Phuket and the neighbouring province of Phang Nga offer far more than their reputation for beautiful beaches and idyllic coastal escapes. This corner of Southern Thailand is rich in culture, nature, food, history and meaningful travel experiences waiting to be discovered.
While visiting Phuket Town for the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference, we found ourselves exploring the region through a more thoughtful lens. We were in search of sustainable and responsible travel options that give back to local communities and help protect the environment and its wildlife.
We all know our travel choices can make a positive difference, but with so many options available, knowing where to begin can often feel overwhelming. We’ve done the legwork to bring you some inspiring ideas for responsible travel to help you explore Phuket and Phang Nga more consciously, without losing any of the magic.
We do not intend this to be an exhaustive list; we are happy to report that this is an ever-growing side of tourism in the region, but we do hope this highlights some of the many exceptional operators and perhaps inspires your own responsible travel journey.
And if you are simply joining us for a little Amazing Thailand armchair travel from home, that is perfectly wonderful too!
Won’t you take a wander with me?
Nature and Wildlife
Gibbon Rehabilitation Project – Conservation education and wildlife recovery
Who knew that tucked away in a corner of Phuket’s last remaining tropical rainforest is the world’s most successful gibbon rehabilitation project? This centre operates without Government funding, so your tourism baht makes more than a little difference; it is a real lifeline to their continued success.
Khun Than and the team are so passionate about gibbons that they have made it their life’s work. With a mission to rescue, rehabilitate and repopulate gibbons since 1992. It’s an astounding tale of the complexity, perseverance, and dedication needed to save gibbons from abuse in the tourist industry and return them to a natural life in the jungle. As Khun Than tells us, ‘there is no textbook for our work‘.
Into the Rainforest
As you walk to the rehabilitation site within Khao Pra Taew National Park, you’ll hear a crescendo of cidadas, and then the gibbons chime in. In Thailand, where the elephant is the king of the jungle, gibbons are the Queens, and the loudest animals in the jungle at that. Their rather haunting call marks the start of a fascinating hour learning about these incredible primates.
A Story of Hope and Second Chances
The work of the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project is a love story on many levels, for both humans and animals. Success depends on gibbons, who are monogamous, finding a partner. Rewilding has worked best when rescued gibbons pair off, have a baby, and are released into the wild as family units, where they will look out for each other. Not as easy as it sounds when dealing with primates with trauma.
Throughout your visit, the stories of the rescued are brought to life. Their life stories will lurch you from horror and sadness to happiness and hope. Do not miss.
Website: www.gibbonproject.org
Address: 104/3 Moo 3, Paklock, Talang, Phuket 83100 Khao Pra Taew National Park
Hong by Starlight John Gray Sea Canoe in the Ao Phang Nga National Park
Imagine this. Lying flat on your back on an inflatable kayak together with an expert guide and their precision tidal knowledge, to paddle through impossibly small cave entrances. Just as you’re wondering where am I heading? A wondrous cavern, complete with stalagmites and stalactites, opens up. As you paddle on, you emerge into a secluded world of hidden mangrove lagoons, known only to the locals. Memorable and special doesn’t even begin to describe this tour.
These magnificent lagoons are actually hongs, the Thai word meaning “room.” Hence the name Hong by Starlight tour. After waiting for dusk, you take to the water for a third time to float your own self-made candlelit flower Krathong. As you glide back to the boat, the caves become an intriguing light show. Those once-turquoise waters, in daylight, are transformed at nightfall by the surrounding bioluminescent plankton, which twinkle beneath the water like thousands of diamonds.
John Gray has been in operation since 1983. He is the original Sea Kayak explorer. If you delight in nature, wildlife and Thai culture, this is an unforgettable time amidst the stunning landscape of the Marine National Park.
Did I mention the final return to the marina is by starlight? With the warm air blowing through your hair under the galaxy of stars, I guarantee these memories will stay with you long after you unpack your bag, back home.
The recipient of more than 12 prestigious Ecotourism awards, their interest and work in sustainable tourism with fully trained English-speaking guides, they live and breathe John’s motto, “we don’t do anything normal”
Website: www.johngray-seacanoe.com
Sunrise at Samet Nangshe viewpoint
A winning combination of nature’s beauty and human ingenuity for nature lovers of all ages.
It is worth the early start to see the sunrise at Samet Nangshe. Often regarded as the best sunrise location in Thailand, you will never forget your first visit to see the stunning vista of Phang Nga Bay. There are plenty of vantage points, but the most popular is from the Beyond Skywalk Nangshe (found inside the hotel of the same name). Thailand’s highest and longest glass-floor skywalk, 180 meters long and 80 meters above the Andaman Sea, gives the most spectacular views.
The skywalk experience
This is an absolute must for everyone’s Thailand bucket lists. Your self-guided walk starts as you put on your protective shoe coverings and as you step out onto the triple-layered glass (30mm thick, with a 500kg per sqm load capacity), wondering, “Am I going to like this? Will it feel scary?” and that is the last time you ever look down!
Step after step, you are drawn towards the panorama that appears in front of you, in ever-changing colours, especially if, like us, you arrive at sunrise.
A Shared “Pinch-Me” Moment
Despite a myriad of other people around us, each taking their own magic Insta pics, there is a hushed reverence to the crowds. All having their own “pinch-me, this is Thailand” moment!
These million-dollar views remain super spectacular, getting hotter and hotter as the day progresses – there is no shade after all on the glass skywalk, you are exposed to the elements. A nighttime visit is equally as special, although this is definitely a sunrise rather than a sunset location. If you come as dusk descends, there is minimal light pollution to detract as the Milky Way lights up the night sky.
Beyond Skywalk Nangshi is committed to sustainable tourism, with a focus on reducing waste, conserving natural resources, protecting local wildlife and supporting the surrounding community.
Website: www.skywalk-nangshi.beyondresort.com/facilities/beyond-skywalk
Address: 9/9 Moo 2, Khlong Khian Subdistrict, Takua Thung District, Phang Nga 82130, Thailand.
Discover the Quiet Beauty of Natai Beach
While Phuket’s beaches are famous worldwide, Natai Beach in Phang Nga feels wonderfully untouched. Just north of Phuket, across the Sarasin Bridge, this long stretch of soft sand offers a quieter, more exclusive escape.
Unlike the busy beaches further south or the ever-growing popularity of Khao Lak further north, Natai remains peaceful and uncrowded. Luxury villas and boutique resorts are thoughtfully spread out along the shoreline, lending the area a calm, private atmosphere.
It’s the kind of place where mornings begin with beach walks, afternoons drift between the pool and the sea, and evenings are spent dining outdoors with the sound of the waves nearby.
For travellers wanting a slower pace without sacrificing comfort, this region is ideal.
History and Culture
Explore Phuket Old Town
One of the highlights of Phuket is stepping away from the coast and into the colourful streets of Phuket Old Town. Influenced by Chinese and Portuguese heritage, the architecture alone is worth exploring.
Wander through rows of pastel shophouses, discover hidden cafés, local markets, boutique galleries, and beautifully restored heritage buildings. It’s easy to spend an entire afternoon simply wandering and soaking up the atmosphere.
Don’t miss:
- Sunday Walking Street Market
- Local coffee shops and bakeries
- Street art tucked into side streets
- Traditional Thai-Chinese temples
This side of Phuket offers a more cultural and authentic contrast to the island’s resort scene.
Community-Based Tourism
I’m a great advocate for visiting local communities and learning about the local ways of life. Spending your tourism Baht directly 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 (CBT): 𝘛𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘮 𝘣𝘺 𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦, 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦. You can read more about how to access this in the previous blog here.
Time constraints did not allow for community-based tourism visits on this occasion. However, you can read about previous visits to Phuket’s Bang Tao-Cherngtalay Community here. The YouTube video below of our visit to the Koh Lone Community shows a typical visit.
Culinary Experiences and Cocktails
Thai Food – it’s not just delicious, it’s a reason to travel.
We had the best week eating our way through Southern Thailand’s food. We’re talking big flavours, sometimes a tad fiery with a lot of fresh chillies, turmeric, and fermented fish paste. Perhaps, like me, you get good at asking for “tourist spice“, the universally recognisable request to tone it down for the tourist always works a treat!
If hot and spicy is not your jam either, do not fret; the more subtle spice blends of the Peranakan, Baba-Nyonya heritage, which blend Chinese and Malay styles and feature soy-based stews, could be your go-to dishes. And my absolute favourite of all is the wealth of freshly caught seafood from the Andaman Sea.
From Michelin dining to royal cuisine, with some great local finds & those that fit with our sustainability focus… no wonder Thai food is universally admired and shines globally.
Phuket Town Restaurants
Blue Elephant Phuket Town
Heritage Thai Restaurant and cooking school
Where to start about what’s special about dining with Blue Elephant? Blue Elephant is renowned and a restaurant we always enjoy taking visitors to. It’s celebrated as one of the top 25 restaurants in Southern Thailand and loved and respected as a global ambassador for authentic Royal Thai cuisine.
But history and culture lovers will be equally excited by the restaurant setting in the antique governor’s house. It is an exquisite example of Sino-Portuguese architecture. Do take a wander around; they have a nice gift shop supporting local communities, and it is an ideal place to pick up their wonderful Blue Spice premium grocery line, so you can recreate some of your favourite Thai recipes back home.
The award-winning restaurant (yes, check out its inclusion in the Michelin Guide Thailand ) serves up culinary excellence with modern innovation. They are well-regarded for their sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly packaging, as well as for collaborations with local initiatives, such as the Royal Thai Projects and its organic crops. There is always much to love about Blue Elephant.
Website: www.blueelephant.com/restaurant/phuket-restaurant/
Address: 96 Krabi, Talat Nuea, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000
Chomchan by OneChum
“Let time slow down. Make it quality. Like a moment when we admire the moon,“ So starts the menu.
I have eaten at Chomchan’s sister restaurant, Onechun, many times, so it was exciting to discover Chomchan. Apart from the Michelin stickers at the door, you’d have every excuse for walking straight on by this rather unassuming restaurant, but don’t, the food is anything but!
We were super blessed to have a Thai local in our group to choose our food for us, and the table was suddenly covered with all manner of authentic Southern Thai dishes, rich in flavour and beautifully aromatic in every bite. I’m afraid after a full day exploring, we were soon tucking in with very little regard for photos (or the moon, come to think of it!) We finished with the classic mango sticky rice for big smiles all around.
If you are looking for a local drink, ask for either their butterfly pea lemon – bright and refreshing, or perhaps the chilled longan juice, which is smooth and naturally sweet.
Check out their Facebook pages; they also host live Khim Performances at certain times on weekends.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Chomchanphuket/
Address: 242/2 Yaowarat Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000
Tu Kab Khao Restaurant, Phuket Town
You can’t miss this restaurant with its massive lobster on the wall outside! Tu Kab Khao literally means “food cupboard”, or as they suggest, a place filled with comforting, traditional dishes, just like home.
However, it’s definitely a step up from what most mere mortals can produce at home. For a start, it’s set in a rather grand Chino-Portuguese building, which offers a historic ambience. This is a popular, charming restaurant in central Old Phuket, a good choice for lunch. I have always loved the food and the blue-and-white interior. The food is great, too; they nail the concept of tourist spice, which means I always love their meals
Address: 8 Phangnga Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tukabkhao/
Chalong Bay Distillery Visit
More than just exceptional rum. This visit highlighted sustainable production, organic sugarcane, and low-impact processes.
Did you know that Thailand is one of the world’s largest sugarcane producers? Sugarcane is a huge part of Thai agriculture and rural life, supporting thousands of farming communities.
What makes Chalong Bay different is its focus on sourcing fresh, locally grown 100% organic Thai sugarcane and transforming it into premium spirits using a far more sustainable, small-batch approach than mass industrial production.
A visit to Chalong Bay Distillery can include a cocktail workshop where you will shake, muddle, and stir your way to learning and producing three divine cocktails. After testing your mixologist skills, you can also join the Distillery Tour to learn about their production process. But wait, there’s more… after your tour, you can taste their different rums, gins and vodka. With nine wee tots of spirits on offer that’s one big afternoon!
The wonderfully spirited world of Chalong Bay is tucked away on Phuket’s southeast coast, a tour with a difference, making a difference. If you’re up for a good rum tale and interested in supporting a local business with a great sustainability record. Check them out!
Website: www.chalongbayrum.com
Address: 14/2 Moo 2 Soi Palai 2 T. Chalong A. Muang, Phuket, 83130
Paradai Craft Chocolate Phuket
Locally crafted, ethically sourced Cacao, and a commitment to supporting Thai producers
When you think of Thailand, you may think of coconuts, pineapples, rice, perhaps coffee – but how many know of Thai chocolate? Move over, Koko Black, the numerous International chocolate awards that plaster the entrance door are impressive!
Once inside, you are spoiled for choice, but how would you choose? On looks, or by flavour?! Pretty as a picture and with some interesting flavour combinations like Green Curry & Tom Yum, you might find it tricky to choose.
It’s hot and humid outside, ideal growing conditions for the Cacao, and I can recommend a soft serve ice cream, which was incredible. I return for more later in the week. At 95THB, it’s my tip for any chocoholics on a budget.
With the chocolate bars coming in at a hearty 390 THB (around $17 AUD), impressive locally crafted, ethically sourced cacao, and a commitment to supporting Thai producers, they come at a price.
You can ask for tastings, check out the best of the best: Phuket dark chocolate 70% White Flower.
Website: www.facebook.com/Paradai
Address: 36 Yaowarad Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000
Wellness and Relaxation,
No trip to Thailand is complete without some serious rest and relaxation, and we headed to one of Kim’s Massage’s eight branches to take time out of our busy schedule to rest and unwind.
Kim’s Massage Phuket Town – Yaowarat Road
Kim’s massage is one of those names you see everywhere in Phuket. They have eight branches across the island. We enjoyed our massage at their old-town branch on Yaowarat Road, a lovely street lined with picturesque Sino-Portuguese-style heritage houses. Inviting you to experience the perfect blend of tradition and luxury, this massage offers well-trained therapists at a mid price point.
Kim’s offers a range of massages, from Traditional Thai to Aromatherapy and foot massages.
Website: www.kimsmassagespa.com/kimsoldtown
Address: 33 Yaowarat Road, Talad-Nuea, Phuket Town
Modern Hotels, Historic Charm and Coastal Retreats
Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town
𝘗𝘩𝘶𝘬𝘦𝘵 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘵𝘴… 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥’𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴.
The hotel was selected as the host venue for the prestigious Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC) in Phuket. Serving as a hub for international green advocates and sustainability experts underscores its alignment with globally recognised sustainable practices.
It’s more than a ‘nice hotel, great city location, lovely pool‘ stay; it’s a great conference hotel. With really comfortable big beds, a nice bathroom that felt brand new – and they gave me an early morning check-in, no fuss, no come back at 3 pm… I like their happy eggs and the solar panels we saw on the roof of the car park. This was part of their Renewable Energy Integration.
Plus, the huge bonus of having incredible Phuket Town right on our doorstep. This hotel is a fabulous choice for your stay in Phuket, whether for business or leisure! I have enjoyed other Courtyard by Marriott hotels on the island, and they all seem to go that extra mile (see pinned posts)
It clearly shows that you don’t have to sacrifice modern amenities, comfortable, spacious beds, or a fantastic central location right on the doorstep of historic Old Phuket Town to make a positive impact with your holiday spending!
The Memory at On On Hotel
Historic Charm – where history, architecture and local character create a more atmospheric stay.
This was my fourth stay at the historic Sino-Portuguese style hotel, which dates back to 1927. It’s one of those hotels that is well known, as it has famously appeared in the movie The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio. The hotel provides modern amenities, a cafe, and easy access to local markets. I always reckon I would love their Junior suites, which would give me more space. The location is one of the best in Phuket.
Its eco-credentials shine through cultural preservation, architectural conservation, and low-impact urban tourism.
Website: www.thememoryhotel.com
Address: 19 Phang-Nga Rd., Talad Yai, Muang, Phuket 83000.
Coastal Escape Natai
“With sustainability woven into every villa and a commitment to supporting the local community, each stay is designed with intention and care.”
From your arrival and the first sip of your butterfly pea welcome drink, and the excited ooohs and arghs as you explore your villa, you know this will be unforgettable.
Private Villas on Spectacular Natai Beach
Coastal Escape Natai offer four private pool villas, each with five bedrooms. This is a perfect choice for your own private gathering of family and friends. You will never be one of the masses here. If you don’t know the vast expanse of Natai Beach, you are in for a treat. It’s spectacular, and in the increasingly popular destination of Phuket and surrounds, it’s charmingly empty and private.
Each 700 sqm villa offers plenty of space for everyone. Every beautifully designed bedroom offers a different style, with its own gorgeous private bathroom retreat — mine was humongous, with both a bath and a shower, just how I like my bathrooms.
Relaxation Inside and Out
There are plenty of places to hang out, too. Outside was jaw-droppingly gorgeous. You have the choice of stylish black-and-white striped sunbeds around the pool or under the shade of scattered palm trees. all overlooking Natai Beach, as well as a large dining table and pool bar seating.
When you are not poolside, wandering on the beach or splashing in the pool, maybe you are relaxing indoors. The sitting area was spacious, and there was a separate TV/movie room and a private spa area with two massage beds.
You could tell meal times will be central to your time here, a time to gather, although first you need to decide where! Will it be breakfast on the terrace, lunch beside the pool, or dinner beneath the stars with the ocean close by?
We pre-ordered our breakfasts, which were cooked and delivered to our villa. The selection included the usual continental offerings, along with freshly cooked eggs, pancakes, waffles, oatmeal porridge, and Khao Tom. The chefs can whip up an array of Thai and local dishes and emphasise the importance of using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.
Extra Special Experiences
With the possibility of booking your own beachside BBQ, or how about a private fire show experience? Two fire performers start from THB 12,000. Seaside living does not get much better than this!
Address: 55/9 Moo 6 Kokkloy, Takua Thung, Phang-Nga 82140, Thailand
Website: https://coastalescape.com/natai
Sustainable Souvenirs
Livelike a Local bags
A quick shout-out to a small Phuket company, Live like a Local. Their products are made from recycled materials by local people. A brand that cares about the environment, using recycled and locally sourced materials in its weaving process.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LivelikeaLocal
Lemongrass House
Whilst at Kim’s Spa, above, we came across the beautiful spa products from Lemongrass House. For years we have used their products and gifted them as thoughtful presents for family and friends. These natural spa products are formulated with pure essential oils and plant extracts from safe, renewable resources. Their packaging is made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials. Since 1996, they have continually sought ways to reduce their carbon footprint and do their part to protect our planet.
Website: www.lemongrasshouse.com
Final Thoughts
Phuket and Phang Nga can absolutely deliver the luxury beach escape many travellers dream about — but they also offer something deeper if you slow down enough to look for it.
Between the limestone cliffs, quiet beaches, local food, warm hospitality, and growing focus on sustainability, this region has become far more than simply a tropical holiday destination.
It’s a place to reconnect — with nature, with culture, and perhaps even with a different style of travel altogether.
Whatever kind of Thailand escape you are dreaming of, we hope this has inspired your next adventure. Whether your interests lie in nature and wildlife, food and culinary experiences, culture and traditions, wellness and relaxation, memorable stays, sustainable shopping, or simply embracing the laid-back tropical lifestyle, there is truly something here for everyone.
I hope you have enjoyed these ideas for responsible travel in Phuket and Phang Nga, just a glimpse into the variety of travel options on offer in the region.
Happy wanders!
Disclosure: This article is based on experience from a hosted trip as a guest of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Sydney Office, following our attendance at the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference in Phuket, 2026.
Follow us on Social Media: Find more photos of my travels and stories on Instagram @littlewanderingwren.
