Looking to immerse yourself in Songkran, Thailand’s exciting water festival? Book your stay at these best family-friendly resorts in Phuket to revel in playful water fights, rich traditions, beautiful island beaches, and a soothing, warm climate.
Observed on April 13 every year, Songkran is a national holiday in Thailand, marking the commencement of the traditional Thai New Year. While officially a one-day event, the celebrations typically extend over three to five days. In 2024, Songkran festivities will envelop the entire country from April 13 to 15, making it the optimal time to plan your holiday.
Nestled amidst the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Phuket province is the biggest island city in Thailand. If you are keen on exploring its mesmerising views, we’ve picked the best Phuket family resorts for you to enjoy Songkran in the heart of the country!
Check out the Songkran 2024 events around Bangkok to celebrate the Thai New Year.
Exploring Phuket
Located in the southern part of the country, Phuket is known for its numerous captivating beaches, including Nai Harn, Patong, Mai Khao, Kata Noi and Kamala. Beyond its coastal allure, Phuket boasts vibrant commercial activity and excellent connectivity via both public and private transportation networks. Here’s our selection of the best things to do in Phuket for a memorable vacation.
The cultural tapestry of Phuket is a blend of Thai, Chinese and Malay influences, reflected not only in its populace but also in its culinary offerings. Here, you’ll find a fusion of Thai, Chinese and Malay flavours, with signature dishes like Pad Thai and Massaman curry.
Traversing the city’s streets, you’ll find classical Thai-style architecture and ornate Sino-Portuguese facades, a testament to Phuket’s rich history. As night falls, the island city comes alive with its vibrant nightlife, solidifying its status as a favoured tourist destination in Southeast Asia.
All you need to know about Songkran
During Songkran, local traditions revolve around spending time with family, honouring elders and ancestors, and bathing sacred Buddha idols and images. Water pouring represents good fortune, cleansing and homage. Songkran offers a joyous opportunity to engage in spirited water splashing with loved ones, alongside participating in games, feasting, singing and traditional folk performances. Moreover, the renowned Songkran New Year Water Festival in Thailand is slated for April 13 to 15 this year.
In December 2023, UNESCO declared the Songkran festival as an intangible cultural heritage, aligning it with esteemed cultural treasures such as Khon (2018), Thai massage (2019), and Nora (2021), underscoring its global significance.
Elevating Thailand’s status among the world’s top festival destinations, this accreditation has prompted the Thai government to extend the Songkran celebrations from the traditional three days to the entire month of April 2024. Hence, alongside the festivities, it is the best time for a joyous family vacation, immersing yourself in the splendour of this tropical paradise.
As Songkran marks the peak season for the best tourist places in Thailand, booking your accommodation in Phuket early is highly recommended. All the resorts mentioned below are easily accessible from Phuket airport, ensuring the best experience for your stay.
Top 10 family-friendly luxury resorts in Phuket for Songkran
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Perched on the hills of northwestern Phuket, Trisara is one of the most luxurious family-friendly hotels in the city. Offering a range of accommodations from sea-view suites to private pool residences, the villa beach resort ensures a serene escape amidst ancient ficus trees, swaying coconut palms and the pristine blue waters of the Andaman Sea. Indulge in the culinary delights of its farm-to-table restaurant, savouring local Thai seafood dishes amidst breathtaking surroundings.
Explore our selection of farm-to-table restaurants in Thailand.
Rejuvenate at their exclusive in-house luxury spa. Trisara offers various programmes designed for a guided and memorable experience for the whole family. The Director’s Den allows you to capture photo books and videos with professional expertise. Furthermore, the resort hosts provide guidance for local experiences, offering visits to hidden attractions and opportunities to connect with the local community.
Trisara is located on Srisoonthorn Road in Cherngtalay, Thalang district, approximately 30 kilometres from the bustling areas renowned for Songkran festivals, such as Patong and Bangla Road.
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Rosewood stands out as one of Phuket’s premier luxury family-friendly resorts, spanning over a 600-metre beachfront at Emerald Bay. Rooted in sustainability, this ethos permeates every aspect of its hospitality. Accommodations range from opulent pavilions to lavish villas and houses. The secluded property even offers four distinct dining options, along with recreational amenities such as three swimming pools, a fitness centre and Asaya spa.
Your little ones will love the Rosewood Explorers Kids Club while teens can enjoy tailored activities at this family-friendly hotel. With lifestyle, wellness and educational classes, complimentary water sports and access to premier golf courses, there’s something for everyone. Explore iconic landmarks and scenic tours and indulge in island-hopping adventures with snorkelling and leisurely lunches. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and adventure for the whole family.
Situated on Muen-Ngern Road in Patong, Rosewood is conveniently only 5 kilometres away from the vibrant hubs of Songkran festivities.
Experience unparalleled luxury at one of Phuket’s finest resorts, Anantara. Nestled in the serene surroundings of Layan Beach overlooking the Andaman Sea, this exquisite property offers breathtaking views and unmatched perks.
Anantara offers a range of accommodations to suit every preference, from premier family rooms to lavish pool villas and expansive residences designed with families in mind. Indulge in unique activities such as dining in a cliffside wedding chapel, mastering the art of Muay Thai, or unwinding with massages at Anantara Spa.
Anantara is renowned for serving the most popular bubbly breakfast and authentic Thai cuisine, ensuring a distinctive culinary experience. Plus, the resort’s prime location along the north end of Phuket places you just a short 25-kilometre journey away from the vibrant Songkran celebrations.
Explore our selection of the best wellness retreats in Thailand.
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Snuggled around a lagoon, the Banyan Tree resort in Phuket is an irresistible choice for those who cherish nature’s embrace. The resort presents private villas with personal pools, all amidst lush greenery, creating an idyllic oasis of tranquillity and luxury. Renowned as one of Thailand’s best golf hotels, Banyan Tree offers an exceptional golfing experience amidst stunning landscapes, making it a must-do activity during your stay.
It promises a diverse culinary journey, where you can enjoy drinks at sundown, savour authentic Thai cuisine, dine with panoramic views of the lagoon and relish conscious, plant-forward dishes. Banyan Tree also curates experiences, including tours of Phuket Old Town, the Thalang District and Laguna, as well as cultural and sustainability excursions. You can immerse yourself in wellness activities such as yoga, meditation and invigorating fitness sessions. Furthermore, you can unleash creativity with aromatherapy oil-making, master the art of Thai cooking and pamper yourself with traditional spa treatments.
Located on Srisoonthorn Road in Tambon Choeng Thale, the Banyan Tree resort is conveniently positioned approximately 22 kilometres away from the bustling city centre.
Turn your dream of living the penthouse life into reality during your trip to Thailand by staying at Sri Panwa. Nestled within forty acres of tropical surroundings, this resort lets you reside in luxurious villas with infinity-edge swimming pools. Relax and unwind on sunbathing terraces, private salas and outdoor bathing areas with spectacular views overlooking the Andaman Sea.
Here you can embark on a yachting adventure, year-round boating and excursions to stunning islands in the Phuket archipelago, including Racha, Maiton, Phi Phi, Coral and Lone, all within a 15 to 40-minute boat ride. Bring the whole family along to enjoy a variety of activities, from world-class cruising and beach-hopping to snorkelling and scuba diving in the pristine waters.
Sri Panwa, one of the best resorts in Phuket, is nestled in the Mueang Phuket District, just 15 kilometres away from the vibrant hubs where Songkran festivities come alive.
Along with celebrating the Thai New Year, if your idea of a vacation includes rejuvenating at a luxurious beachfront escape, the Dusit Thani Laguna Resort is the perfect place to stay. Nestled along the pristine shores of Bang Tao Beach, the property offers premier rooms with enchanting views of the Andaman Sea.
You can enjoy thrilling water sports, tee off at the Laguna golf course, get spa treatments, and savour dining experiences ranging from authentic Thai cuisine to delectable Italian fare and seaside dining. At one of the best family-friendly hotels in Phuket, your family can also partake in bonfires, surf camps and Thai cooking classes.
Located approximately 16 kilometres from the city centre, the Dusit Thani Laguna Resort provides easy access to the vibrant Songkran celebrations.
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Sitting atop the cliffs at Kamala beach, Paresa is a five-star family-friendly Phuket resort preferred by those who’d like to be enveloped by tropical forests. Here, indulge in relaxation within luxurious villas and suites, each decked with private pools with astounding views of the Andaman Sea, perfect for the ultimate tranquil escape.
At the property, you’ll find two perfect spots for family fun and relaxation — the infinity pool and the Miracle Lawn. Dining at Paresa offers unique experiences such as enjoying a ‘floating’ breakfast or savouring a cocktail at sunset in your private pool. Additionally, the resort is home to Talung Thai, a Michelin-awarded restaurant where you can relish a blend of Thai and international cuisines.
Situated on Layi-Nakalay Road in Kamala, Paresa places you right in the heart of the Songkran festivities.
8 /10
Along with the unique experience of celebrating Songkran, staying at COMO Point Yamu will be a whole new escapade. The luxury resort sits on a secluded peninsula near Phuket’s historic Old Town and in full view of Phang Nga Bay. This area is a popular yachting, kayaking, fishing and hiking destination, perfect for adventure enthusiasts.
Families are in for a delightful stay at COMO Point Yamu with the dedicated Play by COMO space designed for younger guests. There is a wide range of exciting activities to enjoy together, including cultural tours, hikes, island getaways, Thai cooking and boxing classes, ATV tours, diving and private boat charter tours. At COMO Point Yamu, you can delight in Italian, Thai and healthy COMO Shambhala Kitchen cuisines. The resort staff also arranges dining options such as beach picnics, poolside meals and intimate, candle-lit dinners.
The resort is a scenic 4-to-5-hour ferry ride from Phuket’s bustling tourist destinations.
For those seeking a serene and private Songkran celebration amidst Thailand’s tranquillity, the Pullman Arcadia Resort is one of the best family resorts in Phuket. Nestled on Naithon Beach, a secluded gem in western Phuket, this resort is enveloped by the Sirinat National Park. From deluxe rooms to luxurious pool villas, there’s accommodation tailored to suit every preference, promising an unforgettable getaway for you and your family.
What sets this resort apart is its exclusive in-house Songkran celebrations organised especially for guests, which includes traditional blessings and joyous water fights. Children are entertained with a variety of poolside activities and games hosted by the dedicated Kids’ Club team. Dining at Pullman Phuket Arcadia is a treat, with two restaurants offering a fusion of traditional Thai and western cuisine, three bars and a bakery.
Just about 30 kilometres away from popular tourist attractions, Pullman Phuket Arcadia stands out as one of the best resorts in Phuket for Songkran.
10 /10
If wellness and retreats are your idea of a vacation, then the Amatara resort is the best choice among top resorts in Phuket. While immersing yourself in Thai traditions during Songkran, indulge in Thai massages, treatments and insightful workshops aimed at enhancing your lifestyle.
With stunning sea-view balconies, the suites and villa accommodation options ensure utmost comfort, allowing you to pamper yourself and your family. Additionally, the resort features the largest infinity pool in the area, perfect for a fun time with kids. The culinary experience is equally impressive, featuring fresh ingredients and healthy cooking methods.
The Amatara Welleisure Resort is located on Sakdidej Road in Vichit Muang, approximately 25 kilometres away from Patong Beach and other popular spots where Songkran is celebrated in full swing.
This story first appeared on Travel & Leisure Thailand.
(Feature Image Credit: Unsplash+)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
– Is Songkran celebrated in Phuket?
Yes, Phuket celebrates the Songkran festival with great enthusiasm each year. Streets come alive with music, dance and joyful water splashes. Visitors can also experience vibrant parades and markets.
– Which is the best luxurious resort to stay at in Phuket for Songkran?
Trisara, Rosewood, Anantara, Banyan Tree, Sri Panwa, Dusit Thani, Paresa, COMO Point Yamu, Pullman Arcadia, and Amatara are among the best luxurious resorts to stay at in Phuket for Songkran.
– Which part of Phuket is best for families?
For families visiting Phuket, top areas to consider staying in include Bangtao, Kamala, Mai Khao, Kata, Patong and Phuket Old Town.
– Which beach in Phuket is best for kids?
Kata, Karon beach, Kamala, Nai Yang, Mai Khao, Surin, Bangtao and Patong are among the best beaches in Phuket, ideal for families with kids to visit.
An interior design graduate, Dinal is a writer by passion and profession. She is an avid traveller and has worked with lifestyle brands and publications like Nykaa Fashion and Little Black Book. When she's not recommending the coolest things to do, she explores offbeat villages, writes poems, and goes stargazing! She is an enthusiast of all things handmade.
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