Map of Karon Beach
This map of Karon Beach shows the main landmarks, restaurants and hotels along one of the longest beaches on the west coast of Phuket. Karon is a quieter alternative to nearby Patong, just 5 kilometres south. The beach itself is over 3 kilometres long, and the town behind it is spread out enough that knowing which area suits you makes a difference when choosing where to stay. The map below covers the main areas from north to south.
North Karon
The northern end of Karon sits just below the headland separating it from Patong. This is the quieter stretch of beach with fewer sun loungers and a more relaxed feel. Several of the larger resort hotels are here, including Centara Grand Beach Resort, set slightly back from the beach among landscaped gardens. The road behind the northern section is mainly residential with a few smaller restaurants and convenience stores. From this end, it is a short drive over the hill to Patong.
Karon Centre
The central part of Karon is where most of the restaurants, shops and services are concentrated. The main road runs parallel to the beach with Thai and international restaurants, massage shops, small supermarkets and a handful of bars. Karon is a resort town rather than a nightlife destination. The atmosphere is easy-going, which is exactly why many travellers prefer it over Patong. The Karon Temple Market takes place near Karon Circle and is one of the best night markets in Phuket, well worth a visit for street food and local goods.
South Karon
The southern end of the beach is closest to Kata Beach, just over the next headland. Avista Grande Phuket Karon sits on the hillside at this end with views over the bay. The beach here tends to be less crowded than the centre, and at low tide the sand stretches wide. The headland between Karon and Kata has a small viewpoint accessible from the road that is worth a quick stop.
Karon Hillside and Big Buddha Trail
One of the least known features of Karon is the hiking trail to Phuket Big Buddha. The trailhead starts from the hillside behind Karon and climbs through forest to the Big Buddha temple on top of Nakkerd Hill. It is a proper hike rather than a casual walk, but the views from the top are some of the best in Phuket. Most visitors drive to Big Buddha, so arriving on foot gives you the place almost to yourself.
Getting Around Karon
Karon Beach is long enough that walking from one end to the other takes about 30 to 40 minutes along the beachfront road. The town centre is walkable if your hotel is nearby, but a scooter is useful for exploring the full length of the beach and reaching neighbouring areas. Kata Beach is about 5 minutes south, and Patong is roughly 10 minutes north over the hill. Tuk-tuks wait along the main road for short trips.
Hotels in Karon Beach
3 Popular Hotels in Karon Beach
5-star hotel - Score: 8.5 Distance from beach: 200 m | 
5-star hotel - Score: 8.4 Distance from beach: on the beach | 
5-star hotel - Score: 9.1 Distance from beach: 700 m |
Your Karon Beach Travel Guide
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