there's something special about sipping a perfectly crafted latte while feeling the tropical breeze on your skin. cherngtalay, tucked in phuket's thalang district, has become a hotspot for cafe culture—and outdoor seating is a big part of why.
why outdoor dining matters in phuket
let's be honest: you didn't come to phuket to sit inside. the year-round tropical climate, especially from november to april, creates perfect conditions for alfresco dining. there's something about the combination of palm trees, open skies, and a good cup of coffee that just feels right.
outdoor cafes offer more than just ambiance. in phuket's humid climate, natural ventilation can be more comfortable than air conditioning. plus, there's the practical side—many visitors travel with pets, and outdoor seating often accommodates our four-legged friends.
the cherngtalay cafe scene
cherngtalay sits strategically between some of phuket's best beaches (bangtao, surin, layan) and the newer developments like blue tree phuket. this mix of tourists, expats, and locals has created demand for quality cafes that go beyond the typical tourist spots.
the area around si sunthon and srisoonthorn roads has particularly blossomed. you'll find:
- specialty coffee shops with trained baristas and quality equipment
- matcha cafes offering japanese-style drinks with ceremonial grade powder
- brunch spots with european-inspired menus
- thai-fusion cafes blending local flavors with international techniques
what makes a great outdoor cafe?
not all outdoor seating is created equal. after spending years exploring phuket's cafe scene, here's what separates the good from the great:
essentials for outdoor cafes in phuket
- shade coverage: umbrellas or structures that block the midday sun
- air circulation: fans for when the breeze isn't enough
- comfortable seating: cushioned chairs or sofas for longer stays
- rain contingency: covered areas or quick access to indoor space
- mosquito management: landscaping and preventive measures
- charging outlets: for the digital nomad crowd
the best times to visit outdoor cafes
timing matters in tropical climates. here's our honest assessment:
🌅 morning (7-10am)
ideal
cool temperatures, soft light, peaceful atmosphere
☀️ midday (11am-3pm)
challenging
hot and bright; seek shaded or semi-indoor spots
🌤️ afternoon (3-5pm)
good
heat subsiding, nice for iced drinks
🌙 evening (5-7pm)
excellent
golden hour light, cooling temperatures
outdoor seating at matchoya
at matchoya, we designed our outdoor area specifically for phuket's climate. located at blue tree phuket in si sunthon, our terrace offers:
- shaded seating with proper coverage
- natural ventilation from our location design
- comfortable seating for both quick visits and longer stays
- pet-friendly atmosphere (we love meeting your dogs!)
our outdoor area is especially popular with families visiting blue tree phuket, digital nomads looking for a change of scenery, and anyone who appreciates drinking authentic japanese matcha while enjoying tropical vibes.
what to order at outdoor cafes
outdoor dining in phuket's heat calls for specific drink choices:
best drinks for outdoor sipping
- iced matcha latte: cooling, sustained energy without the crash
- iced americano: classic, refreshing, hydrating
- coconut coffee: local twist, naturally cooling
- hojicha latte: roasted tea flavor, lower caffeine for afternoon
- fresh fruit smoothies: vitamin boost with local tropical fruits
curious about the difference between matcha and coffee? check out our comparison of matcha vs coffee to find your ideal drink.
digital nomads and outdoor cafes
cherngtalay has become increasingly popular with remote workers. if you're looking to work from a cafe, here's what to consider:
- wifi reliability: check reviews before settling in
- laptop policy: some cafes limit laptop use during busy hours
- power outlets: outdoor areas often lack charging options
- screen glare: shade becomes even more important for work
for longer work sessions, we recommend starting outdoors in the morning, then moving inside during the hot hours if needed. many cafes in the area are understanding of the digital nomad lifestyle.
rainy season considerations
phuket's rainy season (may-october) doesn't mean you can't enjoy outdoor cafes. here's the reality:
- rain usually comes in short, intense bursts rather than all-day drizzle
- mornings are often clear, with rain more likely in afternoon
- covered outdoor areas remain comfortable
- temperatures are cooler, sometimes making outdoor seating more pleasant
the key is choosing cafes with proper rain coverage or having a backup indoor option.
frequently asked questions
are outdoor cafes in phuket pet-friendly?
many outdoor cafes in cherngtalay welcome well-behaved dogs. at matchoya, we're happy to have your four-legged friends join you in our outdoor area. always bring water for your pet and check with individual cafes about their policies.
what should i wear to outdoor cafes?
light, breathable clothing is best. even in shade, phuket is warm. consider bringing a light layer for air-conditioned indoor areas. sunglasses are essential for daytime visits.
are there kid-friendly outdoor cafes near blue tree?
yes! the blue tree phuket area is particularly family-friendly. matchoya welcomes families, and our location means kids can enjoy blue tree's activities before or after a cafe visit.
can i work from outdoor cafes?
many cafes are laptop-friendly, especially in the morning. check wifi quality before settling in for long sessions. outdoor screen glare can be challenging—morning hours work best for outdoor working.
experience outdoor dining at matchoya
if you're looking for a quality outdoor cafe experience near blue tree phuket, we'd love to have you. our outdoor seating combines tropical ambiance with ceremonial grade matcha and italian-style coffee—the best of both worlds.
come for your daily dose of matcha (or coffee), stay for the good vibes. that's what sunny phuket is all about.
visit our outdoor terrace
find us at 4/2 srisoonthorn rd, blue tree, si sunthon. open daily 8am-6pm with plenty of outdoor seating.
get directions