Beaches by Scooter from Villa Altura
From Villa Altura, most of the west and north coast beaches are fifteen to twenty minutes by scooter. A road, a parking spot, and you are there. What follows is not an exhaustive catalogue, but the beaches we genuinely recommend to our guests.
Wondering how Koh Phangan’s beaches compare to those on Samui? →
Haad Yao & Haad Salad
Haad Yao is the longest beach on the west coast. White sand, coconut palms, turquoise water. Between January and mid-April it draws a crowd and the atmosphere is lively. The rest of the year it returns to a much quieter rhythm.
On Wednesday evenings, the Seaboard Beach Resort hosts a small artisan market directly on the beach — local crafts, pop-up stalls, a DJ set at sunset. A gathering that residents and travellers alike have come to appreciate.
Five minutes north, Haad Salad is of a different nature. Nestled at the back of a natural bay, it stays calm year-round. Several establishments offer massages directly on the beach, in the shade of coconut palms facing the sea. A place to slow down.
Haad Son — Secret Beach
Haad Son, nicknamed Secret Beach, is no longer much of a secret. This small bay has become one of the most visited beaches on the island during high season. Out of season, however, the atmosphere is much more peaceful — and the natural setting remains intact.
The Lost ’N Found Beach Bar, right on the beach, is a solid address for lunch with your feet in the sand or a drink at the end of the day.
A few minutes walk away, Koh Raham is worth the detour. Built on a rocky peninsula jutting into the sea, it is known for its wooden walkways and platforms suspended over the water. The clear water surrounding the rocks shelters plenty of fish — impromptu snorkelling guaranteed. As the day closes, a relaxed musical atmosphere often accompanies the sunset.
Mae Haad & Koh Ma
Mae Haad is one of the most iconic beaches on Koh Phangan, and for good reason. At low tide, a natural sandbar connects the beach to Koh Ma, a small island a few hundred metres offshore. You walk across it as it slowly emerges from the water.
The reefs around Koh Ma are considered the best beach-accessible snorkelling spot on the island — clear water, tropical fish, coral formations in good condition.
After the swim, the Mae Haad Sunset Beach Bungalow is the ideal stop. Installed under a remarkable tree at the water’s edge, it offers one of the most pleasant views in the bay.
Malibu Beach & Chaloklum
Malibu Beach has a different feel from the rest of the island. White sand, remarkable trees, a calm bay tucked away. It remains one of the most pleasant beaches in the north of Koh Phangan, and one of the least crowded given its quality.
A short walk away, the fishing village of Chaloklum is worth the stop. An active harbour, seafood restaurants, a local atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the more touristic areas. On Sunday evenings, the Chaloklum market brings together residents and visitors around Thai food, local specialities and crafts.
For those who want to push further, Haad Khom is five minutes by road. More discreet, surrounded by vegetation, it offers a quiet that is hard to find elsewhere on the island.
