Phuket Floating Market

Opened in May 2016, Kathu Phuket Floating Market is the only floating market on the island. It is located in a beautiful and peaceful area in front of Loch Palm and Red Mountain golf clubs, just off Kathu outskirts. Built on a 35-rai plot that once was a tin mining area, the market is Phuket's attempt to recreate the great success of the Pattaya Floating Market opened since 2008. However, despite the huge size and relative proximity to the crowded Patong, the market unfortunately has disappointed expectations, and after a few months it was evident that it is not enough to build a gigantic floating market to succeed. The “floating part” of a market is what attracts flock of tourists and locals, but in the case of Phuket Floating Market this is reduced to a dozen boats or even less. In addition to this, few stores are currently open while most of shops and stalls are still empty, making the "land part" of the market as a huge desert warehouse. Therefore, the market is relatively modest in terms of size at moment, but still has a fair amount of coffee, food stalls, small shops and a few sellers on the boats. Most shops sell fashion and accessories, toys, souvenirs, food, sweets and handicrafts, including OTOP products. “One Tambon One Product” is a nationwide project launched by the Thai government in 2001 to promote the products made by local communities. Throughout the day, several shows are performed on a stage, including traditional Thai dancing and Muay Thai demonstrations. In addition, many sellers dress up in traditional Thai costumes, trying to give the market a feeling of authenticity. For further fun, you can also hire small swan-shaped paddle boats to go around the market. However, as in all floating markets throughout Thailand, Phuket Floating Market' main attraction is obviously eating Thai food and seafood on wooden walkways. Visitors perch on rows of narrow steps leading down to the water and food is brought directly from the boats onto tiny tables. If you don't feel like sitting, walk a bit to find restaurants with real tables and chairs. The nicest and most quiet restaurant is located at the end of the boardwalk. The Phuket Floating Market is open daily from 10.00am till 22.00pm.Read More