Promthep Cape is a beautiful point in Southern Phuket to see on your vacation. It has sweeping views of the ocean and is also known as one of the best places to watch the sunset. You can catch the sunset from above or actually hike down onto Promthep Cape for a unique experience. This was one of our go-to spots to end the day during our two months on the island! Let us share all our tips and tricks for Promthep Cape so you can enjoy it to the fullest on your next trip to Phuket Thailand.
Getting to Promthep Cape
Promthep Cape is located at the Southern tip of Phuket island. It was just a quick drive from the town of Rawai where we stayed for some time. There are also the nearby beaches of Nai Harn and Yanui which are two of the most stunning in Phuket.
If you are not staying around here make sure to plan for at least a few hours to explore this area before taking in the Promthep Cape sunset! You can rent a motorbike easily or hire a tuk-tuk for a full or half-day tour!
→ Promthep Cape Sunset Location
Why Does Everyone Go to Promthep Cape For Sunset?
So why are so many travelers drawn to this one special coastline for sunset? For starters, you’ll have an unreal view out over Promthep Cape and the small islands in the distance! There is a massive parking lot for motorbikes and cars that gets full every night just to see this.
Once you make the trip to this popular lookout, you’ll see that there are two different places to watch the sunset from. You can stay above (which is very accessible) or hike down below out onto the peninsula that juts out into the ocean. Promthep is actually just ONE of our 6 favorite sunset spots in Phuket Thailand!
Promthep Cape Main Sunset Spot
From the large parking area simply follow the stairs to the top of the lookout and head towards the left. The entire area is paved and perfect for all ages to watch the sunset in Promthep Cape Phuket.
If you do want a spot to sit make sure to come a little bit early. There is a small wall that goes along a walkway where people grab a seat and take in the views.
Hiking Down Promthep Cape in Phuket Thailand
If you’ve seen the famous photos of Promthep Cape you might be confused when you see such a developed area. Plan to arrive at least an hour before sunset so you can easily make your way down the cape and find a good spot to watch.
From the main viewing area find the small gap in the concrete wall. A small dirt trail goes down to the left and will take you onto Promthep Cape. The majority of people visiting will stay at the top so the trail shouldn’t be too crowded!
It is rocky and there are a few tricky parts of the trail. For this reason, we recommend wearing sneakers instead of flip-flops. Stick to the path and pay attention to the signs about the steep ledges.
Also, don’t stay too long after sunset! There are no lights on the Promthep Cape Phuket trail and hiking back up in the dark is not advised.
→ 22 Fun Things to Do On Phuket Island For Your First Visit
5 Tips for Promthep Cape Phuket Thailand
Go Early: If you are looking for the best seat or to hike down the cape it’s best to come early. The area is beautiful and you won’t want to be rushing to get your spot as the sun’s about to set.
Wear Sneakers: If you stay at the top viewing platform you’ll be fine but the hike down will be much more comfortable in sneakers. There are lots of loose rocks so watch your step.
Visiting in the Morning: While everyone goes to Promptep Cape for sunset, it is also extremely scenic in the morning. The sun rises on the other side of Phuket illuminating the cape. Seeing the views without the Promthep Cape sunset crowds is amazing and by going in the morning you’ll also beat the heat.
Pack Water: There are some small shops to buy water but it can get very hot waiting for the sun to set. So unless you’re brave enough to swim on the end of the cape definitely pack something to drink.
Stay After Sunset: Don’t leave the moment the sun sets behind the ocean! The colors from Promthep Cape grow more vibrant and jaw-dropping as time goes on. However, if you’re down on the peninsula head back to the top viewing area so you’re not hiking in the pitch dark.
→ When’s the Best Time to Visit Thailand For Perfect Weather?
Where to Stay Near Promthep Cape
5 Star Resort – The Nai Harn – Known as one of the best hotels in not just Phuket, but all of Thailand! Enjoy amazing beach and sea views from luxury rooms. If you ever want to leave you will be literally steps from one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
Boutique Hotel – Lady Naya Villas – Large villas with shared and private pools. Great pick if you like more space than a typical hotel room. The location is set away from the town and beach in a quiet area.
Budget Traveler – Naiharn On The Rock Resort Phuket – Right next door the ultra-luxurious Nai Harn is a more basic accommodation. Great choice if you want to be near this beach but for a low price.
Longterm Rates – Le Resort and Villas – Popular hotel on the road between Rawai and Kata Beach. The rooms are modern and clean. Nice hotel option for long-term stays as they offer special rates.
Unique Stay – Roost Glamping – Yes you can go glamping in Phuket Thailand! These upscale tents are set around a beautiful pool and the cafe serves up healthy tropical dishes.
For more of the best hotels in Rawai Phuket explore the latest prices here!
Have any questions about visiting Promthep Cape in Phuket Thailand? How about your own pick for the best sunset spot on the island? Let us know in the comments below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar!
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Thailand Travel Planning
Information: Explore all our Thailand articles, amazing destinations around the world, travel planning tips, and street food guides.
Flights: We always find our cheap flight deals using Skyscanner and Kayak. That’s how we found flights from Bangkok to Phuket for $12 USD, and Thailand to Vietnam for less than $50!
Accommodation: Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such as Booking.com and Agoda! Also, Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Transportation: While traveling through Thailand 12Go is where we find all our ferries, trains, buses, and transfers! You can find everything from island hopping speed boats to the night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide to find activities all over Phuket! You can find everything from a James Bond island luxury sunset cruise, to Phuket Old Town 15-taster food adventure, and 5-hour island tour!
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without protection. We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including our electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!
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We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
