Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

Come here if you want to enjoy Patong's amenities but not its noise. Karon is one of the longest beaches on Phuket's west coast – roughly 3 km of wide, soft sand stretching between Patong in the north and Kata in the south. Even in peak season, it never feels crowded. The fine, quartz-rich sand crunches under your feet.

The resort differs from its neighboring beaches. A beach road connects the sandy beach to the town, and only two hotels, the Centara Grand and the Beyond Karon, offer direct beach access. Everything else is located across the road, usually just a short, level walk from the water. This is one reason why rooms here are cheaper than at other beaches on the west coast. Sun loungers and parasols are available for rent on the beach, and massage mats are available year-round under the trees.

The swimming season lasts from December to April. From May to October, the currents are dangerous, and red flags warn of this – so stay in the water when they are flying. In the evening, the beach comes alive as the sun sets over the Andaman Islands and everyone who spent the day lounging gets up for a stroll.

Away from the beach, the Karon Temple Market takes place twice a week in the evenings on the grounds of Wat Karon, and the mini-golf course in Dino Park at the Kata end offers children an entertaining afternoon. Kata Beach is about 600 meters south if you're looking for a change of scenery.