Ad: Patak Road, Karon Beach, near Karon Plaza.

Karma Lounge is a real hub of live music in Phuket. There aren’t many bars in Karon with as infamous a history as Karma Lounge. We’ll spare you the details, but let’s just say that the place is well known. Don’t let that put you off, though, because the owner and his crew are some of the friendliest people you could ever wish to meet on a night out in Phuket. The place has its haters.

The live music ranges from rock and blues to jazz and soul. The musicians are a mix of expats and locals who all come together for the love of jamming. Karma Lounge comes highly recommended. There’s no attitude in the place and it stays open as late as it can.

As the night wears on, the owner usually blasts out some trance music for the benefit of the remaining punters. This is a great place to meet some of the cooler expats on the island.