210/20 Moo 1,, Ao Nai Wok, Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand | (888) 635-3814
Intimate, affordable hotel on secluded beach
Air-conditioned rooms and bungalows with hammocks on private decks
Some rooms have kitchenettes and lagoon views
Nice swimming pool overlooks the water
Beachfront restaurant/bar with happy hour cocktails and gorgeous sunsets
On-site paddleboard and windsurfing rentals
Within walking distance of village bars, markets, and cafes
Close to Muay Thai gym, 7-Eleven, and a day spa
Free Wi-Fi and parking
Hotel is on a lagoon that is too shallow for swimming or snorkeling
Not directly on party beach (a plus for some)
No spa or fitness center
The mid-range Baan Manali is an unpretentious budget hotel overlooking a tranquil private beach on Koh Phangan. While the island is renowned for its all-night parties, this 15-room resort's northwest location is removed from the revelry, making it a good choice for couples and families seeking a relaxing getaway. Thatch-roofed rooms and bungalows with garden or water views feature free Wi-Fi and private decks with hammocks. A rustic beachfront restaurant/bar serves buffet breakfast (not included), Thai cuisine, and cocktails overlooking spectacular sunsets. The hotel has a lovely pool and water sports rentals, but the water here is too shallow for swimming. Guests also must go off-site for nightlife, fitness, and spa services. Travelers seeking a hotel with more amenities should consider the somewhat pricier Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa, which has a luxury spa and nightly entertainment.
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Scene
A secluded beachfront resort with charming bungalows and a laid-back restaurant
Just off the main road, a simple wooden hotel sign leads to a secluded tropical compound shaded by tall palms and lush greenery. A narrow path to the reception area, restaurant, and bar winds past small, thatch-roofed bungalows, where glimpses of turquoise lagoon peek out between the coconut trees. On a slope just above the beach is the the multipurpose reception, bar, and restaurant; an open-air structure with timbered ceilings and wood plank floors. Lanterns and hanging plants are suspended from the ceiling over slightly shabby rattan sofas and wooden dining tables. A small book exchange is stacked in one corner for guests to peruse before heading out to the pool or beach. Most of the guests here are couples on vacation, but families book here for kitchenettes and low rates.
Location
Overlooking a quiet bay beach on the island's western shore; walking distance from bars and restaurants in Thong Sala
Baan Manali is on Ao Nai Wok, one of the island's most tranquil beaches (although the water is too shallow for swimming or snorkeling). It's a five-minute drive south to the main port town of Thong Sala, from where several ferries make round trips from Ko Samui and the mainland. The nearest airport is on Ko Samui. Guests can take the ferry or have the hotel arrange a private speedboat transfer (for a fee).
Rooms
Comfortable and simple rooms with hammocks over private decks
Modestly furnished bungalows, some with kitchenettes, have wooden furnishings and plank floors and are decorated with artisan wall hangings and textiles. Beds tucked into sleeping alcoves are draped in mosquito netting, and small desks hold tea and coffee fixings. Bathrooms are spacious, with wall-mounted sinks and open walk-in showers. Private wooden decks strung with hammocks overlook peaceful water or garden views. Deluxe Rooms and Triple Rooms offer more floor space than bungalows, with sitting areas and spacious furnished terraces. All rooms come with air-conditioning, mini-fridges, safes, and Wi-Fi.
Features
Full-service beachfront restaurant, attractive pool, water-sports rentals, and free Wi-Fi
For the price, features here are outstanding. Past guests have good things to say about the hotel's full-service restaurant, Kokomo's, where breakfast includes homemade bread, yogurt, omelets, and jam. The meal can be booked with the room, but it costs extra. There are also daily sunset drink specials, and a dinner menu of Thai and European specialties. There's a lovely (though small) pool overlooking the beach. Beanbag chairs and sun loungers provide space to relax. There's also an on-site water-sports kiosk where guests can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other equipment. Note that the water is usually too shallow for actual swimming. Wi-Fi and parking are free.
