Mustn't miss in Phuket "Phuket Viewpoints - Kata Viewpoints"

Kata View Point

Mustn't miss in Phuket "Kata View Point"

The Thai name for this popular viewpoint is Kho saam haad which means 'Hill of the three beaches' because this hilltop looks down over Kata Noi, Kata beach and Karon beach, as well as Pu Island, off Kata Yai Beach.
Situated on the road between Kata and Rawai, it is a fairly well-frequented spot with a car park, nicely cultivated gardens, a few snack outlets and two large pavilions to sit in while you admire the northern-facing vista.
The road is fairly quiet and it is actually possible to walk up to this viewpoint from Nai Harn and Rawai although it's a bit of a challenge. If you like a drink or even a meal with your view, further down the road towards Kata there are two adjacent Reggae bars, the After Beach Bar and Viewpoint. Both are strikingly similar with exactly the same view out over Kata Noi and both feature non-stop throbbing reggae tunes. There is usually someone outside on the road flagging cars down so you'll know where to stop.

Mustn't miss in Phuket "Plub pla View Point"

Plub Pla View Point

Halfway between Chalong and Kata on the hill there is a sign saying 'Hilltop Restaurant.' This is the now-closed-down Plub Pla site. There is a one-way system operating on this side road and it's a good thing as the gradient is very steep. Park at the top and peek down at both Chalong and Kata from the gardens above the restaurant.

Mustn't miss in Phuket "Big Buddha"

Big Buddha

(Ko Nakkerd)

This fantastic viewpoint is well signed and the 45-metre tall image can easily be seen from most locations in South Phuket. Follow the red signs along Chao Fa West Road and turn down the road with the red arrow and a Buddha sign.

Pretty soon the road turns into a fairly steep incline but not as pronounced as to put people off and soon it almost levels off. Near the top there is a restaurant with breezy views over Karon and the Andaman Sea. At the summit the Buddha image is certainly impressive, seen from directly below.
There is ample parking space and access to the image is through a Buddhist shrine. If you choose to enter into or to participate in any ceremonies in the shrine please remember that beachwear is highly inappropriate in temples or at shrines so please dress accordingly in more formal attire.

Mustn't miss in Phuket "Big Buddha View Point"

Simply walk through the shrine and up the stairs leading to the image. In fact up here, as well as the large Buddha image there is another smaller, golden one and a large bronze bell with a wooden clapper. There are limited views over the Andaman Sea but views to the north and to the east are fantastic and one can see just how green this island is and, by contrast, how turquoise its surrounding waters are.
The vista makes you think you can reach out and touch the islands off the east coast and Chalong pier looks like an extension of Patak Road, with yachts in the harbour appearing as white dots. It's really worth taking a map of Phuket along with you to know exactly what it is you are looking at down below. [Read more about the Big Buddha...]