Once a party hot spot filled with sophisticated restaurants and beach clubs, Phuket’s Surin Beach is no longer the go-to alternative to hectic Patong. Following the army’s 2016 demolition of all of its bars and restaurants in a bid to “restore its natural beauty,” the beach now sees far quieter days, remaining pretty much empty—besides from a whole lot more trash. So, where can holiday-makers retreat to these days? Here’s a breakdown of where to eat, drink and party without having to face the overbearing crowds of Patong.

Sunday brunch at Twinpalms Hotel

It’s not completely game over for Surin—at least not across the street. After taking a morning stroll on the beach and meeting the local surfers, head to Twinpalms for Sunday brunch—just three minutes’ walk from the sand. For B1,690, you’ll get everything from cold cuts and sushi to foie gras and fresh berries, to name but a few, not forgetting the half bottle of wine that’s thrown in, too. If you’re feeling fancy, B7,380 will get you brunch for two plus a bottle of French champagne. 
106/46 Moo 3, Surin Beach Rd., Choeng Thale, Thalang, Phuket, 076-316-500. Brunch deal served every Sun midday-3pm

A glass of wine or two at Luca Cini - A Wine Story

This place is the only Italian-only bar and bistro in Phuket, serving over 140 Italian wines from across 12 different regions, with plenty of snacks and hot plates to boot. The eponymous owner somehow brings in quality Italian products while still keeping prices affordable. Wine by the glass starts at B260, which will get you a sparkling brut or Cabernet Sauvignon, while essential accompaniments of cold cuts and cheese start from B300 per plate. 
49/15 Boat Avenue, Bandon-Cherngtaley Rd., Cherngtaley, Phuket, 094-804-4461. Open Mon-Sat 11am-9pm

Keep it flowing at Drinks & Co. 

This spot focuses solely on drinks, and they do it well, stocking over 250 bottles of wine from around the world, with 98 bottles under B1,000 and 20 under B600, as well as a 120-bottle-strong spirit selection. Start off with a refreshing bottle of New Zealand Astrolabe Beacon Hill Pinot Rose (B800) before moving on to the sparkling Fleur De France (B640). You can drink in-house or take away for the same price. 
Lagoon Plaza, 21/11 Lagoon Rd., Boat Avenue (Opposite Skye Lake Club), Phuket, 086-309-1392. Open daily 11am-2pm; 5-11pm

Chilled out cocktails at Bluesiam Beach Club 

This is a laid-back beach club, ideal for those who aren’t big on partying but still want to drink. The food menu is decent, too, stocked full of comfort dishes with prices ranging from B200 for pak choob paeng tord (tempura vegetables with plum sauce) up to B2,600 for a bucket of fresh seafood for 2-4 people. Signature cocktails are inspired by tropical flavors, all priced at B280. The Mellow Mandarin (citrus and mandarin infused vodka with passion fruit juice, topped with mandarin and lime slices) makes the perfect companion for watching the sunset.
99/1 Bangtao Beach Rd., Bangtao Beach, Thalang, Phuket, 076-386-595. Open daily 10am-10pm

Get the party started at Catch Beach Club

Once located on pre-demolition Surin Beach, this beach club has come back in full force with a new location that’s just as good, if not better. It’s known for its party atmosphere and has hosted names like Roger Sanchez, Erick Morillo and Bob Sinclair in the past, with Prok & Fitch and Mark Knight scheduled for this year’s New Year’s Eve party. Cocktails start from B250, or to really get the party started, why not opt for a jug of sangria (B990)?
202/88 Moo 2, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket, 065-348-2017. Open daily 9-1am