Loy Krathong in Phuket: Where to Float a Krathong, Eco Rules and Crowds

Date and meaning

Loy Krathong falls on the evening of the full moon of the twelfth month in the Thai lunar calendar. In 2026 that is Tuesday 24 November, according to Phuket 101, although at least one travel site lists 25 November, so confirm the date locally. Phuket 101 gives 13 November for 2027, while another source lists 14 November, which shows how far lunar dates can differ between sources.

Loy means to float. Travel sources describe the custom as paying respect to the water goddess and apologising for any harm done to the water, and many couples make a wish as they set a krathong down. It is a family evening more than a party.

Where to go in Phuket

• Saphan Hin Park in Phuket Town hosts the biggest local gathering, with a fair, food stalls and krathong competitions, and Suan Luang Park off Naka Market Road is a second Phuket Town site that the city has used to ease crowding.
• Nai Harn Lake in the south is a favourite with local families and is quieter than the main beaches.
• Patong Beach is described as the biggest and liveliest, with music and performances along the sand.
• Kata, Karon, Rawai and the Bang Tao and Laguna lagoons are more relaxed, and Phuket 101 lists the Rawai pier as a place to float one straight off the pier.
• Local guides over the years have also named lakes in Kathu, including near the Tin Mine Museum and Ket Ho temple, and Bang Maruam in Thalang.

Many hotels and resorts hold their own krathong evening by the pool or on the beach, which is the easiest choice if you want a calm version with staff to help.

What a krathong should be made of

Choose banana trunk, banana leaves, flowers or bread, which break down in water. Resort and travel sources suggest bamboo pins instead of metal, local flowers and a base such as watermelon rind that fish can eat, and advise asking a seller what a krathong is made from before you buy it. Avoid foam, plastic, staples and wire, since they stay in the water after the night is over.

Some groups share one krathong between several people and help with clean-up nets, and sellers at the municipal sites have been told to bag their rubbish for collection. Make your own at a workshop or in the hotel if you prefer, since many use banana leaves, flowers, incense and candles.

Sky lanterns and fire

Sky lanterns are banned around Phuket airport for aircraft safety, according to a travel magazine, which notes that in recent years there have also been no-lantern zones and heavy penalties for releases in restricted areas. Check the current rules before you buy or release one. Candles and incense are a fire risk for hair, sleeves and dry grass, so keep children well back from the water's edge.

Practical tips

• Go early for a spot at Saphan Hin or Patong, and expect crowds and slow roads in the evening.
• Wear shoes you can get wet, bring small cash for krathong and food stalls, and keep valuables close.
• If you drink, do not drive or ride a scooter, and see the police checkpoint guide.
• Book hotels early if you want a resort evening, because November is the start of the high season.

For this year's list of events, see our Loy Krathong 2026 news report, and for the full festival year see the festivals calendar.