Surfing Relax Bay
Updated for 2026
Relax Bay, also known as Karon Noi Beach, is the small private-feeling bay below Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort, between Patong and Karon. It can get excellent waves on the right day, but access is limited and it is not a normal public surf beach.
Surfing Conditions at Relax Bay
| Winds | Light winds are best |
|---|---|
| Tides | Usually best around mid tide |
| Swell | 3-6 feet when it works |
| Waves | Intermediate, left hander near the southern headland |
| Other | Restricted access, rocks and headland, not a beginner surf spot |
Where is Relax Bay?
From Patong take the road south and just as you go down the other side of the first big hill out of Patong, look down to the right and you will see Relax Bay.
Relax Bay is dominated by Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort. There is no normal public access to the beach except through the resort, and day-pass access can be expensive or subject to the hotel’s current policy.
Surfing Relax Bay
Even so, Relax Bay can get excellent waves, especially at the southern end near the headland where a left hander breaks down the side of the headland.
Many in-the-know locals have used a dirt path that winds down the side of the headland at the southern end of Relax Bay. To get near the surf at Relax Bay, people traditionally parked at the top of the hill on the main road overlooking Le Méridien resort. Access can change, so check locally and do not assume the path is open or safe.
The surf at Relax Bay usually breaks on mid tide with waves from 3-6 feet.
Local Note
Relax Bay can have a very good wave, but it is not an easy everyday surf check. The beach is effectively controlled by the resort, access is awkward if you are not staying there, and the wave is better suited to surfers with some experience. If access is a hassle, Patong is close by but usually not great for surf, while Kalim and Karon are more practical places to check.
Nearby Surf and Hotels
Relax Bay is close to Patong, Karon and Kalim, so it can be worth knowing about if you are staying in the area. For most surfers, it is more of a quick look from the road than a beach to plan your whole day around.
Learning to Surf Near Relax Bay
Relax Bay is not a good learn-to-surf beach. Access is limited, the headland wave is better for more experienced surfers, and it is not a place with easy beginner facilities. If you want to learn to surf in Phuket, Bang Tao Beach is usually the more protected option, especially around the southern end. There are also surf lessons available at Kata Beach during the surf season.
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