Phuket: Police tighten beach controls after tourists nude bathing incident at Rawai.

*Phuket police have implemented stricter surveillance measures at the beach known as "Shadow Beach" in the Rawai sub-district.*

Published: 2026-03-13 20:36 UTC Event date: 2026-03-11

Phuket police have stepped up patrols and tightened controls at Shadow Beach in Rawai after a recent incident in which groups of foreign tourists were found sunbathing and swimming naked, prompting widespread concern among local residents. The increased surveillance, implemented on March 6, comes in response to complaints that the behaviour violated Thai cultural norms and undermined the island’s reputation as a family-friendly tourist destination.

The incident occurred at Shadow Beach, a secluded stretch along an 800-metre coastal trail leading to the popular Laem Phromthep Point, one of Phuket’s most visited sunset spots. According to officials, tourists—mainly from Russia and Europe—were seen bathing nude after travel bloggers promoted the location on social media as a “nude beach.” The online publicity led to a surge of international visitors seeking to experience what was described as a unique beach environment.

Authorities confirmed that Shadow Beach is public land, with no entrance fees or restrictions on access. However, the practice of nude bathing is not permitted in Thailand, where public nudity is considered offensive and illegal. Local residents in Rawai voiced strong objections, stating that such actions were in direct conflict with Thai traditions and could harm the island’s image among both domestic and foreign visitors.

In response, the Tourist Police Department, working with Rawai Prefecture patrol forces, has increased the frequency of patrols and introduced stricter monitoring measures at Shadow Beach and other vulnerable areas. Police have been tasked with informing tourists about local customs and enforcing dress code regulations on all public beaches. Signs have also been posted in multiple languages to remind visitors of appropriate beach attire and local laws.

The strengthened measures have already had an impact, with officers reporting a decrease in inappropriate behaviour in the days since the crackdown began. Local community leaders have praised the swift action but continue to call on authorities to maintain vigilance, emphasising the need to balance tourism promotion with respect for cultural values.

Phuket’s tourism officials are now working with travel agencies and online platforms to correct misinformation about “nude beaches” and to educate visitors before their arrival. As the high season continues, authorities have pledged to sustain the enhanced patrols and to review regulations as necessary to ensure all beachgoers can enjoy Phuket’s coastline in a manner that respects both local traditions and international visitors’ expectations.

Source: https://www.vietnam.vn/en/phuket-canh-sat-that-chat-quan-ly-bai-bien-sau-vu-du-khach-tam-khoa-than-tai-rawai