The beach is growing popularity but due to its size, it never seems to be over-crowded. The beach is split into three parts: north, south and centre. Karon Plaza is found at the south end of the beach and is where you will find a number of budget guesthouses, Thai and western restaurants and lively bars. This part of Karon generally attracts backpackers. The northern section is generally much quieter attracting those looking to escape and the centre of the beach is home to hotels, guesthouses, art galleries, shops, restaurants and bars.

Water sports and leisure activities
The beach is home to countless water sports opportunities, although the choice available will depend on the time of year. Between the months of November to April, the sea is very still and perfect for snorkelling and diving. There are dive shops all along the beach road where equipment can be hired and dive trips can be organised. The best snorkeling can be found by the rocks at the south end. Between May and October, there can be heavy swell and some large waves. This time of year is popular with surfers although the conditions are changeable due to the openness of the beach and therefore experienced surfers prefer the beaches of Kata and Patong.

Other popular water-based activities include banana boat rides, waterskiing, jet skiing and wakeboarding. The beach boasts some of the best conditions for windsurfing on the whole of Phuket. The waters are rarely busy so experienced windsurfers will virtually have the water to themselves. Hobie cats and kayaks are also available for rent.

Sea turtles are occasional visitors as they arrive on the sand to lay their eggs. If you come across a sea turtle, it is important to let your hotel know so that the Phuket Marine Biological Centre can be informed and incubate the eggs immediately.

What better location could there be for a Thai massage than on the beach? Readily available and excellent value for money, the masseuses are set up in the shaded areas. Other types of massage and reflexology are also available.

Accommodation
Hotels and resorts abound on Karon, as do cheaper guest houses and hostels. Accommodation here is suitable for all budgets and tastes. If you know the dates which you will be travelling, it is adviseable to book your hotel room in advance to ensure that you get a room and also to guarantee the cheapest rate.

If you are lucky enough to stay in a hotel which is located on the beachfront, you will have many amenities such as sun loungers, a pool, towels and refreshments. However, those who are not staying on the beach itself will have to hire sun loungers. There are many beds located along the southern end of the beach and can be hired for a very reasonable daily rate.

Food and Drink
There are a number of beach stalls selling a variety of Thai dishes and snacks. Local curries are favourites with tourists as are satay dishes, bar-b-q chicken and noodles. The dishes sold at these food stalls are very reasonable and are also very authentic; even more so than some of the restaurants. Buying lunch here will not only save you money, but you will not have to leave the beach and can continue to soak up the sun from the comfort of your sun lounger. Other beach vendors sell drinks, ice cream and fruit.

For something more substantial however, there are countless beach side restaurants serving up a variety of dishes. You can enjoy burgers steaks, fries, curries, pasta, pizza, soups, salads and much more. Restaurants range from five star exclusive establishments to cheap and cheerful bars and local eateries. Unlike Patong Beach, big-name restaurants and fast food chains do not yet dominate the market. Smaller independent restaurants serving up fresh food are still the only choice.

Evening dining options include sea food restaurants (serving up fresh fish and shell food), all you can eat buffets (particularly popular in the hotels), Thai restaurants and international eateries.

Shopping
Karon Beach is not the best destination when it comes to shopping opportunities. Souvenirs abound, but fashion and accessories are not so common. Beach wear is available at many stalls running parallel to the beach and mini marts sell a wide range of toiletries and make up. For a more intense shopping experience, Patong has the monopoly. Patong is easily reached from Karon so if your money is burning a hole in your pocket, you will not have far to travel before you can spend it.

Entertainment
Karon’s nightlife is not on the same level as Patong’s, but this is one of the reasons why the beach is so popular. It is the perfect location to enjoy a meal and a few drinks on the beach before heading to one of the many bars located in the southern end. Bars are popular with expats and tourists and are somewhere to let your hair down once in a while.