Ao Yon Beach

Ao Yon Beach is tucked away at the southern end of Cape Panwa and is one of the most beautiful, but lesser known beaches in southern Phuket. The main beach is separated from its smaller neighboring beach, Ao Yon Noi, by a small rocky headland.

Roughly eleven kilometres from Phuket Town, Ao Yon Beach is not particularly easy to find; from Cape Panwa follow the road up the hill leading left that is signposted ‘Tripetch Farm’, and you will soon come down a steep road that leads to Ao Yon Noi Beach – a model of a giraffe and a ‘Beach Bar’ sign are indications that you are in the right place.

Ao Yon Beach has all the trappings of a paradise beach: fine white sand, overhanging palm trees and of course the turquoise sea, glistening in the sun. Given the out of the way location, this quiet and peaceful beach is normally only visited by long-term residents and local families picnicking at the weekends. The Phuket Yacht Club has a base here and the sight of the many yachts swaying in the sea adds to the attractive views across the bay.

For fantastic panoramic 360-degree views over southern Phuket the nearby Panwa Viewpoint, also known locally as Khao Kad Viewpoint, is a must. Standing on one of the highest points in Phuket this two-tier tower offers majestic views across the sea and over the bay of Ao Yon. There are numerous shops here and ample parking space – but be warned there is a rather steep climb up the steps to the viewpoint.

The Phuket Aquarium, near Ao Yon Beach, is a fascinating and informative place to visit on those rainy days, especially for the children. It houses thousands of exotic tropical marine life - its main attraction is the large tank that has a tunnel running through the centre.