Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

Come for sunset and arrive early. Cape Promthep is the headland at Phuket's southern tip, 10 km south of Kata and 20 km from Patong. From its clifftop terrace, there is a magnificent view westward across the Andaman Sea. The sun sets here between approximately 6:05 pm in November and 6:50 pm in July, and around 6:15 pm in December and January. During peak season, the parking lot is full 45 minutes beforehand.

The terrace houses two attractions. The white lighthouse was built in 1996, the year of King Bhumibol's Golden Jubilee, by the Royal Thai Navy and the people of Phuket. On the ground floor is a small, free museum with old ship lanterns and navigational instruments, though it is not always open. Next to it stands the shrine of Phra Phrom, the four-faced Brahma, surrounded by hundreds of elephant statues. Those who make a wish here and have it granted return with an elephant – hence the ever-growing collection.

Most visitors stay on the terrace. However, the more beautiful spot is the tip of the cape itself, which can be reached in about ten minutes via an uneven, rocky path along the headland. The path is steep and fully exposed to the sun, so sturdy footwear and returning after sunset are recommended. Alternatively, sunrise is a good option, when, according to reports, you'll have the cape almost to yourself and can enjoy the view over Nai Harn Bay.

Entry is free, the cape is open 24/7, and the parking lot at the entrance is also free – although a bit small for visitors who want to enjoy the sunset. Food and drink stalls are located at the parking lot; there's nothing on the headland itself, so it's best to buy water beforehand.

Do not walk from Nai Harn. The road lacks a proper sidewalk in some sections, and traffic flows freely. It's best to take a car, a Grab, or a scooter. From Kata, it's about 20 to 25 minutes, from Patong 30 to 45 minutes, and Nai Harn is 10 minutes further up the road. The Windmills viewpoint, five minutes back towards Nai Harn, is a quieter stop along the way, and the Rawai Fish Market, 10 minutes east, is a good option for dinner afterward.