About Kata Beach
Kata Beach is one of Phuket's most popular beaches, offering a perfect balance between development and natural beauty. The crescent-shaped bay features clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and a more relaxed atmosphere than neighboring Patong. See our where to stay guide for accommodation options.
The beach is divided into Kata Yai (Big Kata) and Kata Noi (Little Kata), separated by a small headland. Both offer excellent swimming conditions during high season and good surf during the monsoon months. The area has plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops while maintaining a laid-back, family-friendly vibe.
What Makes Kata Special
🏊 Swimming & Water Sports
Crystal-clear water ideal for swimming. Snorkeling at the rocky points. Surf schools available during surf season.
🏄 Surfing
Best surf spot in Phuket during low season (May-October). Suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers.
👨👩👧 Family Friendly
Calm waters during high season. Lifeguards on duty. Plenty of family restaurants and activities.
🌅 Viewpoints
Short walk to Kata Viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of Kata, Kata Noi, and Karon beaches.
Kata Yai vs Kata Noi
Kata Yai (Big Kata)
The main beach and more developed of the two. Stretches about 1.5km with soft white sand. Plenty of beach chairs and umbrella rentals. Multiple beach bars and restaurants line the shore. More activity and people but never feels overcrowded like Patong. Good swimming conditions with gradual depth. Families and couples prefer this beach for facilities and convenience.
Water sports vendors offer jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards. Beach massage providers abundant. Surf schools operate here during monsoon season (May-Oct). Central road behind beach packed with restaurants, shops, tour agencies, and convenience stores. Easy access to everything you need.
Kata Noi (Little Kata)
Smaller, quieter, more exclusive beach about 700m long. Separated from Kata Yai by rocky headland. Dominated by Katathani and The Shore resorts at either end. Fewer beach services and restaurants. More peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Popular with couples seeking privacy.
Crystal-clear water with excellent swimming. Less crowded even during peak season. Good snorkeling at the rocky southern end. Catch long-tail boats here for island tours. Limited dining options directly on beach - most visitors walk to Kata Yai or rely on hotel restaurants. Premium feel with higher-end accommodation.
Surfing at Kata Beach
Kata is Phuket's premier surf destination during monsoon season (May-October). Southwest winds create consistent waves ideal for learning and improving. Multiple surf schools operate from the beach offering lessons and board rentals.
Surf Season & Conditions
Best months: May, June, September, October. Peak wave period: June-August. Wave height typically 1-3 meters (3-10 feet). Mostly beach breaks suitable for beginners to intermediate. Best conditions early morning before wind picks up. Afternoons can get choppy.
Surf Schools & Rentals
Multiple schools along Kata Yai. Lessons: 1,500-2,000 THB for 2-hour group session. Private lessons: 2,500-3,500 THB. Board rentals: 300-500 THB per hour. Most schools provide soft-top boards for beginners. Instructors experienced and safety-conscious. Book ahead during peak surf season.
Safety Notes
Follow lifeguard instructions and red flags. Strong currents possible. Not recommended for inexperienced swimmers during monsoon. Shallow reef areas at north and south ends - stay clear. Surf schools brief students on local hazards. Wax and leash essential.
Activities & Things to Do
Kata Viewpoint
10-minute drive or 30-minute steep walk south. One of Phuket's most photographed viewpoints. Stunning views of Kata, Kata Noi, and Karon beaches. Best visited near sunset. Free entry. Can get crowded. Combine with visit to Nai Harn Beach on same road.
Snorkeling
Rocky areas at both ends of Kata Yai offer decent snorkeling. See tropical fish and coral. Equipment rental from beach vendors: 200-300 THB. Better snorkeling at nearby islands on boat tours. Best visibility November-April.
Island Tours
Join speedboat or long-tail boat tours to nearby islands. Popular trips: Phi Phi Islands, Coral Island, Racha Islands. Book from tour agencies on main road. Day trips: 1,200-3,500 THB depending on destination and boat type. Hotel pickup usually included.
Beach Activities
Jet ski rentals: 1,000-1,500 THB per 30 minutes. Kayak/paddleboard: 300-500 THB per hour. Beach volleyball courts available. Thai massage on beach: 300-400 THB per hour. Beachfront restaurants perfect for sunset drinks.
Where to Eat at Kata
Kata Road (main strip parallel to beach) packed with restaurants covering all budgets and cuisines. Beach clubs offer sea views with premium prices. Local Thai restaurants in sois provide authentic food at lower cost.
Where to Stay at Kata Beach
Kata offers accommodations for all budgets. Beachfront properties command premium prices. Properties one or two streets back offer much better value while remaining walkable to beach.
Practical Information
Getting There
- From Airport: 50-60 mins, taxi 800-1,000 THB
- From Patong: 15 mins, taxi 400-500 THB
- From Phuket Town: 30 mins, taxi 500-600 THB
- Local transport: tuk-tuk, motorcycle taxi
- Grab/Bolt available but limited
Best Time to Visit
- Swimming: November-April (calm seas)
- Surfing: May-October (monsoon waves)
- Peak season: Dec-Feb (crowded, expensive)
- Shoulder: Nov, Mar-Apr (good balance)
- Low season: May-Oct (cheap, rainy, rough seas)
Facilities
- Lifeguards on duty 9 AM-6 PM
- Beach chair rentals: 100-200 THB
- Showers and toilets available
- 7-Eleven and Family Mart on main road
- ATMs plentiful
- Pharmacies and mini-marts everywhere
Is Kata Beach Right for You?
Kata strikes an excellent balance between development and charm. You get Patong's convenience without the chaos. Beautiful beach with good facilities yet maintains relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for families, couples, and first-time Phuket visitors.
Choose Kata if you want: Beautiful beach with clear water, family-friendly environment, good restaurants and nightlife without Patong intensity, opportunities for surfing during low season, easy access to island tours and activities.
Skip Kata if you want: Absolute seclusion and privacy, ultra-budget options (limited here), legendary nightlife (head to Patong), the absolute best snorkeling (try islands instead), completely undeveloped beach experience.
For most travelers, especially families and those seeking balance, Kata represents one of Phuket's best beach choices. It delivers on the tropical beach vacation promise without major compromises.