🐒 Phuket’s Wild Side: Monkeys, Markets & Major Moves

Hi There, Phuket Community!

This week, we’re monkeying around — quite literally. 🐒
From cheeky tree-hoppers on Monkey Hill to sneaky snack thieves at Bang Rong Pier, Phuket’s wild side is alive and well.

Plus, big moves in the EV world, beachfront developments in Rawai, and can’t-miss events lighting up the island this weekend. Ready?

But first…

☀️ What’s the Weather Like?

This week it’s a bit of a mixed bag. Mornings are looking bright and warm—perfect for a swim or a beach run. But by afternoon, expect a few mood swings from the sky.

Winds are steady around 7–10 km/h, so nothing wild, and the sea’s sitting at a balmy 30°C. Swells are low, around half a metre, making it friendly enough for a paddle or snorkel when the clouds hold off.

So yes, sunscreen for the start of the day. Umbrella for later. Island life doing its thing. 🌦️🌴

👉 Check the live Phuket weather forecast here

👀 Things you won’t want to miss this week:

• Monkeys behaving badly (and where to find them, minus the cages)

• Phuket's first battery-swapping taxis roll out 🚖⚡

• Rawayana: Rawai’s newest beachside escape takes shape

• Big beats and beach vibes — from Afrojack to Rampa

Let’s dive in 👇

TOP STORY

🐒 Where to See Monkeys in Phuket (Without Paying for a Zoo Ticket)

You’re probably wondering:
Where can I see monkeys in Phuket that aren’t behind a cage?
Is it safe? Will they jump on me?
Do I need to bring bananas?

Short answers: Lots of places, sometimes, and please don’t.

I’ve seen monkeys on rooftops, in trees, by temples, and once — nicking fruit from someone’s bike basket.
They’re wild, cheeky, and very much part of island life.
Here’s where you’re most likely to meet them (and a few stories along the way).

🏞️ Monkey Hill (Khao To Sae) – The Classic Spot

• Where: North of Phuket Town
  

• What’s there: Dozens of monkeys. Radio towers. People jogging.
  

• Vibe: Bit scrappy but very real.
  

This is the place most people go. You can drive up, or if you're feeling brave (and fit), walk it.
Locals come to feed them — you’ll see fruit scattered about.

Just a word of warning: they can get bold. I heard about a tourist getting bitten once.
So, keep your distance. Take photos, not risks.

I don’t walk to the top anymore — I drive. Just feels safer that way.

🌄 Rang Hill (Khao Rang) – Viewpoint With a Side of Monkeys

• Where: Also in Phuket Town
  

• Why go: Great lookout. Cafés. Bit less “in your face” than Monkey Hill.
  

Rang Hill didn’t used to have monkeys, but they’ve shown up in recent years — especially in the car park area.
They poke around bins and sneak snacks from tourists.

Grab a coffee at Tunk-Ka Café nearby. Just maybe don’t sit too close to the edge with food.
I’ve seen monkeys eyeing up leftovers like waiters waiting for your plate.

🐾 Sirey Island (Koh Sirey) – Mangrove Monkeys

• Where: East of Phuket Town
  

• What’s cool: Monkeys in the wild, proper jungle feel.
  

There’s even a little viewing spot built by the road, so you can pull over and watch them safely.

Feels less like a tourist zone and more like… monkeys just living their best life.
Nice temple nearby too if you fancy a quick walk up the hill.

⚓ Bang Rong Pier – Floating Restaurant + Monkeys

• Where: Northeast coast
  

• Why go: Mangrove views, ferry to Koh Yao… and surprise monkeys.
  

They hang out near the pier, on the rooftops, and occasionally get a bit too curious.
One tried to grab my wife’s takeaway bag. Another made off with someone’s durian.
Lesson: don’t leave food unattended and never wave it around.

🧠 Bonus: Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (Yes, I Know They’re Apes)

• Where: Near Bang Pae Waterfall
  

• What it is: A rehab centre for rescued gibbons
  

Not monkeys technically, but worth including.
They take care of gibbons that were illegally kept or used in tourist scams.
It’s ethical, quiet, and a nice pairing with a jungle walk.

If you ever see gibbons being paraded around for photos in town — don’t just walk away. Tell someone.

🙈 Monkey Etiquette (Or: How Not to Get Bitten)

• Don’t feed them. Even if everyone else is.
  

• Keep food out of sight — they’ll sniff it out.
  

• No sudden moves. No selfies with your arm out.
  

• Don’t try to touch them. They’re not puppies.
  

• Hold onto your bags, phones, glasses, anything shiny.

🧳 Final Thoughts

Seeing monkeys in Phuket is fun — until it’s not.
Go with curiosity, not snacks. Keep your distance.
And always remember: they live here. You’re just visiting.

HEADLINES

U Power Limited Partners with Sumitomo Mitsui to Deliver Southeast Asia's First Battery-Swapping Taxi Fleet in Phuket

U Power Limited (NASDAQ:UCAR) has delivered 21 battery-swapping-enabled MG EP vehicles to Auto Drive EV in Thailand through a partnership with Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Leasing. This marks Southeast Asia's first battery-swapping taxi fleet deployment in Phuket. The vehicles feature U Power's UOTTA technology, enabling 3-minute battery swaps for maximum operational efficiency. —Continue Reading Here

Where to invest: Phuket’s hottest real estate spots

Phuket is more than just a tropical getaway; it’s a goldmine for real estate investors. From lively Patong to tranquil Rawai, the island offers a variety of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique appeal. Whether you’re after high rental yields or a peaceful retreat, there’s something for everyone in Phuket’s booming property market. —Continue Reading Here

Look what’s new in Phuket old town

Hilton is bringing its mid-scale Hampton by Hilton branding to Southeast Asia with the opening of a 112-room property in Phuket.

It is scheduled to open in the third quarter 2026 and will become Hilton’s ninth brand in Southeast Asia where it currently offers 110 properties and anticipates expanding its portfolio by more than 50%. —Continue Reading Here

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHT

Rawayana Beachfront Village, Rawai

If you’ve strolled along Rawai Beach lately, you might’ve noticed something fresh taking shape near the shoreline—welcome to Rawayana Beachfront Village, a new beachfront development that’s quietly changing the game.

Set for completion in mid-2025, Rawayana isn’t just another pretty condo project. It’s a well-thought-out community of modern apartments, right where land meets sea.

The village is split into two main sections—Rawayana South and Rawayana North—each with its own character but tied together by a shared sense of ease and livability.

What’s it all about?

At a glance: there are apartments here ranging from compact studios to spacious three-bedroom homes. Some even have private pools or direct access to shared pools (yes, ground floor perks).

The layouts are smart, and the finishings lean towards the higher end, but not the over-the-top kind. It’s polished, but still feels like home.

You’ll find gyms, communal gardens, rooftop pools, cafes, and parking tucked away underground.

Security and privacy? Sorted. Shops on the ground floor and access to Rawai’s restaurant scene just a short walk away.

And while it’s definitely made with homeowners in mind, there’s also a rental pool programme for investors, managed by Hotels9. Whether you want a place to stay or something that pays, there’s a setup here that fits.

Who’s it for?

Honestly, anyone who loves the idea of living by the beach without fuss. It’s ideal for people who want to be part of the Rawai community but still have a slice of quiet to themselves. It’s not flashy. It’s not trying too hard. It’s just good design, in a great spot, done well.

Prices start at ฿5M, with the top-end three-beds sitting around ฿17.6M—still a strong range given the location and what’s on offer.

Final word?

Rawayana Beachfront Village is one to keep your eye on. Whether you’re looking to live, invest, or just have a better excuse to spend more time in Rawai, this place might just be it.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Tony Gatsby at Catch Beach Club

Catch the legendary vibes of Tony Gatsby this Friday, 9th May at 9 PM! Expect a night full of groovy beats, good company, and pure beach magic at Catch Beach Club.

Catch Beach Club, Phuket

Start: 9 PM

Afrojack at Illuzion

Afrojack at Illuzion - Friday 9th May 🔥

Info & VIP Reservations: +66 (0) 644544985 - [email protected]

𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗬𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗦 at The Commune Phuket

@dubr0vinilya is back at @thecommune.phuket !

Get ready for a wild sonic ride as he joins forces with @t1000.ofc for a mind-blowing back-to-back session. Expect an explosive mix of tech-house, breakbeats, and unfiltered party energy 💥

Lace up your best dancing shoes — this one’s gonna go off.
Let’s make it a night to remember!

📍 Andaman Sea - Thailand - Phuket
🧭 The Commune

RAMPA – Season Closing at Café del Mar Phuket

RAMPA – Season Closing at Café del Mar Phuket – Saturday, May 10, 2025

After a massive event last year, and a huge year for both him and also the Keinemusik Crue, Rampa returns to Café del Mar Phuket for another highly anticipated DJ SET. Known for his less is more approach, he carefully curates no more than four shows a month, dedicating himself fully to each performance.

On Saturday, May 10, one of his rare appearances lands in Phuket, closing out the season in a stunning beachfront setting.

The show will sell out! Book your tickets & tables now!

PHUKET SPOTLIGHT

Hidden Gem: Nui Beach

Nui Beach isn’t easy to find—and that’s what makes it great.

It’s a small, quiet beach about 15 minutes from Karon. To get there, you either walk a steep dirt road or take a 4x4 truck. It’s a bit of a mission, but once you’re down there, it’s peaceful, clean, and never packed.

No loud music, no crowds—just soft sand, clear water, and a couple of beach bars. Perfect if you want to switch off.

Last time I went, I met a couple who come back every year just for this beach. It’s one of those places people remember.

Pro tip: bring cash, go early, and don’t expect Wi-Fi.

That’s a wrap for this week’s edition!

Got an event or story to share? We’d love to feature it. If you’re passionate about Phuket and want to contribute, hit reply or drop us a DM—we're always happy to welcome new voices.

Stay safe, and see you next week!

Cheers,
The Phuket Community Team