Phuket Part VI

Karon Beach

Karon beach is a long stretch of white sand just south of Patong. The beach is very long so it never feels crowded.

At 4 km, Karon is one of the longest beaches of Phuket. Although there are some important stations and hotels, they are divided and the area feels very relaxed. As in Patong, the hotels are separated from the beach by a road. However, unlike Patong, the beach is still pretty quiet. The beach itself is well exposed, with little or no natural shade. The sand is so fine and powdery that it squeaks when walked on.

The southern tip has a coral reef stretching toward Kata and Pu Island. There are not many water sports on Karon beach as in Patong or Kata. During the rainy season Karon can be good for surfing but dangerous for swimming because of high waves and strong currents.

The beach road in Karon is lined with some of Phuket's larger hotels. In the area around Karon circle and at the southern end of Karon are a number of guesthouses if you're on a budget.

Karon nightlife is relaxed and friendly. Most bars are located in the area around Karon circle at the north end and south end around Luang Pho Chuang road. It is a good amount of beer bars in Karon, but the scene is not as strong as Patong.

As the nightlife, restaurants in Karon are centered around the traffic circle, at the north end, and also at the southern end of the beach before arriving in Kata. It is a good selection of Thai and international dishes. For more lavish dining, most of the waterfront hotels have charming restaurants.