Kamala Beach, located between Patong and Surin, stretches for 2 kilometers and features a wide shoreline with plenty of greenery. It’s favored by families for its shallow waters and quiet setting. The southern part is rockier and shallower, making it less ideal for swimming compared to the busier central and northern sections.
Kamala stands out for its close access to entertainment and cultural sites. Notable among these are the Phuket FantaSea theme park, the Carnival Magic show known for its world records, the popular Café Del Mar, and the InterContinental hotel, which boasts the Sati Spa and the hom restaurant. This blend of natural appeal and nearby attractions makes Kamala a practical choice for travelers.
Kamala Historical Backdrop
Kamala, once a quiet fishing village mainly home to a Muslim community, has kept its traditional feel even as it became a tourist favorite. You can still see local fishermen at work, bringing a genuine vibe to the beautiful beach area.
Kamala Beach Zones
Spanning approximately 2 kilometers, Kamala Beach is characterized by its powdery white sands and clear waters. The beach is divided into three distinct areas: the northern end, the central part, and the southern end, each offering a unique beach experience.
Northern Kamala
The northern end of Kamala is a slice of paradise, boasting an unspoiled beachfront and a relaxed vibe. This part of the beach is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With fewer crowds, it’s perfect for sunbathing, reading, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Central Kamala
The central section of Kamala Beach is where you’ll find the heartbeat of the local village life. Here, the beach is lined with an array of resorts, quaint bars, and authentic seafood restaurants, offering a taste of local cuisine and culture.
Southern Kamala
While the southern end can get a bit livelier during the high season, it still maintains a more relaxed feel compared to its counterparts like Patong or Karon. This area is great for families and those looking for a mix of relaxation and beachside activities.
Climate and Best Time to Visit Kamala Beach
Kamala Beach experiences two distinct seasons. From November to April, the beach is calm and clear, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. This period is considered the high season, attracting visitors with its ideal beach conditions. From May to October, the beach witnesses larger waves, making it a hotspot for surfing enthusiasts.
Kamala Beach Activities
Kamala Beach is not just about relaxation; it offers a range of activities to suit every interest.
Water Sports and Activities in Kamala
During the high season, the calm waters make it perfect for swimming, especially between the northern and central parts of the beach. The northern end, near the rocks, is a prime spot for snorkeling. Equipment can be rented from local vendors along the beach.
For those who love water sports, jet skis and parasailing are available, primarily during the high season. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider renting a longtail boat to explore neighboring beaches like Laem Singh or Surin.
Surfing at Kamala
Surf enthusiasts will find their haven at the far northern end of Kamala Beach from May to October. The reef break here attracts surfers of various skill levels.
Relaxation and Wellness in Kamala
Sunbeds are available for around 100 baht, mostly located in the middle and southern end of the beach. You can also indulge in a relaxing beach massage, a perfect way to unwind.
Diving Adventures in Kamala
For diving enthusiasts, several PADI-certified dive shops in Kamala offer courses and excursions for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers.
Exploring Kamala Nearby Beaches
Rayee Beach
Just adjacent to Kamala is Rayee Beach, known for its luxury properties like the Hyatt Regency Phuket. While stunning, it’s not ideal for swimming due to the coral formations.
Laem Singh Beach
Tucked between Kamala and Surin, Laem Singh Beach is a picturesque spot surrounded by palm trees and boulders. It offers excellent opportunities for bodyboarding, swimming, and snorkeling, especially in its southern part.
Surin Beach
Further north lies the expansive Surin Beach, a natural beauty with limited commercial establishments. Next to it, Pansea Beach, flanked by The Surin and Amanpuri resorts, provides a more exclusive beach experience.
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Things to Do in Kamala Beach
Markets: A Glimpse into Local Life
Fresh Local Market
The entrance to the village hosts a fresh local market, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily life of Kamala’s residents. This market, operating throughout the day, showcases a variety of fresh produce and local goods, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in local flavors and customs.
Night Market
The Kamala Night Market, a vibrant and lively event, operates on Mondays and Fridays from 3:30 pm to 10 pm. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore an array of local fruits, vegetables, and unique snacks, making for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Location: Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83120, Thailand
Wat Kamala: A Spiritual Retreat
Wat Baan Kamala, situated towards the southern end of the beach, is a beautifully reconstructed Buddhist temple. Visiting in the late afternoon offers a serene experience, as the temple basks in the golden sun rays, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
Location: 16/32 Rim Hat Rd, Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83120, Thailand
Phuket Fantasea: An Evening of Cultural Splendor
Phuket Fantasea, a sprawling cultural theme park, has been a top attraction since 1998. The park, spread over 60 acres, features a Thai culture theatrical show, a themed buffet restaurant, and a shopping street. It’s an ideal destination for an entertaining and culturally rich evening.
Kamala Waterfall: A Nature Lover’s Delight
Kamala Waterfall, although not open for swimming, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The waterfall, nestled in lush tropical surroundings, provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and exploration.
Kamala Beach Horse Riding
Experience the unique thrill of horseback riding along the picturesque Kamala Beach. Perfect for both beginners and experienced riders, this activity offers a chance to trot along the white sandy beach, surrounded by coconut trees and the stunning Andaman Sea. It’s not just a ride; it’s an opportunity to bond with these majestic animals. After the beach ride, you’ll return to the stables to care for your horse, creating a memorable and intimate experience with nature.
Carnival Magic: A World of Enchantment
Carnival Magic, a 40-acre nighttime theme park, offers a unique experience with its record-breaking attractions. Located in Kamala Beach, it’s an iconic destination that adds a magical touch to any Phuket visit.
Kamala Lawn Bowling Club: Leisure and Fun
The Kamala Lawn Bowling Club offers a relaxed and family-friendly environment for an afternoon of leisure. With an onsite bar and a karaoke room, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy some light-hearted fun.
- Location: 71/26 Moo 5, Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83120, Thailand
- Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm (closed on Sundays).
Spa and Thai Massage
Kamala Beach’s numerous spa centers, mostly part of local hotels and resorts, offer a range of treatments combining local and international techniques. A Thai massage here is a must for complete relaxation and rejuvenation.
Thai Cooking Classes: Culinary Adventures
Thai cooking classes in Kamala provide a delightful way to learn about Thai cuisine. These classes are simple, fun, and culminate in a delicious feast of dishes like pad Thai and stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts.
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Jungle Trekking & Hiking: Exploring Phuket’s Natural Beauty
The hills around Kamala Beach are perfect for jungle trekking and hiking. Trails offer panoramic views and encounters with tropical nature, making it a rewarding experience for those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Where to Stay in Kamala Beach: Best Hotels & Resorts
When it comes to accommodation, Kamala Beach offers a diverse range of options, from luxurious resorts to cozy guesthouses.
Andara Resort Villas
- Location: 15 Moo. 6, Layi-nakalay Rd, Kamala Beach Kathu Phuket 83120 Thailand
- Category: 5-star
- Distance to nearest beach: near Kamala Beach
Andara Resort Villas, perched above Kamala Bay, is a 5-star sanctuary blending opulence with a serene seaside setting. The resort’s villas and suites offer unparalleled views of the Andaman Sea, complemented by modern amenities and elegant decor. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, spa treatments, and the exquisite Silk Restaurant.
Twinpalms MontAzure
- Location: 129/86 Kamala Beach Road Kathu, Phuket, 83150 Kamala Beach, Thailand
- Category: 5-star
- Distance to nearest beach: On Kamala Beach
Twinpalms MontAzure offers a tranquil beachfront experience with its stylish rooms and exceptional service. Located directly on Kamala Beach, it’s ideal for guests seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to the sea. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and a garden area.
Keemala – SHA Plus
- Location: 10/88 Moo 6, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket, 83150 Kamala Beach, Thailand
- Category: 5-star
- Distance to nearest beach: 1.2 km from Kamala Beach
Keemala – SHA Plus, nestled in the hills overlooking Kamala Beach, offers a unique blend of traditional Thai charm and modern luxury. Each villa features a private pool, and guests can enjoy the spa, wellness center, and gourmet dining options.
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Where to Eat in Kamala: Best Cafe and Resraurants
Dining on Kamala Beach
Kamala Beach, a culinary haven in Phuket, presents an eclectic mix of dining options, catering to every taste and preference. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best places to dine in Kamala.
Southern End of Kamala Beach
At the southern end of the beach, you’ll find a range of beachfront hotels offering both Thai and international cuisines in their on-site restaurants. These spots are perfect for enjoying a meal with stunning sea views. Additionally, several local restaurants, just a short walk from the beach, serve up authentic Thai dishes in a more laid-back setting.
Northern End and Beach Clubs
Venture to the northern end for a different vibe, where hawker stalls present a variety of Thai dishes, from spicy salads to traditional desserts. For a touch of luxury, visit beach clubs like Café del Mar Phuket and HQ Beach Lounge, known for their high-quality international food and vibrant atmosphere.
Where to Eat on Kamala Beach
Café Del Mar Phuket
- Address: 118/19 Moo3, Kamala Beach, Kathu District, Phuket 83150
- Open: 11 am – 2 am
- Phone: 061 359 5500
Café del Mar brings the iconic Ibiza experience to Kamala Beach. It’s a beachfront oasis offering an exclusive chill-out atmosphere, with a-list international guest DJs, a massive swimming pool, and premium dining and lounging facilities.
Silk Restaurant & Bar
- Location: Andara Resort & Villas, 15 Moo 6, Layi-Nakalay Rd., Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
- Open: Daily from 7am to 12am
- Phone: +66 (0)76 338 777
Nestled in Andara Resort Villas, Silk Restaurant specializes in Thai haute cuisine, offering a luxurious dining experience. The attention to detail in food presentation and service makes it an ideal choice for a romantic evening.
Old Siam Restaurant
- Location: Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa, 6/2 Moo 6, Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
- Open: Monday–Friday from 10am to 11pm, Saturday–Sunday from 10am to 11.30pm
- Phone: +66 (0)76 618 217
Old Siam offers an authentic Thai dining experience in a peaceful setting. Located at Thavorn Beach Village & Spa, the restaurant serves Royal Thai cuisine in a classic Lanna-style setting, right on the beach.
Kokosnuss Restaurant & German Bakery
- Location: Unnamed Road, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand
- Open: Daily from 7am to 11pm
A cozy spot in Kamala, Kokosnuss Restaurant & German Bakery blends European and Thai cuisines, featuring a wide array of homemade German sausages and affordable prices. With “eat as much as you can” promotions on select days, it’s a go-to for hearty meals.
The Swedish Bakery
- Location: 22, 110, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
- Menu
The Swedish Bakery is a favorite for its budget-friendly, delicious coffee and baked goods. It offers a comfortable setting with excellent internet, making it perfect for working or relaxing. Their selection includes a variety of breads and cakes.
Lillo Island Restaurant & Bar
Lillo Island offers a wide menu variety and is especially busy in the evenings. Expect a short wait for a table, possibly on the sand with a beautiful sea view. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, deliciously prepared dishes, and average beach prices. Highlights include oysters, filet américain, and papaya salads. Desserts like mango sticky rice and fried bananas are favorites, alongside a selection of wines, draft beer, and non-alcoholic beverages like fruit smoothies and latte.
- Address: 96/18 Moo 3 Soi policestation kamala Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
- Open: 8 AM–11 PM
- Phone: +66 95 775 1112
Nightlife in Kamala: Bars, Clubs & Pubs
HQ Beach Lounge Phuket
- Location: 118/17, Moo 3 Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
- Open: Daily from 9am to 10pm
- Phone: +66 (0)94 480 0882
HQ Beach Lounge is a chic and stylish beach club at the northern end of Kamala Beach. It offers a refined selection of drinks, classy cuisine, and a live DJ every evening, all in a cozy beachfront setting.
Vanilla Sky Bar & Gastro Pub
- Location: 18/40 Moo 6, Nakalay Road, Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
- Open: Daily from 5pm to midnight
- Phone: +66 (0)76 337 300
Perched atop Cape Sienna Phuket Hotel & Villas, Vanilla Sky Bar & Gastro Pub offers stunning views of Kamala Bay. The lounge serves a variety of cocktails and tapas in an elegant setting, perfect for a relaxed evening.
Diavolo
- Location: Paresa Resort, Nakalay Road, Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83120, Thailand
- Open: Daily from 11am to 11pm
- Phone: +66 (0)76 302 000
Diavolo at Paresa Resort is known for its breathtaking cliff-side terrace and contemporary décor. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic sundowner, offering signature cocktails and a wide selection of wines.
Shopping in Kamala Beach
Kamala Beach, known for its serene ambiance and beautiful coastline, also offers a vibrant shopping experience that reflects the local Thai lifestyle. Here’s your guide to the best shopping spots in Kamala.
Village Markets: A Local’s Haven
At the heart of Kamala’s shopping scene are the village markets. These bustling hubs are where locals go for their daily needs, and they offer a glimpse into the authentic Thai way of life.
- What to Expect: These markets sell an array of items including food, cut flowers, sunglasses, clothing, footwear, bags, and belts.
- Pricing: Most prices are fixed, allowing you to pay what the locals do. For instance, sunglasses might cost around 150 baht, while T-shirts are typically priced at 200 baht.
- Location and Timing: The village market is located on the Main Road opposite Kamala Bakery. It operates every Wednesday and Saturday from 3.00 pm to 7.30 pm.
Kamala Friday Market
The Kamala Friday Market is a larger version of the village markets and runs throughout the year.
- Offerings: This market features fresh fruit and vegetables, local produce, handicrafts, sunglasses, and clothing.
- Location and Timing: You’ll find it opposite Phuket Fantasea every Friday from around 2.00 pm to 7.30 pm.
Kamala Beach Plaza
For more conventional shopping, head to Kamala Beach Plaza located on the beach road.
- Products: This shopping area is known for souvenirs, sarongs, clothes, glasses, bags, and swimwear.
- Beach Vendors: During the high season, vendors near the beachfront sell souvenirs and beachwear.
- Nearby Facilities: Along the southern part of the beach, you’ll find a 7-Eleven, massage shops, diving shops, and bars.
How To Get To Kamala Beach
Location: Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83120, Thailand
Reaching Kamala Beach is part of the adventure, offering scenic views along the way.
- Route from Patong: Drive along the coast road from Patong, which takes you up a hill providing a panoramic view of Kamala.
- At the Hill’s Bottom: Once you reach the bottom of the hill, turn left to enter the Kamala area.
Read also: Getting Around Phuket: Full Transport Guide for Your Trip 2024
Conclusion
Kamala Beach in Phuket is a destination that beautifully balances relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. With its stunning beach, luxurious accommodations, and rich cultural offerings, it’s a place that promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
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