Chalong
Chalong is home to Wat Chalong, the most revered Buddhist temple on the island. Visitors from near and far travel to make merit at the temple with prayers, burning incense and by placing gold leaf on the statues of two monks famed for their role in helping the sick and injured during the tin miners rebellion in 1876.
Another Buddhist landmark which can't be missed is the massive Big Buddha, constructed on a hill between Chalong and Kata. The huge mountain top sitting Buddha statue is made from thousands of tiles of white Burmese marble which glisten in the sun. The site of the Big Buddha offers amazing 360 degree panoramic views of the island.
Chalong also has a picturesque bay and pier, used as a launch pad for speed boats and yachts to visit many of the beautiful tropical islands off the east coast.
Rawai Beach
At the very south of the island, Rawai has a pretty beach with a promenade and bobbing long tail boats in the water. Rawai Beach is not suitable for swimming but is where you can speak directly to a local boat owner and arrange a trip to many of the paradise islands surrounding Phuket's coastline.
Along the beachfront discover the sea gypsy village where the daily seafood market sells the fresh catch of the day, or dine on the promenade at one of the many local seafood restaurants with beachfront seating to enjoy the serene views.
