If you’re searching for Phuket’s most relaxed and stylish night market, look no further than the Boat Avenue Friday Market in the heart of Cherngtalay, just minutes from the bustling Laguna, Bang Tao Beach and The Zero Bang Tao. Every Friday from 4.00 PM to 9.00 PM, Boat Avenue transforms into a colourful and bustling lakeside plaza filled with live music, delicious food stalls, boutique pop-ups, and a welcoming community vibe.
What Makes Boat Avenue Friday Market Unique?
Atmosphere & Community
Far from the overwhelming chaos of bigger Thai night markets, this weekly event feels more like a European open-air festival than a traditional street market. Expect fairy lights strung between stalls, wine by the glass, and families mingling with digital nomads and in-the-know travellers. Children play on the lawn while live jazz or acoustic sets float from the central stage.
Gourmet Food & Drinks
Boat Avenue brings together Phuket’s best street food vendors with an upscale twist. Sample everything from wood-fired pizzas and fresh sushi to artisanal sausages, German bratwurst, French crêpes, and classic Thai favourites. The wine bar is a standout (unusual for a night market in Thailand), and gourmet treats, cocktails, and carefully prepared meals are served at communal tables or lakeside picnic spots.
Artisan Shopping
Shoppers will find a curated selection of handmade jewellery, beach fashion, leather goods, candles, vintage accessories, and unique souvenirs. No hard bargaining here. Prices are clear, and many vendors speak fluent English, making the experience friendly for visitors and locals alike.
Live Entertainment
Beyond the great eats and shopping, the atmosphere comes alive with local bands and performers, small dance shows, and impromptu street artists, making every Friday evening a genuine festival of flavours, music, and fun.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
Best Time to Go
The market starts at 4.00 PM, but the vibe builds after 5.30 as the sun sets and the area fills with happy hour crowds. Early birds can grab a seat by the stage or lake, but expect the busiest, buzziest scene from 6.00 PM to 8.00 PM.
Parking & Access
Ample parking is available behind the plaza and by the lake, but it fills up quickly after 6:00 PM, so consider arriving early if you plan to drive.
Who Should Go
Perfect for couples, families, expats, and holidaymakers seeking good food, laid-back shopping, and a taste of Phuket’s more sophisticated, locally loved nightlife.
What Not to Miss
Try the authentic Pad Kra Pao from the elderly couple on site, enjoy wine or cocktails with friends, and take home a local hand-crafted memento.
Why Boat Avenue Friday Market Is a Must-Visit
Boat Avenue Friday Market offers a fresh take on the Thai night market tradition—combining great taste, comfort, and community in an effortlessly stylish setting. Whether you live in Phuket or are just visiting, this lakeside affair is a weekly highlight, promising memorable food, lively music, and a warm island welcome.
Boat Avenue Friday Market
Location: Boat Avenue, Cherngtalay (between Villa Market and the lake)
Open: Fridays, 4.00 PM to 9:00 PM
Best for: Street food lovers, expat community, families, and anyone seeking Phuket’s coolest Friday night experience.
If you’re in Bang Tao, Laguna, or anywhere on Phuket’s west coast, don’t miss this fun, community-focused night market. It’s a perfect way to kick off the island weekend!
