Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 0 7745 6431;
www.kohtaocoral.com
; bungalows 2600-9300B; )
The plethora of pink facades
at this family-friendly option feels a bit like Barbie's dream Thai beach house. Cottage in-
teriors are coated in cheery primary colours framed by white truncated beams while prici-
er digs have a more distinctive Thai flavour, boasting dark lacquered mouldings and gold-
foiled art. The setting is lovely, though the service is not all it could be.
Mae Hat
All ferry arrivals pull into the pier at the busy village of Mae Hat and nearly all the resorts
on this beach will have a view and be in earshot of the constant ebb and flow of boat ar-
rivals and departures. As such this isn't the best beach for a tranquil getaway although it's
a good hub if your main goal is diving. Accommodation is spread throughout, but the
more charming options extend in both directions along the sandy beach, both north and
south of the pier.
BUNGALOW
$
Sai Thong Resort
( 0 7745 6868; Hat Sai Nuan; bungalows 500-2000B; )
As the rush of Mae Hat dwindles away
along the island's southwest shore, Sai Thong emerges along quiet, sandy Hat Sai Nuan.
Bungalows, in various, rustic incarnations of weaving and wood, have colourful porch
hammocks and palm-filled vistas. Guests frequent the restaurant's relaxing sun deck - a
favourite spot for locals too. The resort is accessed by a quick ride from the Mae Hat pier
in a boat taxi.
BUNGALOW
$
Tao Thong Villa
( 0 7745 6078; Ao Sai Nuan; bungalows 400-1800B; )
Very popular with long-termers seek-
ing peace and quiet, these funky, no-frills bungalows have killer views. Tao Thong actu-
ally straddles two tiny beaches on a craggy cape about halfway between Mae Hat and
Chalok Ban Kao. To reach it, grab a boat taxi for a short ride from the Mae Hat pier.
Crystal Dive Resort
OFFLINE MAP
BUNGALOW
$$
( 0 7745 6107;
www.crystaldive.com
; bungalows 800-1500B; )
The bungalow and motel-style
accommodation at Crystal is reserved for its divers, and prices drop significantly for those
taking courses. Guests can take a dip in the refreshing pool when it isn't overflowing with
bubble-blowing newbie divers.
