Hello Phuket Crew,

Your island update has landed ✨ — a fresh mix of what’s new, what’s fun, and what’s worth your time this week. From foodie finds to local happenings and hidden gems, we’ve gathered the good stuff so you don’t have to.

Think of it as your shortcut to enjoying Phuket a little more — one sunset, one story, one adventure at a time 🌴. But first, the weather..

If you’ve been daydreaming about Kata Beach vibes but without villa-level prices, Katabello might just tick your boxes. Think: spa-grade perks (hello onsen, sauna, steam), family-and-pet-friendly policies (yep, all pets allowed!), and proper co-working spaces for those of us “working” from Phuket.

Units range from snug 1-beds to sprawling 3-beds, with prices starting just over ฿4M. Completion’s set for June 2027, so you’ve time to plan, but also — hello, early-bird pick of the bunch.

Best bit? It’s only 5 minutes from Kata Beach, which means sunsets, surf, and smoothie bowls on tap.

👉 Fancy a closer look? Full details, floor plans, and availability right here: Katabello on Hawook

Rawai just got a shoutout in Airbnb’s Summer Travel Trends as one of the foodie destinations to watch. No surprise there with classics like Mook Manee, Salaloy Seafood and Nikita’s right on the beach.

What about you? What’s your favourite Rawai eating spot? Drop it in the comments and let’s put together our own list.

Big changes up top - Thailand’s Prime Minister is out. We don’t get political here at Phuket Community, but if you’re curious, here’s a quick history of the Shinawatra story from the South China Morning Post and the New York Times.

Green light is on! Phase 1 of the Kathu–Patong special road kicks off soon: 3.98 km long, 4 lanes (2 for cars, 2 for bikes), and a tunnel through Nakkerd Mountain.

Construction expected late this year, opening in 2030. Phase 2? A massive 30+ km stretch linking Muang Mai–Ko Kaew–Kathu. This project promises to ease Phuket’s notorious jams and make island travel smoother for everyone.

👉 Read more about it here.

Big news for music lovers - Thailand is spending $79 million to host the world-famous Tomorrowland festival, with its debut set for December 2026 at Wisdom Valley in Chonburi Province.

The event is expected to draw in hundreds of thousands of festival-goers from around the globe. With its legendary EDM beats, dazzling lights, and larger-than-life atmosphere, Tomorrowland is set to bring a whole new energy to the region.

For Thailand, this isn’t just about music - it’s a major tourism boost and a chance to shine as Asia’s new hub for mega festivals and cultural experiences.

👉 Get ready… the party is coming soon.

Tourists are pouring in, hotels are cashing out, yet small biz owners still feel the pinch. Street vendors whisper of slow nights, taxi drivers grumble about stingy tips, and local cafés wonder where the wallets went.

The numbers say record highs, but the vibe on the ground? Not so rosy. So, is Phuket thriving or just shifting? Let’s unpack where the money’s really flowing..

👉 Read the full story

If you’re after a proper adrenaline kick in Phuket, head over to Dark House Adventure in Wichit. Think haunted house meets escape room - live actors, creepy sounds, dodgy lighting, and plenty of spine-tingling moments. 🕯️

You’ll creep through an old house, solve puzzles, hunt for keys, and (hopefully) escape before the spirits get too cheeky. It runs about 60–80 minutes, with hints in any language if you get stuck.

There are two versions: the 18+ one if you’re brave, or the 12+ one if you’d rather not sleep with the lights on for a week.

Reviews? People say it’s like stepping straight into a horror film — equal parts terrifying and ridiculously fun. Honestly, it’s one of those “you’ve got to try it” Phuket experiences.

📍 34/18 Moo 3, Chaofatawantok, Vichit, Phuket

Phuket’s sushi game just levelled up - say hello to Rocket Roll Craft Sushi & Sake Bar, opening its doors on September 11th at Dcondo Reef Kathu.

Expect handrolls that feel like little bites of luxury, a sake line-up that’s begging for a tasting session, and a playful vibe that makes this spot more than just another sushi bar. It’s craft sushi done with flair — think fresh, bold, and a bit cheeky.

Perfect for date nights, foodie adventures, or just when you fancy swapping your usual pad thai for something rolled and sauced.

📍 Soft opening hours: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM (last order 9:30 PM).

🌴 Book ahead via @rocketroll and be among the first to taste what everyone’s about to talk about.

Phuket’s coolest craft & lifestyle fair is back! Three whole days of handmade treasures, recycled art, local eats, and lakeside chill. Perfect for a browse, a coffee, and a spot of people-watching.

📍 Nai Harn Lake
🗓️ 5–7 Sept, 10AM–8PM

🌴 Come for the crafts, stay for the vibes.

We’ve all seen them - regular police stops around the island. Chalong Circle, Kathu Hill, the road in Rawai… but where else should locals and tourists keep an eye out?

👉 Share your tips (and check other’s!) in this week’s community thread:
🔗 Regular Police Stops in Phuket

Your input helps everyone ride a little smarter, safer, and stress-free. 🙏

Thanks for hanging out with Phuket Community this week 🌊. If you discovered something new, share it with a friend who loves the island as much as you do.

📸 Got an event, photo, or local tip worth shouting about? Just hit reply or tag us @phuketcommunity_com — we love featuring community gems.

Until next time, keep chasing sunsets, trying new bites, and making Phuket your own. See you out there! 🌅🌴