From reception, the Kata Sea Breeze looks much smaller that it is. A long open-air lobby does swift work of checking guests in. It’s here travelers first spot the hotel’s mascot a cartoon turtle holding up a surfboard -- several kids stop here to take a selfie with the character who makes an appearance throughout the hotel. It’s just the first indication of the kid-oriented nature of the Kata.

Behind reception the resort grounds open up to four sprawling and lively pools. Throughout, children splash around with their parents in shallow sections and through the various water features. At the opposite end of the resort is the pool connected to the swim-up rooms, each with its own ladder to dip into the water safely. Throughout, the atmosphere is boisterous with poolside bars and snack huts doling out treats to children and adults alike. The kids’ club and a spa gazebo here open onto the sundecks adding a bit more bustle. One area that does seem reserved for adults is the Z Bar; its thumping soundtrack gives it more of a nightclub atmosphere.

Travelers here tend to be families of all nationalities, but a few couples and solo travelers make it here as well, drawn by the affordable rates and its location close to Kata Beach.

This resort is located in the Kata Beach area toward the southern end of Phuket Island. While it's a neighborhood with plenty of shops, eateries, and action, it is a little less built up and boisterous compared to Patong and Karon beaches to the north. Still, there's plenty within a short walk, including a 7-11 that's right by the property and a Family Mart just a few blocks away. Nearby streets are also full of shops, Thai massage venues, roadside eateries, and bars. It's a quick five-minute walk to the beach itself, which continues in a J shape up the western coast of Phuket. Those looking for the notorious nightlife of Bangla Road in Patong will need a car or tuk tuk to reach it, and the ride takes about 17 minutes. Other major attractions like Wat Chalong temple and the Big Buddha statue also require a car to reach and take 14 and 25 minutes, respectively. The Phuket International Airport is a 53-minute drive away.

Rooms at the Kata Sea Breeze are incredibly spacious, with plenty of room to move around the beds and lots of spots to stow luggage. Warm orange and yellow decor abounds, and while it's not high style, it's pleasant enough and reminiscent of the tropical colors seen throughout Phuket. Decor is split between “modern style” and “Thai style,” though there's honestly little difference beyond their wall art. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos or separate showers and bathtubs, though in some, the showers are wet-room style with the potential to dampen towels or spray water onto the countertops.

Rooms come in five categories from the basic Sea Breeze Rooms on higher floors to the massive Splendid Suites. All offer balconies or terraces. In Aqua Pura Rooms, those balconies have their own wide ladders to step down into the water, helpful for kids or those with mobility issues. Balconies are also furnished with white plastic table-and-chairs sets.

Family Breeze Suites are especially helpful for those traveling with children, as they offer curtained off bunkbeds within the bedrooms, giving a cozy spot for kids to sleep that's a solid upgrade above the cots or sofa beds on offer elsewhere.

Splendid Suite Rooms have dining room tables that seat four, big L-shaped sofas, swim-up balconies with sunbeds, and separate living room and bedrooms. These also have a darker color scheme of dark browns. Slippers and robes are included here. Bathrooms in these units have duel vessel sinks and big corner jetted tubs along with larger walk-in showers. Countertops next to the dining area hold microwaves, small fridges, sinks, and electric kettles, but they lack the full cooking facilities (such as burners) to be proper kitchenettes. 

But regardless of the category all rooms have a solid lineup of amenities including minibars, flat-screen TVs, electric kettles with tea/coffee, free bottled water, safes, umbrellas, and flip-flops. 

Kara Sea Breeze is big on features, and indeed for many guests -- especially families -- they’re a key part of the property’s appeal. The star of the show is the property’s four pools with various kiddy/shallow sections and water features. Toward one end, swim-up rooms have their own private ladders into the water. Loungers are scattered all over the sundeck.

For dining, the hotel is served by one restaurant providing all meals. (Breakfast is usually included in rates, but not always.) There are also three bars including a poolside bar and the clubby Z Bar.

A kids’ club next to the pool is more outfitted than most, packed with games, a small slide, and toys. Note that the kids’ club is unsupervised, though babysitting can be requested (for a fee). A sandbox with a playhouse is also on the grounds. Above the kids’ club is a fitness center, with large windows giving pool views and plenty of natural light. Equipment here covers the usual cardio and weight-lifting standards, such as treadmills and free weights. 

One surprising feature is the on-site spa, which has an outdoor gazebo for poolside treatments along with private treatment rooms, including couples rooms. A full menu of massage treatments and manicures and pedicures are available, and prices are quite affordable compared to neighboring hotels.

The resort provides various activities and themed nights, including barbecue nights and movie nights, where films are projected on a big screen out by the pool and popcorn is available. 

Various on-site conveniences are on the premises including a taxi stand, ATM, mini market, even a tailor. Free shuttle service is provided to the beach multiple times a day as well.

An internet room on the property provides a few public computers for guests’ use. Wi-Fi is also free in public areas, though in rooms it costs an additional fee. A large on-site meeting room with capacity for 150 people is also frequently booked for corporate events.