This stunning beach manages that difficult hat-trick – of looking drop-dead gorgeous, keeping the punters happy, while avoiding pulling in the big crowds.
You couldn't say Nata Noi was undiscovered – it has a hotel and low-key resort nestled in its palm-fronted foreshore. But it is one of those rare Phuket beaches that sits quietly unnoticed, successfully dodging the crowds, while giving those who do turn up its full attention. The tiny bay holds onto a turquoise mirror of the calmest of tropical waters. The pristine white sand is graced by a line of sun-loungers, rather than being crowded-out by them. And the activities offered in its shallow waters are fun without being furious. In short, Kata Noi is a paradise that's nicely ordered.
It owes much of that organised calm to its location. It sits at the end of a long line of more developed beaches to the north, being one of the most southerly bays on Phuket. And the resort's developers seemed to have taken advantage of that 'out-of the-way' quality. The road in is mainly to serve the residents of Katathani Resort, and is often missed by travellers on the main route. As a result its facilities are rarely overcrowded, making it a great beach to get away from the crowds.
As well as sun, sand and a picture-perfect backdrop, Nata Noi has plenty more to keep visitors entertained. You'll find gentler activities like kayaking and snorkelling catered for (the southern headland is great for this) plus those more angled towards the determined thrill-seeker. So if para-sailing, jet-skis and surfing float your boat, Nata Noi has it covered. It also has the obligatory banana boat, which no beach holiday experience is complete without.
The resort's restaurants serve an excellent range of food – both local Thai specialities, and more internationally flavoured dishes. There is a top-rated local restaurant – Mom Tri's – which, being higher up the hill, has an excellent view out over Kata Noi's bay. One thing to look out for, however, is the monsoon season. Between May to October winds here can whip up some big waves across Kata Noi's normally placid waters. Great for surfers, not so great if you want to paddle rather than swim, or if you don't fancy sharing your beach with the local surfing scene. But even the most ordered paradise has to have its momentary passing of a cloud over the sun.
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