Kata Beach is considered the birthplace of surfing in Phuket and regarded as the prime spot for surfing on the island, attracting a large surf crowd each year. Discover the joys of riding the waves in this article about surfing in Kata Beach.
The Allure of Kata Beach
Located in the southwest part of Phuket, Kata Beach stretches 1.5 kilometres, its soft, white sand embracing the crystal-clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea. During peak season months, it’s very popular with visitors who want to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. Despite this, the beach isn’t usually crowded and still has a laid-back atmosphere compared to the busy Patong Beach.
There are many things to do in Kata Beach. About 10% of the beach is available for beachgoers who want to lounge on the beach, with chairs and umbrellas for rent. Those who want to be conveniently close to amenities should stay on the southern end of the beach, where you can find shops, restaurants, and toilets. You’ll find restaurants serving up traditional Thai and international cuisine and a variety of fresh seafood. Along the beach, there are a multitude of stalls selling assorted street food, ice cream, fruit, and drinks, and others offering massage services.
There are also lots of watersports to do at Kata Beach, including snorkelling at the northern end, kayaking to explore the surrounding area, and parasailing for a bird’s eye view of the entire beach. And if you want to go deeper underwater, there are some fantastic dive spots to explore.
During the peak season from November to April, the sea is calm and flat, which is perfect for swimming and sailing. Late in the year, the beach becomes a popular spot with yachts congregating from all over the region. It’s so popular that every December, the King’s Regatta Cup, one of Asia’s most prestigious sailing events, is held on Kata Beach.
Surfing Haven in Kata Beach
However, during the low season, from May to October, the seas become rougher, and the waves get higher. While this makes it harder to swim, the conditions are ideal for surfing. The peak surfing period is from September to November, providing surfing spots suitable for beginners and more experienced surfers.
The areas towards the south and centre of Kata Beach are considered best for surfing, with fast and manageable waves reaching as high as 2 to 3 metres at the sandbar. Spectators will find the best spot to watch the surfing action on the south end, where there’s a beach break.
Feel the thrill of catching your first waves on one of Phuket’s most beautiful beaches. There are plenty of shops to rent or buy surfboards and schools that offer private or group surf lessons at hourly rates. If you feel a little apprehensive about surfing in Kata Beach, there’s even a surf school with artificial waves ideal for novices.
While Kata Beach is generally good for swimming all year round, there are times when the sea is too rough, so it’s best to heed the red warning flags and stay out of the water when there are dangerous rip tides and swells.
Have a Delightful Stay near Kata Beach
Enjoy all the fun activities that Kata Beach has to offer by staying at a nearby Sugar Marina Hotel. We have two unique concepts with stylish and comfortable accommodation options available at very reasonable rates. Sugar Marina Hotel SURF, our surfing theme hotel perfectly captures our passion for surfing with themed decor throughout the hotel. Meanwhile, Sugar Marina Hotel FASHION’s rooms are inspired by the world’s top fashion brands – perfect for fashionistas! Just 200 metres from the beachfront, it’s just a stone’s throw away from all the beach fun.
Our boutique hotels in Phuket have all the modern amenities you’d expect, from our fully furnished rooms with ensuite bathrooms to the fitness centre and swimming pools, and the trendy restaurants serving Thai and international comfort food and drinks.
What’s more, we offer great value with special rates and benefits for Sugar Marina Hotel membership cardholders! Stay close to the best surfing spots in Kata Beach, Phuket. Book a room at Sugar Marina Hotel for your next Phuket trip.
Reach out to our partner and our friends “Baifern” owner of “Surf Step Co.”. She’s definitely a local expert and Kata surf community enthusiast who will be able to give you the best guidance around the area
