The largest shopping mall in Phuket
Central Phuket sounds like another mall on the island, but it is just a massive extension of the good old Central Festival. The two wings combined cover an immense surface on three and four levels. With an ever-growing population, the Phuket Festival was getting too crowded, parking was impossible, and weekends were seriously packed. As it is on the outskirts of Phuket town, it somehow addresses more to the locals than tourists.
The first year was confusing because many of the original shops were relocated to the new building, and it was a little quiet. But Central knows its customers well; the balance is back, and both sides are starting to be busy. In addition, the new branch placed its bet on food and new ambitious entertainment venues.
1st floor and luxury shopping
Like in all malls, the first floor is mostly dedicated to luxury flagship brands with the usual names: Gucci, Hermès, Bvlgari, Prada, Dior, Balenciaga, Coach, Michael Kors, etc. These big, bright shops always seem empty, and it is always a bit of a mystery how they survive with so few customers. The first floor is also where occasional car sales and seasonal events are held.
Brands on the ground floor: Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, Coach, Channel, Kate Spade, Bottega Venetta, Burberry, Saint Laurent, Gucci, Hermes, Versace, Zegna, etc
Central Department Store
Further behind is the department store that has moved from the original building. Here, you can find all the cosmetic brands you are familiar with. Expect a lot of upmarket names but more mainstream names such as Armani Exchange, Calvin Klein, Diesel, and a lot of fashionable bags. The far end is where all the households have moved to, and this area is quite interesting as it often addresses people living here.
Jim Thompson
Jim Thompson is a famous Thai brand known for its superb silk products, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern designs. The brand offers a surprisingly wide range of silk items, including scarves, cushion covers, fashionable bags, and lightweight clothing for men and women—perfect for Thailand’s warm weather. One of the most popular items is the charming little elephant silk toys, which make ideal souvenirs to take home without breaking the bank.
Food Court and Central Food Hall
The lower floor is popular with a vast and very well-supplied supermarket, including a wine cellar, a food court, and a selection of excellent local restaurants (actually, these are branches of local restaurants).
Maimorn Cuisine
Location: G Floor, Central Phuket Floresta
Tel: 076-368-096
Open: 10 am – 10 pm
Chilli Thai Restaurant
Location: Ground Floor, Central Phuket Floresta
Tel: 076-609-036
Open: 10 am – 10 pm
Lower Floor and Entertainment
There are quite a few attractions on the lower floor of the mall.
Aquaria
Aquaria is a gigantic aquarium featuring Suvana, a high-end restaurant. Next to it is an interactive 3D museum where you can take funny selfies.
Open: 1.30 am – 7 pm
Price: Adults 981 baht, children 531 baht (3-11 years old)
Bookings: Book here
AR Trick Eye Museum Phuket
Happy Kids Club
Central Floresta is also great for kids with the Happy Kids Club, just next to the aquarium, with plenty of playgrounds and activities designed for your children.
Getting there
You can access Central Floresta directly from Central Festival by crossing a vast indoor bridge above the main road. If you drive a car, we strongly recommend parking at Central Floresta; it’s a lot easier and has a lot of space (for now).
More photos of Central Phuket
Central Phuket Floresta Info
Location: Phuket Town
Address: 199 Central Phuket Floresta, Unit No. 126 Moo 4, Tambol Vichit, Phuket, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000
Open: 10:30 am – 9 pm
Phone: 02 508 8988
Central Phuket Floresta Map
Get the directions on your phone: https://goo.gl/maps/mLHftCNrrFG3AJED7