Kata Beach

Kata Beach is a curved bay on Phuket's west coast, about 17 kilometres from Phuket Town and between Karon to the north and Kata Noi to the south. Its sand runs for about 1.5 kilometres and the small wooded islet of Koh Pu sits just offshore from the southern end. Compared with Patong it feels more relaxed, with a resort village behind the beach rather than a nightlife strip, which is why it is a favourite with families and couples.

The best time for swimming is the dry season, roughly December to April, when the sea is usually calm and clear. From about June to November the south-west monsoon brings waves, and the beach becomes one of Phuket's surfing spots; the southern end is the usual choice for beginners. In those months swimming can be dangerous, and the red flags placed by lifeguards should always be respected.

Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire, and there is still plenty of open sand for anyone who prefers a towel. Kata village behind the beach has a wide choice of restaurants, cafés and bars, from simple Thai places to beach bars such as Ska Bar at the southern end, which is known for its relaxed evenings. The beach is a good choice for families with children in the dry season, and for those who want an easy base for both the beach and the south of the island.

Practical tips: arrive early in high season if you want a shaded spot, and bring reef-safe sunscreen and water. Mornings are quieter and the light over Koh Pu is soft; late afternoon brings people back for the sunset. Kata Noi, just 500 metres south over a small headland, is a quieter and softer-sanded alternative if Kata itself is busy.

Kata is around 13 kilometres from Patong. From the southern end, the coast road climbs to Karon Viewpoint, about 3 kilometres away, where Kata Noi, Kata and Karon can be seen in one view, and continues to Nai Harn and Promthep Cape. The Big Buddha on Nakkerd Hill is also a short drive inland, so Kata makes a convenient base for exploring the south of Phuket.