly cats around.
- Address: 48/8 9, Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83130, Thailand
- Open: 12:30–11:30 PM
Laguna Night Club
Laguna Night Club is a cozy, air-conditioned spot with pool tables. It plays popular European dance music and attracts a diverse crowd, including locals and Europeans. The club, opening at 2 AM, also offers some food and hookah options.
- Address: 178/15 Wiset Rd, Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
- Open: 2–5 AM
E-San Long Taii
E-San Long Taii is an authentic Thai bar away from tourist spots, featuring live Thai music, including rock and pop. Visitors can also take the stage to sing. The bar offers good food, though the staff’s English is limited. When visiting, try the grilled shrimp and lobster with garlic and cheese, and grilled seafood – these dishes stand out. Other options might not be as impressive. The bar is kid-friendly, located near the beach with easy sand access. Parking is simpler for scooters, while larger vehicles might struggle to find space.
- Address: Q8PH+5RQ, Wiset Rd, Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
- Open: from Thursday to Wednesday, 5:30 PM–5 AM, and on Sundays until 12 AM.
- Phone: +66 99 013 4225.
Hotels in Rawai: Where to Stay?
Rawai Palm Beach Resort: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Rawai Palm Beach Resort, a mere 200 meters from the beach, is a haven of tranquility and luxury. This resort combines traditional Thai architecture with modern amenities. Guests can choose from a range of room types, including Deluxe Pool Access rooms with private sun decks. The resort’s restaurant offers a mix of local seafood and Western dishes, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
- Location: 66/2 Viset Road, T.Rawai, Muang, Phuket, 83130 Rawai Beach, Thailand
- Phone: 076 613 509
Read also: 21 Best Hotels in Rawai, Phuket: 5, 4-stars & Budget (2024)
Exploring Beyond Rawai Beach
Promthep Cape: Sunset Views and Natural Splendor
A short drive from Rawai Beach, Promthep Cape offers breathtaking sunset views. The upper viewpoint is a popular spot, but the real magic happens when you hike down to the cape itself, where the ocean views are unparalleled.
Location: แหลมพรหมเทพ, Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Yanui and Nai Harn Beaches: Serene Escapes
Close to Promthep Cape are Yanui and Nai Harn beaches, each boasting its unique charm. Nai Harn’s long, white sandy beach is perfect for sunset walks and swims, while Yanui, a quaint cove, is ideal for morning dips and kayak rentals.
Read also: Nai Harn Beach in Phuket: Things to Do, Eat & Hotels 2024
Windmill Viewpoint: A Panoramic Paradise
Situated between Yanui and Nai Harn, the Windmill Viewpoint offers another spectacular spot for sunset admirers. The area, with its iconic Phuket windmill, is perfect for a picnic and a cold beer as the sky transforms at dusk.
Location: Q894+VG9, Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Read also: 17 Best Viewpoints in Phuket: Sunset Spots & View Cafes 2024
Phuket Art Village: A Creative Haven
On the way to Rawai Beach, Phuket Art Village awaits art enthusiasts. This hidden gem features various small galleries, each showcasing different styles and artists, offering a glimpse into the local art scene.
Location: 2 Soi Naya, Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
How to Reach Rawai Beach
Location: Rawai Beach, Phuket, Thailand
Rawai Beach is approximately 15.3 km south of Phuket Town. The journey by car is straightforward – take the central road (402) and head as far south as possible without driving into the sea.
Conclusion: Rawai Beach in Phuket
Rawai Beach in Phuket is a blend of local Thai life, serene beaches, and exciting island adventures. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking to experience the authentic side of Phuket, away from the usual tourist trails. From family outings at the Rawai Park Kids Club to tranquil afternoons at the beach, Rawai offers something for everyone.
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