Fifteen
minutes north of Patong as you reach the top of the Khao
Phanthurat pass 303 m (990 ft) above sea level you will look out
over the breathtaking panoramic view of Kamala Bay. The 2.5 km
crescent shaped bay is dotted with casuarina trees on the first
half of the coastline and coconut palms and sugar palms decorate
the other. In spite of the large Safari Park entertainment center
now being built on the north end of the valley Kamala has
maintained its small fishing village atmosphere. If you take the
first left turn at the bottom of the grade you will come to a
small bridge continue to the left and you will find two isolated
small beaches.
The
little lanes and meandering small roads that branch off lead to
beautiful beach houses and cottages and several low rise
condominiums. This end of the beach offers a peaceful tranquil
environment with crystal clear water and coral reefs just a few
meters offshore. Back to the bridge and a right turn brings you to
a small fishing village strung out along the beach going north.
Intermixed with small houses is the occasional store and
restaurant. The atmosphere at Kamala is very relaxed and a very
pleasant location for those looking for a quiet beach for sunning
or taking a long lazy stroll along a mostly deserted beach. The
little shops selling food are quite good and the prices are low
enough that you can eat Thai style; by eating a little food from a
large number of stalls. The Kamala Valley is a popular rental area
for those who are staying a few months or more on the island.