Take a 15-minute drive along the western coast road in Phuket and you’ll come to the smaller resort towns of Kata and Karon. The first of the resorts is Karon, with Kata following closely behind. Both Kata and Karon have peaceful, white sand beaches and a laidback atmosphere. If you are looking for somewhere a bit more peaceful to stay while on Phuket, try Kata or Karon. You can still enjoy the proximity to the facilities at Patong Beach but you gain more peaceful surroundings. But where’s the best place to stay in Kata and Karon? Find the best resorts with the help of this guide.
All About Karon and Karon Beach
Karon is the larger of the two towns and it has a small shopping area at its center plus a collection of bars and restaurants. This small epicenter is not the only thing Karon has to offer, however, as there are bars, shops and buildings spreading inland up towards the hills. Many of the most popular hotels in Karon are located by the central shopping district and close to the beach. However, some hotels may be around 1km from the shopping center as the main road extends quite some distance. If you want to be close to the center, check the location of your hotel. But it will generally not be a problem as most Karon hotels provide all the facilities you need to enjoy your stay. If you are looking for a budget hotel then Karon may not be your first choice, although there are lower-priced resorts a little further from the beach. If you choose a hotel further from the beach then you can generally enjoy excellent sea views as the resorts are located higher in the hills.
Resorts and Hotels in Karon
Karon Sea Sands Resort
Conveniently located close to Karon Beach and to the shops and bars in Karon town, the Sea Sands Resort has 89 rooms and is a less expensive pick. The spacious rooms and the inviting pools all attract guests time and time again.
The Village Resort & Spa
Honeymooners, couples, and groups of friends will appreciate this resort (children under the age of 12 are not allowed). This small resort offers 34 villas in a tropical garden setting and it is a peaceful place to spend a vacation. You will have to walk about five minutes to the beach at Karon but the large pool at the resort is more easily accessible.
Mövenpick Resort & Spa
With 245 rooms, this resort is a larger choice and is set opposite the beach and close to all the action. This resort is particularly child-friendly and also offers a courteous, welcoming level of service. The swimming pool and the restaurants are particularly highly rated.
All About Kata and Kata Beach
Once you have reached the southernmost edge of Karon you pass into Kata, a small town with a few restaurants and bars, plus a range of accommodation. Kata beach and Kata Noi beach are both peaceful, calm, and beautiful with white sand and tropical palm trees. You get fewer people here, and therefore less traffic noise and more space. Kata is popular with families as you can take advantage of the tranquil surroundings for a stress-free family holiday. Patong Beach is also within easy reach – around a 20-minute drive – so you can enjoy a meal in a restaurant there, or a night out on the town.
Resorts and Hotels in Kata
Avista Phuket Resort & Spa
Close to Kata and Karon beaches, the Avista is a large, 143-room resort with good ratings, offering some excellent quality accommodation in spacious rooms. You get the same sea views as with the Aspasia, mentioned below, although this is the larger of the two resorts.
The Aspasia Hotel
This boutique property has 46 rooms and is located in a garden setting on top of a hill. You benefit from great sea views, as well as a peaceful ambience. This resort also offers great service and nice food in the onsite restaurant.
Kata Palm Resort
Just a few minutes from the beach and located near to the main shopping centers, Kata Palm is a nice resort with a spacious swimming pool and reasonably priced accommodation.
Boathouse – Resort on the Beach
If you are looking for luxurious accommodation, with a larger price tag, then take a look at the Boathouse. This boutique hotel offers beautiful rooms, attentive service, and a range of facilities and amenities to help your vacation be the best ever.
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