BEACH
Than Sadet is a picturesque bay on Ko Phangan with a real island feeling. Than Sadet is celebrated for its picturesque beauty. It features a stretch of golden coarse sand, backed by lush jungle and coconut palms. Overall, a nice social spot to spend a couple of days.
The waters at Than Sadet are generally calm and safe for swimming, especially during the high tourist season when the sea is usually calm. The crystal-clear waters gently lap against the shore, creating a peaceful and idyllic setting. It is good to know that the beach attracts daytrippers, however, in the evening, peace and quiet returns.
Than Sadet is surrounded by a dense jungle, and there are hiking trails that lead to the Than Sadet Waterfall and other natural attractions in the area. You are able to explore the lush forests and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the island. A 5-minute walk will take you to the next quiet bay, Hat Thong Reng.
WHERE TO STAY
There are 2 places to stay in Than Sadet. Firstly, Mai Pen Rai Bungalows offers nice wooden bungalows on the beach, spread over the hill in the back. Secondly, Silver Cliff Bungalows is a good budget place with fantastic views. Most bungalows are located on the steep hill at the northern end of the bay. Therefore, keep in mind that you will need some climbing skills to get to your bungalow. Both stays have a restaurant.
It is a 5 km drive to the nearest ATM. You can take a shared taxi to Thong Sala for 300 baht per person, or a regular taxi for 700 baht.
ISLAND
Ko Phangan in the Lower Gulf is a nice surprise because most of the island is very touristy (the kind of place we normally avoid). However, we did find some very nice TreasureBeaches. Ko Phangan is perhaps most famous for its Full Moon Party, a monthly beach party held on Hat Rin during the full moon. It is probably better to avoid the island during this period. Outside this period, however, it remains a fun destination to visit.
WHAT TO DO
The island offers a diverse range of activities, making it suitable for travellers with different interests, whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences. From scuba diving and snorkeling trips, to visiting a coconut plantation or feeding elephants. In addition to the opportunity to sign up for cooking or boxing classes, the island offers great hiking trails that take you to the island’s tropical rainforest. There are also kitesurfing spots located on the south coast.
Ko Phangan is known for its numerous wellness and yoga resorts that offer classes and retreats for those looking to rejuvenate their minds and bodies.
You have to visit Ko Ma! This is the most photographed beach on Ko Phangan. This island is connected to Mae Hat beach by a pure white sandbank. Bring your beach towel so you can sunbathe on the sandbank. Although the beach can be relatively crowded, Ko Ma is definitely a nice day trip.
The Thong Sala Night Market, also known to locals as Pantip Market, is home to Ko Phangan’s best street food vendors. The market is located near Thong Sala Pier.
TRANSPORT
The most common way to reach Ko Phangan is by plane, train, or (mini)bus from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani. You can take different types of ferry services to Ko Phangan from Dansok Pier near Surat Thani or from the Lompraya Pier near Chumphon.
Some people fly to Ko Samui and take the ferry from here. This is much more expensive, but faster compared to the Surat Thani and Chumphon connection – although the time savings are somewhat disappointing.
When you enter the pier in Thong Sala in Ko Phangan, take a shared taxi or private taxi to your beach. You can easily rent a scooter on the island.
