Movies Filmed in Phuket

Lights, camera… action! The beauty of Phuket captivates not only tourists but also filmmakers — many movies and TV series have been shot on the island and in its surroundings. Whether you’re planning a trip to Phuket and want to get inspired by its scenic spots, or you’ve just returned and are feeling nostalgic — here’s a selection of films and series where you can spot familiar locations.

The film “The Man with the Golden Gun” (1974). In this iconic James Bond movie starring Roger Moore, the agent travels to an island where he confronts his main antagonist, Francisco Scaramanga. The most recognizable filming location is the famous Ko Tapu, now widely known as “James Bond Island.”

After the movie’s release, tourist interest in Phang Nga Province skyrocketed, and excursions to Tapu Island remain among the most popular trips from Phuket to this day. You can book a tour to this cinematic location using the form below.

The film “Tomorrow Never Dies” (1997). Another installment of the James Bond saga was filmed in Phang Nga — “Tomorrow Never Dies”, starring Pierce Brosnan as 007. Once again, the iconic Tapu Island took center stage as a key filming location. In the film, Phang Nga Bay stood in for the waters of Vietnam, where the villain Elliot Carver’s base was located. Many scenes were shot in various parts of the bay, showcasing its famous karst formations, caves, and mangrove forests.

The film “The Beach” (2000). Another incredibly popular movie filmed in the Phuket area. More accurately, it was shot near Phuket — primarily in Krabi Province on the island of Phi Phi Leh — though the film crew was, of course, based on Phuket.

If you haven’t seen it, “The Beach” tells the story of a young American tourist named Richard (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), who, while traveling through Thailand, hears about a secret island with a perfect beach and a hidden commune of travelers living off the grid. After receiving a mysterious map, he sets off with a French couple, Étienne and Françoise, to find this paradise. The film explores themes of utopian communities, escape from civilization, and how the dream of paradise can turn out to be very different from what one expects.

Interestingly, “The Beach” sparked significant environmental controversy even during production. In an effort to create a more “authentic” tropical look, the production company 20th Century Fox planted additional palm trees on Maya Bay, altering the natural landscape. Despite this, the film brought an enormous wave of tourist interest to Phuket. Maya Bay became such a popular destination that in 2018 it had to be closed to allow the ecosystem to recover from the damage caused by mass tourism. The bay only reopened four years later, in 2022. You can book a tour to Phi Phi by leaving your contact details in the form below.

Another cinematic location — this time right on Phuket itself — is the On On Hotel in Phuket Town. According to the film, this is where Leonardo DiCaprio’s character stayed. In reality, the hotel is quite famous — it was built back in 1927 and became the very first hotel on Phuket.

The film “The Impossible” (2012). This powerful drama is based on the true story of the Spanish Belón family, who found themselves in the epicenter of the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami on December 26, 2004. The film stars Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, and a young Tom Holland — one of his first major roles. Filming took place in Phuket, as well as in the provinces of Khao Lak and Phang Nga. Notably, the filmmakers worked closely with local residents who had survived the tsunami, consulting them during production and even hiring many as extras for scenes depicting evacuation and relief efforts.

The film “Mechanic: Resurrection” (2016). The sequel to the action thriller “The Mechanic”, starring the famous Jason Statham. In the film, an elite assassin who has faked his own death and is trying to live a quiet life finds himself drawn back into danger. Phuket was one of the key filming locations. For example, several scenes were set against the backdrop of the Kamala area.

The series “Farang” (2017). A Swedish crime drama, part of which was filmed in Phuket and other areas of Thailand. It follows the story of Rick, a former criminal hiding out in Thailand and trying to start a new life.

A significant portion of the filming took place in the tourist areas of Patong and Karon, where you can see the characteristic streets, beaches, and nightlife. The creators aimed to showcase not only Phuket’s postcard-perfect scenery but also a more authentic side of island life — including local markets, remote neighborhoods, and the everyday life of Thai people.

The film “Fantasy Island” (2020). A horror-thriller based on the 1970s TV series of the same name, but with a new and much darker twist. The story centers on a mysterious luxury resort on a tropical island run by the enigmatic Mr. Roarke. Guests arrive to live out their deepest dreams and fantasies — but those fantasies soon turn into terrifying nightmares, and the visitors must uncover the island’s secrets to survive.

Filming took place on several beaches in Phuket, particularly in the Nai Yang area and on Banana Beach, which were used to create the image of a luxurious tropical paradise. Several of Phuket’s luxury resorts were also used as filming locations.

Although the film falls more into the category of low-budget horror, it was a commercial success, grossing over $47 million worldwide on a production budget of just $7 million.

The series “The White Lotus” (2025). The third season of the globally acclaimed series was filmed in Thailand — specifically in Bangkok, Koh Samui, and Phuket. After filming wrapped, a so-called “White Lotus effect” was observed, with tourists flocking to Thailand, eager to follow in the footsteps of the show’s characters. While most scenes were shot on Koh Samui, many were filmed in Phuket as well. Notable Phuket locations featured in the series include:

• Ta Khai restaurant at the Rosewood Phuket resort on Tri Trang Beach;
• Anantara Mai Khao Villas on Mai Khao Beach;
• Café Del Mar beach club in Kamala;
• Panwa House restaurant at Cape Panwa Hotel;
• Bangla Boxing Stadium;
• Yacht Haven Marina.

If you haven’t seen these films yet, you’ve got the perfect plan for your upcoming evenings or weekends. And if you’re planning a trip to Phuket soon, start taking notes on the must-visit locations — follow in the footsteps of your favorite characters! You can find the best spots on the island in the Excursions section.