Are you looking for a stunning beach destination in Thailand that offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure? If so, you should definitely consider Karon Beach, one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Phuket. Karon Beach is a long stretch of white sand that curves along the west coast of Phuket, facing the turquoise Andaman Sea. It is the third-longest beach in Phuket, after Mai Khao and Bang Tao, and covers an area of about four kilometers.
Karon Beach is known for its fine and powdery sand, which makes a squeaky sound when you walk on it. It is also famous for its clear and calm water, which is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Karon Beach is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, which are protected by a conservation project. Karon Beach is not only a paradise for beach lovers, but also a hub for fun and exciting activities, both on and off the shore. You can enjoy a range of water sports, such as windsurfing, sea kayaking, banana boat rides, waterskiing, wakeboarding, jet-skiing, and parasailing. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a family vacation, or a romantic escape.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about Karon Beach, including what to do, where to stay, where to eat, how to get there, and more. Read on to discover why Karon Beach is one of the most amazing and enjoyable destinations in Phuket.
How to get there
Karon Beach is located about 47 kilometers (29 miles) from Phuket International Airport, which is the nearest airport to the beach. You can take a taxi or a private transfer from the airport to Karon Beach, which will cost you around 800 to 1000 baht (25 to 32 USD) and take about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic. You can also book a shuttle bus or a minivan from the airport, which will be cheaper but slower and less comfortable. You can find the shuttle bus and minivan counters at the arrival hall of the airport, or book online in advance12.
Karon Beach is also easily accessible from other popular destinations in Phuket, such as Patong Beach, Phuket Town, and Kata Beach. You can take a local bus, a taxi, a motorbike taxi, or a tuk-tuk from these places to Karon Beach, which will vary in price and time depending on the distance and the mode of transportation.
The local bus is the cheapest option, costing around 30 to 40 baht (1 USD) per person, but it is also the slowest and the least frequent. The local bus runs from 6 am to 6 pm, and stops at designated spots along the main road. The taxi, the motorbike taxi, and the tuk-tuk are more convenient and faster, but also more expensive and negotiable.
You can find them easily on the streets, or ask your hotel to arrange one for you. The taxi is the most comfortable and safe option, but also the most costly, ranging from 200 to 400 baht (6 to 13 USD) per trip. The motorbike taxi and the tuk-tuk are cheaper and more fun, but also less comfortable and safe, costing around 100 to 200 baht (3 to 6 USD) per trip
What to do on Karon Beach
There is no shortage of things to do on Karon Beach, whether you are in the mood for some sun, sea, and sand, or some culture, adventure, and entertainment. Here are some of the activities and attractions that you can enjoy on Karon Beach:
Windsurfing:
If you are looking for a thrilling and challenging water sport, you should try windsurfing on Karon Beach. Windsurfing is a combination of surfing and sailing, where you use a board and a sail to glide across the water, powered by the wind. Karon Beach is one of the best spots for windsurfing in Phuket, as it has consistent and strong winds, especially from November to April. You can rent a windsurfing board and sail from one of the vendors on the beach, or take a lesson from a professional instructor. Windsurfing is a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy the sea and the breeze, while also improving your balance and coordination.
Sea kayaking:
If you prefer a more relaxing and scenic water sport, you should try sea kayaking on Karon Beach. Sea kayaking is a great way to explore the coastline and the nearby islands, such as Koh Pu and Koh Racha, at your own pace. You can paddle along the clear and calm water, admiring the views of the beach, the hills, and the rocks. You can also stop at some of the secluded coves and bays, where you can swim, snorkel, or picnic. You can rent a sea kayak from one of the vendors on the beach, or join a guided tour that includes transportation, equipment, and lunch. Sea kayaking is a wonderful way to experience the beauty and tranquility of Karon Beach and its surroundings.
Banana boat rides:
If you are looking for a fun and easy water sport, you should try banana boat rides on Karon Beach. Banana boat rides are a popular and enjoyable activity for families and groups of friends, where you sit on a long and inflatable banana-shaped boat that is towed by a speedboat. You can hold on tight as the speedboat zips and turns around the water, creating waves and splashes. You can also let go and fall into the water, which is part of the fun. You can book a banana boat ride from one of the vendors on the beach, or from your hotel. Banana boat rides are a fun and exciting way to enjoy the water and the thrill, while also having a good laugh.
Waterskiing:
If you are looking for a fast and furious water sport, you should try waterskiing on Karon Beach. Waterskiing is a sport where you stand on two skis and hold a rope that is attached to a speedboat, which pulls you along the water. You can glide and jump on the water, feeling the speed and the adrenaline. Karon Beach is one of the best spots for waterskiing in Phuket, as it has smooth and wide water, with minimal waves and traffic. You can rent waterskiing equipment and get instruction from one of the vendors on the beach, or from your hotel. Waterskiing is a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy the water and the thrill, while also testing your skills and reflexes.
Wakeboarding:
If you are looking for a cool and stylish water sport, you should try wakeboarding on Karon Beach. Wakeboarding is a sport where you stand on a single board and hold a rope that is attached to a speedboat, which pulls you along the water. You can ride and jump on the water, performing tricks and stunts. Karon Beach is one of the best spots for wakeboarding in Phuket, as it has smooth and wide water, with minimal waves and traffic. You can rent wakeboarding equipment and get instruction from one of the vendors on the beach, or from your hotel. Wakeboarding is a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy the water and the thrill, while also showing off your style and flair.
Jet-skiing:
If you are looking for a powerful and adventurous water sport, you should try jet-skiing on Karon Beach. Jet-skiing is a sport where you ride a personal watercraft that is propelled by a jet of water, which allows you to control the speed and direction. You can zoom and maneuver on the water, feeling the power and the freedom. Karon Beach is one of the best spots for jet-skiing in Phuket, as it has clear and open water, with plenty of space and visibility. You can rent a jet-ski from one of the vendors on the beach, or from your hotel. Jet-skiing is a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy the water and the thrill, while also exploring the area and having a blast.
Parasailing:
If you are looking for a soaring and spectacular water sport, you should try parasailing on Karon Beach. Parasailing is a sport where you wear a harness that is attached to a parachute and a speedboat, which lifts you up into the air, as the speedboat moves along the water. You can fly and float on the air, enjoying the views and the breeze. Karon Beach is one of the best spots for parasailing in Phuket, as it has clear and calm water, with stunning scenery and landmarks. You can book a parasailing ride from one of the vendors on the beach, or from your hotel. Parasailing is a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy the water and the thrill, while also experiencing the sensation of flying and the beauty of Karon Beach from above.
Snorkeling:
If you are looking for a peaceful and fascinating water sport, you should try snorkeling on Karon Beach. Snorkeling is a sport where you wear a mask, a snorkel, and fins, and swim on the surface of the water, while breathing through the snorkel. You can observe and admire the underwater world, such as the coral reefs, the fish, and the sea turtles. Karon Beach is one of the best spots for snorkeling in Phuket, as it has clear and shallow water, with abundant and diverse marine life. You can rent snorkeling equipment from one of the vendors on the beach, or from your hotel. Snorkeling is a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy the water and the thrill, while also discovering the wonders and the beauty of Karon Beach’s underwater world.
Volleyball:
If you are looking for a sporty and social activity on the beach, you should try volleyball on Karon Beach. Volleyball is a game where two teams of players hit a ball over a net, using their hands or arms, and try to prevent the ball from touching the ground on their side of the court. You can play volleyball on the sand, which is soft and smooth, and adds an extra challenge and fun to the game. Karon Beach is one of the best spots for volleyball in Phuket, as it has a wide and flat beach, with plenty of space and nets. You can join a game of volleyball with other tourists or locals, or start your own game with your friends or family. Volleyball is a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy the beach and the thrill, while also making new friends and having a good time.
Visiting Karon Temple:
If you are looking for a cultural and spiritual activity on the beach, you should try visiting Karon Temple on Karon Beach. Karon Temple is a Buddhist temple that is located at the southern end of Karon Beach, near the roundabout. It is also known as Wat Suwan Khiri Khet, which means Temple of the Golden Mountain. Karon Temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Phuket, and it is a place of worship and meditation for the local community. Karon Temple is a beautiful and serene complex, with a golden pagoda, a white chedi, a red and gold ubosot, and a large Buddha statue. You can explore the temple grounds, admire the architecture and the art, and learn about the history and the culture of Buddhism. You can also join the monks in their daily prayers, or participate in the ceremonies and festivals that are held throughout the year.
Karon Temple is open daily from 7 am to 5 pm, and admission is free. However, you should dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, and removing your shoes before entering the temple buildings. You should also avoid touching or pointing at the Buddha images and keep your voice low and your behavior calm. Karon Temple is a fun and enlightening way to enjoy the beach and the culture, while also experiencing the peace and the spirituality of Karon Beach.
Best Places to Stay Near Karon Beach
One of the advantages of Karon Beach is that it offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts and spas, to cozy guesthouses and bungalows, to suit different tastes and budgets. Whether you want to stay on the beachfront, in the town center, or on the hillside, you can find a place that meets your needs and expectations. Here are some of the best places to stay near Karon Beach, based on their ratings, reviews, facilities, and location:
If you are looking for a 5-star resort that combines elegance and tranquility, you should consider Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort. This resort is located on a secluded cove, with direct access to a private beach, and offers stunning views of the ocean and the pools. The resort features spacious and luxurious rooms and suites, with modern amenities and Thai accents. You can enjoy a variety of dining options, from international buffets, to Thai specialties, to seafood delicacies, as well as a rooftop bar with live music and cocktails. You can also indulge in the resort’s facilities, such as the swimming pool, the spa, the fitness center, and the tennis courts. The resort is also close to some of the nearby attractions, such as Karon Temple, Dino Park, and Patong Beach. Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort is the perfect place to experience a luxurious getaway like no other.
If you are looking for a 4-star resort that offers comfort and convenience, you should try Centara Kata Resort Phuket - SHA Plus. This resort is located in the heart of Kata, just a short walk from Karon Beach, and offers a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. The resort features stylish and spacious rooms and villas, with contemporary amenities and balconies. You can enjoy a range of dining options, from buffet breakfasts, to Thai and international cuisines, to poolside snacks and drinks. You can also take advantage of the resort’s facilities, such as the swimming pool, the spa, the fitness center, and the kids’ club. The resort is also near to some of the popular destinations in Phuket, such as Kata Beach, Phuket Town, and Phuket International Airport. Centara Kata Resort Phuket - SHA Plus is the ideal place to enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly hotel that offers value and quality, you should check out Karon house 15A. This hotel is located on the main road of Karon, just a few minutes from Karon Beach, and offers a simple and clean accommodation. The hotel features basic and bright rooms, with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and cable TV. You can enjoy a complimentary breakfast every morning, as well as a shared kitchen and lounge area. You can also access the hotel’s facilities, such as the laundry service, the tour desk, and the airport shuttle. The hotel is also close to some of the local attractions, such as Karon Bazaar, Karon Seafood, and Two Chefs Bar & Grill. Karon house 15A is the best place to enjoy a value and quality stay.
To conclude, Karon Beach is one of the most amazing and enjoyable destinations in Phuket, where you can experience the best of both worlds: relaxation and adventure. Karon Beach has everything you need to have a memorable and satisfying vacation, from a stunning and spacious beach, to a variety of water sports and activities, to a great selection of accommodation, dining, and nightlife options, to a cultural and spiritual temple.
Karon Beach is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for a beach destination that offers something for everyone, whether you are traveling solo, with your partner, with your family, or with your friends. Karon Beach is a place where you can have fun, relax, explore, and learn, all in one. Karon Beach is a place where you can discover the beauty and the charm of Phuket, and fall in love with it.
We hope that this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about Karon Beach, and that it has inspired you to plan your trip to this wonderful destination.
If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to leave them below. We would love to hear from you and help you with your travel needs.
