Why Golf Here
Phuket and its surrounding provinces offer a premier golfing experience characterized by world-class courses set against breathtaking tropical landscapes. The region boasts a collection of championship-level golf courses, including those renowned for their challenging layouts, stunning ocean views, and immaculate conditioning. Blue Canyon Country Club, with its Lakes and Canyon courses, has hosted international tournaments, while Loch Palm Golf Club and Red Mountain Golf Club provide unique and memorable rounds amidst palm groves and dramatic vistas. The warm hospitality of Thailand enhances the golfing journey, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Arrival & Meet & Greet
Upon your arrival at Phuket International Airport (HKT), you will be warmly greeted by a Golfasian representative holding a personalized signboard. They will be there to assist you with your luggage and ensure a seamless transition from the airport to your hotel, marking the beginning of a well-organized and stress-free experience.
Transfers
Throughout your itinerary, all transfers will be conducted in a private VIP van. These modern, high-roof vehicles are air-conditioned for your comfort and are equipped with complimentary bottled water and refreshing towels. Wi-Fi is also available, allowing you to stay connected. Our courteous and professional drivers are dedicated to providing a safe and pleasant journey between the airport, your hotel, and the golf courses.
Tipping Guidelines
- Drivers: US$12
- Caddie: US$20
- Guides: US$20-US$40
What to Pack
March in Phuket falls within the dry season, offering pleasant conditions for golf. Average daily temperatures typically range from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F). It is advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. For golf, bring your own soft-spike golf shoes, as most courses require them, and avoid denim or cargo shorts, which are usually not permitted under golf dress codes. Sun protection is essential, so include sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Light rain gear is also recommended, as brief tropical showers can occur.
Must-Try Local Foods
Phuket offers a vibrant culinary scene, blending traditional Thai flavors with fresh seafood. Some must-try dishes include:
- Tom Yum Goong: A classic spicy and sour soup with shrimp, fragrant lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies.
- Massaman Curry: A rich and mild curry, often containing beef or chicken, with potatoes, peanuts, and a distinctive blend of spices, reflecting influences from Malaysia and India.
- Pad Thai: Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp or chicken, tofu, egg, bean sprouts, and peanuts, a universally popular Thai dish.
- Fresh Seafood: Given Phuket's coastal location, indulging in freshly grilled fish, prawns, and lobster is highly recommended.
Festivals & Events
In March, Thailand generally experiences pleasant weather without major national holidays that would significantly impact travel. While there are no major festivals scheduled specifically for March 2027 in Phuket that would cause widespread disruption, local markets and events may occur. It is always a good idea to check for any local temple fairs or community events happening during your stay for a more immersive cultural experience.
Dining in Phuket
One Chun Cafe & Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Phuket Old Town, One Chun Cafe & Restaurant offers a delightful journey into traditional Thai and Peranakan Chinese cuisine. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century Sino-Portuguese building, the restaurant exudes a vintage charm with its retro decor, featuring antique clocks, black-and-white televisions, and transistor radios. The menu boasts an array of authentic dishes, including the renowned crab curry, a rich and flavorful blend of fresh crab meat simmered in a fragrant coconut milk-based curry. Other highlights include the Mu Hong, a tender pork belly stew infused with pepper and garlic, and the Gaeng Som Pla Mong, a sour and spicy curry made with jackfish native to the Andaman Sea. Each dish is crafted from family recipes passed down through generations, ensuring an authentic taste of Phuket's culinary heritage. Recognized with the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand award, One Chun promises a memorable dining experience that combines history, culture, and exceptional cuisine.
Blue Elephant Phuket
Housed in a majestic old mansion in Phuket Town, Blue Elephant Phuket offers a luxurious dining experience that pays homage to traditional Thai cuisine. The restaurant's elegant setting, with its colonial architecture and opulent decor, sets the stage for a culinary journey through Thailand's rich gastronomic heritage. The menu features both classic dishes, such as Tom Yum and Pad Thai, and signature creations that showcase the chef's innovative approach. For those interested in delving deeper into Thai culinary arts, Blue Elephant also offers cooking classes where guests can learn to prepare authentic dishes under the guidance of expert chefs. The impeccable service, combined with the exquisite flavors and historical ambiance, makes Blue Elephant a must-visit destination for discerning diners seeking an upscale Thai dining experience.
Go Benz
For over two decades, Go Benz has been a culinary landmark in Phuket Town, renowned for its signature dish, khao tom haeng, a unique dry rice porridge. This beloved eatery comes alive in the evening, drawing both locals and visitors with its hearty bowls of softened rice topped with succulent soy-marinated pork, crispy shallots, and a side of flavorful broth. The combination of textures and umami-rich flavors makes it a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of Phuket's street food scene. The bustling atmosphere, with patrons eagerly awaiting their turn, adds to the charm of this late-night dining spot. Whether you're winding down after a day of exploration or seeking a satisfying meal to cap off the night, Go Benz offers a comforting and delicious experience that embodies the essence of local Thai cuisine.
La Gaetana
La Gaetana stands as a beacon of Italian culinary excellence in Phuket Town. This family-run restaurant, though modest in size, has garnered acclaim for its authentic Southern Italian cuisine, earning a 'Michelin Plate' recognition. The menu features a delightful array of dishes, from homemade pasta to delectable seafood creations, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. Signature offerings include the rich and savory limoncello-infused seafood risotto and the classic tiramisu, both showcasing the chef's dedication to traditional recipes with a modern twist. The warm and inviting ambiance, adorned with artistic decor and vibrant colors, creates an intimate dining experience that transports guests straight to the heart of Italy. With an extensive wine list curated to complement the menu, La Gaetana promises a memorable gastronomic journey for lovers of Italian cuisine.
Tunk Ka Cafe
Perched atop Khao Rang Hill, Tunk Ka Cafe offers breathtaking panoramic views of Phuket Town and the surrounding landscape. This charming restaurant provides a serene escape from the bustling city below, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal. The menu features a variety of traditional Thai dishes, with a particular emphasis on fresh seafood. Signature offerings include the Tom Kha Gai, a fragrant coconut soup with chicken, and the Pla Neung Manao, steamed fish with lime, garlic, and chili, delivering a perfect balance of flavors. The open-air setting, surrounded by lush greenery, enhances the dining experience, allowing guests to savor their meals while soaking in the natural beauty of Phuket. Whether you're visiting for lunch or dinner, Tunk Ka Cafe promises a memorable culinary experience with a view.
Shopping in Phuket
Central Phuket
Central Phuket stands as the island's premier shopping complex, comprising two interconnected buildings: Festival and Floresta. This expansive mall boasts over 400 stores, featuring a blend of international luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Chanel, alongside popular local retailers. Beyond shopping, visitors can indulge in a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, and enjoy entertainment facilities including a state-of-the-art cinema and Thailand's largest aquarium, Aquaria. The mall's modern design and comprehensive offerings make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a sophisticated shopping experience in Phuket.
Jungceylon Shopping Mall
Located in the heart of Patong Beach, Jungceylon Shopping Mall is a vibrant retail and entertainment hub. The mall features a wide array of stores, from international fashion brands to local boutiques, catering to diverse shopping preferences. In addition to retail therapy, visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options, a multi-screen cinema, and a bowling alley. The mall's central location and diverse offerings make it a convenient and enjoyable destination for both shopping and leisure activities.
Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market)
For an authentic local shopping experience, the Phuket Weekend Market, also known as Naka Market, is a must-visit. Open every Saturday and Sunday from 4 PM to 10 PM, this bustling market offers a vast array of goods, including clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and an extensive selection of street food. The lively atmosphere, combined with the opportunity to practice bargaining skills, provides a unique and enjoyable shopping experience that reflects the local culture and lifestyle.
Chillva Market
Chillva Market is a trendy night market known for its bohemian vibe and unique shopping experience. Open from Thursday to Saturday, the market features colorful shipping containers transformed into shops, offering a variety of products such as vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and artisanal crafts. The market also boasts a diverse selection of street food stalls and live music performances, creating a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere that appeals to both locals and tourists seeking a more unconventional shopping experience.
Phuket Walking Street (Lard Yai)
Every Sunday evening, the historic Thalang Road in Phuket Old Town transforms into the vibrant Phuket Walking Street, also known as Lard Yai. This market showcases local artisans, street performers, and an array of food stalls, offering visitors a chance to purchase unique souvenirs, local handicrafts, and sample delicious street food. The charming Sino-Portuguese architecture and lively atmosphere make it a delightful destination for an evening stroll and cultural immersion.
Entertainment in Phuket
Illuzion Club
Located on the bustling Bangla Road in Patong Beach, Illuzion Club stands as one of Phuket's premier nightlife venues. This expansive club can accommodate up to 5,000 guests and boasts over 300 VIP tables, ensuring a luxurious experience for all patrons. The club is renowned for its state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, creating an electrifying atmosphere that pulses with energy. Regularly hosting world-famous DJs such as Martin Garrix, Marshmello, and Steve Aoki, Illuzion offers a diverse music lineup spanning EDM, trance, hip-hop, and techno. The spacious dance floor, complemented by spectacular LED screens and light shows, invites guests to dance the night away. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the VIP sections provide an elevated view of the performances, coupled with top-notch service. Whether you're a seasoned club-goer or a first-time visitor, Illuzion promises an unforgettable night of music and entertainment in the heart of Phuket's nightlife scene.
Sugar Club Phuket
Situated on the vibrant Bangla Road, Sugar Club Phuket is the island's premier hip-hop nightclub, offering a high-energy experience for music enthusiasts. The club features a central stage where international artists like Lil Yachty and Rae Sremmurd have performed, ensuring top-tier entertainment. The layout includes multiple VIP sections, providing both main-floor and mezzanine-level seating for those seeking an exclusive experience. With its slogan 'We Own Hip Hop,' Sugar Club boldly asserts its position as the leading hip-hop venue in Phuket. The club's high-energy performances and live DJ shows keep the crowd engaged, making it a must-visit destination for hip-hop fans. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or enjoy a VIP experience, Sugar Club offers a dynamic and unforgettable nightlife experience in Phuket.
Phuket FantaSea
Phuket FantaSea is a Thai nighttime cultural theme park located on the island of Phuket, in the south of the country. The park covers an area of 60 acres (20 ha) and includes a Thai culture theatrical show, a theme buffet restaurant, and a shopping street. The park was created at a cost of over THB 3,500 million (US$ 100 million) and was opened to the public on 20 December 1998. The 'Fantasy of a Kingdom' show is a Thai cultural show infused with illusion techniques and special effects. The show is approximately 70 minutes in duration and performed inside a purpose-built theater called 'Palace of the Elephants,' a reproduction of a Sukhothai era stone elephant palace. Taking up an area of approximately 10 rai (4 acres) and 3 floors, it has a seating capacity of 3,000. The Golden Kinnaree Buffet Restaurant is designed in an Ayutthaya-era architectural style, occupying an area of 5,220 m² (approximately 1.3 acres), with a capacity of 4,000 seated guests and is one of the largest buffet restaurants in the world. Festival Village is a street with a variety of shops, including a game town, an a la carte restaurant, a fast food eatery, and bars.
Simon Cabaret
The Simon Cabaret is one of the unique experiences of Phuket nightlife. It is an exclusive hour of contemporary and traditional acts with performances in parody, drama, and comedy. These multicultural acts and performers are from countries such as Korea, Japan, China, and Thailand. Along with the glitz and glamour of the shows, you can witness the talent of exceptional dancers and musicians from across the globe. The transvestites and transgenders on the show with their remarkable stage presence, costumes, and accessories make it a must-see attraction.
Bangla Boxing Stadium
Bangla Boxing Stadium is a Muay Thai venue located in Patong Beach, Phuket, Thailand. The stadium hosts both local and international Muay Thai events several nights a week, featuring fighters from around the world. Bangla Stadium is one of the most well-known fight arenas in Thailand and the most famous stadium in Phuket. Established to meet the rising demand for combat sports entertainment among tourists visiting Phuket, the stadium quickly became a nightlife attraction and a showcase venue for both traditional and modern Muay Thai bouts.
Sightseeing in Phuket
Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga Bay is renowned for its dramatic limestone karsts that rise majestically from emerald-green waters. This natural wonder offers a surreal landscape that has captivated travelers and filmmakers alike. Exploring the bay by boat allows visitors to navigate through hidden caves, secluded lagoons, and pristine beaches. The bay is also home to the famous James Bond Island, featured in 'The Man with the Golden Gun.' Kayaking through the bay's intricate network of caves and mangroves provides an intimate experience with its unique ecosystem.
Phuket Old Town
Phuket Old Town is a captivating district that transports visitors back in time with its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture. Strolling through its vibrant streets, such as Thalang, Phang Nga, and Dibuk Roads, you'll encounter colorful colonial-era buildings that now house charming cafés, boutique shops, and art galleries. The area is also home to significant cultural landmarks like the Thai Hua Museum, which delves into the island's Chinese heritage, and the Jui Tui Shrine, a revered Chinese temple. Exploring Old Phuket Town offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and modern-day vibrancy.
Big Buddha
Perched atop Nakkerd Hill, the Big Buddha is one of Phuket's most iconic landmarks. This majestic 45-meter-tall statue, constructed from white Burmese marble, exudes a serene presence and offers panoramic views of the island's lush landscapes and coastline. The site serves as a spiritual center where visitors can observe local Buddhist practices, participate in meditation sessions, or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The journey to the summit is equally rewarding, with scenic routes that showcase Phuket's natural beauty.
Wat Chalong
Wat Chalong, officially known as Wat Chaiyathararam, stands as Phuket's largest and most revered Buddhist temple. The temple complex is adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant murals depicting the life of Buddha. The Grand Pagoda, a highlight of the site, houses a sacred relic believed to be a fragment of Buddha's bone. Visitors can immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance, witness traditional ceremonies, and gain insights into Thai Buddhist culture. The temple's serene surroundings and architectural splendor make it a must-visit destination.
Siam Niramit Phuket
Siam Niramit Phuket is a cultural theme park that showcases Thailand's rich heritage through spectacular performances and exhibits. The highlight is a grand stage show that takes audiences on a journey through Thai history, mythology, and traditions, featuring over 100 performers, elaborate costumes, and stunning special effects. The park also includes a traditional Thai village where visitors can experience local crafts, sample regional cuisine, and enjoy pre-show entertainment. It's an immersive experience that offers a deeper appreciation of Thailand's cultural tapestry.
Helpful Phrases
Other Practical Information
- Local SIM Cards: SIM cards can be conveniently purchased at Phuket International Airport upon arrival, or from numerous convenience stores and mobile phone shops in major towns and tourist areas.
- Currency: The currency used is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases, markets, and caddie tips. ATMs are readily available.
- Plug Types and Voltage: The standard voltage in Thailand is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. Plug types are typically Type A (two flat pins), Type B (two flat pins and a round grounding pin), and Type C (two round pins). Universal travel adapters are recommended.
- Language and English Proficiency: The official language is Thai. English is widely understood and spoken in tourist areas, hotels, resorts, and golf courses, making communication generally easy for international visitors.