Baan Tai

Between the island's main city Thong Sala and its primary party beach Haad Rin is Baan Tai Beach. Unlike Haad Rin (where everything is within walking distance interconnected through narrow one-way roads lined with shops, hostels, restaurants, and bars) here, you will find yourself to be more comfortable with a vehicle. 

For those who have time at their leisure and enjoy a little bit of exercise in their day, many places have bicycles also available for rent.  There isn't a hill too steep around here, so it’s easy to cruise around and get acquainted with the beautiful surroundings and local atmosphere.  Most of Koh Phangan's long-stay residents, party organizers, and landowners reside here in homes on the beach or deep in the jungle.  There are many private houses and bungalows available for rent (monthly or weekly) if anyone is looking to stay longer than a few days.

As for accommodation, if you prefer to stay in a quieter environment and can pay a higher price for a room, Baan Tai hosts a vast selection of nice resorts to choose from with views of Koh Samui from the coastline and gorgeous sunsets.  Several of Koh Phangan's most esteemed restaurants are all highly recommended dining ideas...not only for their delicious dishes but also for being the ideal location pro witnessing this beaches renowned sunset amongst great people...and maybe say, with a frosty pina colada or an ice-cold beer?

A lot of the most popular hostels are now located in Baan Tai. You will find a higher class type of hostel here with great facilities such as swimming pools and restaurants.

The road everyone takes when going to the northern sector of Phangan is this town's CenterPoint with the famous Baan Tai 7-11 on the corner. All the Jungle's big festivals (Jungle Experience, Halfmoon, Shiva Moon) are off this road.

The lifestyle of the people here is more reserved and calm. The parties are another story altogether. These jungle parties are the biggest on the island next to the Full Moon Party, with thousands of people gathering at every event.

With their more intimate ambiance, the smaller parties are where the locals gather and break it down on the dance floor.  Most of these smaller parties (Loi Lay Floating Bar and Baan Sabai, to name a few) are located along the main road, easily found using a  lantern trail (on both sides of the road usually) that link the spot of interest to the main road with dots of fire.