Home to one of the most favoured beaches on Phuket Island, the small city of Karon also offers shopping, dining and nightlife outside the main resorts. Snorkelling, diving and parasailing adventures ensure year-round entertaining in Karon.

Things to do

The golden beach is undoubtedly the star of Karon, packed with water sports, such as jet skiing, wakeboarding and windsurfing. You can snorkel straight from the beach, with suitable spots at the southern end. If you prefer to stay dry, join a game of volleyball or rollerblade along the esplanade.

In Karon Centre, Wat Karon Buddhist temple stands out for its ornate edifices and Naga statues featuring mythological Thai snakes. The temple also hosts the lively Karon Market, selling colourful beach gear, Thai garments, sarongs and scarves. You can also sample traditional Thai street snacks.

Take an evening stroll along Karon Beach Road and have dinner in one of the resort restaurants with spectacular waterfront views. Visit one of the first-rate spas and Thai massage parlours. Therapists and practitioners also operate at various spots along Karon Beach, offering massages with royal Thai honey and chocolate.

Have you ever dreamed of cooking Thai cuisine? You can learn it from master chefs during culinary classes on Thai specialties, such as pad Thai, tom yum soup and various curries. Many cooking schools operate out of restaurants and resort kitchens, but small local schools, such as Phuket Cooking Course at Karon Beach, run some of the best classes.

Getting around

Car and motorbike rentals are available in Phuket, about a one-hour drive from Karon. Other transportation options include taxis, mini-buses, motorbike taxis and traditional tuk-tuks.