Kata Noi Beach
A Charming Yet Semi-Private Beach Out of the Way in Phuket
Kata Noi is a small, beautiful beach tucked away just south of its more famous neighbour, Kata Beach. Reaching it involves following the winding road over the headland from Kata, and the difference is noticeable almost immediately: Kata Noi feels quieter, more secluded and considerably less developed.
The bay is framed by green hills and rocky headlands, with soft sand and clear blue water creating a particularly attractive setting. Several upscale hotels and resorts occupy much of the beachfront, including Katathani Phuket Beach Resort and The Shore at Katathani, while a local road runs behind the beach. There are a few small businesses along this road, but nothing approaching the busy commercial atmosphere of Kata.
This relative isolation is both part of Kata Noi's charm and one of its drawbacks. If you are looking for a beautiful beach away from Phuket's busiest resort areas, Kata Noi is well worth the trip.
Kata Noi Highlights
Beautiful, quieter beach: Fine sand, clear water, green hills and rocky headlands give Kata Noi a more secluded feel than nearby Kata Beach. It is a great place to relax, swim or simply enjoy the scenery.
Beach facilities & great viewpoints: Beach bars, massage services and a surf shop provide useful facilities, while After Beach Bar & Restaurant and other venues along the road to Karon Viewpoint offer spectacular views over Kata Noi and the surrounding coast.
Heads Up
Beach access can be awkward: Kata Noi is a public beach, but several large hotels and beach clubs occupy much of the beachfront, making convenient public access less obvious than at many other Phuket beaches.
Quite remote: Don't expect the choice of restaurants, shops and nightlife found in Kata or Karon. Parking can also be limited, particularly during busy periods.
Other Things to Know
The best time to visit Kata Noi for swimming and relaxing on the beach is generally from November to April, when the Andaman Sea is calmer, the water is clearer and the weather is usually drier. From May to October, the southwest monsoon brings larger waves, making the beach much more interesting for surfers. Kata Noi's northern end can produce good waves for both learning and practising, although conditions can become challenging and swimming is not advisable when red flags are flying.
If you simply want to enjoy the beach, the high season is the more reliable choice. Kata Noi is also particularly attractive later in the afternoon, when the light softens and the surrounding hills take on warmer colours. Sunset can be beautiful here, although the beach's orientation means the sun disappears behind the surrounding landscape rather than setting directly over the water.
Kata Noi Photos
Kata Noi Map
Stéphane Audiger - Photographer
Passionate about photography since the mid-2000s, I’ve spent years capturing the beauty of Phuket and southern Thailand — from beaches and islands to festivals and daily life. My work reflects a lasting love for the region and its ever-changing light.
Last visit & photos: Kata Noi — 1 October 2026
