Serfing in Phuket
Phuket is a perfect place for surfing. The best time for surfing in Phuket is from May to October, with May, June, and September being particularly ideal. All major surfing competitions take place in September.
The island’s beaches are well-suited for beginners: the waves are small, barely reaching two to three meters in height, the seabed is safe, and the wind is steady. Most of Phuket’s beaches offer board rentals and have competent instructors. You can also find instructors certified by the International Surfing Association (ISA) on the island. These professionals have the foundational knowledge to teach surfing and can help you learn how to paddle and catch waves, which is the ultimate goal for any beginner surfer.
Serfing Beaches
The most popular surfing beach is Kata. Kata Beach is the top choice for surfers, suitable for both beginners and professionals. It offers equipment rental points, and the waves here are fast, sometimes reaching up to two meters in height. At the same time, the board is easy to control.
Surfing is only possible during the low season, as waves are almost non-existent during the rest of the year. In the low season, when the waves get sufficiently high, it is recommended to use the services of local surf schools or hire an instructor directly on the beach. They will provide you with the right equipment, teach you the basics of surfing on the sand, and then take you into the water. You’ll likely be able to stand on the board during your first lesson.
Kata is also home to the Surf House, where you can try your skills on an artificial wave regardless of the season or weather. It’s completely safe, and experienced instructors will guide you. On Fridays from 9 to 11 PM, rental is free for women.
The second most popular is Kalim Beach. Kalim Beach is better suited for professionals. The waves here are higher, often reaching three meters, and longer: in good weather, they can extend up to 100 meters. Additionally, thanks to its favorable location, the sea here is protected from storms.
You can rent a board right on the beach. Like at Kata, several locals are always ready to offer you a surfboard and instructor services. However, the prices for boards here are exactly double those at Kata.
Kamala Beach features a sheltered bay suitable for surfers of all skill levels. Different parts of the beach offer surfable waves, with some of the best found at the northern end near the Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach resort.
More advanced surfers often head to the spot near the southern end of the beach. Decent waves can also be caught on the main tourist area of Kamala – closer to the shore, they can reach heights of up to three meters. However, this beach is better suited for experienced surfers, as the weather conditions change so frequently that beginners might struggle to adapt and control their board. Surf equipment rentals are available at several shops along the beach.
Nai Harn Beach is not the most predictable spot for surfing. It caters to beginners and intermediate surfers. At times, waves here can reach three meters in height and 100 meters in length, while at other times, there are no waves at all.
In the northern part near the Nai Harn Resort, there’s a beach and reef. At the opposite end near the lagoon, a sandbar helps create waves for long and fast rides. The downside of this beach is the lack of surfboard rentals and instructors.
Kata Noi is the smallest bay, separated from Kata Beach by a headland, with surfing spots located in its northern section. The waves here can be faster and more powerful than those at Kata Beach. Unfortunately, there are no surf schools, but nearby board rental options are available.
Surin Beach is ideal for those seeking barrel-shaped waves. It appeals to more experienced surfers who enjoy powerful waves and strong currents. The best spots are near the rocky headlands. While there are no surf schools or board rentals, this beach typically attracts professionals with their own equipment.
Bang Tao Beach is a long stretch of sand, well-suited for beginner surfers due to its gentle waves. The southern end of the beach is protected by a headland, creating small waves that are perfect for novices.
Surfing Competitions
If you feel ready to participate in surfing competitions or simply want to enjoy the action as a spectator, visit Phuket between June and October. During this time, competitions are held on the beaches of Surin, Kata, Kamala, and Kalim. Events on Kamala and Kalim Beaches take place in June, while Kata Beach hosts athletes from late August to mid-September.
The Thailand Open Surfing Championship 2024 was held at Surin Beach, attracting surfers from around the world. Such large-scale events are organized by the Thailand Surfing Federation.
How to Catch a Wave Perfectly
Before heading to a surf spot, experienced surfers always check the weather forecast. Detailed information about a specific beach, tides, and other crucial surfing conditions can be found on the Windy website or app.
More detailed wave data can be found on the Surfline: Wave & Surf Reports website or app. It offers a convenient breakdown by beaches, and with a premium subscription, you’ll gain access to numerous live cameras from surf spots around the world.
