Chalong – the heart of authentic Phuket
Chalong has long ceased to be just a transit zone to the beaches. This dynamically developing area now offers the perfect balance between authentic Thai atmosphere and modern amenities, becoming increasingly attractive to investors and expats. The heart of Chalong is the vibrant Chao Fa West Road, where traditional Thai shops stand alongside European boutiques, and cozy cafes compete with bustling motorcycle dealerships.
The district's main advantage is its strategic location. Just 10 minutes separate Chalong from the famous Kata and Karon beaches, 5 minutes from prestigious Rawai, and Phuket International Airport is only 25 minutes away via modern highways. But the true hallmark of the area remains Chalong Pier - Phuket's largest marina, from where hundreds of boats depart daily to the Phi Phi Islands, Raya, and other paradisiacal corners of the Andaman Sea. This makes the area particularly attractive for yachting and diving enthusiasts, creating constant demand for housing rentals.
Chalong's infrastructure impresses with its diversity. The district hosts two major shopping centers - Big C and Makro - where you can find everything from fresh seafood to construction materials. On weekends, the Weekend Market comes alive - a true paradise for foodies offering dozens of street food varieties. Healthcare is represented by both international-standard hospitals like Bangkok Hospital Phuket and affordable local clinics. For families with children, prestigious international schools operate in the area - Phuket International Academy and Kajonkiet International School, offering British curriculum education.
Chalong's real estate market boasts remarkable diversity. Modern condominiums with swimming pools and fitness centers line the main streets, with prices starting from 2.5 million baht for a studio. Complexes near the marina - such as The Bay Phuket or Chalong Marina Residence - are particularly popular, achieving rental rates of 30,000 baht per month during high season. For those preferring more space, cozy townhouses with private terraces are available in quiet sois (lanes) starting from 5 million baht. The true gems of the district are the hillside villas - spacious residences with sea views, priced from 15 million baht.
Commercial real estate in Chalong presents special interest for investors. Small cafes, massage parlors, and mini-hotels on ground floors along Chao Fa West Road generate stable income thanks to constant tourist flow. In recent years, a new trend has emerged - coworking spaces for digital nomads, whose numbers in Phuket grow annually.
Purchasing property in Chalong isn't just a profitable investment but an opportunity to join a unique community. Thai families, European retirees, Russian entrepreneurs, and American divers coexist harmoniously here, creating an unparalleled international atmosphere. With developing transport infrastructure and new businesses opening, Chalong continues gaining popularity, making real estate investments increasingly promising.
For those considering Chalong as a permanent residence, the district offers everything needed - from quality healthcare to prestigious education. Investors particularly value the stable property price growth (averaging 7-10% annually) and strong rental demand, especially during the yachting season from November to April. Meanwhile, prices here remain 20-30% lower than in established tourist centers like Patong or Kamala, making Chalong the ideal place for those seeking optimal price-quality ratio.
