Towards the southern end of Phuket is Kata Beach, which is divided into Kata Yai and Kata Noi. Both beaches offer stunning scenery and a relaxed atmosphere.
Kata Yai
This is the larger of the two beaches. The bay is very picturesque with Koh Pu (Pu Island) at the northern end. Half of the beach is bordered by a road, while the southern half has a few resorts right on the beach. Club Med occupies a large portion of the land behind the beach road towards the northern end of the beach, keeping that end of the beach fairly quiet.
Due to its fairly small size, Kata has a cozy feel about it and is great for families. There are quite a few shops, restaurants and bars around Kata Centre and between Kata Yai and Kata Noi. Kata is perhaps the best compromise between the hectic pace of Patong and some of the quieter beaches on Phuket.
Kata Noi
Kata Noi only has a few hotels and is dominated by the Kata Thani Hotel. The beach is lovely and there has only been a little development.
Accommodation
There is a good range of accommodation in Kata, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses behind the beach. At the southern end of Kata Yai beginning at Kata Beach Resort there are hotels right on the beach, which are a rarity on Phuket's west coast.
Activities
There are plenty of watersports to be enjoyed at Kata. The bay is excellent for sailing and plays host to the annual King's Cup Regatta every December.
Kata Yai and Kata Noi are quite popular with surfers during the rainy season. You can rent all kinds of boards on the beach. It is also one of the best beaches on the island for snorkelling. Confident swimmers can try swimming out towards Koh Pu to view the beautiful coral there, although don't attempt this during the rainy season. The area to the South of Kata Noi beach has some decent coral that is worth exploring.
Dining
There is a good variety of restaurants in Kata, especially around Kata Centre. Restaurants serving Thai, Italian, Scandinavian and of course seafood can all be found here. Restaurants right on the beach can also be found at the southern end of Kata Yai.
Nightlife
Nightlife in Kata is pretty laid-back although there are quite a few bars to be found, mostly around Kata Centre. There are also a collection of beer-bars heading inland from the junction at Kata Center. However, for a big night out you are better off heading to Patong.
