Where to watch the sunset in Phuket
A fact that hardly anyone would argue with: Phuket has amazing sunsets! The sunset, set against the incredible scenery of the Andaman Sea, is an art form in its own right. Insider has compiled the top locations on the island where you’ll see the best sunsets in Phuket. Spoiler: there are many beautiful sunset shots in this article!
Viewpoints
Phuket has many hills and hilltops, and these points offer mesmerizing views of different parts of the island. For a full list, see the Viewpoints section, and here are some of the most spectacular ones, where watching the sunset in Phuket is especially enjoyable.
If you also want to dine with a great view, visit Panoramic cafes in the Cafes & Restaurants section.
Promthep Cape
One of the most picturesque locations in Phuket. Cape Promthep offers a stunning view of the Andaman Sea and Nai Harn Beach. Be sure to walk to the edge of the cape: there is a lighthouse, which, besides its main role, is a small museum. Here you will find one of the most beautiful sunsets in Phuket.
Windmill viewpoint
The Windmill is named after the wind turbine on the hillside. The viewpoint has a gazebo and offers a romantic setting to admire the setting sun and the illuminated coastline. A great place to watch the sunset in Phuket.
Black Rock
This point on the island offers a wonderful panorama of Phuket’s southern coastline – Nai Harn and Yanui beaches. The road to the observation deck is not quite flat, and if you go by bike, be careful. At the parking lot you need to leave the vehicle, and climb to the observation deck will have to walk. It’s not a hard climb, it takes about 10 minutes, and the views are definitely worth it.
Beaches
Sunsets are especially good on the beaches on the west coast of the island. For a full list of Phuket’s beaches, see the Beaches section, and here we’ll focus on those that offer the most beautiful sunsets.
Banana Beach
Secluded beach close to the better known Nai Thon Beach. A quiet harbor in all weathers. Banana Beach has several small cafes where you can enjoy the local cuisine while you watch the setting sun paint the sky in all sorts of colors, from red to purple.
Kata Noi
A quiet, cozy and very picturesque beach with huge rocks on either side of it, which make it particularly photogenic. The northern part of Kata Noi is ideal for sunset photos.
Laem Sing
A wild beach that not everyone knows exists – no one will interfere with the sunset. You can reach Laem Sing by following a narrow path from the southern part of Surin or by renting a boat from neighboring beaches.
Panoramic restaurants and cafes
Dining with a view of the sun receding over the horizon is a must in your vacation plan. Phuket has plenty of cafes with panoramic views, which you can learn more about in our selection of Panoramic cafes. Here are the best spots in Phuket with the most beautiful sunsets, paired with delicious food.
Big Buddha Art Cafe & Restaurant
(Karon)
Some of the most beautiful sunsets are on the hill at Big Buddha. But the temple complex closes before the sunset climax, but the cafes nearby are open. One such place is Big Buddha Art Cafe & Restaurant. Many people stop here because of the view, but the cuisine is quite tasty and not expensive.
Malika Sky Bar
(Patong)
Working hours: Mon - Sun: 17:30 - 23:00
Website | |
The perfect place for a date! From here you can enjoy mesmerizing views of the sea and the island, as well as pleasant music that keeps the atmosphere magical. Food, drinks, service – everything at Malika Sky Bar is top-notch.
Baba Nest
(Panwa)
Working hours: Mon - Sun: 17:00 - 20:00
Website |
Located on the rooftop of Sri Panwa Phuket Hotel. It offers a wonderful panorama of the sea and the islands. It is not surprising that people come here not primarily for the food, but for the view. Still, the food and drinks at Baba Nest are good too. You should book a place in advance – there are many people who want to see one of the best sunsets of their lives. Lifehack: for a better view and good photos, you should take a table on the right side.
Beach Restaurant by The Surin Phuket
(Surin)
Working hours: Mon - Sun: 17:00 - 23:00
Website | |
A win-win option for a romantic date. The restaurant is located right on the beach, at the very edge of the sea. The sound of the waves will be a natural accompaniment to your dinner, which, by the way, is good – visitors to Beach Restaurant by The Surin Phuket praise the selection of appetizers, main courses and drinks.
Remember that sunsets are rapid in the tropics due to the proximity to the equator, so you should arrive at the sites early.
Checklist for a sunset outing in Phuket to capture the most stunning shots and atmosphere
When the sunset is especially beautiful
1. Time of year
- Dry season (November – April): skies are usually clear, with bright golden and pink hues — the classic postcard look.
- Rainy season (May – October): more drama — clouds, sharp contrasts, and sometimes breathtaking “fiery” sunsets after a storm.
2. Weather conditions
- Ideal: light clouds or scattered clouds on the horizon — they reflect sunlight, creating more dimensional scenes.
- Less dramatic: completely clear sky — it will still be beautiful, but without the “fire.”
- Surprise: sunsets are often the brightest right after a short tropical downpour.
3. Tides
- On beaches with rocks, outcrops, and boats (for example, Nai Harn, Kata Noi, Laem Singh), low tide reveals photogenic “mirrors” of wet sand.
- High tide is better if you want shots with “the sea close to the sun” without much foreground.
What to bring:
- Water and a light snack.
- A blanket or light shawl (it can get windy in the evening).
- Mosquito repellent.
- Phone or camera + power bank.
- If you’re going to a viewpoint — comfortable shoes and a flashlight for the way back.
Sunsets in Phuket can also be viewed from other venues on the island. Check out the Beach Clubs and Cafes & Restaurants sections, and pay special attention to the Instagrammable and Unusual ones. We wish you the most beautiful sunsets!
