Sarasin Bridge

The bridge most visitors photograph as “Sarasin Bridge” no longer carries any traffic. The original 660-metre span opened in 1967 as the first fixed link between Phuket island and mainland Phang Nga, crossing the narrow Pak Phra channel that separates them. It was named after Pote Sarasin, a former Thai prime minister. As traffic grew through the 1990s and 2000s, the 1960s structure couldn’t take the load, and in 2011 a new four-lane crossing — Thepkasattri Bridge — opened directly alongside it. A third span, Srisoonthorn Bridge, followed later. The three bridges now run side by side across the channel; only the two newer ones carry vehicles.

The original bridge was converted into a pedestrian walkway rather than demolished. Roughly 100 metres of it is roofed for shade, with lampposts and pavilions added for sightseeing rather than transit. Walking it gives an open view over the channel — mangrove shoreline on both banks, longtail boats working the water below, and limestone karst hills visible toward the mainland side. Small vendors set up near the Phuket-side approach selling coconuts and snacks, and the spot draws a steady trickle of visitors around sunset when the light over the water is best.

Watch out: The two newer bridges beside the old one carry live, fast-moving traffic with no pedestrian path — do not attempt to walk or stop on Thepkasattri or Srisoonthorn Bridge. Stick to the marked pedestrian bridge, and keep an eye on children near the unrailed sections at the old bridge’s edges.

There isn’t much to detain you beyond 20–30 minutes: a walk across, a few photos, maybe a coconut from a vendor. It works best as a short stop for travellers already driving between the airport area and northern Phuket beaches like Nai Yang, rather than a dedicated trip. Shade is limited outside the roofed section, so midday visits in the dry season get uncomfortably hot; early morning or the hour before sunset are more pleasant.

Insider Tip: Combine the stop with Sirinat National Park or Nai Yang Beach, both a short drive south — the bridge alone rarely justifies the detour on its own, but it’s an easy five-minute add-on if you’re already passing through Thalang or Mai Khao.