Kata Beach
Located just south of Karon, the scenic Kata Beach, comprising two bays separated by a small rocky headland, offers an ideal balance of tropical scenery and well-developed tourism infrastructure. Kata has a number of high-end resorts, making it a popular destination for couples and families. Palm trees fringe the white-sand beach, and the turquoise waters offer good swimming conditions throughout the year. One can even swim to nearby Ko Pu, a small island, passing lovely coral reefs along the way.
1. Kata Yai
When people mention Kata, they are usually referring to Kata Yai, which is the larger of the two Kata bays, and boasts more resorts and activities. The beach is separated from Kata Noi by a small rocky headland.
2. Kata Noi
The more secluded Kata beach, located just south of Kata Yai, generally offers more space and privacy than its larger counterpart, especially during the low season.
3. Karon Viewpoint
Reached via the coastal road south toward Naiharn, this viewpoint provides gorgeous views of the island. Look north and you’ll see three white-sand beaches along the coastline.
4. Dino Park Mini-Golf
With a 39-ft (12-m) high waterfall and an erupting volcano, the setting at this miniature golf course is nothing short of charming. Playing a round is a great way to beat the afternoon heat.
Dino Park Mini-Golf • Marina Phuket Resort, Karon Beach • 07633 0625 • open 10am–midnight daily • Adm B240 (adult), B180 (children) • www.dinopark.com
5. Thai Cooking Class
Learn how to make delicious Thai curries, spicy stir-fries, noodles, and more at any of the numerous popular cooking classes offered in Kata – one is hosted at the upscale Boathouse Wine and Grill restaurant and another at the Kata Thai Cooking Class.
Boathouse Wine and Grill • Kata Beach • 07633 0015 • 07633 0016 • 07633 0017 • Adm (for cooking class) B2, 600 • www.boathousephuket.com
Kata Thai Cooking Class • 5 Ket Kwan Road, Kata Beach • 07628 4510 • www.katathaicooking.com
6. Elephant Trekking
Kok Chang Safari Elephant Trekking, not far from Karon Viewpoint, offers rides on the forested hillside. You might even see the amusing sign for “elephant crossing” on the coastal road.Kok Chang Safari • 287 Moo 2, Kata Sai Yuan Road, Kata • 084 841 9794 • Treks from 8:30am–5:30pm • www.kokchangsafari.com
7. Spa and Massage Treatments
Experience an hour-long traditional Thai massage, available at many venues throughout Kata. Even better, look for the canopy-covered massage beds along the beach.
8. Shopping
The beach vendors in Kata sell beachwear, coconuts, and snacks, while the off-beach stalls are a shopper’s paradise. These outlets sell a wide range of inexpensive clothing and souvenirs.
9. Nightlife
Less wild than Patong, Kata’s nightlife nonetheless offers plenty of options for those who wake up when the sun goes down. Most bars are open-air, dotted with festive lights, and play music aimed at pleasing a crowd that wants to relax and chat.
10. Water Sports
The best season for surfing in Kata is from May to October. The waters around Kata are great for beginners since the waves are not too large. If surfing is not for you, rent a kayak from the north end of the beach.
Development
During the 1970s, Kata was known as a low-budget backpacker’s destination offering inexpensive beach bungalows and cheap guesthouses. However, when Club Med opened its doors in 1985, the area started turning upscale. Today, Kata mostly caters to well-to-do family travelers. Low-cost rooms can still be found along the inland roads, while most of the beachfront properties have been snapped up by high-end developers.
Tip: Karon Viewpoint is an excellent place to watch the sunset. Tip: Wine lovers can visit the Boathouse Wine and Grill, featuring more than 800 labels.
