Rawai Beach: seafood, island boats and swimming (2026 guide)
Rawai is the beach in southern Phuket where longtail boats leave for Coral and Racha islands. It is not the best place to swim: the sand is narrow, the water shallow and boats are moored close to shore. People come for the seafood market, the beachfront restaurants and the pier for island trips. Access is free.
Highlights
The beach and the longtails
Fishing and excursion boats line the shore. It is a working waterfront more than a sunbathing beach.
The seafood market
Pick fish, prawns and crab at the stall, have them weighed, then a nearby restaurant cooks them for an extra fee. Ask the price per kilo and the cooking charge before ordering, and watch the weighing.
The island pier
Longtails and speedboats leave Rawai for Coral Island (closest) and Racha Island (farther, clearer water). To choose: Racha or Coral, which trip.
Practical info
Tips
- To swim, prefer Nai Harn, a few minutes away by road. A private boat negotiated at the pier costs more and depends on the sea; an organised trip with lunch and mask is simpler. To stay nearby, see where to stay in south Phuket and the Rawai area. Information comes from travel guides, not an official site.
How to get there
Rawai is about 17 km from Phuket Town, 30 to 40 minutes by taxi or Grab depending on traffic. Songthaews also run along the road (check times on the spot). See getting around Phuket.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
See on the map →
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