Those who are willing to pay for good quality accommodation in Thailand are often sorely disappointed when they get to their resort. The room might be nice but often the staff are rude and just outside the hotel is a street full of sex workers. Koh Samui might have an airport and supermarkets, but it also has too many prostitutes, avaricious taxi drivers and too much development. These are things that are never mentioned in the brochures and the websites for luxury resorts in Koh Samui.

Those in the know have given up on Koh Samui. The only quiet beaches aren’t good for swimming and often have sharp pieces of coral in the sand. For those looking for a beautiful white sand beach in a pristine natural setting and luxury accommodation they need look no farther than the neighboring island of Koh Phangan and the beach of Thong Nai Pan Noi.

The service and the quality of accommodation in Thong Nai Pan rivals most of the resorts in Koh Samui. The three hotels of Rasananda, Santhiya and Panviman all offer well appointed rooms with 5 star facilities. All three resorts also have spas, pool villas and restaurants with great views.

Rasananda has a series of beach front pool villas with a boutique vibe. Santhiya uses teak wood to create a classic Thai look to the resort. Panviman features deluxe cottages built around giant granite boulders.

Outside the resorts is a beautiful stretch of fine, white sand. The sea is perfect for year round swimming. There are a few bars, restaurants and shops in Thong Nai Pan Noi. The nightlife is fun without being objectionable or too loud. The beach used to be a famous hippy hang out. The hirsute guests have moved on but the same relaxed and friendly atmosphere still pervades the beach. Thong Nai Pan Noi won’t disappoint those looking for quality accommodation on a beautiful beach.