Sunset Cove Resort

This small, family-run resort is situated in a lush tropical garden right on the beach. It's a quiet, peaceful place, away from the rowdy party scene found on other parts of the island. Buildings are constructed of local wooden materials that fit right in with the natural setting. It's rustic and laid-back, though many parts could do with a refresh, so fussy guests may want to look elsewhere. For those who aren't as demanding, this is a good value hotel with a lovely pool and restaurant overlooking the beach. It's an especially nice place to view the island's magnificent sunsets. Most guests here are couples looking for someplace quiet and romantic, but groups and some families, as well as individuals, also are seen here. 

This resort is situated in a quiet area overlooking Ao Chao Phao Beach on Koh Phangan in the southern Gulf of Thailand. There's not much action around the hotel, but there are a few local bars, shops, and restaurants, as well as other resorts. The drive to the island's main town takes 15 to 20 minutes by car, and Haad Rin Beach -- where the Full Moon Party takes place -- is about 40 minutes away by car. Most guests arrive at the resort by flying to Koh Samui, then taking the express boat from Seatran Pier or Maenam Pier on Koh Samui to Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan. Expect about a 20-minute drive from the pier to the resort, and the hotel provides transportation. The Phaeng Waterfall is also about a 20-minute drive from the hotel. 

Simple cottages feature wood floors, dark wood and rattan furniture, white bed linens, and white walls. Standard units lack any kind of decorative items, and furniture is certainly old school, but upgraded cottages have accent pillows on the beds and interesting modern light fixtures. All are equipped with air-conditioning, TVs (many old-style tube units), DVD players, mini-fridges, free Wi-Fi, and safes. Bathrooms are basic, but some have indoor/outdoor showers, although the ones we visited were showing wear and could use some refreshing. Toiletries are provided, but hairdryers are available only on request. All cottages have private wooden decks surrounded by lush tropical trees and plants. You feel as if you are in the jungle -- and should expect some insects and lizards -- yet you are right on the beach as well. Some cottages face the sea, although it's not totally visible through the trees. These sea-facing units do have separate sitting areas and deep indoor wooden tubs with outdoor showers. The rooms near the road can pick up traffic noise at times. It's also worth noting that housekeeping is only offered twice weekly.

This simple little place offers just a few basic features. Dining takes place at a beachfront restaurant, where guests can sit on the wooden deck above the sand, in an open-air area with colorful lanterns hanging from the roof, or inside at tables with white tablecloths. A free breakfast is cooked to order. The long rectangular pool is lined with cushioned lounge chairs on one side that look out onto the beach. Palm trees and umbrellas provide shade, and a fountain on one side is surrounded by potted plants. It's a quiet, relaxing, and peaceful place, especially nice when the sun is setting over the water. Kayaks can be rented by the beach, and snorkeling equipment is free. The open-air fitness center offers a few outdated machines and some free weights. DVDs are available in the lobby for watching in guest cottages, and a variety of books and magazines are available as well. There is no parking lot, but street parking is available. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, but service can be spotty.