When people think of Koh Phangan, it’s often the party scene on the west that comes to mind. While that may be true, there’s another side to Koh Phangan—one that’s calm, scenic, and ideal for a more laid-back experience.
On the island’s eastern side lies Thong Nai Pan, a quiet area surrounded by jungle, tropical flowers, and clear ocean waters.
Spending five days here, we enjoyed great accommodations, delicious food, and some of the best Thai massages we’ve ever had. It’s the kind of place where you can truly slow down and recharge.
If you want to to escape the crowds and experience the Koh Phangan’s tranquil side, this travel guide will help you plan your visit.
Sunrise at Thong Nai Pan Thong Nai Pan Noi beach
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Thong Nai Pan Location + Getting There
Thong Nai Pan, situated on the eastern side of Koh Phangan, consists of two bays: Thong Nai Pan Noi (the smaller bay) and Thong Nai Pan Yai (the larger one).
Good to know: Thong Nai Pan Noi has a better restaurant/bar scene and more lively. Thong Nai Pan Yai is more rustic, and quieter in comparison.
How to reach Thong Nai Pan – the options are as follows:
- Scooter: Rent a scooter on arrival and drive to Thong Nai Pan in about 40 minutes. We chose Pajambo rentals for their great reviews and somehow managed to fit two people, two large backpacks, and two small ones on one scooter (it gets easier over time).
- Minivan: As you arrive at the port, the minivans will be waiting on your left to transfer passengers across the island.
- Taxi: Taxis are always ready throughout the island to pick you up.
How to Get Around
By scooter: The easiest way to get around Thong Nai Pan is by scooter, an affordable and convenient option. We rented a scooter near the ferry port upon arrival, but you can also ask your host to arrange a scooter for you. Daily rental typically costs between 250-and 350 baht.
By taxis: If scooters aren’t your thing, there are always drivers available to take you wherever you need to go.
On Foot: Thong Nai Pan is a small area, so exploring on foot is also possible. For more convenience, I recommend staying in Thong Nai Pan Noi, which is livelier with a walking street full of restaurants, souvenir shops, and 7-Elevens. At the end of the street, you’ll find the beautiful beach.
Flowers of Thong Nai Pan We joined a local ceremony
Where to Stay in Thong Nai Pan
There are plenty of accommodation options at Thong Nai Pan. Most of them are small resorts with a pool area. I highly recommend staying at Koh Phangan Pavilions – we had the best experience there.
The Koh Phangan Pavilions is located on a hill in a quiet street in Thong Nai Pan Noi. Despite this, the hotel has a direct access to the walking street through its garden – making it very well accessible. It has a pool area with an infinity pool and also a small one ideal for children. All the bungalows are facing the sea, it is spectacular at sunrise and all rooms are spotlessly clean, spacious and very cozy.
Recommended Hotels:
My favourite: Koh Phangan Pavilions
Ultimate Luxury: Panviman Resort
Pro Tip: Make sure to book your hotel upfront. We made the mistake of not booking early and needed to leave our favourite hotel after 2 nights (as it was fully booked).
Koh Phangan Pavilions Pool Area Our Room at Koh Phangan Pavilions
Where to Eat in Thong Nai Pan
Thong Nai Pan offers an impressive variety of dining options, with at least 20 restaurants to choose from. Below are my favourites where I choose to return repeatedly:
- Healthy Eats: Banana Cafe – Perfect for fresh, wholesome meals.
- Best Coffee: Brew Co. Cafe – A must-visit for coffee lovers.
- Local Vibes: Rasta Baby – A laid-back spot loved by locals.
- Authentic Thai Food: Krua Isan Ban Hao, Krua Thai, Original Thai Streetfood – Affordable and delicious options for a true taste of Thailand.
- Sweet Treats: Coco Loco – Don’t miss their amazing coconut ice cream.
No matter your craving, Thong Nai Pan has something to delight every palate!
Banana Cafe Restaurant Khrua Isan Ban Hao
Things to Do around Thong Nai Pan
Despite being a quieter location, the area has plenty of things to do. It’s a great destination for families, with nearby hikes, a national park, and plenty of outdoor activities. It boasts also variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes to ensure a comfortable stay.
Let me guide you through the best things to do around!
1. Hike to the Bottle Beach Viewpoint
The Bottle Beach Viewpoint is a must-see on Koh Phangan, offering stunning views of the jungle, ocean, and Bottle Beach itself. The 15–20 minute hike is supported by ropes, but the trail can get slippery—plan this hike for sunny days.
Key Details:
– Hike Starting Point: You can leave your scooter and start your trek here.
– Snacks & Water: Available at the trailhead.
– Optional Adventure: Extend your hike with a 30-minute descent to Bottle Beach (bring extra water).
– Getting There: Just a few minute scooter/taxi ride from Thong Nai Pan.
This uncrowded spot is perfect for enjoying the scenery and taking some nice photos.
Bottle Beach Viewpoint from above Sitting on the rocks and enjoying the view
2. Enjoy a Drink at the 2C Bar with Phenomenal Views
For unbeatable views and a laid-back vibe, head to the 2C Bar at Thong Nai Pan Yai. This multi-story spot feels like a giant treehouse, with terraces of varying sizes built around massive trees. The hippy ambiance makes it a perfect place to unwind.
The bar offers various breakfast sets, fresh fruit shakes, and traditional Thai dishes, as well as cocktails and beers. Don’t miss this unique spot.
Details:
– Location: At the very end of Thong Nai Pan Yai (find it here).
– Opening Hours: 10 AM – 9 PM.
Main Terrace of the 2C Bar Come here for the views 🙂
3. Relax on the Beaches
Thong Nai Pan has two east-facing beaches, perfect for morning visits and catching the sunrise. By the afternoon, the sun dips behind the hills, so the beaches are shaded. Snorkeling isn’t really a thing here, but they’re great for relaxing.
Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach
Thong Nai Pan Noi is the smaller beach. It’s pretty much all sun, so don’t forget sunscreen—there’s no shade until late afternoon. Food and drinks are limited on the beach, but the nearby walking street has plenty of spots to eat and grab a drink.
Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach
Thong Nai Pan Yai is bigger and more chilled out. Unlike Thong Nai Pan Noi, it has some trees for shade, which is nice when the sun gets too strong. You’ll find food and drinks at the resorts along the beach, so you’re covered there.
4. Schedule a Thai Massage to Unwind
If you’re looking for the best Thai Massage in the Thong Nai Pan area, the Tanaporn Massage House is a must-visit. We went three times during our five-day stay – it was that good!
Details:
– The massages take place at an open-air terrace, letting you enjoy the calming breeze during the massage.
– The staff are friendly and skilled – they are real professionals.
– There are some adorable cats around the studio and handmade souvenirs available for purchase.
Tanaporn Massage House Lemongrass Tea after the Massage
5. Visit the Natural Pools of the National Park
Only 10 minutes from Thong Nai Pan, visiting the National Park was a memorable experience—but not in the way you might expect.
We parked our scooter, greeted by a sweet, smiling old man at his shop. We promised to grab drinks on our way back from the falls.
The short hike to the falls took us down a jungle path. In just 5 minutes, you`ll reach the streams. The falls aren’t your typical cascade but a series of natural pools and small streams. You can spend some time there and even walk down to the beach. We had great fun jumping on the rocks between the streams.
The Highlight: Only after seeing the shop sign did we realize the elderly man was blind. Despite this, he manages everything himself, always with a smile. His joyfulness left a lasting impact—I often think of him and hope he’s doing well. If you visit, please let me know how he’s doing! Please buy something from him to support.
Details:
– Getting there: 10 minutes drive from Thong Nai Pan
– Parking: You can park your scooter here.
– Trail: A quick 5-minute downhill walk. Then, at the streams/natural pools, you can hike down until the beach.
– Costs: Free entry.
– Snacks & Drinks: at the Blind Man`s Shop. (Please buy something from him.)
Waterfalls of the Namtok Sadet National Park If you come here, please buy support his business.
Further Thailand Resources
Planning a trip to Thailand? Check out my detailed travel guides I write with great care. I focus on authentic places, hidden gems, and nature destinations.
- Best Island between Phuket and Krabi: Koh Yao Noi
- Best Landscapes: How to avoid the crowds on Railay Beach
- Most Authentic & Best Nature Island: Koh Mook
- Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems in Thailand
Planning your next destination?
Which country suits you more: Thailand vs. Sri Lanka destination comparison
Getting ready for Thailand:
What to Pack: Complete Packing List for Southeast Asia
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