A short drive north along the west coast of Phuket from the busy resort of Patong sits Kamala Beach, a beautiful, long and wide stretch of sand that is rarely crowded, even during the peak season months from November to April.

Located just a couple of minute’s walk from the busy main road, the white sands and azure waters of Kamala Beach will appeal to beach lover and the fact that it is possible to find your own virtually deserted patch of beach is a definite bonus.

The resort of Kamala itself is a diverse mix of cheap and cheerful bars and restaurants, and expensive high-end resorts thanks to the recent launch of the Andara Residences and Cape Sienna at the southern end of the beach.

Most of the action on Kamala Beach takes place towards the south and it is here that beach goers will find the majority of facilities in the form of sun beds, umbrellas, restaurants and portable stalls selling a variety of goods.

The north part of Kamala Beach is largely deserted, providing those who wish to grab some peace and quiet the perfect opportunity to do so.

There are few facilities at that end of the beach, save for one or two restaurants and a few sun beds and umbrellas.

Food on Kamala Beach is available from a combination of beachfront restaurants and patrolling vendors. The restaurants sit towards the southern end of the beach, while the vendors are often found in greater numbers at the north end where there is less competition from fixed eateries.

In high season the sea conditions at Kamala Beach make it the perfect spot to cool off from the fierce Phuket sun; the water is clear and the sea is virtually free of waves. During the months from November to May, jet-skiing and parasailing are two popular options on Kamala Beach, taking advantage of the sea’s millpond conditions.

During the low season, Kamala receives a lot of wind and surfing is very popular, particularly at the north end of the beach. In 2009, Kamala Beach hosted the second of three surf contests, The King of the Jungle, as part of the first ever Quiksilver Thailand Surf Series.