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

Come here for the history, not for a photo. Kamala was one of the hardest-hit stretches of Phuket's coastline by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, and this park was built in memory of the victims. It's important to the surrounding community, so a 20-minute visit in the morning is well worth it if you're staying on this coast.

Don't expect a museum or visitor center. It's a small, open memorial with spiritual elements, inviting you to linger and reflect. It offers a welcome contrast to a holiday spent entirely on beaches and in resorts. Kamala is located far north of the hustle and bustle of Patong, so getting there is more of a planned drive than a stroll. I would recommend including a visit in a day trip along the west coast rather than making a special trip just for it.