Mae Haad Beach

Located on the northwest corner of Koh Phangan, this is a very pretty beach with a spit running out to Koh Ma, a small islet that lies just offshore. Though crossing conditions are best at low tide, the crossing can be made through shallow water when the tide comes back in. The sandbar separates the beach into two distinct area, the eastern end is shorter and largely unused by tourists. It gets muddy at low tide and local fishermen claim this area with their crab pots and longtail boats. The beach to the west of the spit is much longer and more beautiful, and this is where everyone flocks to find the best sunbathing spot.

The snorkelling and swimming to the west of the islet are also outstanding. Mae Haad's beach consists mostly of soft white sand that extends out into the sea. The water is quite shallow and there is a good deal of coral just off the beach, so water activities are best done during high tide, but beyond the reef, a dropoff makes for some excellent swimming no matter what the tidal conditions. There is a clear channel however, that grants relatively coral-free access to greater depths toward the centre of the beach marked by a signpost. This is a very popular area attracting a loyal repeat crowd, particularly Europeans.

Occasional loud techno parties pump till dawn here, so head to another beach for the evening if this isn't your cup of tea or invest in earplugs if you want a good night's sleep. However, most of the time, Mae Haad remains a fairly quiet and peaceful stretch of beach. The accommodations here are primarily inexpensive and basic.

If you're after a break from the beach, the Wang Sai waterfall is a short walk away, and has a lovely little pool for swimming, though the water can be cloudy with silt in the rainier seasons, so don't dive right in if you can't see the rocky bottom.