A Hidden Beach on the East Coast
Makham Beach sits on Phuket’s east coast, just before you reach Cape Panwa. It’s not a beach most tourists know about. The water isn’t the clear turquoise you’ll find on the west coast, and the sand is coarser. But the Crowne Plaza hotel has turned this bay into something worth a visit, with a beach pool and a bar right on the sand that’s open to anyone.
What the Beach Is Like
The bay is small and protected. The water stays calm year-round, which makes it feel different from the big west coast beaches. Swimming is possible but not the main attraction here. The sea has that greenish colour typical of east coast beaches, and you’ll see fishing boats anchored nearby.
We’ve stopped here a few times, mostly to use the beach bar at the Crowne Plaza. It’s a good spot for a cold drink when you’re driving around the cape. The hotel keeps the beach clean, and there’s shade from the trees if you want it.
The beach itself is maybe 200 metres long. Not much happens here, which is exactly the point. No jet skis, no vendors, no crowds. Just a quiet stretch of sand with views across the bay.
Getting There
Finding Makham Beach without staying at the Crowne Plaza takes some effort. The public access road winds through a residential area, and there’s no signage. Most people just drive into the hotel and park there. If you’re only stopping for a drink at the beach bar, nobody will mind.
The beach is about 10 km from Phuket Town. You’ll pass it on the way to Cape Panwa and the aquarium.
Is It Worth a Visit?
Honestly, this isn’t a destination beach. You won’t plan your day around it. But if you’re exploring the East Coast or heading to Cape Panwa anyway, the beach bar makes a nice stop. Order a beer, sit by the water, watch the fishing boats. That’s about it.
For actual swimming, Ao Yon Beach is a lot better; it’s just a few minutes further south and has cleaner water.
The beaches on Cape Panwa are: Panwa Beach (Kao Khad), Ao Yon Beach, Cape Panwa Beach, Makham Beach and Heeowhat Beach
Where to Stay on Makham Beach?
Phuket Panwa Beachfront Resort
Phuket Panwa Beachfront Resort is located on Makham Bay, a quiet corner of the island that most tourists never see. The hotel used to operate as a Crowne Plaza, and some booking sites still show the old name. It’s a 5-star property with 227 rooms, two beachfront pools, and several restaurants.
The design mixes Sino-Portuguese style with modern touches. Rooms come with private balconies and sea views. The location works well if you want peace and easy access to Phuket Town, about 10 minutes away. Not ideal if you want nightlife or busy beaches.
The beaches on Cape Panwa are: Panwa Beach (Kao Khad) Ao Yon Beach, Cape Panwa Beach, Makham Beach and Heeowhat Beach
Makham Beach Map
More beaches in Phuket
