Kata Beach
A Family-Friendly Resort Town in Phuket
Kata Beach is one of Phuket’s most beloved beaches — smaller and more relaxed than Patong, yet lively enough to keep everyone entertained. It was actually the first beach in Phuket to be developed for tourism: Club Med built its resort here in the late 1970s, and to this day it still occupies a large stretch of the beachfront. Despite taking up around 80% of the beach’s length, access remains easy, as a public road runs between the resort and the sea.
Located just south of Karon Beach and about 20 minutes’ drive from Patong, Kata offers a welcoming atmosphere ideal for families and couples. Its wide, gently curving bay is perfect for swimming most of the year. During the monsoon season (May to October), the waves pick up, turning Kata into one of Phuket’s best surfing spots, where you can rent boards or take beginner lessons right on the beach.
At the southern end of the beach, you’ll find restaurants and bars for all budgets, while the northern end is home to moored long-tail boats and offers a postcard-worthy view of Koh Pu (Crab Island), a small rocky islet just offshore. Around halfway between the beach and the island lies a coral reef, making it a pleasant spot for snorkeling and novice diving. The sunsets over Koh Pu are especially photogenic and among the prettiest on Phuket’s west coast.
Kata Beach Highlights
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Safe swimming areas: Clearly marked zones for bathers ensure a worry-free swim.
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Beachside food & drinks: Refreshments and snacks are sold by friendly local vendors.
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Water activities: Parasailing, jet-skiing, and especially surfing (from May to November) are popular here.
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Family-friendly vibe: Attractions like Surf House Phuket (with its artificial wave machine) and Dino Park Mini-Golf make Kata ideal for kids and families.
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Accommodation for all budgets: From affordable guesthouses to high-end resorts.
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International dining: Restaurants serving Thai, Italian, Japanese, and other global cuisines.
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Shopping & convenience: Small malls, convenience stores, and boutique shops line the main road behind the beach.
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Scenic views: Excellent photo opportunities at the northern end, especially at sunset with Koh Pu in sight.
Kata Beach Drawbacks
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Less “authentic” Thailand: Like other west-coast resorts, Kata is cosmopolitan and modern, with few traces of traditional Thai village life.
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Limited beachfront hotels: Only Beyond Kata and Boathouse Phuket are directly on the beach; Club Med is on the other side of the road and stretches along most of the beach.
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Jet ski scams: A few operators have a reputation for overcharging or claiming false damages—be cautious.
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Pricey tuk-tuks: Drivers often demand high fares, even for short distances.
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Traffic congestion: During high season, roads can be crowded and parking spaces limited.
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Higher prices: Expect to pay more than in Phuket Town or less touristy areas inland.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Kata Beach is between December and April, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm. From May to October, it becomes a favorite spot for surfers, and although the waves can make swimming less ideal, the atmosphere is quieter and prices are lower.
Kata Beach Photos
Kata Beach Map
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: Kata Beach — 2 December 2025
