Kata Noi is the smaller of the two Kata beach bays (Kata is bigger and located just north from here). It’s known for a right hander that has one main take off spot, which is located up against the northern headland of the bay. The incoming swells from the west in relation to the rocky headland produces the steep drop going right. With enough solid energy, there are also some peaky waves along the rest of the beach as well as a makable left toward the center of the bay.
Surfing Kata Noi bay with good conditions may put you in a lineup that can get pretty crowded and slightly aggressive, especially with surfers jockeying for position at the sole take off spot in the northern section. When conditions are right, you’ll have a nice long right to shred.
Kata Noi usually gets it bigger compared to its northern counterpart, Kata. Both Kata and Kata Noi are sensitive to winds and can get blown out pretty quickly. Currents can get pretty strong and dangerous when there’s swell.
Being located up a hill from the more popular, Kata Beach and at the end of a dead end cul-de-sac makes it a road less traveled thus less crowded beach than others. The upscale Katathani Phuket Beach Resort takes up most of the beachfront land, however, the beach is accessible to anyone at anytime.
It’s known for its amazing aquamarine colored ocean waters and vibrant, colorful sea life making it one of Phuket’s top spots for snorkeling. Although, it’s advisable to snorkel here only during the Northeast Monsoon (November-April) season when the ocean waters are calm and underwater visibility is high.
Best Tide:
Medium
Best Swell Direction:
SW, W, NW
Best Wind:
NE
Bottom:
Sandy beach
Ability Level:
Intermediate to advanced
Best Season:
May to October
Access:
If heading south from Kata, park motorbike/vehicle along street just passed Mom Tri’s Villa Royale where street curves left. Walk down the concrete stairway. Or walk north to it from the Katathani Phuket Beach Resort.
Crowd Factor:
Main take off spot can get a wee bit crowded
Local Vibe:
Friendly; always practice good surf etiquette
Paddle Out Power:
4/10 (1=easy peasy; 10=feels like paddling on a treadmill)
Poopie Patrol:
1; clean
(1=clean; 10=dingleberries in the lineup)
Hazards:
A couple big rocks on inside section at northern end of beach that gets covered around high tide; strong and dangerous rip currents
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