What To Do In Kata Beach, Phuket
Set against a backdrop of pandanus and tropical almond trees, the 1.5 km-long Kata Beach is a piece of paradise. Two-metre waves crash ashore, sand foam clusters, and golden sand squeaks underfoot. Besides getting a good tan and bathing and snorkelling in warm blue water, newcomers to the area wonder what to do in Kata Beach. With an endless list of activities, travellers are spoilt for choice. To save you the research, here’s the pick of the crop.
RIDE WAVES AT KATA BEACH
(Photo by HutheMeow, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Blessed with offshore winds from the northeast and sheltered from north winds, resulting in both wind swell and groundswell, Kata Beach is the surfer mecca of Phuket. Surf on the beach’s southern end for the best swell angle, and you’re bound to release feel-good hormones. The wet season from May to October comes with beach breaks offering lefts and rights.
Are you visiting during the calmer months, or do you want to catch waves in a protected environment? On the southern end of Kata, you can put your skills to the test on a stationary wave. The high-pressure FlowRider surf machine creates an endless sheet wave throughout the year, throwing water up a sloping pool that’s safe for beginners. The powerful water flow makes people fall upwards, ensuring risk-free Kata Beach surfing.
ENJOY FAB VIEWS AT KATA-KARON VIEWPOINT
Bennypc, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Picture eight-kilometre vistas of crescent-shaped beaches and hillsides stretching over millions of acres of deep green woodland. Overlooking Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon Beach, the Kata-Karon Viewpoint is a cracker, urging you to snap pictures. It’s a short car or scooter ride up the hill, halfway between Kata Noi and Nai Harn Beach. Complete with a gazebo, food and drink carts, plus plenty of parking space, Kata-Karon Viewpoint is one of the best things to do in Kata Beach.
WATCH THE SUNSET AT METADEE CONCEPT’S MOON TERRACE
Looking for a romantic lounge to end the day or to consider where to stay in Kata Beach? Moon Terrace peeps down to Kata’s silent ocean. Stellar isn’t just the sunset deck but also the atmospheric, gold-blue interior that situates you within time and space. Think thousands of tiny lights resembling a starlit sky, blue and amber planets, and angular lamps hinting at art deco. Timeless rattan chairs create an inviting mood, and cushioned, golden brass chairs add elegance. Cosy up and order Sicilian salsiccia with Neapolitan capsicum stew and pomme purée – every bit as authentic as in Italy.
CATCH A GLIMPSE OF THAI CULTURE AT THE BIG BUDDHA
Draped in white Burmese jade marble, the Big Buddha stands 45m tall, guarding the island with watchful eyes. Cross-legged on a pedestal spanning 25 metres, it’s visible from all angles, reaching as far as Phuket Town and Karon Beach. Up here on top of Nakkerd Hill, between Kata and Chalong, you’ll meet locals praying for good luck. Bells chime, recorded dharma music plays softly, and yellow Buddhist flags flutter in the wind that carries the scent of incense. In short, you’ll want to add this statue to your Kata itinerary.
HAVE FUN AT DINO PARK MINI GOLF
On the beach road slap bang in the middle of Kata and Karon, Dino Park Mini Golf has the answer for families wondering what to do in Kata Beach. An offshoot of golf that’s easy to play, mini golf is for everyone. Framed by life-sized dinosaurs that are ready to snap, the 18-hole course is reminiscent of Jurassic Park. With its dense woods, erupting volcano, and pre-historic setting that continues in the Flintstones-themed restaurant, Dino Park guarantees a fun day out with your family.
- Written by: Philipp Meier