Welcome back to the Architect Phuket blog! I’m Nay, your native Thai architect, and I’m continuing our series on Phuket’s subdistricts to help you find the perfect spot for property investment, retirement, or building a house. Today, we’re landing in Sakhu, a name hinting at “sand” in Thai—and it offers a northern edge with a breezy, airport-adjacent appeal.
Why Sakhu Appeals to Property Investors Seeking Steady Returns
Sakhu perches in Phuket’s northwest in Thalang District, west of Pa Khlok and near Mai Khao. It’s part of Mai Khao tambon but widely recognised as a distinct community for its airport proximity and quiet coastal vibe. It’s a practical coastal fringe where locals, expats, and airport travellers settle for access and a quieter shore. Land here is fairly priced—cheaper than luxury coastal zones—making it an attractive option for investors. Rentals mix short-term travellers and long-term expats, offering a steady earner with consistent demand. The area’s proximity to the airport and lack of heavy tourist traffic make it ideal for investors seeking a practical, traveler-friendly rental market.
Is Sakhu Suitable for Retirees Seeking a Quiet, Coastal Lifestyle?
The vibe in Sakhu is calm with a subtle hum, perfect for retirees who want a quiet coastal lifestyle with convenient access. Nai Yang Beach shines—sandy, shaded, and blissfully uncrowded, offering a serene spot for relaxation. You’ve got dining options like Phen’s Restaurant for a tasty bite or The Beach Bar for a chilled drink by the sea. Local markets handle basics, and Tesco Lotus is 20 minutes south in Cherngtalay for larger shopping needs. Traffic is light—Nai Yang Road stays gentle, even with the airport nearby, ensuring a peaceful environment. It’s not a party hub; it’s a practical coastal retreat, making it an ideal choice for retirees. The airport is just 5 minutes east, and Chalong’s pier, 40 minutes south, links to islands like Koh Phi Phi. Wildlife is minimal—birds, crabs—adding to the natural setting without disruption.
Building a Coastal Home in Sakhu: Topography and Opportunities
Sakhu’s topography keeps it low and lovely, offering excellent opportunities for those looking to build a house near the coast. Flat land stretches near the beach—perfect for straightforward construction—while gentle hills nudge inland, tied to Sirinat National Park’s greenery. This simple sweep makes building easy; the flat zone’s breadth suits quick projects, and the low hills provide a slight elevation for those seeking a scenic perch.
Let’s analyse a 3 km radius around Nai Yang Beach’s hub, Sakhu’s coastal heartbeat:
- 0.75 km Radius (Coastal Core): This is the quiet core, where beach and local life meet—great for rentals or a small stop catering to travellers.
- 1.5 km Radius (Residential Potential): This zone blends homes and utility, close to the shore with hints of parkland—solid for a practical house or modest stays.
- 3 km Radius (Hilly Retreat): This area spreads to the hills, perfect for a quiet, nature-focused retreat, linking north to Mai Khao or east to Pa Khlok.
Sakhu is a subtle shore—calm and cleverly placed. It’s ideal for building a coastal house, though those back roads can drift—give them a look before committing. Build clean; this area’s no-fuss appeal deserves a thoughtful design.
Building Regulations in Sakhu
Here’s what you need to know about building regulations:
- The flat coastal stretch requires 40% open space for greenery or parking.
- Hilly patches require 60% open space.
- Coastal strips 10-50 metres from the beach cap builds at 6 metres, under 75 square metres, with 75% open space. Beaches can’t be owned, so watch the edges.
- Inland, you can hit 12 metres, but slopes over 50% are off-limits—stick to the flatter or gentler hilly areas.
Start with the Phuket City Land Use Planning Map, Land Slope Controls via topography analysis, Thailand Ministerial Regulation No. 22, and the Phuket Environmental Control Map. These are standard rules, but they can shift, and exceptions slip in, so check with Phuket officials.
Is Sakhu the Right Investment for You?
Sakhu is a quiet catch—great for a simple retirement, a practical coastal home, or a rental with steady, traveller-friendly appeal for both short-term and long-term tenants. It’s not loud or lavish, but it offers a balance of grit and grace for investors, retirees, and home builders seeking a convenient, budget-friendly coastal spot. Pick a sharp spot, and you’re set. Ready to invest or build in Sakhu? Contact us at Architect Phuket to start planning your project!
Video Coming Soon
A video on this topic will be coming sometime in the future, so stay tuned for more insights on Sakhu.
What’s Next?
In my next post, we’ll explore another Phuket subdistrict to continue our journey. For now, if you’re ready to get started, reach out via our contact page.
