The Best Places to Stay in Koh Phangan, Thailand: Best Areas and Hotels for all Budgets

Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, is an island paradise with glowing white sands and crystal blue waters called Koh Phangan.

Mostly renown for its world famous monthly Full Moon parties, this gem of an island has so much more to offer, with it’s growing reputation for it’s numerous vegan cafes and an ever expanding yoga & tantra community who like to stay for a while on the island.

I’ve spent a few months living in Koh Phangan and discovered that each area of the island is very different. With so many areas, each with its very own distinct feel, here is my personal guide on the best places to stay in Koh Phangan!

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So where to stay in Koh Phangan? Which area is the best?

Koh Phangan has many different areas with a different vibe so the best area depends on what you are looking to experience on Koh Phangan.

Are you looking for the best place to stay in koh phangan for nightlife or do you want to spend your days practicing yoga or enjoying luxury resorts and pristine beaches?

Whatever you’re looking for you can find it on this island. You can make the most of your stay by carefully considering which area to stay in and choosing the best place to suit all your needs.

Here’s a map of the island so you know where all the different areas to stay in Koh Phangan are located.

If you’re coming to Koh Phangan for the Full Moon party then be sure to stay where all the action is happening in Haad Rin on the south east end of the island.

If you’re looking for the quieter, more relaxed side of Koh Phangan you may have heard about and things like yoga retreats and tantra workshops interest you then be sure to head up to the north west side of the island around Sri Thanu.

If you’d like to sample a bit of everything on offer, enjoy the nightlife, have easy access to explore the rest of the island and want to frequent the Thong Sala night markets for snacks, then the best place to stay in Koh Phangan for you would be Baan Tai.

If you want to escape from it all and enjoy luxury resorts and incredible beaches then head to the north of the island to Ban Thong Nai Pan.

Here are the best places to stay in Koh Phangan and what each area has to offer:

Haad Rin

If you’re heading to Koh Phangan for one thing, and one thing only – to experience the legendary Full Moon Party – then the best place to stay in Koh Phangan for nightlife is in the heart of all the action in Haad Rin.

However, beyond the infamous monthly Full Moon party, Haad Rin is also home to some of the islands best beaches, bars, restaurants and adventurous activities too, so you’ll be right in the thick of it all here.

If you’re looking to laze the days away on the beach and party every night till the sun comes up, then this is the best place to stay in Koh Phangan.

Best Places to Stay in Haad Rin

Backpacker: Culture Club Backpackers 

If you’re planning on heading to the Full Moon Party, Culture Club Backpackers is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan for backpackers and party animals.

These guys will get you ready with UV paints, epic pre-party games and buckets ready to go! This hostel is well known for it’s super social, friendly atmosphere, perfect for those who want to dive straight into all the action.

Dorm beds at Culture Club are notably very clean and comfortable, and each bed has it’s own privacy curtain, reading lamp and power socket to charge your phone or laptop.

The best part of this place though has to be the free use of a neighbouring hotels amazing pool that overlooks the ocean, so that’s where you’ll find all your new roomies!

Click here to book your stay at Culture Club hostel.

Budget: Pearl Villa

This hotel is perfect for party-goers who want to experience the Full Moon Party, though would like a little more privacy and comfort to return home to afterwards.

Pearl Villa is located conveniently close to the pier, the beach and many surrounding great bars and restaurants. Simple décor, private bathroom facilities within the rooms, a lovely pool to relax by during the day, and there’s even a gym.

Location wise and value for money, this is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan for the full moon party for those who like a bit more comfort than the average backpacker hostel.

Click here to book a room.

Midrange: Tommy Resort

This is by far one of the best midrange hotels in Haad Rin and one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan for nightlife.

It’s located right on the beach front of beautiful Haad Rin beach and has a beautiful swimming pool and tropical gardens as well as a great beach front bar and restaurant. What makes this hotel is the super amazing friendly staff and service, great breakfasts and perfect location.

If you’re here to check out the Full Moon party but would like a comfortable hideaway to retreat to when you’re done, this is the spot! Outside of Full Moon time it’s an ideal hotel for couples or families but it would be too noisy during the party.

Click here to book.

Luxury: Cocohut Beach Resort

Watch sunsets from the resorts own private beach area, Cocohut Reach Resort is hidden away on the stunning Leela beach and is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan.

This dreamy resort is perfect for those who wish to experience the best of both worlds. Stay close to all the party action in Haad Rin, but just far enough away to peacefully drift days away on this island Paradise.

The rooms are very spacious with very comfortable, large beds, and every little detail well thought out. There’s an amazing beach bar, restaurant and pool area to eat & lounge around in too.

Click here to book your stay at Cocohut Beach Resort.

Something different: Le Palais – The Angkor Wat Themed Hotel! 

This unique hotel themed as Angkor Wat is a Cambodian wonderland that truly is a must see when in Koh Phangan. From every little detail aspect of the design, to the stunning views, to it’s prime location on the cliffs between Haad Rin and Baan Tai, the service and friendliness of staff.

Don’t miss the chance to experience Le Palais when you visit Koh Phangan! Rooms open up to decks with views out to Koh Samui, what a perfect way to wake up! Le Palais is definitely one of the most unique and best places to stay in Koh Phangan.

Click here for more information on this unique hotel and how to book your stay.

Baan Tai

For those who want to experience a little bit of everything this paradise island has to offer, then Baan Tai is the best places to stay in Koh Phangan. This is a central location to just about everything, so you can easily get to any corner of the island from here.

Baan Tai is also just a stones throw from the Pantip Food Market and Thong Sala markets, where you can treat your taste buds to an array of cheap Thai street food as well as food from all over the world including juices, sushi, ice creams, crepes, pizzas and so much more.

Pantip food market is one of my favourite places to eat on the island – the only problem is deciding what to have and how to fit it all in! Baan Tai area is also bustling with the islands top beachfront restaurants, bars and nightclubs so there are endless places to check out whilst you’re here.

Best Places to Stay in Baan Tai

Backpacker: Phanganist Hostel

Phanganist is renown for it’s vibrant, fun, party vibes, and it’s definitely koh where all the action is at! So if you’re heading to Koh Phangan for one thing, and one thing only and that’s to party it up, then this is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan.

The hostel is in a prime location, being in close proximity to some of the islands top beach bars and nightclubs, plus Phanganist regularly holds it’s own pool parties that are not to be missed. Dorm rooms are well maintained, clean and comfortable. The food and drinks here are also really great, so this place really has everything you need.

Click here to book a room at Phanganist hostel.

Budget: Seaesta

If you’re looking for a little more creature comforts, then the very affordable, private bungalows at Seaesta are a great option. Seaesta is perched right on the beachfront and has 20 bungalows, each with its own balcony, hammock, A/C and Wi-Fi access.

There’s a lovely restaurant serving local dishes, and even a free shuttle daily to Secret Beach on the western side of the island, great for snorkeling or just watching the sunset. Guests also have access to Same Same cookery school located nearby!

Click here to book.

Midrange: Le Divine Comedie Beach Resort

This beautiful boutique resort is perfect for travellers looking for something unique and different and is one of the most popular places to stay in Koh Phangan. Le Divine Comedy is situated just outside of the main hustle of Baan Tai, so it’s perfect for those who want to relax, whilst still being close to everything.

They also serve an amazing all day breakfast spread, so you can sleep in as long as you want without missing out on the best meal of the day!

Click here for more information and to book.

Luxury: Summer Luxury Beach Resort

This is a true luxury resort, nestled right on the beachfront and overlooking the surrounding turquoise waters. Summer is a luxury resort with a contemporary design, picture-ready pool & spa area, and an atmospheric restaurant with a tantalizing global fusion menu.

There’s even in-house cooking classes available here! Sunsets are amazing to watch from the private beach or pool area. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with everything you need. This is a place where you can really relax and enjoy your time on Koh Phangan!

Click here to book your stay at Summer Luxury Beach Resort.

Sri Thanu

If you’ve recently been hearing about the other side of Koh Phangan, then that means this well –kept secret is finally out. Sri Thanu is the hub of an ever growing yogi, spiritual, tantra, conscious community who come to Koh Phangan for anything but the Full Moon parties!

Sri Thanu is the best area to stay in Koh Phangan for yoga. This place also has vegan, vegetarian, health conscious cafes on every corner, and an abundance of workshops, courses, yoga classes to suit your every interest.

Sri Thanu is generally much more quieter than the other end of the island and you feel that truly relaxed vibe all around here. You’ll find interesting people from all corners of the globe who have been attracted to the island in their search for a way of life that’s a little different.

Check out my post of the best yoga retreats, and yoga teacher training courses in Koh Phangan for more on this.

Best Places to Stay in Sri Thanu

Backpacker: Laemson Resort

At this tropical oasis you’ll wake up with a view of your little piece of paradise! Laemson Resort is in a prime location, right on the best beach in the Sri Thanu area, with bungalows quite literally right on the beachfront, with waves almost lapping at your door!

The restaurants excellent food can be served right to your room, and an added bonus is the high speed internet, which is great for those want to be able to check their emails with breakfast on their balcony whilst they soak up the views.

The only downside is that I found the beds a little hard but that’s quite common in budget hotels in Asia.

Click here to book your stay at Laemson.

Budget: Seetanu Bungalows

You won’t want to leave this tropical jungle hideaway! Seetanu Bungalows are perched right on the beachfront and surrounded amidst the beautiful lush tropical gardens, so you can feel like you’re truly escaping to a tropical island getaway.

The hard part is choosing between the beach and the beautiful pool area where you can peacefully lounge around for days, the staff are lovely, and the award-winning in house restaurant, Belgian Beer Bar, has a top menu serving a selection of Thai and European dishes & beers. This is my favourite place to stay in Koh Phangan

Click here to Book! 

Midrange: Loyfa Natural Resort

These stylish bungalows are equipped with all you need, beautiful views from your private terrace, big comfortable bed, hot shower, and even free tea and coffee facilities in the room. A daily breakfast is included in the booking and has many vegetarian and vegan friendly options too.

Loyfa Natural Resort has a relaxed atmosphere and the staff here go out of their way to make you feel at home and get you anything you need.

Click here to book a bungalow now.

Luxury: Beyond The Blue Horizion

This is a pure luxury resort on the outskirts of Sri Thanu with world-class views! Watch sunset from the infinity pool or from your private villa’s terrace. All rooms at Beyond the Blue Horizon are fully equipped with everything you could possibly need down to the smallest well thought out details.

The exceptional service is beyond words here; staff will quite literally tend to your every need and will do anything to make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.

Click here to book your stay now.

The Best Places to Stay in Koh Phangan’s North West – Haad Yao, Haad Salad, Mae Haad/ Koh Ma, Chaloklum

If you’re looking for a secluded tropical island getaway, with stunning views from luscious jungle hilltops and deserted pristine white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, then the best places to stay in Koh Phangan are the beaches in the North West of the island.

Most notably the beaches around Haad Yao, Had Salad, Mae Had where a sandbar leads out to the tiny island of Koh Ma, and the fishing village at Chaloklum.

From Chaloklum you can even get a small local boat trip over to the very secluded, hidden paradise, must-see Bottle Beach.

Here you can really feel like you have the whole island to yourself at times, this region is a true gem of a hideaway – a totally different world from the crowds around Haad Rin and Baan Tai.

This part of the island is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan for those who want escape the world and leave all their worries behind!

Best Places to Stay in North West Koh Phangan

 Backpacker: Shirelea Backpackers Resort

If you’re a backpacker who’s not bothered about the Full Moon Party and just want to experience the beauty and serenity of the island then this is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan. This is not just any hostel, this place is a backpackers resort, and feels like a tropical home away from home.

What makes this place is the super social yet relaxed atmosphere, the huge pool where everyone’s always hanging out, the awesome food & drinks, and the epic service from the friendly staff. This is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan for backpackers, budget travellers and solo travellers who want to meet people and have a good time.

Click here to book your stay at Shirelea.

Budget: Tantawan Bungalows

Tantawan Bungalows are superbly positioned on the perfect hilltop in Haad Yao for the most beautiful panoramic sunset views you can imagine. The resort is also a short walking distance to the infamous Secret Beach and Haad Yao Beach and is one of the best budget places to stay in Koh Phangan.

Every room has it’s own private balcony and hammock for you to relax on and be awe-inspired by the views! Staff here are always smiling, super friendly and helpful, they’ll even treat you to a welcome drink on your arrival!

Click here to book your bungalow with epic views!

Midrange: Seaboard Bungalows

Positioned just above the stunning Haad Yao beach, this little private piece of paradise is everything you need. This place is perfect for couples, families, groups or solo travellers, there’s something for everyone here.

The restaurant area is a lovely spot to hang out, have a bite to eat and enjoy the views and sometimes they put on music and parties. Staff here are very tentative too, so you’ll feel right at home as soon as you arrive.

Click here to book a bungalow here.

Luxury: Maehaad Bay Resort

If you’re looking for ultimate luxury for your stay on Koh Phangan, look no further! This brand new resort is beyond anything you could imagine, located on pristine, secluded Haad Maehaad Bay.

The direct access to a private beach area, where you can even snorkel right off the beach, makes it one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan! Not to mention the views from the stunning extra large pool, 5 star service, food & drinks, and spacious rooms are with luxurious amenities.

Click here to book a room at Maehaad Bay Resort.

Best Places to Stay in North East Koh Phangan – Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai

If you’re wondering where to stay in Koh Phangan for a relaxed beach holiday away from crowds and noisy nightlife then just head to the north of the island to Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai beaches.

A little remote slice of heaven, about a 40 min drive through the jungles and mountains from Baan Tai, where you’ll often feel as though you have your own private beach.

I’ve explored all over the island and my award for the absolute best beaches in Koh Phangan goes to these two.  The village area is quiet and peaceful, and there’s a small string of beautiful beachfront bungalows and luxury resorts.

The views and the vibe here is absolutely magical – be warned, you may never want to leave!

Whether you want to spend your days reading a book in the shade of a palm tree, snorkeling right off the beach or trying out some stand up paddle boarding, you could easily float away days on end here without going anywhere at all.

If you want a luxury stay and pristine beaches then look no further. This is the best place to stay in Koh Phangan for families, couples and anyone who wants to get away from it all.

Best Places to Stay in North East Koh Phangan

 Budget: Thongtapan Resort

Most places on these beaches are more upmarket but Thongtapan Resort on Thong Nai Pan Noi beach is one of the very best places to stay in Koh Phangan on a budget.

This is a heavenly peaceful place, sounded by lush nature, a very special experience indeed. This place feels like you have escaped the touristy vibes, and instead you will feel as though you have found a truly, untouched slice of paradise.

Situated on one of the best beaches on the island for swimming, and only a 5-minute stroll to the local village. The simplistic beachfront huts are comfortable, clean and secure, and I highly recommend getting a massage whilst you’re here, it’s the perfect place to really unwind.

Click here to book now.

Mid Range: Buri Rasa

This is the perfect island getaway and one of the very best places to stay in Koh Phangan! A contemporary style hotel with beach bungalow vibes, in a European Thai fusion that uses key design elements like reclaimed timber walls with traditional thatched roofing.

The resort is laid out as a little village of its own and isolated from other resorts on the southern tip of Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach. Staff are super professional but personal in their service, and there’s a multitude of activities to cater to all interests, such as pampering massages, Thai language & dancing classes and plenty of beach activities.

Click here to book!

Luxury: Anantara Rasananda Resort

Anantara Rasananda is truly a heaven on earth just waiting for you to arrive. The resort is situated front and center of one of Koh Phangan’s top beaches and staff will even cater to your ever need from your beach lounger.

Rooms are elegantly designed in modern Thai style, with luxuriously big comfortable beds, many with ocean views. The sunset view from the infinity swimming pool is spectacular and some rooms even have private pools.

There are lots of complimentary extras such as daily yoga classes, use of SUPs or Kayaks, and a huge pool and a steam room. When hunger strikes choice between the beach bistro, the amazing Japanese restaurant, room service, the champagne and wine lounge or even romantic private beach dining.

Anantara is part of a group of luxury hotels spread across some of the most spectacular destinations across the globe so it’s of no surprise that Anantara Rasananda is by far one of the most luxurious and best places to stay in Koh Phangan.

Click here to book your stay at Anantara Rasananda.

Where next after Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is a great destination on it’s own but, if you have time, why not explore the other islands nearby like Koh Samui and Koh Tao.

Or even better visit the temples and jungles of Northern Thailand as well as the beautiful beaches in the South. Check this post out for help planning your Thailand itinerary.

Cover Photo Credit: Matej Kastelic /Shutterstock

I hope you’ve found my tips and recommendations for the best places to stay in Koh Phangan useful.

Check out my other posts on Koh Phangan and Thailand and if you’ve stayed in a great hotel in Koh Phangan let me know in the comments below and your recommendations can help out other travellers!

By the way – this post contains affiliate links. This means that if you find my recommendations for the best places to stay in Koh Phangan useful and choose to book through the links I provide I can earn a tiny commission at no extra cost to you which helps me to keep traveling and to keep this site going. Thanks so much for your support! 🙂 

Read More:

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How to rent a house on Koh Phangan

My Cost of Living in Koh Phangan

Best Yoga Retreats in Koh Phangan

Yoga Teacher Training in Koh Phangan

Confession – I hated the Full Moon Party

6 Best Backpacker Hostels in Koh Phangan

Exploring the quieter side to the party island of Koh Phangan – Telegraph Travel

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