Rawaii Seafood Market in Phukhet
**Rawai Seafood Market in Phuket: A Must-Visit for Seafood Lovers**
If you're a seafood enthusiast visiting Phuket, the **Rawai Seafood Market** is an absolute must-visit. Located in the southern part of the island in Rawai Beach, this bustling market offers an authentic Thai seafood experience where you can handpick the freshest catches of the day and have them cooked to perfection right before your eyes.
### **What Makes Rawai Seafood Market Special?**
1. **Freshness Guaranteed** – The market is lined with stalls selling live fish, crabs, lobsters, prawns, squid, and shellfish straight from local fishermen. You can inspect and choose your seafood while it's still swimming or crawling!
2. **Cook-Your-Own-Way Concept** – After selecting your seafood, take it to one of the nearby restaurants (many are right across the street), where chefs will prepare it just how you like—grilled, steamed, fried, or spicy Thai-style.
3. **Affordable Prices** – While not as cheap as it once was, bargaining is still possible, and prices are reasonable compared to tourist-heavy restaurants in Patong or Phuket Town.
4. **Local Vibe** – Unlike the more commercialized areas, Rawai retains a laid-back, local atmosphere, making it a great place to experience genuine Thai seafood culture.
### **Best Seafood to Try**
- **Grilled Lobster** (with garlic butter or spicy sauce)
- **Steamed Blue Crab** (with lemongrass and lime)
- **Spicy Tom Yum Goong** (hot and sour prawn soup)
- **Grilled Sea Bass** (with Thai herbs)
- **Stir-Fried Phuket Lobster** (with black pepper sauce)
### **Tips for Visitors**
✔ **Go Early** – The best seafood is available in the morning and early afternoon.
✔ **Negotiate Prices** – Don’t hesitate to bargain politely, especially if buying in bulk.
✔ **Choose Your Restaurant Wisely** – Some places charge high cooking fees, so check prices before sitting down.
✔ **Pair with Local Dishes** – Order som tam (papaya salad) or fried rice to complement your seafood feast.
### **Nearby Attractions**
After your meal, explore **Promthep Cape** for a stunning sunset or take a boat trip to **Bon Island** or **Coral Island** for snorkeling.
### **Final Verdict**
Rawai Seafood Market is a fantastic spot for foodies who want fresh, delicious seafood in a local setting. It’s a bit off the main tourist trail, making it a more authentic experience than Phuket’s crowded beachside eateries.
**How to Get There?**
📍 Location: Rawai Pier, Wiset Road, Rawai (about 20-30 mins from Patong by car/taxi)
⏰ Opening Hours: ~9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (best to visit before sunset)