A guide to nightlife in Phuket
When on holiday in Phuket you’d do well to party like the locals. This usually means heading to the west coast of the island to Patong, the heart and soul of a good night out, or toe-tapping at the excellent music venues in Phuket Town. When the sun goes down the beach paradise of Phuket is transformed into an eclectic hub of people having a good time until the early hours, thanks to bars, nightclubs and cabaret shows at every turn.
A stylish night at Xana Beach Club, Patong
Most beach clubs in Phuket have a touch of luxury about them, and Xana Beach is no exception. Set on the west side of the island close to Patong Beach, this classy club features white decor, a fabulous lounge area and wonderful beach views, along with Asia’s longest swim up bar.
Head to the beachside to watch the sunset with unique cocktails on offer. The brave try Xana Vibes, with fresh chilli rubbed around the glass don’t worry, there are non fiery drinks on offer too. Follow the music to the lounge where a range of house, funk and disco tunes play until late.
Fabulous fun at Simon Cabaret, Patong
Patong’s hugely popular cabaret show replaces vulgar with humour, making it perfect if you’re looking to take the kids on a night out. Glittery and tremendously fun, this is a sequin-filled cabaret and drag act guaranteed to have you in stitches.
There’s a range of performers from dancers to Tina Turner impersonators, and a variety of Asian and Western songs that will have everyone on their feet. Once all the set and costume changes are over, head to the entrance to grab a photo with some of the cast.
Live music with a blues soul at Rockin' Angels Blues Cafe, Phuket Town
If you love the very distinctive style of blues born in the USA’s Deep South head for Rockin’ Angels Blues Cafe in Phuket Town. The decor echoes the American blues bar theme with low lighting, red bricks walls and bright fluorescent beer signs. Go here with friends to relax with a few drinks and soak up the laid-back atmosphere.
The bar was set up by avid blues fan Patrick Chua who formed the first ever blues band in Singapore back in the late 1970s. Dedicated to giving a platform for blues musicians there are guitars you can take down from the walls and play. And there’s almost always somebody up on the small stage playing.
Cool jazz and tasty cocktails at Music Matter, Phuket Town
Described as a temple for jazz fans, Music Matter has been a popular live jazz venue in Phuket Town since 2000. Set up by passionate jazz fan and musician Jeffrey Sevilla, Music Matter has organised Phuket’s International Jazz Day since 2012.
Small, relaxed and friendly you can sit back and relax here and just let the Latin, swing and jazz-funk music flow over you. There’s also a jamming session every Wednesday evening, which brings together professional and amateur players for a fun musical ride. Anyone can join in and instruments are provided free.
Quiet romance at Wassa Bar, Patong
Wassa Bar is a family run establishment located up a steep hill outside of Patong, but the climb is worth it. With panoramic views over Patong town and the sea below, this is the perfect spot to watch the sun go down while enjoying cheap Thailand holidays.
The music is set to a low volume, so you’ll be serenaded by the sounds of the surrounding forest and the city far below. The drinks list is simple but the star of the show is the view – watching the skyline come to life as the sun sets is truly romantic.