Kata accommodation from AU$139

Kata Beach is swimmable from December to late April. From May to November care should be exercised and you should not enter the water if red warning flags are flying. Surfers and swimmers happily coexist because the beach is so long and often the surfing is only worthwhile in particular areas. If you choose to visit specifically for the surfing, don't expect to be blown away by amazing barrels and six foot waves but do expect to have a great time. On a good day the waves can be consistent and challenging but sometimes it's worthwhile just watching the locals tackle the surf for a bit of entertainment. Boards can be rented all along the beach for a reasonable price and lessons are also offered for less experienced surfers. After a day spent in the sea a great place to reflect on your time in the sun is at Kata View Point located on the southern head of the beach. Here mesmeric sunsets can be enjoyed.

The majority of Kata's night life is within walking distance from most Kata Beach hotels and when it's time to eat dinner you will be spoilt for choice. Just set back from the beach are a number of roads lined with restaurants serving food from all around the world. Probably the best restaurant in the area belongs to the Boathouse hotel as it serves up French and Thai food of the highest quality. A holiday paradise in Thailand wouldn't be complete without a bit of night time entertainment and Kata hosts a wealth of bars. Some of these bars are strictly for drinking and socialising while others, particularly at Kata Night Bazaar, have a slightly sleazier but fun reputation. Just make sure you remember the way back to your Kata Beach hotel.