Bang Tao vs Karon

Two popular districts of Phuket: but which one is better? Which is more suitable for vacation? To make a choice, you need to consider all the pros and cons of these locations.

Bang Tao

Infrastructure. Bang Tao is considered an elite area with well-developed infrastructure, featuring many luxurious restaurants, some of which are Michelin-rated, as well as beautiful massage parlors. Living here is more expensive than in other districts, but this is justified by the high level of service.

Attractions. Bang Tao is located in the northern part of the island, while Phuket’s popular attractions are in the south. Therefore, it will take some time to get to them. However, for car or bike owners, this won’t be a major issue.

Beach. Bang Tao has a long, wide, and uncrowded beach, making it ideal for those who prefer a peaceful vacation. Finding a secluded spot here is easy. You can read more about Bang Tao beach here.

Restaurant and beach club on the beach in Bang Tao — A beach club restaurant in Bang Tao

Karon

Beach. Karon has a fairly spacious beach with “singing” sand, which literally squeaks underfoot due to the quartz content. This, combined with the clear water, makes it a favorite among tourists, so it tends to be quite crowded. Moreover, Karon is a great spot for surfing, especially during the monsoon season. You can read more about Karon beach here.

Attractions. All the main attractions of Phuket are located in the same part of the island as Karon: The Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, Promthep Cape, and the “Windmill” viewpoint.

Infrastructure. Karon is a relatively calm yet lively area. It also has well-developed infrastructure, with many budget-friendly cafes (including Russian ones) and massage parlors. Karon is also suitable for active recreation, offering a variety of water sports and a vibrant nightlife. Housing here is more affordable than in Bang Tao, though there are also luxurious five-star hotels available.

Bang Tao or Karon?

Bang Tao is more suited for relaxation within the premises of a first-class hotel. If your main goal is a high-quality vacation, top-notch service, and you’re willing to pay well for it, then Bang Tao is the ideal place for this.

Karon is a great choice for those looking for a more budget-friendly vacation, as well as for families with small children. A wide range of hotels for every taste and budget, along with various cafes and restaurants, offers more freedom.

The full list of Phuket areas can be found on the homepage of our website.

8 Top Photo Locations in Phuket

Made a list of the best spots on the island for the coolest photos: Rock Beach Swing🪽 Stunning ocean views and unique decorations that will spark your creativity. Rabbit Hole🐇 A petting zoo with adorable animals and great photo spots, including a pond with artificial mist and a waterfall. Beyond...

Top 5 cafes in the Kata area

Kata is one of the most popular areas in Phuket. It has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, and of course, there are many cafes and restaurants worth visiting — offering both authentic Thai food and dishes from other world cuisines. If you’re staying in the Kata area or planning to stay...

Five unusual bars in Phuket Town

Compiled a selection of the most interesting places in Phuket Town where you can enjoy delicious drinks with interesting serving: 🤫 shhh. Phuket A secret bar where the main challenge is finding the door🗝️🔑🚪 Inside, you’ll find a DJ, unique cocktails, and immersive experiences📽️ 💉🌈 Zimplex Mixology Laboratory This place...

Inexpensive Michelin restaurants in Phuket

Michelin on a budget – it’s possible

Phuket has budget-friendly cafes that are featured in the famous Michelin Guide. This means the food is guaranteed to be delicious. Insider recommends what you absolutely must try. Ton Mayom Google Maps rating: 4.7 This place is renowned for its traditional Thai cuisine. A fiery dish in every sense —...

Where to watch the sunset in Phuket

A fact that hardly anyone would argue with: Phuket has amazing sunsets! The sunset, set against the incredible scenery of the Andaman Sea, is an art form in its own right. Insider has compiled the top locations on the island where you’ll see the best sunsets in Phuket. Spoiler: there...

Bang Tao vs Karon

Two popular districts of Phuket: but which one is better? Which is more suitable for vacation? To make a choice, you need to consider all the pros and cons of these locations. Bang Tao Infrastructure. Bang Tao is considered an elite area with well-developed infrastructure, featuring many luxurious restaurants, some...

The Big Buddha is closed to the public

Today, on September 4, 2024, one of Phuket’s main attractions, the Big Buddha statue, was closed to tourists. The Big Buddha in Phuket is closed due to significant events that have raised many questions among locals and tourists. The reason for this closure is an ongoing investigation into the tragedy...

10 Popular Mango Varieties in Thailand

Mango is one of the most popular tropical fruits, considered in Thailand not only an essential part of the culinary culture but also a source of national pride. There are over 200 different varieties of this fruit, each with its own unique characteristics: taste, size, color, and texture. Some varieties...

The most dangerous venomous snakes in Phuket

Phuket is home to an incredibly diverse array of flora and fauna. This paradise island serves as a native habitat for many animals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Among them is a particularly intimidating group — snakes. Especially the venomous ones. We talk about the most dangerous snakes in Phuket that...

Frightening spiders in Phuket

Disclaimer: Arachnophobes better skip this article! Phuket is undoubtedly a paradise island, but there’s one small (and sometimes not so small) catch: insects. In Thailand, there are thousands of species. But today, we’re not going to talk about them, but rather about a family of arthropods — spiders. There are...