Ma Doo Bua

One of the most Instagrammable locations in Phuket. People come here primarily to take photos with the world’s largest water lilies!

Victoria Amazonica is the true queen of water lilies. Its leaves can reach up to three – and sometimes even four – meters in diameter. They’re so strong they can hold up to 40–50 kilograms: feel like Thumbelina for a moment.

Equally stunning are the blooms of the Victoria Amazonica. They only open at night and live for just two days. On the first day, the flower is pure white; on the second, it turns pink or magenta.

In the 19th century, Victoria Amazonica caused a sensation in Europe. Named after Queen Victoria, it became a symbol of exotic beauty, luxury, and scientific discovery. And it’s this very lily that put Ma Doo Bua Café on the map.

Ma Doo Bua offers drone photography sessions for guests. You can sit or lie down in an authentic wooden boat – and the shots with the giant lilies as the backdrop are absolutely stunning.
Prices:

• 500 baht for one person
• 800 baht for two
• 1,000 baht for three

You can also take a photo sitting directly on a lily pad – but only if you weigh less than 60 kg. The price is 350 baht. The photo session is quick, lasting about 5–10 minutes, as there’s usually a line of people waiting.

You can take your own photos from the pier for free, but you’ll likely have to wait about 20–30 minutes for your turn. It’s recommended to come right when the café opens, when there are fewer visitors.

A quick note about the cafe itself: you can choose between an open-air area, an air-conditioned indoor hall, or a terrace where guests sit on cushions around low tables.

The cafe serves modern Thai cuisine, refreshing drinks, wine, beer, ice cream, and desserts. Prices are above average.