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We've compiled the best of the best in Koh Phangan - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Although Thong Sala (the island's main town) is often overlooked as in favor of other beaches there's plenty to like about the unassuming stretches of sand nearest to the "big city" and this lovely property is one of the best places to stay, with secluded bungalows, a fine restaurant, and a swimming pool.
This resort is on mellow Haad Sarikantang, a five-minute walk from Haad Rin West. Rooms range from cute air-conditioned clapboard bungalows on the beachfront to less expensive digs with shared baths in a large wood-and-concrete building. The bungalows away from the beach are connected by a boardwalk and have ladders leading up to tiny lofts; newer bungalows on the hill have high ceilings and banks of windows opening up to impressive ocean views. The resort provides a slew of services and amenities, including beach volleyball, rafts, and kayaks to keep you busy during the low tide, when the water is too shallow for swimming.
Established in 1985, this relaxed, family-run resort at the northern end of Haad Rin East was one of the first on Haad Rin Beach. What started with a few bungalows has become a popular, 40-room resort with direct beach access, an open-air restaurant shaded by coconut trees, and a clean swimming pool framed by tropical shrubs. Book the beach bungalow if you want a balcony with unbroken sea views and don't mind hearing pumping beats on full moon nights.
On Haad Rin East near the action but away from the crowds, this was one of the island's original resorts. The best huts are lined up neatly and angled toward the sea. Concrete huts on the far side of the resort have air-conditioning, parquet floors, modern baths, and hammocks, but aren't as fun as the beachside ones. Only a short walk to the party part of town, the resort is far enough away to be secluded from the late-night noise.
On Haad Sarikantang, this small resort is a short walk from the festive atmosphere at Haad Rin. The nicer, villa-style accommodations have outdoor baths, hot water, air-conditioning, and hammocks, while the rooms in the main building have more basic amenities. The rooms are behind the pool, and although none of them are beachfront, most have ocean views. Two suites have large stone bathtubs with views past cozy living rooms, across the decks, and out to the sea. Right on the beach, the spa offers excellent massages while you listen to the waves lap the shore. This is a family-run resort that genuinely tries to make you feel welcome.
