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Kamala Beach

A Tranquil Seaside Village in Phuket

Kamala Beach in Phuket, Thailand

Kamala beach can be divided into three main areas:​

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  • The southern end is home to a local school and a Buddhist temple (Wat Kamala) facing the sea. This area still feels traditional, with fishermen casting nets near the shore and long-tail boats offering rides to small nearby coves.

  • The central section is the liveliest, especially in high season, with beachfront dining and plenty of sun loungers.

  • The northern end is quieter for most of the year but comes alive during the low season (May to November), when it becomes one of Phuket’s favorite surfing spots.

Just north of Patong, Kamala Beach offers a tranquil escape surrounded by green hills rising about 300 metres high. Originally a small fishing village where Muslim and Buddhist communities lived side by side, Kamala has grown into a relaxed beach resort that has managed to preserve much of its genuine Thai charm.

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The beachfront features a good selection of restaurants, shops, and laid-back bars, while the inland side, near the base of the hills, remains largely residential — giving Kamala a real sense of local life. One of the main attractions here is Phuket FantaSea, a large cultural theme park and evening show that combines Thai mythology, dance, and special effects — a must-see for families visiting Phuket.

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Kamala Beach scene

All in all, Kamala Beach is a calm, friendly destination ideal for families, retirees, and travelers seeking peace and a touch of authentic Thai coastal life.

View of Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach Highlights

  • Authentic local feel: The southern end still shows the charm of a real Thai fishing village, with locals, long-tail boats, and a serene temple by the sea.

  • Beachside food & drinks: Vendors, cafés, and beach restaurants offer a mix of Thai and international dishes.

  • Water activities: Parasailing, jet-skiing, and surfing (especially during the monsoon months) are available along parts of the beach.

  • Accommodation for every budget: From simple guesthouses to luxury resorts and boutique hotels.

  • International dining: Restaurants serve everything from traditional Thai seafood to Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine.

  • Shopping: A modest but pleasant range of convenience stores, boutiques, and small local markets.

  • Phuket FantaSea: A world-famous cultural theme park and evening performance located right in Kamala.

A speedboat taken by tractor to Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach Drawbacks

  • Remote destination: Kamala is a somewhat remote destination, accessible only by two routes, north and south, running along the west coast of Phuket.

  • Expensive tuk-tuks: Fares can be high for even short trips.

  • Busy main road: The road running through Kamala can be difficult to cross at rush hour.

  • Jet ski scams: A few operators have been known to overcharge or falsely claim damages—use caution.

When to Visit

 

The best time to visit Kamala Beach is between December and April, when the sea is calm and the weather sunny. From May to October, Kamala becomes a favorite surfing destination, offering gentler crowds and a more peaceful, local atmosphere — perfect for travelers looking to unwind away from Phuket’s busier spots.

Kamala Beach Photos

Kamala Beach Map

Stéphane Audiger - Photographer & writer

Stéphane Audiger - Photographer & Writer

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: Kamala Beach — 9 December 2025

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