Cape Panwa Hotel Review in Phuket, Thailand

HBO’s Season 3 of The White Lotus is back. If you’re already hooked after the first episode, you’re probably eager to see how the drama unfolds across Thailand’s islands and stunning beaches. While the show has already revealed some of its filming locations, including a number of resorts featured in the series, the Cape Panwa Hotel, a beachside resort on Phuket’s east coast, will be featured tonight in the third episode of The White Lotus Season 3.

“There is a deep sense of excitement in anticipation of the new season of The White Lotus,” Khun Waew Taechaubol, owner and group project development manager of Cape Panwa Hotel, said. “This show does an incredible job at capturing a sense of place, and we know the impact it has on Thai businesses and communities will be unprecedented.”

Cape Panwa, established in the early 1980s, is one of Phuket’s first luxury hotels. It quickly became a haven for celebrities seeking privacy, attracting Elizabeth Taylor in 1989 and later hosting A-listers like Pierce Brosnan, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Nestled amid a former coconut grove, the resort offers breathtaking Andaman Sea views and direct access to a secluded beach. Its 205 rooms and suites are elegantly designed, with nine diverse dining venues—including the iconic Sino-Portuguese Panwa House.

There’s also a world-class spa and yacht charters for guests wanting a more exclusive island-hopping experience. Cape Panwa is the perfect launch pad to explore nearby islands, such as the popular Koh Phi Phi islands. According to the hotel’s concierge, the resort’s charters are the opposite of the tourist-packed boats that sail by daily blasting party music.

The quiet charm of Cape Panwa extends beyond the hotel’s gates. With views across Chalong Bay and Lone Island, the area is lined with luxury villas and condos that capitalize on the gorgeous landscape. Many guests are repeat visitors, staying for weeks at a time to fully embrace the slower pace of life on this less-explored tip of Phuket.

“Cape Panwa is on the east coast of Phuket; it’s quiet and secluded, and that’s part of its magic and what makes it singular and special,” Taechaubol said. “We sought out to offer a luxurious retreat with one of Phuket’s only private beaches so guests can truly unwind and enjoy the intimacy and privacy of the hotel.”

After checking in, I didn’t waste a second. I sucked down the fresh coconut water waiting for me in my suite, tossed on the in-room flip-flops, grabbed a towel, and sprinted for the cable car that takes guests down to the beach. Optimal sun time was my only mission, and the secluded beach didn’t disappoint. Sunbathing and sea swimming quickly became my daily routine, followed by stops at the hotel’s fruit cart for fresh, juicy mango and pineapple slices—a ritual I’ll be dreaming about until my next visit.

Here is a detailed review of Cape Panwa Hotel in Phuket, Thailand.

The Rooms

What I appreciate about the resort is its incredible variety of accommodations. It has 205 rooms, most of which boast full or partial sea views. The superior rooms offer simplicity and comfort, as well as Cape Panwa views. If you’re after more space, consider a junior suite, which is about 570 square feet, with a private balcony and a large sunbed, or opt for a two-bedroom family suite, boasting 1,226 square feet and an outdoor whirlpool.

The cape suites are about 839 square feet and feature modern bathrooms and stylish living areas. I booked a cape signature corner suite—a sprawling 1,365-square-foot haven with a large balcony and a sunbed offering breathtaking sea views. I already miss my morning ritual of waking up, making an espresso, and basking in the sun with a book before I started each day (and yes, I spent a lot of time in my Jacuzzi). While I loved the beach, my private deck offered the most stunning elevated views of the water.

For the ultimate tropical retreat, the two-bedroom pool villas provide around 1,485 square feet of space with a private pool. The crowning glory is the cape absolute suite: a baronial penthouse of 5,703 square feet of understated luxury spread over two glass-encased floors, complete with two bedrooms, separate living and dining areas, a private spa facility, solid wooden sundecks, and a full-sized infinity pool—all steps away from the palm-fringed beach.

Food and Drink

The hotel boasts 10 restaurants and bars, each with its own unique vibe and signature cocktails, thanks to the creative spark of food and beverage executive assistant manager Jakub Goduš, ensuring even long-stay guests never tire of the menus. My personal favorite is Panwa House—a captivating Sino-Portuguese mansion that once served as a coconut plantation and now dazzles with a blend of Malay Peninsula and Southern Thai design. The chef’s prix fixed southern platter is a must, with fiery spices perfectly balanced by local wines (yes, Thailand makes wine) and a crab curry that’s simply to die for. 

Café Andaman is your all-day casual dining spot with Thai and international fare. Bamboo Bar is where I posted up for lunch each day, as it’s right on the beach. The Pad Thai here was my go-to, along with delicious coconut water harvested from a tree on the property.

There’s also a buffet spread with a sizable salad bar and a few other options for those seeking a speedier lunch experience. Top of The Reef serves continental cuisine with a French twist, while Uncle Nan’s Restaurant is the place to go when you’re craving Italian dishes al fresco—pasta, a proper Negroni, and panoramic views of the bay deliver a little taste of la dolce vita. I switched up nightcaps as there’s Dolphin Bar, conveniently located next to Uncle Nan’s, and for something more lively, Otter’s Bar, where a chic piano lounge sets the mood. 

For seafood fans, there’s Laem Panwa Restaurant with barbecued seafood and local specialties that capture the island’s abundance of fresh fish and sea delicacies. Café Kantary keeps it light with premium coffee, homemade pastries, and gelato throughout the day.

One night, I decided to try the romantic beach dining experience outside Panwa House, right on the beach. I must admit it would be way more fun with a friend or partner, but I had a great time, and it felt like having a personal chef. I sunk my toes into the sand and feasted on a gorgeous Thai dinner. The Tod Mun Pla (Thai fish cakes) and Yam Neua (spicy beef salad) stood out, as did the mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream. 

Activities and Experiences

Guests at Cape Panwa Hotel can indulge in top-notch amenities, including two swimming pools and a fitness center. But if you prefer more scenic cardio, start the day paddling around the cape. I kayaked one morning and spotted tropical fish; it was the best wake-up call.

Explore Phuket’s coastline snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding (the first hour is complimentary), windsurfing, or kayaking. For friendly competition, join a game of beach volleyball, petanque, or badminton. If cultural experiences are more your style, try Thai cooking classes or get creative with Batik painting workshops. Fitness enthusiasts can step into the ring for Muay Thai boxing or stretch it out with private yoga sessions.

For a next-level adventure, Cape Yacht Charters offers luxury yacht and speedboat experiences. Their newest yacht, the Panwa Princess, features a whirlpool, snorkeling gear, and first-class service—perfect for island-hopping around Phang-Nga or Krabi. The yacht seats up to 35 guests and offers full catering, ensuring a memorable day on the water.

The Spa

Located separately from the main reception area, the spa is its private oasis, where lush greenery drapes the space. I chose the Cape Panwa Blossoming Spa Treatment—a decadent 120-minute escape that begins with an herbal foot bath and culminates in a comforting, warm herbal compress. In between, I was pampered with an invigorating body scrub and a blissful oil massage—choosing geranium oil for its uplifting aroma—to leave me feeling refreshed for a day of beach dwelling ahead. After your treatment, unwind in the serene resting areas by the water on chic triangle cushions while savoring a delicate cup of post-treatment tea.

Family-friendly Offerings

The family suite at Cape Panwa is perfect for those who need extra space, offering separate balconies and bathrooms for some much-needed privacy. Kids over five can enjoy the Monkeys’ Club for free, with a packed schedule of activities such as nature walks, kids yoga, face painting, mini Thai cultural classes, and healthy cooking workshops. It’s the perfect setup for parents to sip cocktails beachside while the little ones stay entertained and engaged in fun, educational experiences.

Accessibility and Sustainability

Cape Panwa Hotel has wheelchair-accessible entrances, restaurants, and lounge areas, as well as stair-free paths leading to the main entrance. Most rooms are wheelchair accessible, though some limitations may apply based on individual needs.

The resort has adopted cruelty-free practices in the kitchen, such as not using shark fin, bird’s nest, or foie gras.

Location

Cape Panwa Hotel is tucked away on the quiet southern tip of Phuket’s east coast—perfect for those seeking a more laid-back, secluded vibe. Phuket Island (Ko Phuket), Thailand’s largest island, is nestled in the Andaman Sea. Getting there from Phuket International Airport (HKT) is a breeze. You can book a Grab ride (the equivalent of Uber in Thailand) or let the hotel handle your transportation—it’s about an hour’s drive, depending on traffic.

Renting a car isn’t necessary since Grab rides are affordable and easy to arrange, even for longer trips like heading to Old Town. And if you need anything else, the hotel can help arrange transportation. Keep in mind that, by law, all beaches in Thailand are public, but Cape Panwa’s beach is secluded and remains uncrowded.

How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay

Cape Panwa Hotel is part of Cape&Kantary Hotels’ loyalty program, Cape and Kantary Privilege Card, a three-tier membership program that offers discounts and access to special amenities and services. If you don’t mind a few sporadic rain showers, the rainy season (mid-May through mid-October) offers lower rates and fewer crowds.