Budget Accommodation Guide to Koh Phangan

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As Koh Phangan was initially known as a backpacker destination before attracting other types of travellers, one thing the island has plenty of is budget and affordable accommodation.
You can find places to stay within this price range all over the island, in whichever area you would like to visit, meaning you can find one location if you are on a budget.

Budget Accommodation Koh Phangan

Areas

It will be useful to know a little about the area you choose to stay in before looking for budget accommodation on Koh Phangan. You’ll know about amenities, events, goings-on and the type of vibe and atmosphere in the village. Here’s a little you might want to know:

Haad Rin

The famed Full Moon Party takes place at Haad Rin Shore, located on the island's southeast corner. The Haad Rin Queen Boat will carry you straight to Haad Rin pier from Koh Samui's Buddha Pier, or you can take a taxi if you arrive by boat to Thong Sala.
The Full Moon Festival, which takes place once a month, draws over 10,000 participants who party all night and through the next day. Haad Rin Beach is one of the island's most gorgeous beaches, and if you go between full moons, it's a nice spot to go sunbathing and fishing. It's also tranquil and calm.

Thong Sala and Baan Tai

The Lifestyle and centre of the island include Thong Sala and Ban Tai. This is because Thong Sala is considered Koh Phangan's "capital." This small village port has developed into a bustling hub of fantastic western and local bars and restaurants open all day and night. From hummus and falafel to fried chicken and authentic Thai cuisine, the Pantip Market has it all. Every Saturday in Thong Sala, a market transforms the street into 'Walking Street.' The market is open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and features a variety of vendors offering low-cost clothing, art, snacks, and more! 
Baan Tai has a lot of hostels, hotels, pubs, and restaurants, and it's a perfect place to go any night of the week. Most bars have drink and food deals, so check them out. The key party venue, Ban Tai, now hosts Jungle Experience, Waterfall Party, Half Moon, and Loi Lay Floating Bar. Whether you're looking for a disco or a bar crawl in the evening, this is the spot to be. This zone is perfect for water activities such as kite surfing and stand-up paddleboarding; go to Ban Tai beach to find many coaches to assist you in mastering the ways of the wind and seas!

Thong Sala

Chaloklum

This portion of the island is renowned for being the island's dive hub. Chaloklum is the largest village in this part of the island and is home to various dive shops. With pool leagues, dartboards, a Muay Thai ring, and beachfront dining and drinking, you can fall in love with this ‘sleepy little village. Many long-term ex-pats prefer to remain in Chaloklum because it maintains its old-school elegance while having all the essentials.

Sri Thanu and West Coast

SriThanu is a Yoga and Well-Being centre where you can detox or retreat from it when participating in spiritual practices. This place is a vegan and vegetarian foodie's heaven. Here in Hin Kong, around the coastline, there are some of the finest sunset spots on the island, with views over the ocean to Samui. In recent years, Hin Kong has attracted some of the most exquisite restaurants, and L'alcove is known for its wine and live music nights.
This Koh Phangan health and wellness area exemplifies the island's other hand; it maintains its charm, and the spiritual side of things adds to that!

Thong Nai Pan and the North

This portion of the island is the quietest and least inhabited on Koh Phangan, with stunning views both on the shore and inland. This island area is designated as a protected national park, ensuring that construction and visitor behaviour is controlled. The Than Sadet Waterfall is a must-see attraction on the island, but during the dry season, it can be more of a drip than a waterfall! Absolutely breathtaking sights at night must be experienced to be believed. Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai, the key beaches in this district, are home to some of the island's most luxurious resorts and are popular with families, couples, and honeymooners. This is Koh Phangan's origins; it has evolved with the advent of resorts on the North East coast, but the whole region remains spectacular and secure, and every tourist can see it!

Baan Tai

Types of Budget Accommodation

Hostels

Simply put, a hostel is a low-cost form of lodging that emphasises a shared social experience. One of the best aspects of staying in a hostel is meeting people from all walks of life worldwide. You never know who you'll meet, which adds an element of excitement that is difficult to achieve when you're alone in a hotel room. In terms of amenities, many hostels offer everything you'd find in a hotel, plus a lot more. Before booking a hostel, please read the description carefully because no two are alike. Most hostels nowadays are reasonably well equipped, with swimming pools, pool tables, and beer pong tournaments. So there's plenty to keep you occupied! 
However, if you're looking for privacy, we wouldn't recommend it. Sleeping in an 8-person dorm can be difficult, especially if you are a light sleeper. Many hostels, especially on Phangan, are built around partying, so if you're a night owl who enjoys getting merry every night, you shouldn't have trouble falling asleep.

Hostel Koh Phangan

Resorts

A resort is a full-service accommodation establishment that caters to vacationers and is often situated in locations where people go to rest or unwind, such as beaches. The variety of facilities and amenities separates it from a ‘basic' hotel. A Resort can be described as a self-contained facility that meets most of a vacationer's needs while keeping them on the premises. One of the advantages of staying at a Resort is that the guest receives all-around treatment on the property. If you like, you can eat, drink, swim, relax, have treatments and arrange activities without leaving a resort.

Resort Koh Phangan

Hotels

A hotel is a form of business that is built to house visitors for the night or longer. The property has several quarters, each with beds, duvets, cushions, a toilet, and everything else necessary for a guest's stay. The services provided differ by property, but they are both designed to meet the needs and desires of the consumer. What makes them different from resorts is that they may not have some amenities like swimming pools, restaurants, laundry and other services, more so just a place to sleep and relax.

Hotel Koh Phangan

Bungalows

The Thai islands are well-known for their bungalows ranging from basic wooden huts to more concrete styles and all in between. Bungalows can be found within resorts with pools, restaurants, shops etc. or just a place with bungalows managed by a company/family and nothing else. Bungalows (separate from houses rented from a landlord in this case) come in various styles and comfort, some with basic beds and toilets and others with balconies and kitchens.

Bungalows Koh Phangan

Houses

If you want to stay for more than a month, finding a monthly rental on the island is an excellent deal for the money and more convenient. This will provide you with your room and peace and quiet and serve as your true ‘home' for the remainder of your visit. Most house rentals often have kitchens, meaning you can prepare your meals instead of dining out all the time. Please read our full in-depth article on House rentals here.

House Koh Phangan

Could you make a list of what you need?

Before choosing your budget accommodation, you’ll want to list the things that are important to you. We have already covered the areas of the island and the styles of places to stay. Now you want to choose your amenities and services. Maybe you don’t want anything so that a hostel will suit you and you’re ok sharing with others. But what if you desire a certain comfort in bedding, laundry service, or pool? Write these things down and check them with the establishments.

Budget options in Haad Rin

Coral Bungalows

With bungalows strewn around the garden, the resort has been built to blend in with its surroundings. The basic facilities are included in the plain yet well-kept bungalows, whilst the newer, more spacious apartments offer more luxury. Private toilets, electricity, bed linen and blanket, free WIFI, fan and air-conditioning, and expansive balconies with views of the garden or beachfront are included in bungalows.

Coral Bungalows

Paradise Bungalows

During full moon times, paradise bungalows have always been a typical hangout for partygoers. Outside of the full moon party time, it is a tranquil setting where you can unwind and relax by the big outdoor pool that leads to Haad Rin Nok beach's gorgeous white sands.
With a wide range of bungalows and suites, Paradise offers travellers a wide range of options and types of lodging. On the grounds, a professionally licensed bar and restaurant offer Thai and international food with stunning ocean views.

Budget options in Baan Tai

Munchies Resort

Munchies Resort in Baan Tai, Koh Phangan, offers cozy beachfront bungalows surrounded by lush gardens. It’s a laid-back spot with a pool and direct beach access, perfect for relaxing between island adventures.
Guests love the on-site restaurant, known for its tasty Thai dishes and chilled-out beach bar. The vibe is friendly and social, with foosball, cocktails, and ocean views.
Just a short drive from Haad Rin, it’s a great budget-friendly option for Full Moon Party visitors, with clean rooms, air-conditioning, and helpful staff.

First and Frang Hotel

First & Frang Hotel is a laid-back 2–3★ property near Thong Sala, Koh Phangan, just a short walk from the beach, shops, cafes, and the ferry pier. The hotel offers 32–40 air‑conditioned rooms, many with terraces or loft-style layouts, and includes amenities like fridges, minibars, flat‑screen TVs, and private bathrooms.
For a budget stay, the hotel provides generous extras: free Wi‑Fi, parking, a convenience store, shared kitchen, garden, fitness room, and even mini‑golf and canoeing. The family-run team is known for their friendly service, offering housekeeping, tour help, and shuttle options.
Reviews are generally positive, with guests praising the clean rooms, cozy beds, and convenient location. Some mention minor issues like noise or room size, especially during Full Moon Party weekends, but overall it’s a solid value choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Budget options in Thong Sala

Coco Garden Resort

Coco Garden is a lovely garden with shady palm trees on Ban Tai sand, just 5 minutes by taxi from Thong Sala's main town and 20 minutes from Haad Rin. The big, palm-fringed beach is ideal for sunbathing, watching the sunset, and taking in the views of neighbouring Koh Samui.

Coco Garden Resort

Phangan Island View Hotel

Phangan Island View Hotel is a comfortable mid-range hotel located in Thong Sala, Koh Phangan. It’s conveniently situated near the main road, making it easy to reach the ferry pier, markets, and nearby beaches. The hotel features modern, clean rooms with air conditioning, private balconies, and flat-screen TVs, ideal for both short stays and longer visits.
The property includes a large outdoor swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers, a restaurant serving Thai and Western dishes, and a bar for evening drinks. Guests often highlight the peaceful atmosphere and well-kept garden area, offering a nice balance between relaxation and accessibility.
Service is known to be friendly and helpful, with staff assisting in tour bookings, scooter rentals, and transportation needs. It’s a popular choice for travelers looking for good value, comfort, and a central location without being too close to the party zones.

Budget options in Sri Thanu and West Coast

Nice Sea Resort

Nice Sea Resort is a relaxed beachfront bungalow stay located on Srithanu Beach, Koh Phangan. The resort offers simple, cozy bungalows with private balconies—some with hammocks—and either fan or air-conditioning, just steps from the sand.
It’s a quiet, peaceful place ideal for travelers looking to unwind, with an on-site restaurant, massage services, and easy access to yoga centers and beach bars.

Seacroft Bamboo Village

Traditional Thai bamboo bungalows with western-style bathrooms are available at Seacroft Bamboo Village. The resort is nestled between green palm trees and has a tiny swimming pool. It is just a few steps away from Hin Kong beach, which offers spectacular sunset views.

Seacroft Bamboo Village

Tharathip Resort

Tharathip Resort is a charming 3-star beachfront retreat in Wok Tum Bay on Koh Phangan’s west coast. Surrounded by tropical gardens, it features a mix of sea-view bungalows and hotel-style rooms, many with private balconies. Guests enjoy two swimming pools, a quiet beach area, and an on-site restaurant serving Thai and international food.
The resort is known for its warm, family-run atmosphere. Many guests appreciate the friendly hosts, homemade Thai breakfasts, and the staff’s helpfulness during travel issues or emergencies.
Facilities include free Wi-Fi, parking, scooter and car rentals, tour assistance, and even babysitting services. It’s a peaceful and affordable option for travelers looking to relax away from the party zones.

Chaloklum

Mandalai Hotel

Mandalai Hotel is a boutique beachfront property located on Chaloklum Bay in the quiet north of Koh Phangan. With only a handful of rooms, it offers a peaceful, intimate atmosphere. Rooms range from simple air-conditioned options to suites with sea views, jetted bathtubs, and private terraces. The hotel also features two outdoor pools, a hot tub area, and direct beach access—ideal for watching the sunset or relaxing by the water.
The hotel is known for its friendly, family-run service and helpful staff who assist with scooter rentals, tour bookings, laundry, and transport to the pier. Guests enjoy the calm surroundings, comfortable rooms, and thoughtful amenities like free Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and optional wellness treatments. It's a great choice for travelers seeking a quiet, comfortable escape in a local village setting.

Red Pearl Resort sea view

Red Pearl Beach Resort is a peaceful 3-star hideaway located on the hillside above Chaloklum Bay, offering beautiful sea views and direct access to a quiet private beach. The resort features a variety of accommodations, including air-conditioned bungalows, pool-view rooms, and spacious family units with kitchenettes and private terraces—many overlooking the ocean or lush gardens.
Guests can relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy a drink at the terrace bar, or dine at the on-site restaurant serving Thai, seafood, and Western dishes. The resort also offers beachside barbecues, massage services, a kids’ pool, and recreational activities like billiards and table tennis. It’s an ideal choice for couples and families looking for a calm, scenic retreat in northern Koh Phangan.
 

Thong Nai Pan and the North

Dreamland Resort

Dreamland Resort is a beachfront getaway located on the tranquil Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach in Koh Phangan. Surrounded by tropical gardens, it offers over 60 wooden bungalows, from simple fan rooms to air-conditioned options with mini-fridges and TVs.
Guests can enjoy a large swimming pool with a swim-up bar, beachfront loungers, and an open-air restaurant serving Thai and Western dishes. The calm bay is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing by the sea.
Ideal for travelers looking for peace and nature, Dreamland Resort provides a laid-back atmosphere in one of the island’s most serene areas.

Sandee Bungalow

Sandee Bungalow sits just a short stroll from Thong Nai Pan Noi beach in a small, family-run setting. The fan-cooled bungalows are basic yet clean, each featuring a private bathroom, hammock on the porch, and free Wi‑Fi. Guests appreciate the serene garden atmosphere and the convenient location near local bars and restaurants.
What sets Sandee apart is the warm hospitality and great value it offers. Rooms start from around 600–700 baht per night, making it one of the best budget options in the area. The owners are known for their friendliness and help with travel arrangements, and the property includes free parking and an on-site massage service.

Phuwadee Resort & Spa

Phuwadee Resort & Spa is a relaxed 3-star beachfront resort located on Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach, surrounded by lush tropical gardens. The resort offers a mix of rooms and traditional Thai-style bungalows, all with private terraces, air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and views of the garden or sea. It’s a peaceful place to unwind with direct access to a quiet beach and a large outdoor swimming pool.
The resort also features an on-site spa offering Thai massages and wellness treatments, along with a beachfront restaurant serving Thai, seafood, and international dishes. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi in public areas, tour services, parking, and rentals for snorkeling and kayaking. With its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, Phuwadee is a solid mid-range choice for travelers seeking comfort in a scenic, quiet part of the island.

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