KATA, ON PHUKET’S SOUTHWEST ANDAMAN SEA COAST, DOESN’T JUST BOAST ONE OF THE ISLAND’S MOST STUNNING BEACHES…IT HAS TWO STRETCHES OF GOLDEN SAND TO SHOUT ABOUT!
By: Roger Osbourne
If you are into martial arts you will know that ‘kata’ is a Japanese word used to describe the coordination of a pair of participants. It occurred to me, when researching this story, that ‘kata’ is quite an appropriate word when attempting to characterise one of Phuket’s most popular beach towns, which happens to be called ‘Kata’.
This is because Hat Kata is completely different to Phuket’s other iconic beach locations as the town straddles not one, but two beaches, each perfectly coordinated to the other, offering two distinctive vibes.
The main differentiating feature between the two beaches is size. Lashings of creativity were not deployed when it came to naming them! The largest is called ‘Kata Yai’ (big Kata), and the smaller is ‘Kata Noi’ (little Kata).
KATA YAI is the main and bigger beach, stretching approximately 1.5 kilometres, with a small off-lying island, called Koh Pu (crab island), which adds some picturesque charm, particularly at sunset time. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers a blend of soft sands and calm waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding. Kata’s main shopping and dining strip is within walking distance, making Kata Yai very popular with families.
KATA NOI, by contrast, is much smaller, more secluded, and only 700 metres in length. It offers an intimate, tranquil escape for those seeking privacy and serenity. The sand here feels even softer, and the water takes on an almost jewel-like clarity, ideal for swimming or simply lounging under the sun.
To the east, Kata is fringed by some high forested hills. Atop the highest of these is the giant statue of Lord Buddha, who dominates the entire south of the island, and can be seen from almost every angle. To reach the ‘Big Buddha’ statue, you need to go to the eastern side of Nakkerd Hill, in Chalong; the Kata side is too steep for a road. Well worth a visit, you not only get the most spectacular view in southern Thailand, but there is also a small museum and meditation centre.
Kata’s bi-polar personality is unique, it has something to offer everyone – spirited yet serene, lively yet laid back. I spent two days exploring this enigmatic destination and came across some of the town’s most famous, and well established venues, as well as a few brand new facilities. I hope you enjoy!
OTHER KATA ARTICLES
A LEGEND ON THE BEACH – Go to story
THE BEACH CLUB ON THE CLIFF – Go to story
PLEASE – WE ARE READY TO ORDER ! – Go to story
A TRANQUIL OASIS – Go to story
