Our Guide for Koh Phangan: Areas & Duration Tips
Koh Phangan is as diverse as its visitors from all over the world. This small island in the Gulf of Thailand attracts a fascinating mix of tourists, all of whom find their place. From backpackers, to wellness and yoga enthusiasts, athletes, divers, adventurers or normal beach vacationers.
This special place welcomes you as a family as well as you as a digital nomad or solo traveler. If you don't know the islands well, it can be confusing at first to find the right place. You may find yourself asking: What area to stay in Koh Phangan? Where on Koh Phangan can I find peace and quiet? Where should I stay if I am looking for culinary delights and sophisticated wines? Where is the best place to become a yoga teacher? How long should I stay in Koh Phangan?
In this article titled "Where to stay in Koh Phangan", we will explore the various regions of the island, each with its unique charm and offerings. We will dive into the island’s neighborhoods with insights into their unique atmosphere and attractions.
Table of Contents:
Where to Stay in the West of Koh Phangan
- Hin Kong: Tranquility & Restaurants
- Srithanu: Yoga, Meditation & Vegan Food
- Haad Yao and Haad Salad: Beach Holidays
Where to Stay in the North of Koh Phangan
- Chaloklum: Diving, Local Life & Mountains
Where to Stay in the East of Koh Phangan
- Than Sadet: Untouched Paradise & National Park
- Thong Nai Pan: Remote Holiday & Luxury Getaway
Where to stay in the WEST of Koh Phangan
Hin Kong: Tranquility & Restaurants
One of the most expansive beaches in Koh Phangan and best area for sunset walks you will find right at the western shoreline. Hin Kong Beach is renowned for its coral reef, lying only about 300 meters off the beach. It is revealed during low tide, creating a unique scenery for colorful sunsets and long beach walks. You can observe many locals collecting mussels and small crabs in the evening and admire the silhouette of Ang Thong National Marine Park in the distance.
The water is good for swimming mainly in the season of high tides from November to March. At Hin Kong beach you will find some of the most amazing high-class restaurants and bars. From traditional and Fusion Thai to French and Italian food. Joy Beach Villas is located directly at Hin Kong Beach. Your private getaway to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of this vast and special beach.
Srithanu: Yoga, Meditation & Vegan Food
If you are looking for yoga, meditation and self-discovery, Srithanu is the perfect place for you. The little village is home to the largest and most popular yoga studios on the island, offering a wide range of daily yoga classes for every yoga style and level. Every year, Srithanu hosts numerous yoga teacher training programs, travelers relax in rejuvenating retreats or expand their knowledge in workshops ranging from sound healing to reiki. The Holistic Healing Centers are dedicated to bringing body, mind and soul back into harmony, providing detox and wellness programs.
Zen Beach is one of the most popular sunset beaches and the hippie haven in this area. You'll find a laid-back vibe with drum circles, people relaxing or dancing at the beach and stunning Acro yoga performances.
In addition to its spiritual offerings, Srithanu offers the best vegan food scene. Many restaurants, eateries and coffee shops specialise in plant based delicacies, ranging from beautiful smoothie bowls, special detox menus to vegan comfort food, cheese and chocolates. For those who enjoy meat, a diverse selection of Thai or Middle Eastern cuisine is available. Check our article “What to do in Koh Phangan” for our restaurant and coffee shop recommendations.
The west coast of Koh Phangan consists of many unique bays and beautiful beaches that offer breathtaking views of the green coastal landscape. On this side of the island every evening presents a colorful sunset on the wide horizon. The perfect place for evening beach strolls and a sunset drink. In this area you have the choice of various, often family-owned, resorts and bungalows to suit every budget. Many of them are located directly on the beach and promise a real beach-holiday feeling.
Haad Yao and Haad Salad: Beach Holidays
Haad Yao and Haad Salad are two stunning tropical getaway beaches on the western coast of Koh Phangan. Haad Yao, also known as Long Beach, has an expansive 1 km stretch of white sand, ideal for leisurely beach strolls and a breathtaking sunset view. It is a popular beach for snorkeling at the famous Koh Raham restaurant. On the other hand, Haad Salad's serene bay offers a tranquil oasis, perfect for relaxation and escaping from the bigger tourist crowds.
Both beaches provide a range of accommodation and restaurants for every traveler’s needs. Whether you seek the charm of beachfront bungalows for a lower budget or the luxurious comforts of upscale resorts and swimming pools, there is something for everyone. Several beachfront restaurants offer delicious Western and Thai cuisine.
Where to stay in the NORTH of Koh Phangan
Chaloklum: Diving, Local Life & Mountains
Chaloklum is a traditional fishing village in the north of Koh Phangan. It is less touristy and therefore probably one of the few places where you can experience authentic local Thai life. Nestled underneath a beautiful mountain range, the energy is very calm and welcoming. From charming beachfront bungalows to cozy guesthouses, there are accommodations to suit every preference and budget.
Witness the fishing boats embarking and returning, while you stroll on the sand of the expansive stunning bay. Situated in the western part of the bay, Malibu Beach charms with its pristine Caribbean white sand. Chaloklum is close to some of the island's best dive sites and therefore a popular destination for diving enthusiasts. The village is also close to the entrance of the famous Bottle Beach hiking trail and to the gorgeous Haad Khom Beach.
In Chaloklum you will find a large selection of tiny cheap Thai restaurants, serving authentic food, fresh fish and squid or other catches of the day. The village also offers several Western-style restaurants, bars, and cafes, providing a diverse culinary experience.
Where to stay in the EAST of Koh Phangan
Than Sadet: Untouched Paradise & National Park
Than Sadet beach is a heavenly remote beach on the northeastern coast of Koh Phangan. Nestled within Than Sadet National Park, it is surrounded by lush tropical jungle and rugged cliffs. Than Sadet means “Royal River”, in memory of the visit of the famous King Rama V. in 1888. This area still feels a little bit like untouched paradise, as only a few bungalows are available at the beach and on the cliff side. The perfect destination for a peaceful escape in nature.
Around Than Sadet you can discover stunning waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints, overlooking the coastline. Than Sadet waterfall is well-known for its several picturesque pools. The waterfall consists of three streams: The Thong Nang, Saampon and Daeng waterfall. Starting from Than Sadet Beach, you can walk up the 3 km trail and enjoy the tranquility and sounds of the jungle. The waterfall is considered to be sacred, as it was visited by several Thai kings in the past.
Thong Nai Pan: Remote Holiday & Luxury Getaway
Thong Nai Pan lies in the Than Sadet National Park and comprises two tranquil and exclusive bays: Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai. The area is known for its upscale resorts and surrounding lush tropical jungle. These magnificent eastern beaches are a bit more secluded and the drive takes about 40 minutes. Alternatively they can be reached by boat from Chaloklum or Haad Rin. Thong Nai Pan is very popular with couples, families and luxury-seekers.
Beaches on the east coast of Koh Phangan are very good for swimming all year round, as there is no coral reef on this side. The cute bohemian village in Thong Nai Pan Noi offers several nice shops, bars and restaurants and earlier risers will be able to catch stunning sunrises.
Tip: The 2C Bar offers a spectacular view point to admire the entire bay and catch the mesmerizing sunset.
How long should I stay in Koh Phangan?
Deciding how long to stay in Koh Phangan can be tricky and depends on what your plans are for your vacation and travelling. Many travelers stayed much longer than expected, some indeed forever, because the island is full of surprises on so many levels. Hence its second name “Sticky Island”.
In our article “What to do in Koh Phangan” you will find many ideas about what to do during your stay in Koh Phangan. Here we share some considerations, that can help you to decide your ideal duration of stay in Koh Phangan:
Exploring the island’s regions:
Each region of Koh Phangan offers its own charm and unique energy. If you like to explore them in depth, you need to consider a good amount of time to get to know the various neighborhoods. Take a day at the tranquil Western beaches, spend time in unique vegan or local restaurants, hop on a boat to explore the Eastern remote beaches, do some shopping and get to know the surrounding jungle and wildlife.
Enjoy the diverse activities:
Koh Phangan is a haven for wellness enthusiasts and you might want to spend some time relaxing and rejuvenate at the best spas and massage centers. Explore the stunning tropical jungle during scenic hikes or challenge yourself with some Muay Thai Training. If you are drawn to the sea, you have many possibilities to explore marine life with snorkeling, diving, swimming or a stroll on Hin Kong beach which reveals the beauty of the coral reef during low tide.
Yoga and Wellness Retreats:
If you are participating in a Yoga Teacher Training, Yoga, Detox or Wellness retreat, you will need to take into account enough time for your booked event and think about if you would like to add more time to your stay afterwards. Many travellers and Yogis decide to prolong their visit, in order to integrate their transformative experiences and new knowledge. It is also an opportunity to deepen the connections with new friends and fellow participants.
Beach Holiday and Relaxation:
If you are craving a classic beach holiday, consider spending time on the stunning beaches of Haad Yao, Shritanu, Than Sadet or Thong Nai Pan. You may take as much time as you wish in order to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the island.
Cultural Exploration:
Take some time to discover the 20 beautiful temples of Koh Phangan. Paying respect to the Buddha is a big part of Thai culture. Be aware to follow the guidelines like dressing appropriately and treating the monks respectfully.
Some interesting temples are for example Wat Samai Kongkha, close to Joy Beach Villas, Wat Pho in Baan Tai with its traditional steam sauna, Wat Khao Tham in the hills above Baan Tai with a stunning viewpoint or the Chinese Temple before Chaloklum, dedicated to Guanyin, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. Some of the temples have regular festivals with live music and food.
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