;img.crop(width:650%2Cheight:460))
Dine with sunset views at a beachfront eatery
Dining is a relaxed affair in Nai Yang Beach. There’s a sprinkling of eateries, many of which serve meals underneath cutesy thatched canopies lit by multi-coloured lanterns. They’re mostly found along the sand’s edge, with front-row seats for watching the sunset. Freshly-hooked seafood is a popular ingredient for the Thai curries and noodle dishes on the menus. And you can wash it all down with a fruity Mai Thai cocktail.Nightlife in Nai Yang Beach is all about chilling out, watching the sun go down and sipping on colourful cocktails. For something livelier, you can take a taxi to Patong, which is a 40-minute drive away. Here, it’s all neon-lit bars, cabaret shows and open-all-night clubs. There’s even a Hard Rock Café and a selection of Irish pubs.
Read More13th to 15th April
During these few days in April, the Thai people celebrate their traditional New Year by having massive water fights in the streets. Water is significant to the holiday because they believe it to be spiritually purifying – but also because April is the hottest month of the year. So, step outside on these dates and you’re guaranteed to get a soaking – no one’s safe from the buckets and water pistols.
Speedboats regularly shuttle visitors from the beach to the region’s beauty spots. There’s the Similian Islands, which rank among the world’s top 10 places for diving. Then you’ve got the island of Koh Waeo, where you can see all kinds of sea life – from lionfish to rays – gliding through the waters. A little further on, the Phi Phi islands line up coral gardens, sea caves and beaches inhabited by monkeys.
Read MoreNai Yang Beach, combined with its northerly neighbour Mai Khao Beach, is the longest strip of sand in Phuket – stretching out for a total of nine kilometres. It’s a peaceful setting that’s popular with families, because it has plenty of space for sunbathing and a selection of restaurants and bars within easy reach. While you’re there, keep your eye out for giant sea turtles. It’s a favourite spot for these graceful swimmers. They even come here to lay their eggs between October and February.
Read MoreNai Yang Beach’s shops are well-stocked with pretty much everything you could need on holiday – from beach toys to suncream and vests with the Chang beer logo on them. You can also get longer-lasting souvenirs, like silver jewellery or a suit from the tailor’s shop. If you fancy a spot of snorkelling, the dive centre has you sorted for masks and flippers.
Read More