In particular, Surin Beach, which has long drawn some of the island’s most glittering clientele, saw a number of their beach clubs torn down to the dismay of many of the regulars to that scene.
Most recently, the sudden closure of Nikki Beach Phuket sparked controversy and mixed reaction, with the management of the popular club simply posting a notice on its Facebook page on September 5:
“To our Nikki Beach Friends and Family, we want to let you know that our Phuket location is currently closed.”
The closure of the club has undoubtedly caused a divide of interest, with many taking to social media to voice their opinions. One voice in favour of the closure stated “Peace has finally returned to Layan Beach”.
This sentiment is not ubiquitous, however, given the club’s international reputation and popularity of its sister branches across the world.
But whether or not one is a fan of the beach club scene, it cannot be denied that many of these glamorous landmarks, which strongly cater towards “high spending” expat clientèle, have greatly helped Phuket’s tourism.
It’s no secret that Thailand’s tourism-dependent economy has had a relatively tough
year, and certain controversial policies have exasperated the situation.
The reduction and removal of beach chairs and umbrellas on Phuket’s beaches comes to mind, and now, as yet another beach club on Phuket’s iconic west coast has been shut down, many questions, and doubts, have arisen in respect to the future.
But perhaps it’s not all gloom and doom for the island’s beach club scene.
Interestingly enough, a report online suggested that the Nikki Beach Hotel is being rebranded under the Dream brand, with the club to be reopen as the Dream Beach Club after an extensive renovation and upgrade, a relaunch rumoured for mid-November, just in time for high season.
Good or bad – The Phuket News intends to remain neutral. Some of our staff regularly frequent the scene and swear by its benefits, while others prefer the quiet, desolate side of the beach.
Nonetheless we encourage all businesses to abide by the rule of law, and give back to the community whenever possible.