1. Phromthep Cape (Laem Phromthep)

This is the most popular and largest of all the view points. The area has been developed to offer extensive views over the sea and there are walking paths from the cliffs to the water's edge for the adventurous. The sunsets are absolutely breath-taking and never the same two days running. If you are romantically inclined this is the place to come in the evenings and hold hands as the setting sun paints the evening skies in towering kaleidoscopes of light and shade.


On top of Promthep Cape is a very pretty structure, the Kanchanaphisek Lighthouse which doubles as a museum. It was constructed in 1996.
If you want to check the times of sunsets, ring the Phuket Meteorological & Radio Station on 076 211494.

How to get there: Phromthep Cape is a headland on the extreme southern end of Phuket about 19 kilometers from Phuket City. You can drive there via Chalong Junction along Highway 4024 to Rawai Beach, and then follow the signs for 2 kilometres.

2. Windmill View Point

As the name would suggest this hilltop boasts a modern windmill-the only one on the island. It can be found on the south of Phuket between Nai Harn and Promthep. This isolated spot offers superb views of the of the tiny Ya Nui Beach and the main Nai Harn Beach. There are always boats moored off both beaches and in December the anchorages really come alive as the King's Cup regatta gets under way.

How to get there: Drive from Nai Harn Beach towards the highest hilltop, and take the first road on the right. You will spot the windmill on your right hand side.

3. Three-Beach View Point

This is a very tastefully developed facility with a Thai-style sala which offers superb view on several levels. From here the golden crescent beaches of Kata Noi, Kata and Karon are framed by tropical forests on one side and the sparkling blue-green of the sea, on the other.

How to get there: There are two ways. You can drive from Kata Beach along highway 4233, then follow the signs towards Nai Han Beach. After about 5 kilometres you will find the view point on your right hand side. Alternatively, from Chalong Junction, head onto highway 4024 and after 2.5 kilometers, turn right on to highway 4233. From there take the Kata turning and you will find the viewpoint on your left.

4. Rang Hill

Rang Hill lies to the north west of Phuket City. The hilltop has been landscaped into a park and fitness facilities are offered. A winding tree-lined road takes you right to the summit where a sala offers shade during the day. Once there you can enjoy views of the City and beaches on the south and south-west of the island. Try a visit at night when the lights of the City are like a million diamonds scattered on night-blue silk.

How to get there: Normal saloon cars can make the climb up Rang Hill. From the Phuket Administration Office Intersection take the road to Patong and after 500 meters turn right. From then on, there is only one road.

5. Monkey Hill (Khao To Sae)
This hill towers over Phuket City and is easily spotted as the crest is crowded with wireless masts. The approach road is narrow but in reasonable condition, and allows views of the island’s eastern beaches. At the top, is a jogging track. The hill is a favourite place for locals who come here after a day at the office to exercise or just to chill out. There are no specific facilities provided but it is very pleasant to visit the Khao To Sae shrine and pay your respects. Well worth a visit if you can make the time.

Don't forget to bring a bag of peanuts to feed the monkeys who inhabit the hilltop. However, a word of warning; don't get too close. The monkeys are wild.

How to get there: From Damrong Road pass the Provincial Land Office and the Provincial Court on the left hand side, and then turn left onto To Sae road.

6. Koh Sirey Temple
The Temple is located to the east of Phuket City on the top of a hill which commands a view of Rassda Harbour and adjacent islands on the one side and rolling views of rubber plantations on the other. It also overlooks the picturesque Sea Gypsy village called Laem Tuk-rae. From the road you climb up a staircase flanked by huge dragons. Inside there is an impressive statue of a reclining Buddha.

How to get there: From Phuket Town head for Koh Sirey, and turn right by the statue. The Wat is then found on the right.

7. Khao Kad 360° Viewpoint
Khao Kad offers wonderful views of the Andaman sea beaches and neighbouring islands from a different perspective-from Cape Panwa in Vichit district. Sunsets are on a par with Promthep. Visitors are faced with a stiff climb up 138 steps. Once there the fresh breezes and tranquil surroundings are a sufficient reward. The viewpoint has good parking facilities and services.

How to get there: Take Sakdidet road as far as Baan Muang Thong (Muang Thong Village) or follow the signs to Makham Bay and turn right just before arriving at Panwa Cape. The turning is well signposted.

8. Big Buddha Mountain (Khao Nakkerd)
This is believed to be the highest point in Phuket and the huge Buddha image (still under construction), dominates the surrounding landscape. The development is set in a beautiful forest area and is designated as a National Park. The site offers numerous images and statues of our Lord Buddha and Kuan Im-the Chinese goddess of mercy. These have been contributed by royal patrons and other senior personages. You are encouraged to make a donation towards the completion of the construction. The hill offers 360 degree panoramic views of the island and the sea. On a clear day it is possible to see Phi-Phi Island in the distance.

How to get there: From Wat Chalong, drive towards Chalong and turn right at Soi Yodsane. Follow this road for six kilometers. Don't be afraid of losing the way. The route is marked by yellow flags bearing the sybol of a wheel-from Buddha's first sermon.