Koh Pha Ngan hotel and lodging guide

Koh Pha Ngan has a wealth of accommodation options, especially in the budget category, sustaining its reputation as a popular backpacker retreat. For those looking for somewhere a little less back to basics, there are slightly pricier establishments with more upmarket atmospheres and better facilities.

Some bungalows have a beach all to themselves

Had Rin is the most densely packed and over the full moon periods it invariably gets very crowded. The places here are convenient, but many aren’t terribly nice. It’s worth staying at the much better value places on other beaches, many with their own piece of waterfront, and then catching a ride to the party. Some beaches are reachable by boat only, making them incredibly secluded. On the whole, the accommodation here is cheap but basic.

Guesthouses on Koh Pha Ngan

Sunsmile Resort: clean rooms with mosquito net and own bathroom can be found at this pleasant, family-run establishment located less than 10 minutes drive from the town. Had Rin; 300 baht per night.

Had Son Bungalows: a favourite with budget travellers looking for somewhere with slightly higher standards than the average backpacker joint. The establishment has its own swimming pool and private beach, and offers a restaurant, laundry service, internet and motorbike hire. The rooms are clean and pleasant, and have their own bathroom. Moo 8, Had Son; tel: 077 349 1034; 500 to 1,300 baht per night.

Lighthouse Bungalows: cliff-side bungalows offer a secluded and tranquil ambience at this cheap and cheerful backpacker hangout. Rooms are basic but they do the job and their location offers some good views of the sunset come evening time. A restaurant, bar and nice chill-out area are good places for sustenance, relaxation and meeting fellow travellers. Had Rin; 200 to 400 baht per night

Baan Panburi Village: is not aimed at backpackers but is still very affordable and has a distinctly upmarket ambience, offering sturdy, clean and pleasantly furnished bungalows set on a 300 metre stretch of beach with shady palms, white sands and crystal clear waters. Tong Nai Ban Noi; from 320 up-to 2,600 baht per night.

Blue Lotus Resort: located on the beachfront at Ao Ban Khai, this family-run business is a popular backpacker and budget travellers’ hangout with basic but clean and tidy bungalows with fan and private bathroom. A Mexican restaurant is on-site, dishing up some tasty treats, while the chill-out area is the ideal place to enjoy an ice cold beer and watch the sunset. Ao Ban Khai; 300 to 400 baht per night.

Many more bungalows on Koh Pha Ngan