Phuket Night Markets Guide: Where to Go, What to Eat and the Best Local Finds
If you’ve ever been to Phuket, you’d know the island truly shines once the sun goes down. Under the gentle glow of the moon, Phuket transforms into a vibrant cityscape buzzing with live tunes and celebrations.
What we think really stands out among all of this is the city’s night markets. Phuket’s night markets seriously amp up the city’s atmosphere. Whether you missed out on the night markets during your last visit or you’re heading to Phuket for the first time, we’ve rounded up the best night markets in Phuket that will satisfy your cravings and improve your overall island adventure.
Key Highlights
- Phuket’s night markets offer a blend of culture, food, music, and local crafts that give you a fresh perspective of the island away from the beaches.
- Each market has its own unique vibe. Explore the heritage-rich Old Town, the laid-back creative scene at Chillva, or the bustling Naka Market, the largest night market in Phuket.
- Food is the heart of the experience. Don’t miss classics like grilled seafood, roti pancakes, Hokkien noodles, and iced Thai milk tea. These are just a few ideas of what to eat at Phuket night markets.
- Bargaining is normal for non-food items, so you can find great deals on clothing, handmade jewellery, and artisanal crafts. This is a glimpse of what to buy in the Phuket night market.
- Dress for warm, tropical evenings. Wear breathable clothes, comfortable sandals, and bring enough cash, as many vendors don’t accept cards.
Where to Go: Your Good Guide to Phuket’s Night Markets
1. Phuket Old Town Sunday Market (Lard Yai): A Must-Do Sunday Experience
Address: Thalang Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000.
Opening hours: 4pm to 10pm, only on Sundays
Among Phuket’s many night markets, Lard Yai is one that consistently draws locals and travellers. If you enjoy discovering culture through food, this is a place you’ll want to experience. Every Sunday, Thalang Road features a stretch of food stalls, street performances, and crafts.
If you have an adventurous palate, Lard Yai will not be disappointed. You’ll find everything from Hokkien noodles tossed in giant woks to grilled squid brushed with sweet chilli glaze. Shopping is equally enjoyable, with handmade crafts that feel more like meaningful keepsakes than generic souvenirs.
What to eat: Phuket Hokkien noodles, O-tao (oyster and taro omelette; a Phuket specialty), fried quail eggs sprinkled with pepper, Thai sausage, coconut ice cream, and mango sticky rice.
What to buy: Art, handmade goods, street fashion, and vintage items.
2. Chartered Walking Street Market: A lively extension of Lard Yai
Address: Phangnga Rd, Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000.
Opening Hours: Only on Sundays, from 4pm to 10pm.
If you are looking for a quieter alternative, Chartered Walking Street night market in Phuket offers just that and it is only a short walk from Lard Yai. The street here immediately draws you in with the sounds and aromas of vendors cooking over woks, steaming pots, and charcoal grills.
Expect to indulge in comforting Phuket classics, such as fried chicken and Thai pancakes. The shopping experience is more low-key compared to Lard Yai, with many stalls run by hobby crafters, giving the market a casual, community-driven feel.
What to eat: Grilled corn, Thai crêpes, chicken satay cooked over charcoal, mini Thai pancakes and fried prawn cakes.
What to buy: Affordable jewellery, cute stickers, and handmade crafts.
3. Chillva Market: Young, hip and perfect for late nights
Address: Ratsada, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 5pm to 11pm; closed on Sundays.
Date night in Phuket? There’s no better place to be than the Chillva night market. What makes this market stand out is that it’s built from shipping containers painted in bold colours.
This night market in Phuket is full of youthful energy, with local creators, musicians, and young families flocking here for laid-back evenings. Food stalls keep their lineups fresh every week, giving your taste buds a unique flavour of Asian fusion street food. Shopping can be fun here for creative people, as you will find a healthy collection of thrift stores and stationery.
What to eat: Thai milk tea, cheese-pull fried chicken, bubble waffles, and affordable sushi platters.
What to buy: Indie fashion, thrift finds, handmade accessories, and small art prints.
4. Malin Plaza Patong: The after-dark comfort zone
Address: 51-52 Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat, Phuket 83150.
Opening hours: 11am to 12am (midnight), every day.
Late-night hunger can strike when you least expect it, especially after exploring Phuket. When it does, Malin Plaza night market is the place to head to.
Nestled under a large, covered area, this night market welcomes tourists with its wide variety of eateries and shopping options. Vendors cook in open kitchens, so you can watch every step. This place is perfect for last-minute shopping in case you forgot to pack beachwear essentials.
What to eat: Grilled seafood, rotisserie chicken, pad Thai, fruit smoothies, Thai pancakes, and fresh sushi platters.
What to buy: Budget-friendly clothing, swimwear, and tourist-friendly souvenirs.
Discover more places to go in Thailand here: Uncover Top Holiday Spots in Thailand
5. Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market): The island’s biggest bazaar
Address: Wirat Hong Yok Rd, Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000.
Opening hours: 4pm to 10pm Saturdays and Sundays; closed from Mondays to Fridays.
If you only have time to visit one night market while in Phuket, the Naka Market should be more than enough to give you an overall nightlife experience on the island. Think of it as Phuket’s version of a weekend festival.
This market is brimming with activity for locals and tourists alike, offering the most extensive selection of street food and shopping essentials. What makes this market a favourite atweekends is the opportunity to try out Phuket’s lesser-known street foods.
What to eat: Barbecued fish, Miang Kham (bite-sized betel leaf wraps), Thai dim sum (steamed snacks), crispy pork belly, and seasonal tropical fruits (mango, mangosteen, rambutan, durian).
What to buy: Antiques, electronics, vintage goods, clothing, décor, and collectables.
6. Kata Night Market: Beach-town comfort food without the bustle
Address: Muang Patak Rd, Tambon Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100.
Opening hours: 2pm to 11pm, every day.
After a day on Phuket’s beaches, the Kata night market offers a relaxing evening of food, shopping, and local atmosphere. This quaint, less-crowded night market offers beachgoers food and shopping choices that perfectly complement the beach experience. Enjoy smoothies and grilled seafood while browsing for beach essentials.
What to eat: Grilled prawns, grilled squid, papaya salad, fresh coconut water, and Thai iced tea.
What to buy: Affordable beachwear, souvenirs, and casual gifts.
7. Karon Temple Night Market: Local flavours in a temple yard
Address: Karon Temple, Karon, Muang District, Phuket 83100.
Opening hours: 4pm to 10pm, Tuesdays and Fridays.
After exploring Phuket’s spiritual sites, the Karon Temple night market serves up hearty, soulful dishes to satisfy your appetite. Held twice a week at the temple’s courtyard, this night market blends local spirituality with Phuket’s street culture. The limited operational hours encourage local vendors to showcase their best quality, ensuring you get Phuket classics cooked to perfection.
What to eat: Fried chicken with a turmeric-spiced crust, Som Tam (spicy green papaya salad), fish cakes (Thai-style savory fish patties), Khanom Buang (crispy Thai crepes with sweet or savory toppings), and coconut pudding (soft coconut milk dessert).
What to buy: Traditional Thai souvenirs.
8. OTOP Night Market: Patong’s curated variety
Address: OTOP Shopping Paradises 237/15-20 Patong Beach, Rat Uthit, 200 Kathu, Kathu District, Phuket 83150.
Opening hours: 5pm to 12am (midnight), every day.
This night market participates in OTOP, the “One Tambon, One Product” programme designed to promote local crafts, making shopping a central part of the visit. The food zone offers casual dining with some stalls even offering Western-themed quick bites. There are also open-air bars with live music at times.
What to eat: Seafood platters with prawn, mussels and squid, tom yum soup, and mojitos and fruit cocktails.
What to buy: Local crafts and mid-range souvenirs.
9. Fun Friday Avenue Market (Boat Avenue): A stylish Friday night
Address: X8V3+JX8, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110.
Opening hours: 4pm to 10:30pm, only on Fridays.
Fun Friday Avenue night market offers a range of products and food for every budget. This place feels especially curated for tourists, with its warm lighting and neatly arranged stalls. Food ranges from Thai classics to international bites, while shopping gives you a selection of boutique clothing and artisanal crafts.
What to eat: Gourmet sausages and sliders, Thai tapas like spicy fish cakes and grilled meats, imported cheeses served with fruit, and baked goods from boutique dessert stalls.
What to buy: Upmarket, curated, and stylish artisanal goods.
10. Patongo Night Market: Patong’s street-side dining belt
Address: Ratch-Uthit 200 Pee Road, Patong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150.
Opening hours: 5pm to 11pm, every day.
Located close to the beach, this night market in Phuket offers a rotating selection of food and shopping stalls. You’ll find a constant flow of hungry beachgoers, and pad Thai cooked in front of you. These markets are perfect when you want quick access to the beach, nightlife, and street food in one block.
What to eat: Pad Thai cooked fiery-hot, chicken wings, satay skewers, Thai roti with banana, and fresh fruit bowls.
What to buy: Quick-buy beachwear, accessories, and fun souvenirs.
11. Phuket Indy Market: Small, friendly, craft-forward
Address: Limelight Avenue, Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000.
Opening hours: 4 pm to 10 pm, Wednesdays to Fridays.
The Indy night market in Phuket may be small, but it makes up for its size with a buzzing, lively atmosphere. It is also a night market to visit for those interested in handicrafts. While strolling along the market, you can indulge in snacks and desserts, and enjoy live music performances by local artists.
What to eat: Thai-style chicken bites, homemade cupcakes, fruity iced drinks topped with jelly, Pandan custard balls, and mini sushi trays.
What to buy: Handmade crafts and boutique items from young artists.
12. Banzaan Night Market: Fresh seafood with a food-court
Address: Nanai Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150.
Opening hours: 6am to 12am (midnight), every day.
The Banzaan night market in Phuket has a unique concept. During the day, you can buy fresh seafood and have it cooked at nearby restaurants. In the evening, the market transforms into a lively hawker-style setup, offering some of Phuket’s best local seafood dishes. It’s a must-visit for seafood lovers.
What to eat: Mango sticky rice, Thai fried chicken with crisp skin, fresh juices, fruit smoothies, and roti filled with chocolate, banana, or egg.
What to buy: Small gifts and souvenirs.
13. Kalim Night Market: Beachfront bites with a view
Address: 20-4 Soi Phrabarami Ha, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150.
Opening hours: 4pm to 12am (midnight), every day.
The Kalim night market is another fantastic “by-the-beach” foodie hotspot in Phuket. Though small, the market offers sea views and fresh seafood, making it a pleasant spot to visit. This place is perfect for group gatherings as you can get the full set grilled over charcoal.
What to eat: Grilled squid brushed with sweet chilli, pad Thai, and deep-fried shrimp or crab bites.
What to buy: Small gifts and souvenirs.
Note: Remember to note your must-try dishes and souvenirs for each market, as this helps you keep track of what to eat and what to buy in Phuket night market.
How to Enjoy Phuket’s Night Markets Like a Local
Visiting the night markets in Phuket is less about rushing from stall to stall, and more about easing into the rhythm of the island after dark. A handful of good picks can make all the difference.
1. Dress light, move easy
Phuket’s humidity is real, so stick to breathable cotton or linen and comfortable shoes you can wander in. Markets like Lard Yai and Naka Weekend Market stretch further than you expect and half the joy is discovering corners you might not have planned for.
Bring a small crossbody bag and some cash, preferably small bills. Most vendors at Phuket’s night markets still prefer cash.
2. Time your visit well
Aim to arrive just after sunset. It’s the sweet spot where the heat dips, grills start sizzling, and the crowd’s energy builds. Visiting later might allow for quieter browsing and better deals, and locals often recommend this as the best time to experience Phuket’s night markets.
Stay hydrated with fresh coconut or iced Thai tea as you go. They’re refreshing, affordable, and add to the experience.
3. Mind the space, respect the people
Night markets are busy, joyful, and slightly chaotic. Keep your belongings close and always ask before photographing vendors or their handmade products. A little courtesy goes a long way.
4. Slow down and soak it in
The sights, sounds, and smells make the night market a memorable experience. The rhythm of chopping, the neon reflections on metal trays, the laughter of families sharing dinner, the hum of Thai pop drifting between stalls. Pause for a moment to observe. This is the soul of Phuket after dark.
Note: Bargaining is part of the experience. Know your price, smile, and enjoy the exchange. Sometimes the conversation is worth more than the discount.
Let Phuket’s Nights Lead the Way
Phuket’s night markets offer a simple but memorable way to experience the island beyond its beaches. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, make the night market a non-negotiable part of your itinerary.
To deepen your experience, consider joining a guided food walk or night-market tour. These curated journeys reveal hidden stalls, family-run gems, and flavours you might not stumble upon alone.
If you’re staying at Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay, Club Wyndham Sea Pearl Phuket or Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket, you’re already perfectly placed for these nightly adventures. Step out with curiosity, come hungry, and let Phuket’s evenings surprise you in the most delightful ways.
FAQs
1. Is the Old Town night market worth visiting?
Yes! Lard Yai (Phuket Sunday Walking Street) is one of the island’s most atmospheric markets. Set along the Sino-Portuguese shophouses of Thalang Road, it’s known for authentic Phuket Street food, indie crafts, live performers, and a strong local vibe. If you want culture and great food in one place, this is the market to prioritise.
2. Does Patong have a night market?
Yes! Patong has several options, including Malin Plaza, OTOP Night Market, and Patong Night Market. They’re close to the beach, making them ideal for a casual evening of easy food, drinks, and shopping. Expect a more tourist-friendly atmosphere and longer opening hours.
3. Are the night markets in Phuket open every day?
Some markets open daily, like Malin Plaza, Kata, Banzaan and Kalim. Others operate on set days, such as Lard Yai on Sundays, and Karon Temple on Tuesdays and Fridays.
4. What is the best time to visit Phuket's night markets?
Arrive around 5:30pm to 6:30pm. You’ll catch cooler weather, shorter food queues, and a more relaxed crowd. By 7:30pm, most markets get lively and packed, which is great for the atmosphere, but not for moving around quickly.
5. What are the best foods to try at Phuket night markets?
You could try Phuket classics like Hokkien noodles, grilled seafood, mango sticky rice, Thai pancakes, and roti. Each market has signature stalls, so don’t hesitate to follow the longest queue. It’s usually worth it.
6. What are the popular buys in Phuket night markets?
Clothing, beachwear, handmade jewellery, artisanal crafts, Thai snacks, spices, and edible souvenirs are common finds. Prices are reasonable, and polite bargaining is welcomed.
7. What is the largest night market in Phuket?
The Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market) is the biggest and most diverse. It’s a sprawling maze of food stalls, antiques, clothes, quirky collectables, and “found-only-here” items. If you want variety or have just one night to explore, this should be your top pick.
8. What should I wear to Phuket night markets?
Keep it casual and comfortable for warm weather. Carry valuables and cash in a small shoulder bag.
9. How do I get to the night markets in Phuket?
The easiest options are taxis, e-hailing rides, or tuk-tuks, especially at night.
