The Laguna Phuket Marathon has long held its place on the global running calendar, drawing thousands each year with its beachfront views, tropical climate, and seamless event organisation. But what makes this destination race truly special is everything that happens beyond the start and finish lines.
As runners lace up for 5km, 10km, 21km, or the full 42km, they’re also stepping into a destination rich in culture, cuisine, and recovery experiences – ideal for travellers who want more than a medal. Here are five must-visit spots that transform your race weekend into a full-fledged island escape:
Tunk-ka Café (Phuket Hilltop Dining)
Set atop Khao Rang Hill with sweeping views over Phuket Town, Tunk-ka Café is a long-time favourite for locals and visitors alike. Surrounded by nature and cooled by gentle breezes, the terraced decks offer a relaxed atmosphere to indulge in classic Thai dishes. Think Tom Yum Goong served in a coconut, deep-fried Pak Liang leaves, or a comforting Southern-style curry – all with panoramic views and birdsong in the background. It’s the perfect setting to unwind before or after your run.
Raya Restaurant (Phuket Old Town Culinary Icon)
Housed in a century-old Sino-Portuguese mansion, Raya Restaurant is a culinary landmark in Phuket Old Town. It’s the go-to spot for traditional Phuket-style cuisine, served in an elegant, heritage-rich setting. Signature dishes include the iconic crab curry with betel leaves and spicy shrimp stir-fry. For runners looking to carb-load or celebrate post-race, Raya delivers hearty flavours with historic charm.
Meesapam Khun Yai Chian (Local Comfort Food Done Right)
If you want to eat like a local, Meesapam is the place. A Michelin-recognised eatery established in the 1950s, this family-run restaurant serves up Phuket’s beloved Hokkien-style Mee Sapam – thick stir-fried noodles with seafood and savoury sauce. The menu also features fried oyster omelettes, crab curry, and skewered satay, all in a clean, fuss-free setting. It’s no-frills, all flavour, and the kind of meal that sticks with you—in the best way.
Wat Chalong (Phuket’s Spiritual Heart)
As Phuket’s largest and most sacred Buddhist temple, Wat Chalong offers a serene and reflective experience. Home to a relic believed to be a fragment of the Buddha’s bone, the temple complex features a towering chedi, beautifully painted murals, and peaceful courtyards. Whether you’re seeking calm before race day or meaning after it, Wat Chalong provides a tranquil space for introspection and gratitude.
Oasis Spa (World-Class Recovery)
After pushing your body to its limits, few things compare to a session at Oasis Spa. Located in the upscale Laguna area, this award-winning spa offers a range of treatments from traditional Thai massages and hot oil aromatherapy to full-day wellness rituals. The tranquil villa-style setting, expert therapists, and herbal compresses make it a top pick for marathoners looking to relax, recover, and restore.
With these experiences, the Laguna Phuket Marathon becomes more than just a race – it’s a gateway to explore Phuket through its flavours, traditions, and lifestyle.
The 2026 edition of the Laguna Phuket Marathon is set to return in 13-14 June 2026, promising another unforgettable weekend of fitness, culture, and discovery.
So here’s your call to action: start training, book early, and plan your Phuket runcation. Because in this corner of Thailand, the race is just the beginning.
