For seafood lovers, Rawai Seafood Market in Phuket is a must-visit. Set along the lively Rawai waterfront, this market is filled with fresh catches straight from the Andaman Sea, offering a unique and flavorful experience. From live lobsters and crabs to prawns and freshly caught snapper, there’s an incredible variety of seafood ready to be enjoyed.
Timing your visit makes all the difference—certain times of the day and year bring seasonal specialties and the freshest selections. Whether you’re looking to try something unique or avoid the crowds, a little planning will help you make the most of this seafood paradise.
What to Expect at Rawai Seafood Market
Rawai Seafood Market is all about freshness and authenticity. Vendors take pride in offering premium-quality seafood, including live lobsters, crabs, prawns, snapper, and barracuda, all delivered straight from the fishing boats.
One of the best parts of visiting? The immediate cooking service from nearby restaurants. Simply pick your seafood, take it across the street, and have it prepared just the way you like—grilled, steamed, stir-fried, or cooked with local spices—all within minutes.
Best Times to Visit Rawai Seafood Market
When you go can make a big difference in your experience. Whether you want the widest selection, the freshest catch, or a quieter visit, here’s when to plan your trip:
Peak Season (November to April) – Best for Variety & Atmosphere
For the busiest and most vibrant experience, visit between November and April. This is Phuket’s high season, when the market is full of energy, and vendors offer an abundant selection of fresh seafood straight from the sea.
- Best time of day: Early morning (7 AM – 11 AM) for the freshest catches.
- What to expect: Lobsters, tiger prawns, groupers, snapper, and barracuda are at their peak.
- Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and get first pick.
Off-Peak Season (May to October) – Quieter & Unique Finds
For a quieter, more relaxed experience, visit during the low season (May to October). The market is less crowded, and while monsoon conditions may affect some fishing activities, you can still find rare seasonal catches like blue crabs, mantis shrimp, and slipper lobsters.
- Best time of day: Mid-morning to early afternoon when vendors are fully stocked but not too busy.
- What to expect: Unique seafood varieties and a more laid-back market atmosphere.
- Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend rushes.
Best Daily Timing – When to Go for the Freshest Catch
- 7 AM – 11 AM: Best time to shop – Fishermen bring in the freshest seafood early in the morning.
- Midday – Afternoon: Still plenty of options, but popular seafood sells out fast.
- Evenings: Limited selection, but a great time to enjoy a seafood dinner at nearby restaurants.
Seasonal Specialties: What’s Fresh & When
Each season brings different seafood specialties, giving you the chance to try something new every time you visit.
High Season Delicacies (November – April)
Expect an abundance of some of the best seafood Phuket has to offer:
- November: Crabs
- December: Lobsters
- January: Tiger prawns
- February: Groupers
- March: Snapper
- April: Barracuda
Best time to go: Early mornings when the selection is at its freshest.
Low Season Specials (May – October)
While the market is quieter, you’ll still find unique seafood varieties that aren’t as common in high season:
- May: Slipper lobsters
- June: Cuttlefish
- July – October: Lesser-known seafood varieties displayed by local fishermen
Best time to go: Weekday mornings for a calm, crowd-free experience.
Tips for the Best Market Experience
Make the most of your visit with these handy tips:
- Arrive early – The freshest seafood arrives between 7 AM and 11 AM. Be there before the best picks sell out.
- Bring cash – Many vendors only accept cash, and while ATMs are nearby, having cash on hand makes things easier.
- Choose live seafood – If you want the freshest catch, go for live lobsters, crabs, and prawns—check their movement before buying.
- Try a local restaurant – Pick your seafood and have it cooked right away at a nearby restaurant for an authentic, fresh-off-the-boat meal.
- Visit on a weekday – Weekends get busy, so for a relaxed experience, go during the week.
- Wear comfy shoes – The market floor can be wet, so wear non-slip footwear to move around easily.
Stay in Comfort: Two-Bedroom Pool Villa with Kitchenette & Dining Area
For those looking to fully experience Rawai Seafood Market, Selina Phuket’s Two-Bedroom Pool Villa is the perfect place to stay. Designed for groups of up to four guests, this spacious beachfront villa offers a kitchenette and dining area, making it easy to prepare and enjoy your own seafood feast in a private and comfortable setting.
Cook & Dine in Your Private Villa
- Kitchenette & Dining Area – Buy fresh seafood from Rawai Seafood Market, cook it just the way you like, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the privacy of your villa.
- Beachfront Views & Outdoor Space – Savor your meal with stunning ocean views or unwind by the private pool.
- Spacious Living for Groups – Ideal for families or friends traveling together, offering plenty of space to relax and connect.
More Than Just a Stay – Experience Selina Phuket
- Prime Beachfront Location – Stay right by the beach and soak in Phuket’s natural beauty.
- Outdoor Pool – Take a dip and unwind after a day of exploring.
- Coworking Spaces – Stay connected with fast Wi-Fi and work-friendly areas.
- Wellness & Community Events – Join yoga sessions, social gatherings, and cultural activities.
Experience the best of Rawai’s seafood scene, beachfront living, and Selina’s top facilities in this spacious villa with a private pool, kitchenette, and dining area—perfect for cooking, relaxing, and enjoying stunning views.
Rawai Seafood Market is a must-visit for seafood lovers, offering the freshest catches alongside the vibrant atmosphere of Phuket’s waterfront. Whether you go during the lively high season or the quieter off-peak months, timing your visit enhances the experience. Don’t miss out on the best seafood and local flavors—plan your trip, book your stay at Rawai Hotel Phuket, and enjoy an unforgettable experience with Selina Phuket!