Beyond the beaches in Phuket

Many travellers from the UK and Ireland will already be familiar with Phuket. Thailand’s largest island is a popular choice for first-time visitors as part of a classic two or three-week itinerary. With easy access and a broad range of accommodation options, it can be a good choice for a multi-destination trip. But for those who have already explored the beaches and resorts, Phuket still holds quieter corners where local life and nature shape a very different kind of experience.

One such place is Ban Bang Rong, a small village in the island’s northeast that offers a thoughtful introduction to community-based tourism. At Bang Rong, travel moves at a slower pace, and visitors are invited to engage with Phuket beyond the well-known beach areas.

Responsible Thailand Award winner

Bang Rong’s successful community-based tourism model has been recognised in the Responsible Thailand Awards. In 2024, the village won the Responsible Community Tourism category, and in 2025, it followed up by winning the Responsible Conservation category. The award judges described Bang Rong as “an outstanding example of community-driven tourism”.

The Bang Rong community prioritises reduced plastic use, organic farming, energy conservation, and creative reuse of agricultural waste. For example, pineapples grown locally are used not only as food but also in natural cosmetics, fabrics, and organic fertilisers.

Tourism income is shared across the community, with a portion reinvested into education, healthcare, environmental protection, and social initiatives. This model ensures that tourism supports long-term wellbeing rather than short-term gain.

A community-led approach to tourism

Bang Rong’s tourism experiences are designed, managed, and operated by the local community. Many of the initiatives are led by women, with a strong focus on cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and fair distribution of tourism income.

At Bang Rong, tourism is built around everyday life. Activities are shaped by what the community already does well: fishing, farming, cooking, handicrafts, and caring for the mangrove ecosystem that surrounds the village. For repeat visitors to Thailand, this offers a chance to reconnect with the country in a more grounded and personal way.

Nature and heritage

Bang Rong is home to a long-established Muslim community whose traditions and values are closely linked to the land and sea. Mangrove forests line the waterways, protecting the coastline and providing a rich habitat for wildlife. Nearby plantations and small-scale farms supply ingredients for local kitchens and community-run meals.

Visitors are welcomed with warmth, but without the sense of performance that can sometimes accompany cultural tourism. Modest dress and respectful behaviour are encouraged, helping ensure interactions feel natural and mutually comfortable.

What visitors can experience in Bang Rong

Mangrove exploration by boat or kayak

Guided journeys through the mangrove channels reveal an often-overlooked side of Phuket’s landscape. Local guides explain how mangroves protect the coastline, support marine life, and sustain village livelihoods. Kayaking offers a quiet, low-impact way to explore narrow waterways that larger boats cannot reach.

Farm-to-table Thai cooking

Meals in Bang Rong reflect seasonal availability and local produce. Visitors can join cooking sessions led by community members and learn how to prepare southern Thai dishes using fresh herbs, vegetables, and seafood. These experiences are as much about conversation and shared knowledge as they are about food.

Homestays with local families

For travellers looking to stay longer, Bang Rong’s homestays provide a rare opportunity to live alongside local families. Guests may help prepare meals, join fishing trips, or observe daily routines, gaining insight into village life that goes far beyond a standard overnight stay.

Handicrafts and cultural skills

Traditional batik-making and other crafts are showcased as living skills rather than souvenirs. Visitors can learn about the techniques, symbolism, and time involved, helping support cultural continuity while providing additional income for local artisans.

Planning your visit

Bang Rong offers something different for discerning travellers. This award-winning village provides the chance to slow down and gain a deeper understanding of how Thai communities live, work, and adapt.

Bang Rong is easily accessible from Phuket Town and Phuket International Airport, making it a convenient addition to an existing itinerary. The village can be visited year-round, though the drier months from November to April are particularly well-suited to outdoor activities such as kayaking and mangrove tours.

Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and dress modestly in respect of local customs. Booking directly with the community helps ensure tourism benefits flow straight back to Bang Rong residents.

More information:
Bang Rong Community-Based Tourism website
Book experiences directly with Bang Rong CBT

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