The hours at a glance
| Place | What applies (October 2026) |
|---|---|
| Shops, supermarkets | Sales from 11am to midnight |
| Restaurants and bars | Service in the same window; a customer drinking after hours can be fined |
| Hotels, international airports | Exceptions: service may run outside these hours |
| Licensed entertainment venues | Hours set by their licence (zones such as Bangla Road) |
An older guide still mentions a 2pm to 5pm break; Phuket press says it was lifted at the end of May 2026. For nightlife, see Bangla Road.
Buddhist days: no alcohol in shops
Three Buddhist holidays bring a 24-hour sales ban: Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha and Asarnha Bucha (with the start of Buddhist Lent). In 2026 the national ban ran from 12:01am on 29 July to midnight on 30 July. Only hotels, international airport terminals, licensed entertainment venues in tourist areas and some designated events stay exempt; ordinary shops and restaurants must not sell. Sellers risk up to six months in jail and 10,000 baht. Provisional 2027 dates: 21 February, 20 May, 18 and 19 July (see public holidays in Thailand). Election days also bring a 24-hour ban.
Beaches, streets and banned places
Selling alcohol on the sand is illegal, and Patong police have stepped up patrols against night-time vendors. A former local police chief once said a moderate drink on the beach would not be prosecuted, but local orders change: read the signs and follow lifeguards' instructions. Drinking stays banned in temples, schools, hospitals, petrol stations and on public transport. For night-time traps, see the scams in Phuket.
Legal age, fines, driving
The legal age is 20, even if you are an adult at 18 at home: carry ID. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05% and police checks are frequent. General entry and behaviour rules are summed up in before you go to Phuket.
FAQ
Can you buy alcohol in Phuket in the afternoon?
Yes since 29 May 2026 according to TAT and local press: sales are open from 11am to midnight.
Do bars close during Buddhist holidays?
Hotels and licensed venues in tourist areas may serve, but ordinary shops and restaurants do not sell.
What fine can a tourist get?
Up to 10,000 baht for drinking outside legal hours, according to the press; local rules can vary.
La rédaction Phuket Authority, information read on 30 October 2026.
