Karon Viewpoint
Karon Viewpoint is a strange place: first time I visited it, it was called ‘Kata Viewpoint’ and one day, someone decided to rename it ‘Karon Viewpoint’! If you know a bit of Phuket geography, you’ll realize how odd this is as it’s actually far from Karon Beach, but just past Kata Beach. Probably has to do with the Karon district or someone had too much time on his hands. Anyway, it is a little confusing and travellers sometimes are trying to find it around Karon!
Anyway Thai and residents continue to call it Kata Viewpoint and most never noticed the name change or the huge sign on the building anyway. Note that the Thai name in is Kho Sam Haad which means ‘Hill of the Three Beaches’. So if it is your first trip to Phuket, you probably won’t care and will stop few minutes at this popular and beautiful Kata viewpoint to admire the panorama from the top of the hill. You really can see three magnificent bays from up there.
The closest and smallest one is Kata Noi Beach, then a bit further is the beautiful bay of Kata with its island ‘Koh Poo’ which means Crab Island, and in the far, the very long Karon Beach With such location on the side of the road leading to the famous Promthep Cape, everyone will just stop for a shot and a fun group photo on their way to Nai Harn. Some might rest a bit longer in the shade of the roof with some drinks or snacks bought at one of the three tiny shops located few steps down below, or have a chat with the now well known reggae guy always hanging there selling some accessories.
Kata Viewpoint has a vast and easy parking area, so if like me you can’t resist a viewpoint, don’t hesitate to stop on your way to the Windmill Viewpoint and Promthep Cape.
Karon Viewpoint Location
Address: 4233, Tambon Karon, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83100
Open: 24 hours
Price: Free