Haad Yao is located in the north-west of Koh Phangan and is a firm favourite with returning visitors to Koh Phangan. People are drawn by the peaceful atmosphere, beautiful beach and the great snorkelling and scuba opportunities nearby. Haad Yao has the healthiest coral system off the coast of Koh Phangan that stretches the entire length of the beach. There are table corals, brain corals and barrel sponges. Marine life on offer includes the Blue Spotted Stingray, Porcupine fish, Parrot fish, Squirrel fish and fusiliers. Haad Yao is great for shallow beach dives.

The beach is 1km long and wide enough to play sports on. Many consider Haad Yao to be a "perfect beach". Haad Yao also has a good selection of bars and restaurants to choose from.

There is an equally good selection of accomodation on offer at Haad Yao beach. You can find cheap bungalows as well as stylish resorts on Haad Yao beach. Haad Yao has a great selection of bars, restuarants and shops. Favorites include Hideaway Bakery and the Eagle Pub (on the rocks at the southern end of the beach). Nearby Haad Yao there is Koh Phangan's only Marine Park, Koh Ma where you can spot sea turtles and other marine life. It is also a short excursion to Wang Sai Waterfall and Laem Son Lake.

Click the links below to find the best prices for accommodation in Haad Yao. Prices are inclusive of tax.

(Updated January 2012)

Starting under 1,000 Thai Baht

Easy Life Bungalow 400 thb - 1,000 thb (low / high season)

Haad Yao Over Bay Resort 600 thb - 1,800 thb (low season); 800 thb - 2,200 thb (high season)

Haad Yao Resort 800 thb - 2,500 thb (low season); 800 thb - 4,000 thb (high season)

Starting over 1,000 Thai Baht

Baan Haad Yao Villas and Guest House 1,250 thb - 1,650 thb (low season); 1,960 thb - 2,500 thb (high season) - RECOMMENDED

Haad Yao Bayview Resort and Spa 1,200 thb - 3,500 thb (low season); 1,500 thb - 4,000 thb (high season) - RECOMMENDED

Haad Yao Villa 1,300 thb - 2,500 thb (low season); 2,500 thb - 4,000 thb (high season)

See Through Boutique Resort 1,503 thb (low season); 1,665 thb (high season) - RECOMMENDED

Seaboard Bungalows 1,600 thb - 2,500 thb (low season); 1,800 thb - 3,000 thb (high season)

Long Bay Resort 1,950 thb - 6,700 thb (low season); 2,400 thb - 8,700 thb (high season)