The most authentic and local corner of Phuket — a seafood village, a beautiful lake-backed beach and the most genuine Thai experience on the island
Flight Time
11–12h from UK (direct or via Bangkok)
Best Time
November to April (dry season)
Country
Thailand
Suppliers
our travel partners ·
Rawai and Nai Harn are the most authentic and local areas in Phuket — the Rawai seafood market is the finest in Phuket, Nai Harn Beach is one of the most beautiful on the island, and Promthep Cape has the finest sunset viewpoint in Thailand.
The area is popular with Phuket's expat community and those seeking a genuine Thai experience. Racha Island diving is world-class.
We search across Travelpack, Emirates Holidays and JTA Holidays for the best Rawai and Nai Harn deals.
Jan
29°C
Feb
30°C
Mar
31°C
Apr
32°C
May
31°C
Jun
30°C
Jul
29°C
Aug
29°C
Sep
29°C
Oct
29°C
Nov
29°C
Dec
29°C
Call us or send an enquiry and we'll find you the best deal across Travelpack and JTA Holidays.
Call 01282 960 460The seafood market, beautiful beach and authentic local character that make Rawai and Nai Harn the most genuine corner of Phuket.
The Rawai seafood market is the finest in Phuket — a row of seafood stalls along the beachfront where you can choose your fish, prawns, crab and lobster from the display and have it cooked to order at the adjacent restaurants. The quality is extraordinary and the prices are very low. It is the most authentic food experience in Phuket and is not to be missed.
Nai Harn Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket — a sheltered, curved bay backed by a freshwater lake (Nai Harn Lake) and surrounded by lush hills. The beach is popular with Phuket's expat community and has a relaxed, genuine atmosphere. The water is excellent for swimming from November to April. The Royal Meridien Phuket Yacht Club overlooks the beach.
Promthep Cape is the southernmost point of Phuket and the finest sunset viewpoint on the island — a dramatic rocky headland with panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and the islands to the south. The sunset here is one of the most spectacular in Thailand and draws large crowds every evening. The lighthouse and the elephant shrine are also worth visiting.
The Rawai Sea Gypsy (Chao Lay) village is one of the most fascinating communities in Phuket — a traditional fishing community that has lived on the coast of Phuket for centuries. The village is a genuine insight into a way of life that is disappearing. The community is welcoming to respectful visitors.
Rawai is the best base for island hopping in Phuket — the nearby islands of Racha Yai and Racha Noi have some of the finest diving and snorkelling in Thailand, with excellent visibility and abundant marine life. Coral Island (Koh Hae) is a popular day trip for snorkelling. Long-tail boats can be hired from Rawai beach.
Nai Harn Lake, behind the beach, is a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by lush vegetation — a peaceful spot for walking, cycling and birdwatching. The lake is home to a variety of birds and the surrounding area is one of the most natural in Phuket. The walk around the lake takes approximately 45 minutes.
Rawai and Nai Harn have the largest expat community in Phuket — a mix of long-term residents from Europe, Australia and North America who have chosen this area for its authentic character and relaxed lifestyle. The area has excellent international restaurants, yoga studios and wellness centres catering to this community.
Rawai and Nai Harn have an excellent restaurant scene — the Rawai seafood market is the finest food experience in Phuket, and the surrounding area has excellent Thai restaurants, international cafes and the fine dining restaurants of the Nai Harn resort. The quality is high and the prices are lower than the tourist areas.
Key areas, beaches and attractions across the island.
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