Kamala Beach - What It’s Like, Who It’s For & What to Expect
Kamala Beach is a hidden gem on Phuket's west coast, Just north of Patong Beach about 30 mins drive or bus , perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
You’ll find a serene stretch of soft sand and clear blue waters, inviting you to relax and soak up the sun. Whether you’re lounging on the beach with a good book or enjoying a leisurely swim, this spot offers a tranquil atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
Local eateries line the shore, serving delicious Thai cuisine, so you can easily grab a bite to eat without straying too far from the beach.
What is Kamala Beach Like
With its laid-back vibe and stunning scenery, Kamala Beach is the ideal destination for a peaceful getaway that rejuvenates your spirit and refreshes your mind.
Kamala Beach exudes a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, making it an appealing escape from the busier tourist spots.
The atmosphere at Kamala Beach exudes a relaxed charm that instantly puts you at ease.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by swaying palms, soft sands, and the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore. The warm sun kisses your skin while a gentle breeze carries the scent of the ocean.
Swimming & Water Conditions
Kamala Beach is ideal for a variety of activities, particularly swimming, thanks to its calm, clear waters. You’ll love how refreshing the ocean feels as you dive in or wade along the shore.
If you’re looking to relax, sunbathing on the soft sands is a must. For the more adventurous, snorkeling lets you explore the vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. You can also try kayaking, which offers a unique perspective of the coastline.
Best Times To Visit - The ideal time to enjoy Kamala Beach is from November to April when the weather's dry and sunny.
Safety Considerations: Always check water conditions before swimming.
Best Things to Do at Kamala Beach
There isn't really a lot of things to do in kamala beach. Its known for a quiet destination to get away from the main area in phuket which is patong beach. Its best suited for families who want to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle areas.
Phuket FantaSea Park
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photo by Walter Lim
Phuket Fantasea park is based on thai mythology and thai legends, its the perfect instagram photo opportunity with its bright lights and extravagant set. The Golden Kinaree restaurant resembles a huge golden temple. Dinner is by choice in their huge dining room that is sure to wow. The dinner buffet is ok and has seating for up to 4000 ppl which is astounding.
Ppl rush to see the show and get to their seats even though they have pre booked. Unfortunately photos are not allowed and you may need permission. Cameras are left at counters before.
The show itself is full of actors and Thai dancers and elephants parading in the show. its certainly a sight to behold and why this is very popular. There are photo opportunities outside the show
Address: 99 Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150
Open: Only Fridays and Saturdays, 5.30 pm – 1.00 pm
Show: 8.30 pm
Phone: 076 385 000
Price: starts at 1,800 THB
Show only: 1,800 baht
Show plus buffet dinner: 2,200 baht – Child 2,000
Transfer from any hotel in Phuket: 350 baht.
Gold Seat extra charge: 350 baht (closer to the stage)
Carnival Magic
Carnival Magic is a theme park based in kamala beach and right next to fantasea.
Its nighttime based park suitable for all types of people. The main focus is on Thai themes and lightshow's
The park is open 3 nights a week (Monday, Wednesday, Saturday), you will need to check the show times before planning. A trip to the park takes about 4 hours, including dinner and the main show.
Its great for Families and kids, couples who like Instagram photo ops and anyone who enjoys big light shows.
Its best to get there by 5:30 pm to explore the Fun Fair before dinner
– The buffet starts around 6 pm, and the show ison later that evening.
– Wear good fitting shoes as there can be lots of walking
– Most Shuttle buses will be able to pick up from hotels in Kata, Karon, Patong, and Phuket Town
Open: Carnival Magic is only open on Monday, Wednesday & Saturday
Hours: 5.30 pm – 11.30 pm
photo courtesy of Phuket 101
Snorkeling & kayaking near the headland
Consider trying out some water sports, like kayaking or paddleboarding, or snorkeling , to explore the beautiful coastline from a different perspective.
Horse Riding On Kamala Beach
Ride a gentle, well-trained horse along the beach, with the wind on your face.
Read more about - Horse Riding Kamala Beach Phuket One Hour Tour
Where to Stay Near Kamala Beach
The majority of places to stay in kamala beach are pretty much centred around the short winding village area that borders the beachfront. some of the hotels are set back behind the main village style streets. The Village style street is home to most of the restaurants but in off season it can be very quiet. Its about 30 mins walk from one end of the village to the other and back around by the beach front.
many of the places to stay range from cheap guesthouse style budget accommodating to resorts a cross the other side or further north of kamala beach
Budget accommodation
Simple and affordable stays within walking distance of the sand and local eateries.
Mid-Range accommodation
Comfortable seaside hotels with pools and easy access to cafés and water activities.
Luxury accommodation
Spacious beachfront resorts and hillside escapes offering bigger rooms, views, and premium services.
Restaurants, Cafes & Nightlife
Nightlife - Kamala Doesn't really have too much of a nightlife going on. It consists of a few bars along the boardwalk and then on the other side of the village by the main road there is a small Select few bars notably the Aussie bar which obviously is where a Lot of expats go to. I cant say it was a favourite of mine as it Didn't seem too friendly
Street Food - Most of the food is from cafes or Restaurants that litter the old style village by the beach. This is a winding section of the street but some of the restaurants along here represent good value
Markets - There appeared to be one small night market down by the beach and the river. There seems to be some places that got very busy and there was plenty of local food options available.
Who Kamala Beach Is Best For
Kamala Beach caters to a diverse crowd, making it an ideal destination for couples, singles, and families alike.
If you’re a couple seeking romance, the serene sunsets and quiet beaches offer perfect moments for bonding. For singles, the vibrant social scene provides ample opportunities to meet new friends or enjoy beach parties.
Families will appreciate the safe, shallow waters and kid-friendly activities, ensuring everyone has a memorable time. The variety of dining options means you can share a meal with loved ones or enjoy a night out.
Whether you’re looking to relax, socialize, or create lasting memories, Kamala Beach has something for everyone, allowing you to tailor your experience to your preferences.
Kamala Beach vs Nearby Beaches
When is the best time to visit kamala beach
The ideal time is between November and April when the weather is dry and the sea is calm, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
The rainy season is from may to October and i went in august however the rain wasn't that often so it was fine and even it was raining it would still be ok as a lot of places were undercover
January - March - Dry season
March -May - Hot season
May-October - Rainy season
November - January - High Season
Common Mistakes When Staying in Kamala Beach
The most common mistake when staying at kamala beach is staying too far away from the beach area. This is the main reason why people come to kamala is to be by the beach.
Is Kamala Beach Right for You?
Ask yourself what it is your wanting out of a stay here. Are you wanting to be by the beach or buried in the hills surrounding kamala. If your into lying on the beach and dining beachside at one of the many hotels or beach side cafe restaurants then this is what its all about. kamala has many beachside pleases to eat and drink at great prices. There is a great boardwalk area to the north of the township across the small rive and even in rainy season it was very pleasant.
so if dining beachside is for you then this is perfect.