Welcome back to the Architect Phuket blog! I’m Nay, your native Thai architect, and I’m continuing our series on Phuket’s subdistricts to help you pinpoint the ideal spot for property investment, retirement, or building a house. Today, we’re easing into Kamala, a name that hints at “lotus” in Thai—and it offers a bloom of calm amidst the island’s buzz.
Why Kamala Appeals to Property Investors
Kamala nestles on Phuket’s west coast in Mueang Phuket District, north of Patong and south of Surin, with a beach that’s more about lounging than limelight. It’s a laid-back draw for families, expats, and retirees who want a coastal lifestyle without the full-on frenzy. Land prices are a notch below Patong’s peak, offering fair value for the tranquillity. Rentals hold steady for families or longer stays, and tourists keep the market ticking year-round, making it a solid choice for investors seeking consistent returns without the chaos of busier areas.
Is Kamala the Right Spot for Retirees?
The vibe in Kamala is mellow with a touch of life, perfect for retirees seeking a peaceful coastal retreat. Kamala Beach is a beauty—soft sand, calm waters, ideal for a swim or a sunset stroll. You’ve got spots like HQ Beach Lounge for a relaxed bite or Plum Prime Steakhouse if you’re feeling fancy. A small market covers basics, and Big C is 20 minutes south in Patong. Traffic is tame—Rim Hat Road hums quietly, even in high season, with no gridlock to disrupt your peace. Nightlife is low-key—think beach bars, not basslines—winding down early, which suits a retirement lifestyle. The airport is 30 minutes north, and Chalong’s pier, 25 minutes south, links to islands like Koh Racha. Wildlife is gentle—crabs, birds—nothing to disturb the calm.
Building a House in Kamala: Topography and Opportunities
Kamala’s topography has a gentle rhythm, ideal for those looking to build. A flat coastal band holds the beach and village—perfect for straightforward construction—while hills roll up behind, softer than Patong’s cliffs but steep enough to frame the bay. This natural setup keeps Kamala cosy; the hills nudge growth inward, leaving room for sea-view properties if you build on higher ground.
Let’s analyse a 2 km radius around Kamala Beach’s central curve, the area’s relaxed heart:
- 0.5 km Radius (Prime Coastal Zone): This is the sweet spot, where beach and village meet—ideal for rentals or a small cafe catering to the quiet crowd.
- 1 km Radius (Residential Potential): This zone blends homes and hospitality, close to the shore with hints of hill access—great for a family house or mid-tier stays.
- 2 km Radius (Hilly Retreat): This area reaches the hills, perfect for a villa with a view or a tucked-away retreat, linking south to Patong or north to Surin.
Kamala is peaceful yet plugged in, making it a strong choice for building a house. Those hill tracks can twist a bit—give them a once-over before committing. Build with care; quality fits this understated appeal.
Building Regulations in Kamala
Here’s what you need to know about building regulations:
- The flat coastal strip requires 40% open space for greenery or parking.
- Hilly zones require 60% open space.
- Coastal strips 10-50 metres from the beach cap builds at 6 metres, under 75 square metres, with 75% open space. Beaches can’t be owned, so check the edges.
- Inland, you can reach 12 metres, but slopes over 50% are a no-go—stick to the flatter or gentler hilly areas.
Start with the Phuket City Land Use Planning Map, Land Slope Controls via topography analysis, Thailand Ministerial Regulation No. 22, and the Phuket Environmental Control Map. These are standard rules, but they can shift, and exceptions crop up, so confirm with Phuket officials.
Is Kamala the Right Investment for You?
Kamala is a coastal retreat with balance—ideal for a quiet retirement, a family house, or a rental with steady appeal for families and longer stays. It’s not flashy or cheap, but it offers reliable value for investors, retirees, and home builders alike. Pick a solid spot, and you’re sorted. Ready to invest or build in Kamala? Contact us at Architect Phuket to start planning your project!
Video Coming Soon
A video on this topic will be coming sometime in the future, so stay tuned for more insights on Kamala.
What’s Next?
In my next post, we’ll swing to Surin, up the coast. For now, if you’re ready to get started, reach out via our contact page.
