Karon Beach Place guide

Karon Beach is the third longest strip of sand along the west coast of Phuket, home to the best nightlife and holiday destinations on the island. Similar to Patong Beach, several restaurants, bars, go-go bars, shopping centers, hotels and flea markets can be found along Patak Road. 

Watersports: Because Karon is less-developed than Patong Beach, it’s less crowded and better for snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving.

Nightlife: One of the best nightlife areas in Karon Beach is Bangla Plaza, where bars play retro music. There’s also an Irish Pub called The Angus O’ Tool’s, found in Soi Centara serving drinks, a variety of food, music with a large-screen television to watch sports and movies. 

There’s also Karon Plaza along Phochuan Road, with an open-air restaurant, bars, massages and other services. Anybody’s Bar is cozy and features a wide-screen TV, perfect for watching sports and movies.  

Operating hours: Most of the nightlife in Karon Beach opens around 6:00pm and closes at midnight; the best time to visit is from February to June when the weather is warm and friendly. If you visit the beach during July to October, beware of riptides beneath the surface.

How to get there

• Getting to Karon Beach, Phuket from Phuket City Center is as easy as hailing and riding a taxi for 30 minutes to an hour, for THB700 to 800. 
  
  
• Mini buses are also available, more budget-friendly if you’re used to traveling with a group of people.