Than Sadet is an unusual beach in Koh Phangan in that it is not one of the most popular beaches but for Thai people it is without doubt the most famous beach on the island. This is because three Kings of Thailand have visited Than Sadet including the much revered King Rama V who carved his initials onto a rock next to a waterfall.

Anyone who has seen the movie or read the book by Alex Garland entitled ‘The Beach’ will understand the allure of a beach that is cut off from the rest of the world. That is the feeling you get when you stay at Than Sadet beach. It is a small beach tucked into a cove on the east coast of the island. It is only accessible by boat or by a rough track through the jungle. It is not a good idea to rent a bike in Thong Sala and try to ride to Than Sadet.

The isolation of Than Sadet is its charm. It is a very peaceful beach. It has fine white sand and great year round swimming. Unlike many of the beaches on the west coast of Koh Phangan it is not affected by tidal changes. The beach is fringed by towering palm trees and behind there is thick jungle.

The whole area is a National Park and has been kept in immaculate condition. There are plenty of good trails to follow including one to the famous waterfalls of Than Sadet and another to a view point of the area. There are a few bungalow operations on Than Sadet beach. There are air-con bungalows as well as some of the cheapest bungalows to be found on all of Koh Phangan.

Most of the people who stay at Than Sadet have been coming for years for their holidays. It is a place that is almost impossible to visit just one time. It is an idyll of remoteness and natural beauty; and thankfully not popular with the masses who stay at Haad Rin.