Promthep Cape is Phuket’s most southerly point and draws crowds throughout the day, and is at its busiest at sunset. This is when the cape – translated as ‘God’s Cape’ – puts on a spectacular show. Couples, families and groups all gather to revel in the party atmosphere, with buskers providing the soundtrack and fire twirlers among the street entertainment. The undoubted star is the sun, slowly sinking to offer dramatic new perspectives of the breath-taking vistas here.
Visitors who arrive early enough may be able to enjoy the sunset as they dine al fresco at Promthep Cape Restaurant. The restaurant offers views of Nai Harn Beach alongside its reasonably priced, delicious Thai cuisine. The seafood basket comes highly recommended.
A visit to Promthep Cape during the day is also highly recommended. In addition to the panoramic views from 60 metres above sea level, there is the lighthouse that was built in honour of King Rama IX’s Golden Jubilee in 1996. The lighthouse is a museum of maritime artefacts as well as providing the opportunity to head upstairs to the viewing platform for a different perspective of the scenery. From here the Buddhist monastery that sits of Koh Kaew can be seen, among the other tiny islands that are dotted around the coast.
For the more energetic visitors, there is a path down to the end of the cape. Although most people prefer to take in the view from the top, the new vantage point on offer at the bottom of the path is well worth the demanding scramble back up that follows.
Many visitors pay their respects at the shrine that sits at the top of the hill, or simply marvel at the hundreds of ornately carved elephants that decorate it. Before heading home visit the handicraft market near the car park for a beautiful and locally created souvenir of your trip.
Despite the fact there is an ample car park, the crowds that are drawn to Promthep Cape mean it is often difficult to find a parking space. Arrive by sawngthaew or tuk tuk to avoid any stress.
