Getting Around

  • ScooterEssential. 150–250 THB/day. Roads are steep in places — drive carefully in the hills.
  • SongthaewMain routes from Thong Sala hub to Haad Rin, Sri Thanu, Haad Yao. 30–50 THB.
  • Boat taxiFor Bottle Beach and remote northern coves. Negotiate the fare first.
  • GrabNot available. No app-based taxis on the island.

Where to Work

  • Bubba's CoffeeThong Sala. Reliable wifi, long-stay expat favourite, good coffee.
  • Karma KafeSri Thanu. Wellness-adjacent crowd, solid internet, garden setting.
  • Dojo CoworkHaad Rin area. Small but functional. Best dedicated desk option on the island.
  • Elsewhere Beach BarHaad Yao. Sea views, mornings work well before it gets busy.

Eat & Drink

  • Thong Sala townBest local food, wet market, cheapest prices on the island. Where locals eat.
  • Sri ThanuThe wellness corner: vegan cafes, organic juice bars, the quiet expat scene.
  • Baan TaiQuieter strip south of Thong Sala. Underrated local spots, less tourist pricing.
  • Haad RinParty town. Beachfront restaurants are convenient but overpriced.

Stay Healthy

  • International Clinic Thong SalaBest for routine expat care. English-speaking, practical for day-to-day needs.
  • Koh Phangan Hospital (government)Thong Sala. Limited but improving. Fine for minor issues.
  • For anything seriousTake the Seatran ferry to Koh Samui (30 min) then Bangkok Hospital Samui — or fly out.

Beaches

  • Haad YaoBest all-rounder. Long, clean, calm enough for swimming, not overcrowded.
  • Haad SaladSmall, clear water, good snorkelling just offshore.
  • Bottle Beach (Haad Khuad)Remote north coast. Accessible by boat only. Worth the effort.
  • Thong Nai Pan NoiFar east coast. Beautiful twin bay. Rough road — take the boat or accept the bumps.