Phuket isn’t just known for its pearly white, casuarina-fringed beaches and world-class resorts.
The buzzing nightlife in Phuket is a good reason to book your travel all on its own, and many holidaymakers choose to make merry here. Thailand’s largest island is home to sophisticated lounges, beach-fronting bars and super-scaled glamorous nightclubs, perfect for anyone — whether you are a solo traveller, a flashpacking couple or just a bunch of jet-setting holidaymakers, there’s bound to be somewhere for you to let loose after dark.
From a relaxing evening by the beach to a heart-thumping time, we put together an ultimate guide to the best bars and clubs Phuket, so you’ll never have an uninteresting night out.

Baba Nest Rooftop Bar is quite possibly one of the best places in Phuket to chill out with some drinks as the sun sets. It is housed in Phuket’s exclusive Sri Panwa Phuket resort daily from five in the evening to nine at night, but that’s plenty of time for a romantic getaway. Sit back on a large cushion, complete with unparalleled views of the sparkling Andaman Sea. The rooftop terrace is surrounded by a narrow infinity pool, which creates the illusion of being merged with the surrounding sky. With 13 pages of drinks to choose from, one will definitely be spoilt for choice. Peckish guests can also enjoy a good selection of Mexican tapas with your drinks as well.

Dubbed as “Phuket’s most fashionable beach club”, the stylish venue features a large covered dining area, an alfresco bar area and a swimming pool top it all off. Expect a plethora of cocktail favourites and an expansive menu from Asian to Mediterranean delights.

Situated within the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas is M Beach Club Phuket, a fashionable beachfront bar right by the Mai Khao Beachfront. Here, find a variety of international treats and drinks to last you through the night, with highlights that include vibrant music by local DJs and live singing performances.

Quip Sky Bar is the first and only rooftop bar in the Phuket Town area. The laidback venue features quaint rattan furniture and wooden flooring, all to provide a cosy ambience to guests. As for the menu, it highlights a range of local Thai-styled dishes and snacks, as well as cocktails and beers.

Patong’s favourite rooftop bar, On Top, is located on the rooftop of Swissôtel Resort Phuket Patong Beach, where you can see beautiful blue skies by day and purple sunset hues by night. Spend the evening over the adjoining rooftop and outdoor swimming pool area, complete with flame lit torches, 30-foot palm trees and private VIP cabanas.

Feel the balmy evening breeze at Mint, situated on the shorefront of Karon Beach. The restaurant-bar has a spacious outdoor area with plush sofas fitted for ultimate relaxation, and a stylish bar counter in the middle sets the scene for a luxe evening out. Friday nights are the best here — all drinks and bistro dishes are coupled with exotic fire shows and DJs spinning House music for a great night out.

If you’re looking for a more exclusive evening out, head to Xana, a beach club that features a private beach and a 35-metre swimming pool. The establishment is also home to beach loungers, poolside day beds and VIP cabanas with a state-of-the-art sound system to set the mood. With an extensive menu encompassing Thai, European and Mediterranean dishes, guests will be spoilt for choice when they come here to dine. Of course, their drinks are not to be sidelined as well. Choose from a variety of signature Mojitos, classic cocktails and a fine selection of imported wine.

Bangla road’s resident nightclub is Illuzion, Phuket’s most visited nightspot for locals and travellers all around the world. The venue features a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system together with 10 resident DJs to keep guests entertained for hours. Dancers and aerialist performers are part of the act here too. The entire venue can fit up to 5000 standing guests, complete with two huge balconies, three designated VIP areas, an exclusive VIP room and six bars.

For some hip-hop beats, head over to Sugar Club Phuket. Although it only opened last year, international DJs such as Rae Sremmurd have been seen here to headline acts. The club is home to a 350 square metre LED screen on its exterior walls, and the mezzanine floor of the venue is perfect for VIP guests to mix and mingle.