7 Best Sunrise & Sunset Spots in Phuket for the New Year
7 Best Sunrise & Sunset Spots in Phuket for the New Year
The New Year period is one of the most beautiful seasons in Phuket. The weather is pleasant, the sea is crystal-clear, the sky is bright, and the wind is calm—perfect for watching the sunrise and sunset, an activity many travelers love to do to welcome the new year with fresh energy. It is also the best moment to capture beautiful memories to start the year.
1) Promthep Cape – One of the Most Beautiful Sunset Spots in Thailand
Best for: Sunset viewing, countdown gatherings, dramatic cliff photography
Promthep Cape is considered Phuket’s most iconic sunset viewpoint. During the New Year holiday, it is filled with visitors waiting to witness one of Thailand’s most stunning “golden sunsets.”
Highlights
-
When the sun nears the horizon, its golden-orange light reflects beautifully on the sea.
-
You can walk down along the ridge for photos among the grass fields.
-
Cool sea breeze in late December makes the atmosphere perfect.
Recommended time
5:30 PM – 6:20 PM
Tips
-
Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early due to heavy crowds during New Year.
-
Nearby is the Kanchanaphisek Lighthouse, another great photo spot.
2) Windmill Viewpoint – Beautiful, Peaceful, and Less Crowded Than Promthep
Best for: Sunset, romantic atmosphere, couple photography
Located close to Promthep Cape, but much quieter—ideal for those who prefer a peaceful sunset moment.
Highlights
-
Panoramic views of Ya Nui Bay and Nai Harn Beach
-
Open viewpoint with refreshing strong winds
-
Great for silhouette photography
Recommended time
5:30 PM – 6:20 PM
Tips
-
Bring a picnic mat to sit comfortably and enjoy the scene longer.
-
Perfect for those who want sunset photos without large crowds.
3) Khao Rang Viewpoint – Sunset Overlooking Phuket Town
Best for: Evening-to-night city views, photos during the blue hour
Khao Rang is located right in Phuket Town, offering sweeping panoramic views of the entire city. It’s a fantastic spot for watching the sunset and staying to photograph the city lights afterward.
Highlights
-
180–360° panoramic views of Phuket Town
-
Pleasant atmosphere with cafés and restaurants at the viewpoint
-
Beautiful photos both during sunset and after the sun goes down
Recommended time
5:20 PM – 6:30 PM
Tips
-
If you love city light shots, stay about 15–20 minutes after sunset.
-
During New Year, the city is decorated with festive lights—perfect for photos.
4) Mai Khao Beach – Sunset with Airplanes Landing
Best for: Sunset + airplane landing photography
Mai Khao Beach is famous for its low-flying airplanes approaching Phuket Airport. During sunset, the orange-pink sky creates stunning backgrounds for photos.
Highlights
-
Capture unique airplane + sunset shots
-
Long, peaceful beach
-
Wide-open sky with great visibility during New Year
Recommended time
5:30 PM – 6:20 PM
Tips
-
Check flight arrival schedules in advance to time your shots.
-
Silhouette shots with airplanes turn out amazing.
5) Sarasin Bridge Viewpoint – Romantic Sunset with Wide Ocean Views
Best for: Couples, photographers, wide seascape views
Sarasin Bridge connects Phuket and Phang Nga. It’s an excellent spot for sunset because of its unobstructed ocean view—perfect reflections of the orange sun on the water.
Highlights
-
Wide-open ocean and river views
-
Perfect spot for couple photos with bridge shadows
-
New Year decorative lights at night
Recommended time
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Tips
-
Walk up to the pedestrian bridge for the best angle.
-
Expect cool, refreshing winds in the evening.
6) Laem Krating – A Hidden Gem for Sunrise and Sunset Lovers
Best for: Hiking enthusiasts, scenic nature views, secluded locations
Laem Krating is one of Phuket’s most beautiful viewpoints, but it requires a short hike, so it’s never overcrowded. Ideal for enjoying sunrise or sunset in peaceful nature.
Highlights
-
Rock formations, savanna-like grass, and bright blue sea
-
Beautiful lighting both morning and evening
-
Feels like traveling abroad
Recommended time
-
Sunrise: 6:15 AM – 6:40 AM
-
Sunset: 5:20 PM – 6:15 PM
Tips
-
Expect a 20–30 minute hike
-
Wear sneakers and bring water
-
Weather during New Year is perfect for hiking
7) Cape Panwa – One of Phuket’s Best Sunrise Spots
Best for: Sunrise viewing, peaceful seaside photography
While many think Phuket is famous only for sunset, Cape Panwa is an excellent location for sunrise as it directly faces the east.
Highlights
-
Full sunrise emerging from the ocean horizon
-
Small scattered islands create beautiful compositions
-
Calm and peaceful atmosphere—perfect for starting the New Year with positivity
Recommended time
6:15 AM – 6:45 AM
Tips
-
Arrive 10–15 minutes early to catch the beautiful pre-sunrise glow.
-
The Ao Makham and nearby hotel beachfronts are popular sunrise spots.
Tips for Watching Sunrise & Sunset in Phuket During New Year
-
Check weather conditions in advance (late December–early January usually has clear skies).
-
Go early, especially at popular spots like Promthep Cape.
-
Bring a tripod or use your phone’s backlight/low-light mode.
-
Carry water and a light jacket if visiting windy viewpoints.
-
For the best photos, arrive at least 30 minutes before the recommended time.
Summary: Must-Visit Sunrise & Sunset Spots in Phuket for New Year
Sunrise
-
Cape Panwa
-
Laem Krating
Sunset
-
Promthep Cape
-
Windmill Viewpoint
-
Mai Khao Beach
-
Khao Rang Viewpoint
-
Sarasin Bridge
Each location offers a unique charm—whether it’s ocean views, mountain scenery, city lights, or natural ridge lines. Choose the spot that suits your style, and you’re sure to capture the most beautiful moments of your New Year holiday in Phuket. 
