Karon Beach

Karon Beach is popular and busy but still manages to deliver that feeling of paradise on earth when you visit. The 3-mile long beach has powder-soft white sand lapped by clear blue waters edged with white waves.

It’s a popular scene with artists who often sit at their easels and recreate the view. The beach is also home to a beautiful temple known locally as Wat Suwan Khiri Ket. The entrance has two carved snakes guarding it and the central hall includes a rare black statue of a Buddha.

From November to April the waters are calm and safe even for young families but from May to October the rough swell makes it more dangerous for bathing. As a rule, the northern end is more secluded making it ideal for a romantic stroll.

The beach has plenty to do with volleyball courts which are popular in the late afternoon when the sun begins to fade. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas. Snorkelling equipment rentals are available for exploring the reef at the north end of Karon Beach along with jet skis, banana boat rides, sea kayaks and parasailing rides.

There are no public toilets but the local bars have facilities for customers – some charge a small fee. Overlooking the beach is Karon Plaza, a good place to find bars, eateries and guesthouses. There is a good choice of restaurants offering Thai cuisine, seafood, pizza, Italian and Scandinavian dishes. Some restaurants also offer cookery classes when you pick ingredients from the local market and cook dishes under the expert eye of a Thai chef.

The beach also has several massage parlours overlooking the sand along with yoga centers and crazy golf at nearby Dino Park.