Bang Tao beach, one of the longest coasts on the island stretches out endlessly along a large, open bay in northwest Phuket. With its fine sand, clear, warm waters and laidback ambience, Bang Tao appeals to couples and family vacationers seeking to get away from the popular coasts down south. High-end beach resorts and vacation rentals are clustered at the northern end of the coast, while further down south lies Cherngtalay, a sub-district that’s gathering buzz for its upmarket restaurants, bars and spa venues.
There’s something for every vacationer at this part of the island, whether you’re looking to bask under the sun by the beach, catch the best sunset vistas while sipping sundowners or wish to experience the thrill of embarking on exciting outdoor sports and adventures. We’ve put together a travel guide to help you map out your Bang Tao itinerary.
Let’s begin!
Things to do in Bang Tao
1. Swim, surf and soak up the sun
From your villa, hop into a car for a quick drive out to Bang Tao Beach. The calm sea conditions between the months of November to February makes it ideal for swimming and water sports. Exercise caution if you’re out at sea during the rainy season (mid-May till October), as swells and undercurrents are common. Looking to surf? Head up further north, where the waves get bigger.
Layan Beach, located at the northern end of Bang Tao offers a tree-lined coast and tranquil atmosphere. A small pier, located behind the beach has kayaks for rent for a ride around Koh Kala and a nearby lagoon.
2. Visit Wat Cherngtalay
Take in the traditional architecture and intricate details of Wat Cherngtalay, a serene temple complex close to Laguna Beach. As with most temples in Thailand, Wat Cherngtalay contains both Buddhist and Hindu elements; you’ll find mural paintings illustrating the life of Siddharta Gautama alongside images of Ganesha, the Hindu god of success.
3. Go wakeboarding at Sport Wakepark Phuket
If you feel like to go out and do something adventurous, try wakeboarding at Sport Wakepark Phuket. The park offers all the best facilities for you to enjoy a fun full of adrenaline day in Phuket that include a swimming pool, a shower, a restaurant serving Thai, European, and Russian cuisine, a bar on the top floor with a view of the lake, wakeboard rental, a shop selling professional equipment and clothing, and 28 hotel rooms.
4. Take your kids on an outdoor adventure
Adventure-based team building program organiser Quest hosts a family fun zone at the Laguna Phuket resort complex, where children and teenagers between the ages of five to 15 years old may participate in eco-friendly adventures, jungle exploration, sports lessons, outdoor games and more.
5. Stretch it out on a yoga mat
Kickstart your morning on an invigorating note with a yoga class. In-villa yoga sessions may be arranged at request, but if you prefer the ambience of group classes, check out yoga studios like Baan Yoga Phuket, a homey, inviting venue located away from the crowds in Nai Yang.
Yoga Republic, located near Surin Beach is kitted out with a full range of amenities, such as a heating system for hot yoga classes, juice bar, outdoor gazebo, indoor lounge area, shops and more. iYoga, situated in central Phuket is a great bet for yoga enthusiasts looking to take it slow with a variety of therapeutic yoga styles.
6. Unwind with a decadent spa ritual
With top-notch establishments like Hilton Phuket Arcadia, Le Meridian’s Le Spa and The Spa by Mövenpick, Phuket certainly isn’t lacking in the luxury spa scene. Closer to Bang Tao, check out venues like Banyan Tree Phuket or Angsana Spa at Laguna Phuket. In-villa spa treatments may also be arranged at your request – just reach out to your villa manager for further assistance!
7. Enjoy a spectacular sunset show
The western coasts of Phuket are known for its incredible sunset vistas. Around Bang Tao, our favourite spots for sundowners include 360° Bar, an elegant venue set in a bamboo grove, the ultra-chic Catch Beach Club and Palm Seaside, an exquisite waterfront restaurant, lounge and bar.
Where to eat in Bang Tao
1. Black Cat Restaurant
Featuring a bamboo-themed interior, amber lighting and friendly service, Black Cat is a great bet for days when you’re in the mood for a relaxed, fuss-free dining experience. The wide-ranging menu features Mediterranean and Thai fare, as well as a good selection of wines.
Black Cat Restaurant, 104 Cherngtalay Road, Choeng Thale, Phuket, +66 76 325 155. Open Mon-Sat 11.30am – 11.30pm, Sun 5.30pm – 11.30pm.
2. Bocconcino Phuket
Step into Bocconcino’s airy, wood-dominated interiors and you’ll find a delicatessen, coffee bar and dining area. Shop from a diverse selection of freshly baked bread, pastries, cold cuts, cheeses, balsamic vinegar, Italian wines and spirits, as well as other local gourmet produce. The all-day dining venue dishes out mouthwatering plates of pizza, ossobucco, fresh salads and more.
Bocconcino Phuket, 8/71 Moo 3, Surin Main Road, Choeng Thale, Phuket, +66 91 821 1715. Open Mon-Sun, 10.30am – 10pm.
3. Ceramic Kitchen
Just like its wide-ranging menu – which features Thai dishes, Indian curries and Western fare – Ceramic Kitchen isn’t just a dining establishment. It also boasts a bar, myriad decorative statues, a lush garden, a display of ceramic ornaments and live performances during the evening. Small chairs and tables offer a kid-friendly dining setting.
Ceramic Kitchen, 185/15 Moo 7 Sristhorn Rd Thalang, Phuket, +66 76 620 053. Open Wed-Mon, 12pm – 11.30pm. Closed on Tuesdays.
4. CUT Grill & Lounge
This steak restaurant-cum-lounge bar features an elegant decor and picturesque lakeside setting. While CUT is known for its meat dishes – which includes charcoal-grilled rotisserie chicken, Australian Black Angus and New Zealand lamb – there’s much more to the menu. A selection of tapas, salads, pasta, pizzas, fish and Thai dishes are also available.
CUT Grill & Lounge, Boat Avenue, Choeng Thale, Phuket, +66 93 638 8921. Open Mon-Sun 11am – 2am.
5. Carpe Diem Phuket
Carpe Diem is a hidden gem at the southern end of Bang Tao Beach. Fantastic atmosphere, either with direct views of the moored boats on the beach’s edge or among the trees on loungers with another covered cozy area, all finished with soft lighting. A good selection of wines and cocktails, as well as a well-balanced menu. If you are fortunate enough to have the Truffle Pasta Special available, do not pass it up.
Carpe Diem Phuket, 99/1 Bangtao Beach Road, +66 65 058 5388. Open Mon-Sun 12PM -12AM
Where to stay in Bang Tao
Enjoy the luxurious amenities, ultimate privacy and unbeatable service that comes with staying in a private villa in Bang Tao. With a glimmering pool set amidst a well-manicured garden, multiple living spaces and uninterrupted ocean views from your bedroom, we’ve picked out five Bang Tao villas that are poised to provide an unforgettable experience:
1. Villa Haleana
Villa Haleana is a glamorous six-bedroom villa near Nai Thon Beach. Part of Malaiwana Estate, the property boasts uninterrupted sea views and an 18-meter infinity pool that will brighten your holiday. Capable of hosting up to 80 guests, the villa is best for weddings and events. The combination of luxurious amenities and impeccable service from the full-time staff will guarantee you the best vacation of all time.
Around Villa Haleana
Villa Haleana is just a 3-minute drive from Nai Thon Beach, a serene coastal beauty with soft sand and an amazing sunrise view. You can also find wide selections of dining places around the villa. Trisara Resort is just a 6-minute drive away, while Anantara Layan Phuket Resort is just a 10-minute drive away. You can also drive to Dream Beach Club with just a 10-minute drive.
Key features
Child-friendly | Suit for weddings and events | Near Nai Thon Beach | 18-meter infinity pool
2. Sky Box Penthouse
Sky Box Penthouse is a luxurious property that is located right in front of the Bang Tao Beach. Overlooking the Andaman Sea, the 2-bedroom penthouse offers a spectacular view to the guests. There are 2 infinity swimming pools and a jacuzzi connected to the master bedroom. Many unforgettable activities are available for you to try in this place, from snorkeling to horseback riding. Sky Box Penthouse will give you the epitome of a deluxe vacation experience.
Around Sky Box Penthouse
You can enjoy many kinds of watersport attractions around the penthouse. The Sky Box Penthouse is located right on the beautiful Bang Tao Beach. It’s just a 5-minute ride from the nearest Surin Beach and a 20-minute ride from Patong Beach.
Don’t forget to try the delicious local cuisine from the Bang Tao Night Market which is just a 10-minute ride from the villa.
Key features
2 infinity pools | Private jacuzzi on balcony | 180-view of Andaman Sea
3. Villa Beyond
Seven bedroom Villa Beyond is a great bet for large group getaways – from family getaways, to yoga vacations and corporate retreats. Its contemporary interiors, tropical vistas and myriad amenities (which includes a massage room, infinity pool and rooftop deck) will appeal to vacationers seeking a luxurious hilltop retreat.
Around Villa Beyond
Villa Beyond is about 15 minutes’ drive to Bang Tao Beach. Attractions located within the vicinity include Phuket International Riding Club, Wat Cherng Talay, Anthem Wake Park and Laguna Phuket Golf Club. Dine out at venues like DeDos Restaurant, Palm Seaside, CUT Grill and Lounge and Bampot Kitchen and Bar.
Key features
Infinity pool | Unobstructed hilltop vistas | Ideal for large group getaways
4. Villa Salafa
With its wood-panel floors, stunning artworks and cosy ambience, Villa Salafa just like home the moment you step in. When you’re not lounging in the well-appointed living spaces, spend time basking outdoors in the spacious garden – it’s filled with palm trees and lush foliage, and features multiple hang outs, like swing sofas, cushioned chairs, poolside recliners and an alfresco dining area. Six bedrooms, one of which allows wheelchair access comfortably accommodate groups of 12.
Around Villa Salafa
Villa Salafa is just three minutes’ drive from Bang Tao Beach. It’s also located within close proximity to Dream Beach Club, Sand and Sea Bar, 360° Bar, Mediterranean restaurant Firefly, Banyan Tree Spa Sanctuary and Laguna Golf Phuket,
Key features
Ocean views | One guest bedroom with wheelchair access | Complimentary daily breakfast service
5. Laguna Waters
Modern and inviting, five bedroom Laguna Waters comes fitted out with a wide-ranging array of amenities to offer a great family experience. Make a splash in the 12-metre pool, soak up the Phuket vibes from the poolside recliners, whip up a feast in the kitchen, get a work or play a round of billiard in the entertainment-cum-fitness room.
Around Laguna Waters
Laguna Waters is eight minutes’ drive from Bang Tao Beach. It’s about 10 to 15 minutes’ drive to Xana Beach Club, Dream Beach Club, 360° Bar, Mediterranean restaurant Firefly, Little Prince Indian Cuisine, Banyan Tree Spa Sanctuary and Layan Beach.
Key features
Contemporary decor featuring a mix of Western and Asian design elements | Easy access to the beach and restaurants | Fitness and entertainment amenities
See our villas in Bang Tao. Inspected and selected by Villa-Finder.com.
