Around Phuket - Top 10 Phuket - page 136

Patong Beach

During the day, sun beds stretch down the entire
length of this beach, while watercraft buzz
across the bay and parasail riders glide over-
head. The island's best dining can be found
along the waterfront, with top restaurants com-
manding impressive views overlooking the bay.
The legendary nightlife in Patong needs little in-
troduction. It runs the gamut from pulsating
dance clubs to transvestite cabaret shows and open-air beer bars, along with the well-
represented adult venues ablaze in neon lights (For further details see Patong
Beach ) .

Upscale nightclub, Patong

Wat Chalong

The island's most famous Buddhist temple, located about 4 miles (6 km) south of
Phuket Town, Wat Chalong features a number of brilliantly colored buildings,
including a glittering pagoda that supposedly enshrines a bone fragment from the
Buddha. During an uprising of migrant tin workers in 1876, the local Siamese fled for
protection to this temple, where two monks offered them shelter and helped resolve
the dispute peacefully. Today, many Thais visit the statues of Luang Pho Chaem and
Luang Pho Chuang in the temple's sermon hall to seek their blessings.

Naiharn Beach

This picturesque bay on Phuket's far southwestern coast, Naiharn remains one
of the island's better-kept secrets. With just one beachfront resort, the landscape
doesn't feel like it has been encroached upon. Tall screw pines populate the area
behind the beach, providing a buffer between the nearby Buddhist monastery and
Naiharn Lake. The charming Naiharn Town is a short motorbike or car ride from the
beach, but is well worth a visit for its cafés, coffee shops, and art studios.