The south end also has the best surfing area this side of Phuket making Kata Beach quite busy during the surfing season
. The swells of the Andaman Sea can reach up to 2 meters and are fast but not as furious. The waves are manageable but challenging enough that an annual Phuket Surfing Contest is held in Kata Beach. In 2010 the competition will run from August 31 to September 2. Surf's up!, even for small kids. The waves near the shore are gentler and therefore perfect for kids using boogie boards. Rentals and instructors are available along the beach.