Cape Panwa juts out on the south east corner of Phuket. Predominantly Muslim, the area remains calm and tranquil and very low key, especially when compared with Phuket’s tourism intense west coast and despite recent spates of development. The drive from Phuket Town is just 8km with the roads winding around hills and through coconut and rubber plantations. On the west side of the cape lies Chalong Bay, one of Phuket’s safest anchorages which is a hive of activity with yachts, dive operators and speed boats ready to rush tourists out to many to the outlying island. South is the pretty island of Koh Lon and in the distant east are the immensely popular Phi Phi islands and Krabi. Down the west side of the peninsular runs the course sandy and rocky Khao Khat beach with its handful of small beach restaurants whilst on the east side is the deep harbour of Ao Makham. At the tip of Cape Panwa is the Phuket Aquarium whose turtle exhibit is popular. One of Phuket’s hidden gems, Ao Yon Beach faces to the south – a haven for people who like peace and quiet. Home to the tiny Phuket Yacht Club and a small selection of eateries the whole area is blissfully quiet. Luxury villas and condos have sprung up in the area over recent years but the area retains much of its laid back charm and privacy.