A White Lotus road trip: filming locations and travel inspiration
Warning: Spoilers ahead!
The third season of HBO’s hit series has captivated us all with the drama and dynamics between its main characters, this time in breathtaking Thailand. There is plenty to love about White Lotus—the stunning scenery, glimpse into local cultures, the iconic characters—and with Daytrip, you can step into Mike White’s incredible world by visiting iconic Thai cities and sites. Whether you want to see where the series was filmed and incredible scenes took place, or simply create your own White Lotus-inspired road trip, get ready to be inspired.
We’ll show you the can’t-miss cities for your Thailand road trip itinerary, reminiscent of the scenery in many scenes and the gorgeous backdrops.
So, ready to live vicariously through our favorite hotel guests?
Filming locations
The series was filmed in Koh Samui, Phuket and Bangkok.
As was the case for the previous 2 seasons, many of the scenes were shot at a Four Seasons hotel in Koh Samui, where you can actually book a White Lotus inspired stay and uncover the island’s magic for yourself. The series was also filmed in some resort locations in Phuket and the streets of Bangkok. We’ll delve into each location and the discovery possibilities around, and how you can explore them with Daytrip!
A. Phuket
A visit to Phuket will treat you to sweeping panoramic views, cobbled beaches and endless seas.
The secondary filming location of the series is the island of Phuket. Thailand’s largest island is home to a number of natural phenomena, cultural activities and nightlife venues, making it a can’t-miss destination on your travel bucket list. Foodies and adventurers will delight in the many options in the food stalls lining the old town street markets, and the greenery enveloping the towns ensures endless hikes. Its tin-mining and colonial history are also visible at every turn, through various architectural styles and monuments.
Day trips from Phuket
Read on for some itineraries from our newest way to explore the world: day trips!
Phuket to 3 beaches: Yanui, Kamala and Patong
Immerse yourself in season 3 by replicating the most iconic scenes in the season.
Yanui Beach is where the staff welcomed the guests on the beach in the very first episode; Kamala Beach, and specifically Café del Mar, is the site of the the frenemy trio’s party with Valentin and the Russians; and Patong Beach is the home of Bangla Boxing Stadium, where the sixth episode’s Muay thai scenes were filmed.
You’ll also find a Buddhist temple there, Wat Suwan Khiri Wong.
Phuket to Wat Phra Thong and Sai Kaew Beach
Our second day trip offering is from Phuket to a Buddhist temple and picturesque beach.
A visit to the Wat Phra Thong temple will give you insight into Buddhist spirituality, and Sai Kaew Beach is ideal for breaking away from the crowds and discovering a lesser known beach.
B. Koh Samui
Emerald shores and billowing palm trees await.
The White Lotus resorts are known for their beautiful architecture, breathtaking views and interesting staff dynamics; with that in mind, there was no better place to film the third season than Koh Samui, an island off the east coast of the country and its second largest.
In addition to endless beaches and a backdrop of mountains everywhere you look, the island boasts incredible nightlife, a variety of resorts and enticing history and culture. In episode 3, we saw a representation of the Thai new year when Jaclyn, Kate and Laurie were chased by water guns in downtown Koh Samui. This is part of the Songkran festival, where the Thai new year is celebrated by purifying and cleansing items with water to symbolize a fresh start to the new year.
As the primary filming location of the series, don’t miss the opportunity to visit once you’re in Thailand! Daytrip can get you from many locations to the Don Sak pier, from which you can hop on a ferry and uncover the beauty and enchantment of the series’ primary filming location.
C. Bangkok
An intersection of ancient and modern.
Bangkok arose from a small trading post in the 16th century to a sprawling megacity in the modern day. The city’s juxtaposition of ancient, mystical, ultra-modern and innovative makes it unforgettable for everyone who chooses to visit. Not to mention, when you fly into Bangkok, you have the rest of the country at your fingertips!
As the first stop on your Thailand adventure, follow in Rick and Frank’s footsteps along the capital’s bustling streets– a true metropolis with a population of over 11 million people and well worth a visit for its melting pot of cultures, historical sites, and world-renowned food scene.
You can stroll around the streets, take a tuk-tuk, or ride a back klong in the capital’s canals, the same boat Rick and Frank took to Sritala’s house.
Day trips from Bangkok
Once you’re done exploring all the city has to offer, you can explore the surrounding area by taking a day trip with us!
Bangkok to Damnoen Saduak Market and Erawan National Park
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a staple among tourists and locals alike. By visiting, not only will you be treating yourself to the fresh and colorful flavors Thai cuisine is known for, you’ll be supporting the local economy and getting to know the local delicacies. Afterwards, make your way to Erawan falls, which consists of seven tiers of waterfalls and is a must-see for those who enjoy solitude in nature.
Bangkok to Wat Khao Tabak and Rayong
A major highlight of this season is the intersection between Eastern spirituality and the woes of the ultra-wealthy.
Buddhist principles are explored in several scenes, such as Timothy’s conversation with a Buddhist monk about death and Piper’s encounters with this monk in her own journey of self-discovery.
Visit the Khao Tabak Monastery to acquaint yourself with a Buddhist monastery, and then continue on to Rayong, where you can stroll around beaches, shops and markets.
Whether you’re looking for a one-way transfer, return trip or a day trip, we’ve got you covered for your White Lotus-inspired adventure. Ready to transfer between cities seamlessly and reliably, explore around your destination, and uncover more than what meets the eye? Get to know our endless routes, not only Thailand, but all around the world!
