Phuket, Thailand’s most popular island destination, is experiencing a post-pandemic tourism resurgence unlike any other. With millions of travelers returning annually, the island’s economy is seeing a surge in new investments and entrepreneurial activity. But this boom isn’t just good news for hotels and tour operators — it’s opening doors across multiple industries.
In this article, we explore how Phuket’s tourism boom is fueling fresh business opportunities in 2025, and what sectors are thriving in this new era of growth.
📈 Phuket’s Tourism Rebound in 2025
Phuket welcomed over 13 million visitors in 2024, generating approximately 497 billion baht in tourism revenue. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, the island attracted 3.89 million visitors, contributing to 149 billion baht in revenue.
🔥 Top Sectors Benefiting from the Tourism Boom
1. Hospitality & Lifestyle Services
Boutique hotels, luxury villas, and hostels are popping up across the island. But there’s also a surge in wellness spas, yoga retreats, and massage therapy businesses. Tourists are seeking unique, experience-driven stays — which means plenty of room for creative hospitality entrepreneurs.
2. Food & Beverage (F&B)
Restaurants, beach clubs, and mobile food stalls are thriving. International tourists are driving demand for:
- Vegan and health-conscious options
- Ethnic fusion cuisine
- Local Thai cooking classes
Even ghost kitchens and food delivery services are becoming more common, catering to remote workers and long-stay travelers.
3. Transportation & Tour Services
Electric scooter rentals, boat charters, and personalized island tours are booming. With growing awareness of sustainability, there’s increasing interest in eco-tourism businesses, such as:
- Reef-safe diving tours
- Jungle treks with local guides
- Sustainable island-hopping packages
4. Real Estate & Co-Living Spaces
The rise in digital nomads and long-term expats has sparked demand for co-living, serviced apartments, and remote-work-friendly villas. Investors are jumping into Phuket’s property market, either through rentals or real estate development tailored to the nomad lifestyle.
5. Health & Wellness
Thailand’s global reputation in medical tourism is helping Phuket grow its network of private clinics, dental centers, and wellness hubs. With affordable prices and high-quality service, tourists are mixing vacations with medical checkups, aesthetic treatments, and detox retreats.
💡 Why Now Is the Best Time to Start a Business in Phuket
- Infrastructure investments: Improved roads, faster internet, and better public transport are making it easier to run businesses.
- Digital economy push: Thailand is encouraging digital transformation, offering incentives for SMEs and tech startups.
- Growing expat and nomad community: A steady base of long-term residents boosts year-round demand.
✅ Tips for Aspiring Business Owners in Phuket
- Understand Thai regulations — Work with local legal experts to navigate permits and business licenses.
- Build local relationships — Partnerships with Thai nationals can improve operations and cultural understanding.
- Leverage online visibility — Use SEO, Google Maps, and bilingual content to attract both local and international customers.
Final Thoughts
Phuket is more than a beach destination — it’s a business hub in the making. As the tourism boom continues in 2025, the time is ripe for entrepreneurs and investors to tap into the island’s evolving market. Whether you’re launching a health-focused café, an eco-tour company, or a co-working villa, Phuket offers fertile ground for fresh ideas and profitable growth.
Need help starting or growing your Phuket business?
Contact our local agency for marketing, setup, and strategy support designed for Phuket’s unique market.