Phuket Beaches Guide

Karon Beach

Phuket Beach Finder & Directory

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Karon Beach, nestled on the west coast of Phuket, is a relatively quieter destination compared to other popular beaches on the island. Stretching over 3 kilometers (1.9 miles), it stands out as one of Phuket’s longest beaches, offering a more spacious and less crowded environment, even during favorable surfing conditions.

The beach is characterized by its fine, soft sand and generally clean surroundings, making it an inviting spot for beachgoers. A road runs alongside the entire length of Karon Beach, providing a great route for those looking to enjoy a scenic run or walk.

Most visitors at Karon Beach are guests staying at nearby resorts, as it doesn’t attract a large number of tourists from other parts of the island. This contributes to its more relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful beach experience. The clear waters of Karon Beach are suitable for swimming and offer decent snorkeling opportunities, adding to its appeal as a versatile beach destination.

For families, Karon Beach is particularly appealing due to the variety of activities available in the vicinity. Nong Harn Lake Park, located at the northern end of the beach, features playgrounds and activities for children. On the southern side, Dino Golf presents an entertaining and unique mini-golf experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Beyond the beach itself, Karon city offers a plethora of shopping options, quaint coffee shops, and small bars, adding to the overall experience of the area. This blend of serene beach environment, family-friendly activities, and urban conveniences makes Karon Beach an attractive spot for those looking for a more laid-back holiday in Phuket.

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Where is Karon Beach on Phuket?
• Leaving Patong going South, take Hwy 4233 South to Karon for 15–20 minutes in a vehicle to reach it.
What are the GPS coordinates of Karon Beach?
• GPS Data: 7° 50’ 38” N, 98° 17’ 37” E
How far is Karon Beach from Patong, Phuket Town, and the airport?
• 15 kilometers is the distance from Karon Beach to Patong
• 17 kilometers is the distance from Karon Beach to Phuket Town
• 45 kilometers is the distance from Karon Beach to the airport
Are taxis available at Karon Beach?
• Yes
What beaches are surrounding Karon Beach?
Hat Karon Noi in the North; Kata Beach (Yai) in the South.
Which direction does Karon Beach face?
West
How long is the beachfront (beach length) at Karon Beach?
3.3 kilometer (2 mi.)
How wide is the beach (beach width) at Karon Beach?
30 meters (33 yd.)
What is the estimated beach area of Karon Beach?
99,000 square meters (118,403 square yd)
How is the quality of the beach at Karon Beach?

Excellent quality sand and water at Karon Beach! Deep white sand and plenty of space. Few trees for shade, so bring a beach umbrella, hat, etc.

What is the nature of the ocean floor at Karon Beach?
Sand mostly in close to shore.
Are there restroom and shower facilities available at Karon Beach?
Yes, in restaurants and resorts along the beach.
What features/amenities are available at Karon Beach?

Running down the beach is great – it’s a long, deep sand beach. The sand crunches audibly under your ft. – kind of cool! Lifeguards posted in some locations. Many international restaurants close-by for variety. Lifeguards are here usually – a good place for children, but heed warnings.

Lifeguard available? Is there a lifeguard on duty at Karon Beach?
Yes, in high season.
Sunbeds available? Can you rent sunbeds at Karon Beach?
Yes, on 10% of the beach.
Umbrellas available? Can you rent umbrellas at Karon Beach?
Yes, 10% of the Beach.
Is Karon Beach a public or private beach, and are there any entrance fees?
Public, no fees.
Water quality? What is the condition of the water quality at Karon Beach?
Good
Boat anchorage possible? Can boats anchor at Karon Beach?
No
Boat dock and marina? Is there a boat dock or marina at Karon Beach?
N/A
Is it possible to rent a longtail boat at Karon Beach?
No
Are speedboat or longtail boat tours available at Karon Beach?
No/no
Sea inflow? Is there a sea inflow at Karon Beach?
Yes, North end.
How gradual is the slope into the sea until it reaches a depth of 1 meter at Karon Beach?
4-6m
Is there a convenience shop available at Karon Beach?
Yes
Attractions? What attractions can be found at Karon Beach?

Dino Park Mini-Golf is at the South end of the beach and is great for kids for a couple hours of fun.

Activities? What activities are available for visitors at Karon Beach?

Surfing; Dino Park Mini-Golf; Hooters Bar (Patong).

FKK possible? Is nude bathing or FKK (naturist culture) allowed at Karon Beach?
Not permitted, but if empty?
Are massages offered at Karon Beach?
Yes
Is it possible to picnic at Karon Beach?
Yes, bring food, the beach is wide and food carts may not be close by.
Is it possible to surf at Karon Beach?

Yes, some good surfing can be had here at Karon Beach. Most surfers and crowd will be at Kata Beach if the waves are big, that leaves many other beaches like Karon – relatively free from the mayhem. Sometimes good but choppy conditions with .5 to 2-meter-high waves a couple times each year. Expect short rides, but many of them. Waves break at the North and South ends, do a drive-by to see which spots are cranking. For lessons or rentals, visit SSS Phuket Dive and Surf Center on the south end of Karon Beach. Just go South on Patak Road (Hwy 4028) past the Karon Post Office and look left after the Tesco Lotus Express store.

Is smoking allowed at Karon Beach?

High fines possible.

Warnings – what should one be cautious of at Karon Beach?

Rip-tides can be dangerous when waves get big. Watch for lifeguard flags and ask what they mean if unsure.

Is there waste runoff into the sea at Karon Beach?
Yes
Beach Clubs at Karon Beach

  • Ocean Beach Club

    Nestled on the southern tip of Karon Beach, Ocean Beach Club at Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort is a cozy and highly-rated beach club. It features a restaurant offering a curated selection of dishes, a well-stocked bar, a swimming pool, and lounge chairs—perfect for enjoying a cocktail as the sun sets. Complimentary showers and towel services add to the convenience, contributing to its reputation as a top-rated beach club in Karon. The picturesque setting coupled with exquisite amenities makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying the serene ambiance of the beach.

    Open on Google Maps
Beach Restaurants / Bars Karon Beach
  • On the Rock Restaurant

    On the Rock Restaurant – Located on the hill above the South end of Karon Beach in the Marina Phuket Resort. Trees and greenery cover the open-air restaurant area overlooking sharp rocks and Karon Beach below as seen from their Southernmost vantage point.

    Delicious grilled seafood, drinks, and dessert all presented with style from well-trained servers.

     Open on Google Maps
  • Karlsson Restaurant and Steakhouse – Karon, Phuket

    Karlsson Restaurant and Steakhouse – Located right in the middle of Karon Beach and close to the water is this delicious Swedish-owned restaurant/steakhouse. The owner takes great care to present food that looks great and tastes better. They have a large vegetarian menu as well and happy-hour cocktails. Prices are high but the quality matches it.

    Oh, and I almost forgot – Indoor and outdoor seating and a pleasant atmosphere.

     Open on Google Maps
  • Highway Curry – Authentic Indian | Thai | Vegan | Kata, Phuket

    Highway Curry – Though not exactly on Karon Beach, this highly-rated Indian restaurant is located close to the hills on Patak Road on the South end of Karon Beach. They have great-tasting Indian, Thai, and Vegan meal options. They have exceptional reviews on Google and you can dine there for lunch and dinner.

     Open on Google Maps
Karon Beach Accommodations

  • Mandarava Resort

    Mandarava Resort and Spa – This is a small resort inland from the beach up on a steep hill facing Karon Beach. You’ll need to be rather fit and functional to climb up to your villa. You’ll enjoy ocean or mountain views. Wet bar and pre-dinner happy hour starts at 4 pm. with half-off beer and cocktails. Enjoy yoga classes, free beach shuttle, 5 swimming pools (3 with swim-up bars!), plus a gym and spa. Breakfast available for a nominal fee.

    Rates at Mandarava are affordable starting at around 3,000 THB per night in the off-season months.

    Open on Google Maps

  • Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket

    Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket – The Centara Grand is located on the North part of Karon Beach. This is a 4-star resort with panoramic views and reasonable rates for their quiet and comfortable rooms starting at just 4,500 THB per night in the low season months.

    They have a large swimming pool with islands, well-padded lounge chairs, and a swim-up pool bar. Guests can enjoy ocean or mountain-view rooms for a reasonable rate. The resort has a large fitness facility, infinity pool, and a highly rated restaurant. Style is traditional Thai with modern conveniences.

    Open on Google Maps

Video Footage Karon Beach

Karon Beach Rating Stats

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Karon Beach

Phuket Beach Finder & Directory

3,227 views

Karon Beach, nestled on the west coast of Phuket, is a relatively quieter destination compared to other popular beaches on the island. Stretching over 3 kilometers (1.9 miles), it stands out as one of Phuket’s longest beaches, offering a more spacious and less crowded environment, even during favorable surfing conditions.

The beach is characterized by its fine, soft sand and generally clean surroundings, making it an inviting spot for beachgoers. A road runs alongside the entire length of Karon Beach, providing a great route for those looking to enjoy a scenic run or walk.

Most visitors at Karon Beach are guests staying at nearby resorts, as it doesn’t attract a large number of tourists from other parts of the island. This contributes to its more relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful beach experience. The clear waters of Karon Beach are suitable for swimming and offer decent snorkeling opportunities, adding to its appeal as a versatile beach destination.

For families, Karon Beach is particularly appealing due to the variety of activities available in the vicinity. Nong Harn Lake Park, located at the northern end of the beach, features playgrounds and activities for children. On the southern side, Dino Golf presents an entertaining and unique mini-golf experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Beyond the beach itself, Karon city offers a plethora of shopping options, quaint coffee shops, and small bars, adding to the overall experience of the area. This blend of serene beach environment, family-friendly activities, and urban conveniences makes Karon Beach an attractive spot for those looking for a more laid-back holiday in Phuket.

Where is Karon Beach on Phuket?
• Leaving Patong going South, take Hwy 4233 South to Karon for 15–20 minutes in a vehicle to reach it.
What are the GPS coordinates of Karon Beach?
• GPS Data: 7° 50’ 38” N, 98° 17’ 37” E
How far is Karon Beach from Patong, Phuket Town, and the airport?
• 15 kilometers is the distance from Karon Beach to Patong
• 17 kilometers is the distance from Karon Beach to Phuket Town
• 45 kilometers is the distance from Karon Beach to the airport
Are taxis available at Karon Beach?
• Yes
What beaches are surrounding Karon Beach?
Hat Karon Noi in the North; Kata Beach (Yai) in the South.
Which direction does Karon Beach face?
West
How long is the beachfront (beach length) at Karon Beach?
3.3 kilometer (2 mi.)
How wide is the beach (beach width) at Karon Beach?
30 meters (33 yd.)
What is the estimated beach area of Karon Beach?
99,000 square meters (118,403 square yd)
How is the quality of the beach at Karon Beach?

Excellent quality sand and water at Karon Beach! Deep white sand and plenty of space. Few trees for shade, so bring a beach umbrella, hat, etc.

What is the nature of the ocean floor at Karon Beach?
Sand mostly in close to shore.
Are there restroom and shower facilities available at Karon Beach?
Yes, in restaurants and resorts along the beach.
What features/amenities are available at Karon Beach?

Running down the beach is great – it’s a long, deep sand beach. The sand crunches audibly under your ft. – kind of cool! Lifeguards posted in some locations. Many international restaurants close-by for variety. Lifeguards are here usually – a good place for children, but heed warnings.

Lifeguard available? Is there a lifeguard on duty at Karon Beach?
Yes, in high season.
Sunbeds available? Can you rent sunbeds at Karon Beach?
Yes, on 10% of the beach.
Umbrellas available? Can you rent umbrellas at Karon Beach?
Yes, 10% of the Beach.
Is Karon Beach a public or private beach, and are there any entrance fees?
Public, no fees.
Water quality? What is the condition of the water quality at Karon Beach?
Good
Boat anchorage possible? Can boats anchor at Karon Beach?
No
Boat dock and marina? Is there a boat dock or marina at Karon Beach?
N/A
Is it possible to rent a longtail boat at Karon Beach?
No
Are speedboat or longtail boat tours available at Karon Beach?
No/no
Sea inflow? Is there a sea inflow at Karon Beach?
Yes, North end.
How gradual is the slope into the sea until it reaches a depth of 1 meter at Karon Beach?
4-6m
Is there a convenience shop available at Karon Beach?
Yes
Attractions? What attractions can be found at Karon Beach?

Dino Park Mini-Golf is at the South end of the beach and is great for kids for a couple hours of fun.

Activities? What activities are available for visitors at Karon Beach?

Surfing; Dino Park Mini-Golf; Hooters Bar (Patong).

FKK possible? Is nude bathing or FKK (naturist culture) allowed at Karon Beach?
Not permitted, but if empty?
Are massages offered at Karon Beach?
Yes
Is it possible to picnic at Karon Beach?
Yes, bring food, the beach is wide and food carts may not be close by.
Is it possible to surf at Karon Beach?

Yes, some good surfing can be had here at Karon Beach. Most surfers and crowd will be at Kata Beach if the waves are big, that leaves many other beaches like Karon – relatively free from the mayhem. Sometimes good but choppy conditions with .5 to 2-meter-high waves a couple times each year. Expect short rides, but many of them. Waves break at the North and South ends, do a drive-by to see which spots are cranking. For lessons or rentals, visit SSS Phuket Dive and Surf Center on the south end of Karon Beach. Just go South on Patak Road (Hwy 4028) past the Karon Post Office and look left after the Tesco Lotus Express store.

Is smoking allowed at Karon Beach?

High fines possible.

Warnings – what should one be cautious of at Karon Beach?

Rip-tides can be dangerous when waves get big. Watch for lifeguard flags and ask what they mean if unsure.

Is there waste runoff into the sea at Karon Beach?
Yes
Beach Clubs at Karon Beach

  • Ocean Beach Club

    Nestled on the southern tip of Karon Beach, Ocean Beach Club at Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort is a cozy and highly-rated beach club. It features a restaurant offering a curated selection of dishes, a well-stocked bar, a swimming pool, and lounge chairs—perfect for enjoying a cocktail as the sun sets. Complimentary showers and towel services add to the convenience, contributing to its reputation as a top-rated beach club in Karon. The picturesque setting coupled with exquisite amenities makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying the serene ambiance of the beach.

    Open on Google Maps
Beach Restaurants / Bars Karon Beach
  • On the Rock Restaurant

    On the Rock Restaurant – Located on the hill above the South end of Karon Beach in the Marina Phuket Resort. Trees and greenery cover the open-air restaurant area overlooking sharp rocks and Karon Beach below as seen from their Southernmost vantage point.

    Delicious grilled seafood, drinks, and dessert all presented with style from well-trained servers.

     Open on Google Maps
  • Karlsson Restaurant and Steakhouse – Karon, Phuket

    Karlsson Restaurant and Steakhouse – Located right in the middle of Karon Beach and close to the water is this delicious Swedish-owned restaurant/steakhouse. The owner takes great care to present food that looks great and tastes better. They have a large vegetarian menu as well and happy-hour cocktails. Prices are high but the quality matches it.

    Oh, and I almost forgot – Indoor and outdoor seating and a pleasant atmosphere.

     Open on Google Maps
  • Highway Curry – Authentic Indian | Thai | Vegan | Kata, Phuket

    Highway Curry – Though not exactly on Karon Beach, this highly-rated Indian restaurant is located close to the hills on Patak Road on the South end of Karon Beach. They have great-tasting Indian, Thai, and Vegan meal options. They have exceptional reviews on Google and you can dine there for lunch and dinner.

     Open on Google Maps
Karon Beach Accommodations

  • Mandarava Resort

    Mandarava Resort and Spa – This is a small resort inland from the beach up on a steep hill facing Karon Beach. You’ll need to be rather fit and functional to climb up to your villa. You’ll enjoy ocean or mountain views. Wet bar and pre-dinner happy hour starts at 4 pm. with half-off beer and cocktails. Enjoy yoga classes, free beach shuttle, 5 swimming pools (3 with swim-up bars!), plus a gym and spa. Breakfast available for a nominal fee.

    Rates at Mandarava are affordable starting at around 3,000 THB per night in the off-season months.

    Open on Google Maps

  • Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket

    Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket – The Centara Grand is located on the North part of Karon Beach. This is a 4-star resort with panoramic views and reasonable rates for their quiet and comfortable rooms starting at just 4,500 THB per night in the low season months.

    They have a large swimming pool with islands, well-padded lounge chairs, and a swim-up pool bar. Guests can enjoy ocean or mountain-view rooms for a reasonable rate. The resort has a large fitness facility, infinity pool, and a highly rated restaurant. Style is traditional Thai with modern conveniences.

    Open on Google Maps

Video Footage Karon Beach

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