Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Rawai, Phuket
Nestled in the southern part of Phuket, Rawai offers a blend of serene beaches, vibrant local culture, and stunning natural beauty. Staying at Rawayana Beachfront Village (https://rawayanabeachfront.com), you’ll be at the heart of this charming area, with plenty of attractions just a stone’s throw away. Here’s a complete guide to help you make the most of your stay.
The Rawai Promenade
The Rawai Promenade is a vibrant stretch along the waterfront, just 300 m from Rawayana. It’s an ideal destination for an evening stroll or a day of exploration. Here’s what you can do:
Scenic Walk: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque promenade, breathing in the sea breeze.
Boat Rentals: Rent a traditional longtail boat or book a guided tour to explore nearby islands like:
- Coral Island: Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling.
- Racha Island: A larger island with white sandy beaches and diving opportunities.
- Bon Island: A smaller, quieter island ideal for a picnic.
Seafood Dining and Diverse Culinary Options
Rawai promenade boasts a diverse culinary scene, with cafes and restaurants serving Thai, European, Indian, Halal, and other cuisines, ensuring there’s something to delight every palate.
For a unique experience, visit the vibrant seafood market along the promenade. Here, you can purchase fresh ingredients to cook yourself or have them prepared to perfection at a nearby café, combining your chosen flavors with professional culinary expertise. It’s an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the local food culture while enjoying the stunning waterfront views.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon or early evening to enjoy the sunset and bustling atmosphere.
Viewpoints Worth Visiting
Promthep Cape. Just a 7-minute drive from Rawayana, this iconic viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. It’s especially stunning at sunset, so plan your visit in the late afternoon to secure a good spot and enjoy the magical view. Interesting fact: There’s a small shrine dedicated to elephants at the cape, reflecting local beliefs and traditions.
Windmill Viewpoint. Located near Nai Harn Beach, this quieter spot offers breathtaking views of the sea. It’s a great place to visit in the morning for fewer crowds and soft lighting for photos. Pro tip: You can often see paragliders who launch from this spot!
Karon Viewpoint. A 12-minute drive from Rawayana, this spot provides a sweeping view of three beaches — Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon. Visit during mid-morning for clear skies and a peaceful atmosphere.
Rawai Park: A Perfect Destination for Kids and Families
Rawai Park is a vibrant children’s amusement park conveniently located within the grounds of the Rawayana Resort, just a 2-minute walk from the accommodations. It’s the ultimate family destination, offering a wide range of activities and entertainment for kids of all ages. The park features exciting playgrounds, splash zones with water slides, trampolines and a variety of indoor and outdoor play areas, ensuring fun in any weather.
One of the unique perks of staying at the Rawayana Village is complimentary access to Rawai Park's main areas for guests who book directly or through official partners.
For added convenience, Rawai Park is home to Love Rawai Cafe, which offers delicious meals for both adults and children. Guests can enjoy their meals on-site or order food directly to their villas for a relaxed dining experience.
Rawai Park is also the perfect venue for unforgettable birthday celebrations. With customizable party packages, delicious catering options, and a lively atmosphere, your child’s special day will be truly magical.
Education in Rawai
Families staying long-term or considering relocating to the area will appreciate the educational options nearby. Rawai Park Language School (https://rawaischool.com) offers quality education with an international curriculum, fostering a nurturing environment for learning and growth.
Whether you’re staying at Rawayana Resort or visiting Rawai, Rawai Park and its surrounding amenities ensure a memorable and enriching experience for the whole family.
Shopping at MixxMall
A quick 5-minute walk from Rawayana Village takes you to MixxMall, a convenient shopping destination with:
Clothing Stores: Featuring local and international brands, including Give Good, where you can find stylish clothing and unique souvenirs to take home.
Restaurants: Offering a variety of cuisines to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss Starbucks, perfect for enjoying your favorite coffee or a sweet treat in a cozy atmosphere. For a more extensive dining experience, try Roof, a restaurant where everyone can find a dish to suit their taste.
Tops Market: A supermarket with fresh produce, snacks, and everyday essentials. You can also order groceries from Tops Market to be delivered to your villa through the reception at Rawayana Village, adding extra convenience to your stay.
MixxMall is a great place to shop, eat, and relax, all within walking distance of Rawayana Village.
Cultural Highlights at Rawayana
On the grounds of Rawayana, you’ll find the Lord Shrimant Ganpati Bappa Devalai, a serene temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This sacred space is perfect for those seeking a moment of peace, reflection, or a deeper connection with Hindu culture. Visitors are welcome to explore the temple, admire its intricate details, and experience its tranquil atmosphere.
Adjacent to the temple is the Jai Laxmi Store, a shop offering a variety of items, including traditional sarees, accessories, and much more. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful souvenir or a special item to enhance your cultural experience, Jai Laxmi has something for everyone.
Nearby Beaches
Nai Harn Beach. Just a 10-minute drive away, this beach is a favorite among locals and tourists for its calm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Pro tip: Visit in the morning for a serene experience, and check out the nearby lake for a relaxing walk.
Yanui Beach. This small, quiet beach is a hidden gem and an absolute must-visit for anyone exploring the Rawai area. Perfect for snorkeling and kayaking, Yanui Beach is just a 7-minute drive from Rawayana and offers a cozy escape from the crowds. Its calm, clear waters are teeming with marine life, making it ideal for underwater exploration. Pro tip: You can rent snorkeling gear, a kayak, or a SUP board right on the beach, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its natural beauty.
Other Beaches
Kata Beach. A 15-minute drive from Rawayana, this beach is a surfing hotspot during the wave season (May to October). It also offers a vibrant nightlife.
Karon Beach. Known for its family-friendly vibe, Karon Beach is a 20-minute drive away. It boasts a wide sandy shore, perfect for beach games and relaxation.
Patong Beach. For those seeking excitement, Patong Beach is the go-to destination for nightlife and entertainment. About 30 minutes from Rawayana, this bustling beach is famous for its energetic vibe, with countless bars, clubs, and street performances. Patong is the heart of Phuket’s party scene, making it a must-visit for night owls and those looking to experience the island’s vibrant side.
Hiking Trails
Laem Krating Trail. A 10-minute drive from Rawayana leads you to this adventurous trail. It offers stunning coastal views and a chance to see Rawai’s natural beauty up close. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Sunset hikes here are unforgettable.
Black Rock Viewpoint. A short drive away, this viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Nai Harn Beach and the surrounding area. It’s a moderate hike but well worth the effort.
Convenient Shopping Options
7-Eleven Stores. 7-Eleven stores are everywhere in Rawai and very popular with tourists. They are cheap and convenient, offering snacks, drinks, and basic items you might need. It’s a great place to grab something quick without spending much.
Makro Rawai. Makro is a big supermarket just 5 minutes drive from Rawayana. It has a huge variety of products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood. It’s perfect if you want to stock up on groceries or buy everything you need for a barbecue with family or friends.
Relaxation and Beauty Services in Rawai
Rawai offers plenty of opportunities to unwind and take care of yourself, with many massage salons and beauty centers available in the area.
Massage Salons: Enjoy the ultimate relaxation with a variety of massage options. Local salons offer traditional Thai massages, known for their therapeutic stretching and pressure techniques, as well as classic massages for a soothing and rejuvenating experience. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a day of exploring or treat yourself to some self-care, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
Beauty Salons and Hair Studios: Rawai also features several beauty salons and hair studios, offering services such as haircuts, styling, manicures, pedicures, and more. These establishments provide professional treatments in a welcoming environment, helping you look and feel your best.
Fitness and Muay Thai Training Near Rawayana
Rawai is a fantastic destination for staying active, with several gyms and Muay Thai academies conveniently located just minutes from Rawayana. Whether you’re looking to keep up your fitness routine, try something new, or dive into the world of Muay Thai, the area has plenty to offer.
Gyms Near Rawayana
Fitness Centers: The gyms around Rawai are well-equipped with state-of-the-art machines, free weights, and cardio equipment. Many also offer group fitness classes such as yoga, pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Outdoor and Functional Training Spaces: Some gyms provide open-air training areas, perfect for functional workouts in Phuket’s tropical climate.
Muay Thai Academies: Learn Thailand’s National Sport
World-Class Training: Rawai is home to several top-tier Muay Thai academies that cater to all levels, from absolute beginners to professional fighters. Whether you’re looking to get in shape or improve your technique, you’ll be guided by experienced trainers, some of whom are former champions.
Flexible Schedules: Most academies offer daily group classes and private training sessions, allowing you to fit workouts into your vacation schedule.
Cultural Connection: Muay Thai isn’t just a sport—it’s a significant part of Thai culture and history. Training at these academies offers a unique opportunity to experience this heritage firsthand.
Getting Around:
To explore Rawai and its surroundings comfortably and safely, we recommend renting a car. Because car is:
- Comfort: Air-conditioned interiors to escape the tropical heat.
- Safety: A safer option for families and groups.
- Convenience: Freedom to explore at your own pace.
Important: To drive in Thailand, you need either an international driving license or a Thai driving license.
For those who prefer not to drive, Rawayana Villas offers a taxi service for hassle-free transportation. Additionally, for shorter distances, you can use bicycles, which we provide to our guests free of charge.
You can rent a car or order a taxi directly at our reception.
Explore Rawai with Ease
Rawai is a treasure trove of experiences, from stunning beaches to vibrant local markets. Staying at Rawayana Villas gives you the perfect base to discover it all. Whether you’re enjoying the view from Promthep Cape or relaxing on Nai Harn Beach, every moment in Rawai is unforgettable.
Investing in Phuket
If you’re considering Phuket as an investment destination, you’ll be pleased to know that the Phuket9 (https://phuket9.com) office is conveniently located near Rawayana Villas.
Phuket9 specializes in helping investors find profitable real estate opportunities tailored to their needs. Whether you’re looking for a property to generate rental income or a vacation home that doubles as an investment, their team can guide you in selecting the perfect option.
With their expertise and a wide range of options available, Phuket9 makes it easy to turn your dream of owning property in Phuket into a smart and rewarding investment.