Ko Phangan is best known for its full moon party at Haad Rin Beach. But there’s so much more to discover on this paradisiacal island – Thailand’s fifth largest – away from the cocktail buckets, including a selection of relaxation-inducing luxury resorts that make the most of island’s best assets.
There’s a wealth of nature on Ko Phangan, including beautiful dive sites, refreshing waterfalls and white sand beaches. And for foodies, the Thong Sala Night Market is not to be missed, with a battalion of bites tempting you in every direction. For a more boujie, rather than backpacker, Ko Phangan experience, check into these exclusive resorts and hotels, bookable on Culture Trip.
Roll out of bed straight onto the white sands of Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach at this charming boutique hotel. The rooms are spacious, with polished floors and vaulted dark wood ceilings, and all come with private outdoor spaces. You won’t really need it, but the large swimming pool is a serene spot away from the beach. To further your state of relaxation, pop for a seaside spa treatment at Nham Thai or for a refreshing cocktail at the Beach Club restaurant. This eatery rolls out onto the beach, so you can feel the sand between your toes as you tuck into some fresh seafood.
A sea-facing infinity pool lined with blood-red umbrellas and loungers is one of the perks you’ll find at this relaxation-focused adult-only resort. Even if it’s not far away from the world-famous Full Moon Party beach of Haad Rin, the Coast Resort promotes the opposite of party. A serene atmosphere runs throughout, with minimalist furnishings in the polished rooms accompanied by pops of red to match the pool.
Tuck yourself away at the Summer Luxury Beach Resort, with a range of luxurious suites nestled amid lush, tropical greenery. The modern rooms are flooded with natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that either face the pool or the beach. Besides enjoying the waves right on your doorstep, you can spend your mornings learning the secrets of Thai cuisine at the hotel’s Salt Water Cooking School. Or maybe dedicate an afternoon to a body scrub or aromatherapy session at the Pharaoh Spa – an ideal prelude to dinner at the upscale Chardonnay on the Beach restaurant, where the staff’s much-touted attentive service really shines.
If you’re looking for something a little different, navigate your way to the Cabin Beach Resort. This funky hotel features a collection of industrial-chic loft-like rooms that overlook the white sands of Leela Beach. The stunning elevated swimming pool is a prime spot for an impromptu photo shoot, and a snap of you swinging in the hammock strewn across your private veranda will make friends back home green with envy. The Cabin Bar & Grill is equally as hip, with cocktails served on the rooftop. The facilities of Haad Rin are all nearby, but with such a perfectly balanced environment, you’ll hardly want to leave.
Nestled amid palms on the shores of Naiwok Beach, this hotel is a delicious slice of paradise. Its infinity pool is a highly Instagrammable spot, and the authentically styled villas fashioned from Balinese wood are equally as photogenic. The focal point, however, is the spa helmed by luxury French brand, L’Occitane. There are two double treatment rooms facing the pool and the glistening sea beyond. The divine-smelling products are also found in all of the bathrooms. Other amenities to write home about include the on-site restaurant, serving seafood and Thai dishes throughout the day.
Anantara Rasananda is the textbook definition of a paradise island resort, with the property sitting directly on the beach. In total, there are 64 pool suites and pool villas set among towering palms and crystal waters. Each room has its its own pool for the ultimate island experience, and conveniences such Netflix and Apple TV are appreciated. In true Anantara style, the high attention to detail is a running theme, right from the open-air restaurants to the state-of-the-art spa.
Located on a private beach, it’s easy to see why people love Panviman Resort. Despite it having 94 rooms, there’s a boutique feel to the resort, with exceptional service and an inviting atmosphere. The rooms and villas are comfy and bright, with many boasting sweeping views of the sea from spacious balconies. There are also hot tubs and private pools from which to enjoy the surroundings. Panviman’s spa is the perfect place to get pampered on Ko Phangan, whilst the numerous restaurants, bars and roof terraces mean you’re never far away from a memorable night. Worth every penny.
A stay in the luxurious five-star Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa promises to leave guests in seventh heaven. From the moment you check in, the tone is set, with ornate wooden carvings and quintessentially Thai decor. This elegant theme continues through to the rooms and villas, which come with private pools and outdoor bathtubs for some added indulgence. Other perks of the place include two outdoor pools, exclusive access to the gorgeous Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach, three restaurants and a full-service spa for a spot of pampering.
Located in the vibrant district of Haad Rin, Cocohut Beach Resort features a scattering of stunning bungalows with unique and magazine-worthy interiors. All 94 rooms offer free wifi, flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes and private outdoor spaces. With a fitness suite and an on-site spa, as well as a restaurant, bar and pool, there’s enough to keep you busy if you don’t feel like venturing out. For those who do want to explore a little further, one of the island’s best beaches is right on your doorstep, and the lively bars and restaurants of Haad Rin are nearby.
Pingchan is a beachfront resort that offers a prime position on the golden sands, with a mix of cosy villas serving up different views. Some are surrounded by tropical gardens, while other properties sit next to the shore. There is an outdoor pool just off the beach, and the on-site restaurant and bar are other top places to unwind after a day of exploring. For those who are planning a trip for the Full Moon Party, this hotel offers a free shuttle bus ride.
Everything about the Chantaramas Resort screams luxury. From the high ceilings and outdoor jacuzzis to the elegant beach cabanas with their curtains blowing in the sea breeze, a stay at Chantaramas will be one to remember. Its deep blue infinity pool looks out onto the serene beach surroundings, whilst the on-site nightclubs, spas, restaurants and bars ensure that nobody will be left twiddling their thumbs. There’s a keen sense of being at one with nature here, with lush gardens, the use of natural wood in the rooms and comfortable outdoor seating areas.
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