A short distance from Karon beach, the pleasant bay of the famous Kata beach is ever popular due to its spectacular palm-lined beach, amazing restaurants and lively nightlife. More laid back than action packed, this a popular destination together with the smaller Kata Noi beach for both surfers and sun seekers alike. Our villas in Kata are only a short distance from the beaches, shopping, restaurants & entertainment and perfect for a family holiday or to chill out with friends.
Located just 15 minutes from lively Patong and just south of the town and beach of Karon the main draw to Kata is the beautiful beach which curves round a bay for 1 ½ km displaying a wide expanse of sand with turquoise waters on one side and bordered by shady tropical trees on the other.
The bay is flanked either side by rocky headlands and with the small islet (Koh Phu or Crab Island) sitting in the centre of the bay adding to the scenery Kata beach is a perfect place to sit and relax and enjoy the surroundings.
A large part of the beach is dominated by the Club Med Resort. However, as it has the beach road separating it from the sand there is still plenty of room for everyone as it is a public beach.
Kata town is quite compact and easy to get around. The shops are located behind the beach with two shopping 'plazas' in the central area opposite the grounds of the Club Med, with other many souvenir shops dotted between the various restaurants and bars. These are mostly at a 3 road junction to the south that tend not to open until mid afternoon when sunworshippers come off the beach.
There is a good range of family friendly attractions and activities in Kata creating the perfect holiday, although there has been recent development in the south of the area, Kata still retains its coolness and laid-back feel.
There are number of more lively bars and restaurants located at the north end of Kata and they join up with those in the neighbouring town of Karon creating one long stretch of urban development.
Beaches
Kata beach is separated into two beaches - Kata Yai (Big Kata) mainly referred to as just Kaya Beach and Kata Noi (Small Kata) separated by a rocky headland and occupied by a number of our luxury oceanfront villas.
Kata Beach
The beach is bordered by trees which is the only shade since the beach has been cleared of commercial activity. As there are no sun loungers or umbrellas, you would need to bring your own with you. Vendors still roam the beach selling ice cream, fruit and various beach requirements, but you will not find eating establishments directly on the sand.
During the months of November to April the beach area is stunning, with the sea completely flat and as there are no drop offs it is great beach for families as it is safe for non-swimmers and children paddling. The best area is the southern part of the beach where the shade lasts for longer and you are closer to the amenities. For snorkellers the north end of the beach is best, where the rocks host some coral and sea life.
For the remaining months of May to October the swimming is not so good, the sea is rougher. However, surfers flock to the area and it is one of the most renowned surfing spots in Phuket.
Kata Noi Beach
Kata Noi beach is located further south of Kata Beach, it is dominated by one large hotel, but offers more seclusion and tranquility. The beach is beautiful, with calm sea and stunning scenery. For the active it is worth renting a long-tail boat for a trip to Ya Nui Beach further south where you will find great snorkelling.
Spa and Wellbeing
Many of the high end hotel resorts in Kata will offer Spa services and there are a few stand alone centres within the town.
Re Kata
Prepare to be pampered at Re Kata Spa which is part of the Boathouse on Kata beach
http://rekataphuket.com/Spa.html
Santosa
A Detox and Wellness Centre and Spa with vegetarian restaurant
http://www.santosaphuket.com/
Surfing
Kata Beach is the venue for Phuket's biggest surfing competition where there is always surf. The best board riding is at the south end of the beach where it can get busy at times. There are surf shops in Kata where you can hire boards and arrange to have instruction.
Dino Park Mini Golf
A challenging 18 hole course featuring different large lifelike cement made dinosaurs at each hole and other features such as a waterfall and a volcano. Located between Kata and Karon, the mini-golf is popular with both adults and children and has a restaurant too.
Surf House Phuket
A brilliant invention and every surfers dream where you can ride the waves anytime you want on a sloping pool, fed with a pressure wave generating machine. Great for both children and adults the Surf House also has a restaurant.
Kata / Karon Viewpoint
The winding coast road between Kata and Nai Harn has some lovely scenery. Just two kilometers along it from Kata is Kata Viewpoint - also known as Karon Viewpoint for some reason. There is a small car park, a couple of shops and a pavillion from which to enjoy the view. If you climb the steps to the top of the pavillion, you have a wonderful view north across three of Phuket's best beaches.
Big Buddha Phuket's Big Buddha is one of the most important and revered landmarks on the island and well worth a visit. Completed in 2004 the huge image sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata and at 45 metres tall can be seen from as far away as Phuket Town and Karon beach
There are many restaurants to choose from in Kata town serving both Thai and International cuisine. For fine dining with a view you will need to venture down to the oceanfront, some of which are within walking distance from our luxury villas in Kata.
The Boathouse Wine and Grill
Established for many years and is one of the most popular restaurants in Puket
http://www.boathousephuket.com/the-restaurant.html
Mom Tri's KItchen
An award winning gourmet restaurant overlooking beautiful Kata Noi Beach
http://villaroyalephuket.com/index.php/dining-wine/mom-tri-s-kitchen
Kata is more a family friendly resort and not many arrive in Kata for the nightlife. It is just 15 minutes away from the hub of Phuket's nightlife in Patong. Girlie bars are not a big business at all. However there are plenty of bars around for evening drinks and for watching major sports events usually found at either end of Kata beach, rather than the centre.
Ska Bar
Located at the southern end of Kata beach spread over granite rocks Ska Bar is considered a major nightlife destination with great views along the whole length of Kata beach, it has entertainment with fire shows and reggae music.
The Anchor Bar
This bar is located away from the beach has been established for many years, popular with both expats and tourists and has a large screen Tv and pool table