Phuket’s principle attractions are its beaches and off-shore islands. Patong Beach,8 kms. West of town, is large and gently sloping, making it ideal for children. Surin Beach, 23 kms. North of town, is relatively small and slopes sharply, making it especially dangerous during monsoon season. There is a 9-hole golf course at Surin and it is the best place to enjoy Phuket’s sunset. Nai Yang or Airport Beach, 3kms. Past the airport, is well shaded by tall pine trees and is ideal for swimming and relaxation. It offers good snokeling among sea anemones and fish traps. North of Nai Yang, stretches Mai Khao (white wood) Beach, Phuket’s longest. Each year from December to February, giant sea turtles lumber ashore at Mai Khao to lay eggs which are prized delicacies.