Thong Nai Pan Beach, Koh Phangan Thailand

Thong Nai Pan (or just TNP among backpackers) is an area on the northeastern tip of Ko Pha Ngan that includes the two beach resorts of Ao Thong Nai Pan Yai and Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi. They are maybe the most secluded but yet developed beaches on the island.

This beach with its fine white sand, peaceful and natural atmosphere still is unspoiled because it is situated so far from any city. There is also another beautiful and peaceful beach just north of here named Tongnaipannoi. It is worthwhile to pay a visit here for those who love to snorkel in shallow waters. There are many pleasant bungalows, resorts, shops, restaurants, and travel agencies here to choose from. These two beaches are located on the west coast of the island approximately 25 kilometers from the Thong Sala port. Traveling by land to get there is not recommended, especially during the rainy season, as some parts of route are very difficult to pass though. The best way to access these beaches is by water transport.

How to get here

To get to either of the Thong Nai Pan beaches, you first need to make your way to Ko Pha Ngan; see the article for details.

The road to Thong Nai PanOnce at the island's harbor of Thong Sala, there will be one or more taxi/pick up truck drivers waiting, holding up signs with the destination. Price is a fixed 100 baht/person. Note that some taxis don't go to both beaches so check for the Noi/Yai extension on their sings. Since the beaches are less traveled and quite a ride, sometimes you'll have to wait for the next boat or even the boat after that because the driver won't drive up and down for just 1 or 2 passengers. Once they do take off, the trip is about half an hour.

Since you've chosen this destination you're unlikely to be in a hurry. But if, for some reason you are and you are a little bit more adventurous, then catch a quick ride to the town (or even walk, out the harbor take a left on the main street till the round about). Here you can rent a typical Thai 125 cc motorcycle. But be aware that the road to these northern beaches is mainly unpaved and with really steep slopes, (see picture). So after one or two hours of rain, this trip can be a dangerous one for the less experienced drivers. It's about 15 km (10 mi) and it will take you around 50 minutes to drive.

See
The sunrise, day after day.
Also try to catch a glimpse of the huge, harmless lizards that are unique to this area.

Do
Take a walk from the one beach to the next.
Follow the track by the waterfall.
Bring some good books
Tantra Yoga classes and retreats- ask at Thai Terrace Bungalows or Chai Ya Bar in Yai Beach.

Buy
There is really not much to buy. There are, however, 3 ATM's within crawling distance of each other in the financial district of Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi. Also in Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi you'll find a pharmacy which also sells second hand books. Don't expect much of it but when you have decided to stay one extra week in this little paradise, it might come in handy.

There is also one ATM on the main street of Thong Nai Pan Yai.

Eat
Fresh, deliciously steamed or grilled fish. Available at a few places, usually advertising the fish by having them on display on ice in front of the restaurant.

Noi Beach
Ban Pong for good Thai and foreign food.
Que Pasa for not too bad Mexican.
Rasta Baby for decent Thai and foreign food.

Yai Beach
Boozy's Deli for excellent fresh steaks, pasta, and Israeli food.
Chai Ya Restaurant for Thai and European food.

Drink
All places in town are very much alike; i.e. open bamboo constructions with cold beer in the fridge, Western music on the stereo and a very relaxed atmosphere. Also on the beach you can find a couple of these bars. Most of them being part of a guest house they close between 10 and 11 PM.

Noi Beach
I Sea Bar on the beach
Flip Flop Pharmacy (very touristy) on the beach
Hideaway Bar in the village on Friday nights.

Yai Beach
Chai Bar on the beach
Yard Bar in the village (with an outdoor cinema)
Funky Buddha for late night dancing on Thursdays
Makkar Bar for chilling, art and music.