Cape Panwa Beach

Panwa Beach is located on the east coast of Phuket, eight kilometres south of the main town, but faces west and can be found along the Sakadit Road. Also known as Khao Kat Beach it is a charming bay often overlooked because of the out of the way location. The area around Panwa is well developed with up-market luxury villas, condominiums, apartments and resorts.

Despite the intensive development around the area Panwa Beach has retained its tranquil atmosphere for those who prefer peace and quiet and not the sounds of jet skis and motor boats steaming across the seas. The beautiful white sand stretches into the shallow waters and there are some magnificent views out towards Chalong Bay and Lone Island.

Although not the ideal beach for swimming, a stroll along the beach will encompass some fine scenic sights. There are fishermen’s huts spread along the beach, fishing boats at the southern end and a mangrove swamp at the far west end of the beach.

Panwa Beach if far removed from busy tourist destinations on the west coast of Phuket – here on this peaceful beach you will normally only find local families relaxing on the weekends or long term expat residents out to enjoy the fresh sea air and admire the views.

There are a few restaurants along Panwa, and of course the ubiquitous Thai style ‘Beach Bar’, to relax and enjoy lunch and drinks. The luxury Panwa Beach Resort has numerous venues for drinking and dining offering fresh seafood, Thai and international cuisine – the resort also has a relaxing spa.

One of the main attractions in the area is the Panwa Viewpoint, known locally as Khao Khad Views Tower. It has stunning 360-degree views of southern Phuket and there is ample parking, cafes and shops – but be warned, the stairs up are a bit of a climb!