Phuket - Club Med
Why Club Med Phuket Is a Standout Stay: Firsthand Impressions, Insider Tips, and Fun for every type of traveller
Driving through the guard gate at Club Med Phuket, I was immediately struck not by a sweeping lobby or bustling crowd, but by the simple elegance of grey cobbled bricks circling the entry. Past the gate, the open-air lobby revealed an egg-shaped swing seat—a magnet for Instagram moments—framed by tranquil views over the pool. This was my first taste of a resort that blends playful design with a genuinely warm welcome.
The Atmosphere & Service:
From the very first moment, the laid-back vibe set the tone. Staff greeted us with chilled fruit drinks and cool, damp face towels—small touches that washed away travel fatigue and made us feel instantly at home. Their bright smiles and easy charm ensured we felt truly valued, not just as guests, but as part of the Club Med community.
Accommodation & Facilities:
Club Med Phuket is generously spread across several low-rise buildings (no higher than three stories), creating an open, breezy layout. While there are no lifts, the ever-helpful staff quickly whisked our bags upstairs, saving us the effort and letting us soak in our surroundings. The resort is large, and walking from my southern accommodation block to the sporting courts meant passing the nearly finished family area and splash park, which opened for families in April 2025.
For water lovers, the resort offers a comprehensive aquatic program. Snorkelling is accessible to all, provided you pass a quick swim test. Scuba diving is also offered at an additional cost, catering to all skill levels. There was an Australian staff member, they are called GO’s (Gentil Organisateur), whose enthusiasm and safety-first approach were reassuring.
Safety:
For those who want to venture to the beach, there is a small security booth at the gate, right near the pool and pool bar, where you sign in and out. The same applies at the front gate. This was implemented in case of further tsunamis, so that the resort can tell who is out of the resort at any given time, and therefore able to assist authorities in the event of an incident.
Activities for All Ages:
The variety of land sports is remarkable—think golf, Thai boxing, climbing, archery, padel, pickleball, tennis (including trapeze and circus activities!), and even cookery lessons. Most activities are available to everyone, including kids as young as four, making this a haven for active families. Add in entertainment, team sports, and plenty of pool time, and no one’s ever bored. There are Kids Club options, and the teams there are brilliant with the kids, who also get to do activities in the resort grounds as well as within the safety of the Kids Clubs.
Pools & Relaxation:
The main pool features three swimming zones of varying depths, all surrounded by teak loungers and shady parasols—a sanctuary for families. For adults seeking peace, the Zen Pool is a hidden gem on the resort’s northeastern edge, overlooking Kata Beach. With no lifeguard, it’s a quiet retreat best enjoyed with a cocktail in hand, though be aware the snack and drink selection is more limited than at the main bar.
Dining Highlights:
Mamuang, the main restaurant, is a showcase of international and local flavours, including live cooking stations for Thai specialities like Moo Hong. The terrace offers Andaman Sea views, but the cool, contemporary interiors are equally inviting.
For something extra special, reserve a spot at Chu-da, the resort’s specialty restaurant. My dinner here was an absolute treat: perfectly grilled meats, and Thai mango sticky rice, all savoured on a breezy balcony with great wine and even better company.
Evening entertainment:
There was always something on in the evenings, and many of the staff (GO’s) partake, be it in performance in the front, setting up the shows, and more. There is a particular song and dance that goes with it you need to ask about to the GO’s, they would love to teach you how to do it.
Nightlife Beyond the Resort:
No trip to Phuket is complete without a night out, and Simon’s Cabaret delivered an unforgettable performance. The show’s dazzling costumes, high-energy choreography, and jaw-dropping vocals left us in awe—not to mention the artistry of the performers, many of whom had transitioned from male to female, blurring the lines of gender with such confidence and talent that it was hard to believe they were all born male. If you want a photo with the stars after the show (a must for the memories!), be sure to bring cash, as there’s a fee for the privilege. Note: no photos or videos are permitted during the performance itself.
Who’s It For?
Club Med Phuket truly shines for couples, groups and families —especially those with active kids or multi-generational groups. The range of activities means everyone finds their own fun, while adults can carve out relaxation time at the spa or Zen Pool. It’s also great for solo travellers and couples who crave a balance of adventure and downtime. If you have mobility concerns, note the lack of lifts and the spread-out grounds.
Insider Tips & Advice:
Dietary needs are well-handled; just let staff know in advance. Our group had several allergies, and the kitchen adapted accordingly. Book the specialty restaurant Chu-da ahead of time, as it’s popular and space is limited. The Zen Pool is a must for adults craving peace—just expect a focused drink/snack menu. For excursions, you can choose half-day snorkelling, a full day at Phi Phi Island, or simply unwind at the spa (where the wonderful staff even helped me take fun photos of my mascot kangaroo and crocodile!). If you’re heat-sensitive, travel during Phuket’s “winter” (November to February). Rooms have dehumidifiers—use them with the air conditioning (they are permanently set to no lower than 22°C) for a cooler night’s sleep. Navigating the resort takes some walking, so pack comfortable shoes and prepare for a bit of adventure between activities.
Conclusion:
Club Med Phuket isn’t just a stay—it’s an experience. The thoughtful touches, friendly staff, and sheer breadth of activities make it a winning option for couples, solos and families, groups, and anyone looking to blend relaxation with play. My familiarisation trip left me convinced: this is a Phuket resort with real substance.