Mai Khao, a serene coastal area located on the northwest coast of Phuket, Thailand, is a perfect blend of natural beauty, luxury resorts, and cultural landmarks. Unlike the busy beaches of Patong, Mai Khao offers a peaceful and relaxing environment, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you are visiting for its pristine beaches, luxury accommodations, or rich natural beauty, Mai Khao offers something for everyone. Here are the six best places to visit in Mai Khao that will make your trip unforgettable.
1. Mai Khao Beach
Mai Khao Beach is the longest beach in Phuket, stretching over 11 kilometers along the Andaman Sea. Known for its tranquil and uncrowded atmosphere, this beautiful beach offers an escape from the more tourist-heavy areas of the island. The pristine white sand and clear blue waters create an idyllic setting for beachgoers looking for peace and relaxation.
Unlike many of the island’s more commercialized beaches, Mai Khao remains largely untouched, with only a few luxury resorts lining the shore. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a quiet stroll along the coast. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching, particularly during the migration seasons when various species of birds can be spotted overhead. For those who enjoy water sports, jet skiing and kayaking are also popular activities here.
2. Sirinat National Park
Located just south of Mai Khao Beach, Sirinat National Park is a protected area that encompasses both land and sea. The park is famous for its diverse ecosystems, including lush forests, mangrove swamps, and coral reefs. It is an excellent destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The park is home to several species of birds, reptiles, and marine life. It’s also a nesting site for sea turtles, making it an important conservation area. Visitors can take a walk along the park’s trails to explore the natural beauty, or enjoy the quieter sections of the beach. Sirinat National Park offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and environmental awareness, providing opportunities for both relaxation and education.
3. Splash Jungle Water Park
For families and thrill-seekers, Splash Jungle Water Park is a must-visit attraction in Mai Khao. Located near the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort, this expansive water park offers an array of exciting water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, making it a great spot for fun-filled adventures.
The water park caters to visitors of all ages, with kid-friendly areas such as the children’s pool and splash zone, as well as more thrilling rides like the high-speed water slides and the lazy river that winds through lush greenery. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day with the family, cool off from the tropical heat, and enjoy some adrenaline-pumping fun.
4. Phuket International Airport Viewing Point
For aviation enthusiasts or anyone seeking a unique experience, the Phuket International Airport Viewing Point offers one of the best spots to watch airplanes land and take off. The observation deck, located near Mai Khao Beach, provides stunning views of the airport runway and the Andaman Sea.
The area is especially popular at sunset when visitors can catch the beautiful contrast of planes against the colorful skies. The sight of planes gliding over the beach, descending toward the runway, is a thrilling experience for both adults and children. It’s a lesser-known attraction but provides a unique perspective of both the island and the bustling airport.
5. The Sarasin Bridge
The Sarasin Bridge connects Phuket Island to the mainland of Thailand, and it’s a wonderful place to visit for those looking to take in scenic views of the sea and surrounding islands. The bridge itself is an iconic structure, built to link Phuket to Phang Nga province, and it offers a picturesque spot for a leisurely walk or a drive.
Visitors can stop at the bridge to watch the boats passing by, enjoy a peaceful moment on the pedestrian walkway, or take in the panoramic views of the ocean. The Sarasin Bridge also has a small park nearby where you can relax and enjoy a picnic with the sea breeze. It’s a great spot for those looking to capture a photo of the stunning coastline.
6. Mai Khao Turtle Sanctuary
Mai Khao is also known for its efforts in turtle conservation, and the Mai Khao Turtle Sanctuary is one of the most meaningful places to visit in the area. Located on the grounds of the JW Marriott Phuket Resort, the sanctuary is dedicated to protecting the endangered sea turtles that come to nest on the shores of Mai Khao Beach.
The sanctuary helps protect turtle eggs, educates the public about conservation efforts, and allows visitors to observe the life cycle of these magnificent creatures. Depending on the time of year, visitors may have the chance to watch baby turtles being released into the ocean. It’s a heartwarming and educational experience, perfect for families or anyone interested in wildlife conservation.