Phuket's Kata Noi voted one of world's best beaches by TripAdvisor | Coconuts

*The Phuket beach was described by TripAdvisor as “waves and water like baby bear’s porridge: not too hot or cold, not too big or small. Simply perfect in every way.*

Published: 2026-03-14 17:56 UTC Event date: developing

Kata Noi Beach, a tranquil stretch of sand on Phuket’s southern coast, has been named one of the world’s best beaches by TripAdvisor in its 2024 Travellers’ Choice Awards, ranking 19th among the Top 25 beaches worldwide. The announcement was made recently, highlighting Kata Noi as the only beach in Thailand to earn a spot on this prestigious list.

TripAdvisor described Kata Noi as “waves and water like baby bear’s porridge: not too hot or cold, not too big or small. Simply perfect in every way. Really.” This recognition places the Phuket beach alongside globally renowned destinations and underscores its appeal as a peaceful alternative to the island’s more crowded shores.

Kata Noi is noted for its secluded atmosphere, with much of its beachfront occupied by hotels. However, public access remains available via a short walk from the popular Kata Beach or through a small entrance near the road to Nai Harn. The beach’s soft sand and gentle waves have long made it a favourite among visitors seeking a quieter escape within Phuket.

For local residents and business owners, the international spotlight is expected to boost tourism in the area, particularly as Thailand continues to recover from the impacts of the global pandemic. Increased visitor interest in Kata Noi may lead to greater demand for local services, from accommodation and transport to food and leisure activities, providing economic benefits for the community. Tourists, meanwhile, may find Kata Noi an appealing addition to their Phuket itinerary, with its reputation for natural beauty and relative tranquility.

Kata Noi was one of only three Asian beaches to receive a ranking in this year’s TripAdvisor awards. Ngapali Beach in Myanmar was placed 6th and Nacpan Beach in the Philippines came in 10th, with the top spot going to Grace Bay in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The inclusion of Kata Noi further cements Thailand’s reputation as a leading destination in the Asia-Pacific region.

With Phuket easily accessible via a one-hour flight from Bangkok, the island and its beaches remain a key draw for both domestic and international tourists. Local authorities and tourism operators are expected to use this latest accolade to further promote Phuket’s unique coastal attractions. As the high season approaches, visitors and residents alike can anticipate increased activity and renewed interest in Kata Noi and its surrounding area.

Source: https://coconuts.co/bangkok/news/phukets-kata-noi-voted-one-worlds-best-beaches-tripadvisor/