Kamala vs Nai Yang
Kamala and Nai Yang aren’t among the most popular areas in Phuket, as they’re located away from the island’s main tourist hotspots. But that’s actually part of their charm — you’ll find peaceful beaches and a cozy island atmosphere that’s often missing in the more “hyped” locations. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of Kamala and Nai Yang, and which one might be right for you.
Kamala is a quiet area on the southwest coast of Phuket, where a laid-back vibe blends well with a well-developed infrastructure.
Infrastructure. Kamala has everything you need for comfortable living: cafes, restaurants (find the best ones here), massage salons, beach clubs, and more. There are many good hotels with a range of amenities right on the beachfront. However, there are no shopping malls or hypermarkets, so Kamala might not be the best choice for shopaholics.
Attractions. This is definitely one of Kamala’s downsides — there are no major attractions in the area. So if you want to explore Phuket, renting a car or motorbike is a must.
Beach. Kamala Beach is tucked away from the main road, so there’s no busy city feel here at all. Surrounded by hills and lush greenery, the beach offers a real sense of seclusion. With its wide shoreline, clean water, soft sand, and gentle slope into the sea, it’s a great spot for swimming — even with kids.
Nai Yang is a peaceful area in the northwestern part of the island, located near Phuket International Airport. It’s far from the main tourist spots and is ideal for those who truly want to feel like an island local.
Infrastructure. Nai Yang has rather modest infrastructure. There are few hotels and no luxury restaurants. However, you will find some beachfront guesthouses and hotels. You can also stay in a simple yet authentic Thai-style house or a modern condominium. The area offers a few cafes and the basic grocery stores you’ll need.
Attractions. The main attraction in Nai Yang is its untouched nature. Sirinat National Park is perfect for walking, jogging, or meditating in a serene environment. Also nearby is the Instagram-famous Mai Khao Beach, where tourists from around the world come to watch low-flying planes land just overhead — and snap stunning photos.
Beach. Nai Yang Beach is part of a marine national park, so motorized water activities are prohibited. You’ll hardly see any crowds here either. The sea at Nai Yang is usually calm with no large waves, and even during the low season, there are days when it’s safe to swim — unlike many other beaches on the island.
Which Area Should You Choose?
Both Kamala and Nai Yang are quiet, remote areas that are not among the top tourist hotspots. Kamala has better infrastructure and a bit more nightlife, while Nai Yang is more suited to “island hermits” and those who aren’t interested in city life.
You can find the best places to eat in each area in our Cafes & Restaurants by District section. We’ve also put together a list of massage parlors by district, so you can easily find the most convenient option for you.
