Staying in a resort, hostel, or hotel is perfect if you’re coming to Koh Phangan for a couple of weeks. But if, like many other travellers, you like to stay for more than a month, then it’s better value for money and more comfortable for you to find a monthly rental on the island.
This will give you space and peace and can be your true ‘home’ for your stay. Most house rentals also come with kitchens, so you can make your food rather than eat out all the time.
It can be a little daunting to look for long-term rentals on Koh Phangan, partly because of the number of social media groups and pages, such as posts advertising houses for rent.
Of course, these ads don't all come from brokers, some 'home for rent by owner' is advertised, but it can be confusing to sift through all of these and realise you're going to get a good deal.
On Koh Phangan, there are some trustworthy agents. These individuals or companies will help you negotiate with the landlord and bag your ideal house quickly and without any complications or hick-ups. Of course, agents add commission for their hard work, so you need to determine if your budget suits working with an agent; if not, it's up to you to do a little more groundwork. This groundwork consists of driving around the island, taking all the small back roads, seeing ‘house for rent signs, calling numbers and arranging viewings. It can be timely, but sometimes you can get great deals this way.
There are many styles of long-term rental houses on Koh Phangan; what you want will depend on your budget, lifestyle, taste and area. Here’s a breakdown of some of the more common houses and ‘bungalows’ as they are called here.
It does what it says on the tin! Many old-timers will remember these well. This is what you think of when you think of a traditional bungalow in Thailand. However, even these can come in many shapes and sizes with different insides. These wooden bungalows will generally be the cheapest monthly rental form; some can be very comfortable, while others can be fundamental. Still, depending on your lifestyle, they can be perfect, especially if you don’t spend much time at home.
Similar to the traditional style but more like a proper house yet still made from wood in a Thai fashion. Upscaling and going for a larger wooden bungalow might mean you can have a kitchen or even air conditioning in the bedroom. These larger houses might even give you a separate living, kitchen and bedroom, whereas the smaller versions probably will share sleeping and living space. Large wooden houses are great for the hot weather as they are ‘breathable.’
If you prefer solid concrete houses, this would be a choice. Concrete houses are usually built on stilts, with the upper floor as the home area and then space underneath for parking or outdoor activities; some people make gyms, studios or even play areas. These houses usually have fewer creepy crawlies as insects such as spiders can’t find their way in quickly, and most have air conditioning. They come in many different sizes and specifications, from very small and compact to large, with multiple rooms.
These types of accommodation are usually more high-end or luxury houses. Villas are distinct in that they connote a sense of exclusivity and class while they can still be classified as houses. Villas are typically situated on a separate plot, sometimes in a gated compound, whereas places are not. Villas on Koh Phangan are modern with up-to-date facilities and some luxurious (for Thailand) extras such as private swimming pools, jacuzzis, walk-in wardrobes, western standard kitchens, exquisite furnishings and multiple rooms for any use.
If you are into health and well-being, then the centre for this would be Sri Tranu, along with Hin Kong, Had Yao and Haad Salad, on the island's West Coast. The saturation of yoga schools and vegan eateries can be found here, and these areas are perfect for those seeking to involve themselves in this lifestyle and the community. Zen beach is almost famous for its regular sunset sessions, full of families, yogis, musicians and all sorts enjoying the mystical energy of these gatherings with each other. It's a beautiful place to meet other like-minded people.
Renting a home on the West Coast will give you easy access to spiritual activities and a very family-friendly environment, especially on one of the most beautiful beaches in Phangan, such as Haad Yao and Haad Salad. The saturation of wellness lifestyle choices in this hub also profits from the hustle of the middle of the island.
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If you need to work during your stay or are a digital nomad, Koh Phangan now boasts several co-working spaces, such as La Casa Tropicana, Baan Jai Dee and Dots. Most of these are found in Baan Tai, Hin Kong and Thong Sala. To help you get work done, they boast clean, transparent working areas along with beautiful sea views. If you need to do some work to help your travelling family, it is worth searching in these areas for your long-term family home.
It is worth noting that Thong Sala/Baan Tai is home to most international schools and kindergartens, which could be vital for you if you have family here for an extended stay. If you intend to enrol your child in school or kindergarten, you will want it close to your Koh Phangan family home.
The middle of the island is also better if you like to participate in sports. There are many sporting events in areas such as Baan Tai, such as football, tennis, kite surfing, and water sports.
You have an extensive choice if you search for a quieter home retreat. Once you're off the main roads, the island is still very underdeveloped. In most locations on Koh Phangan, many quiet monthly rentals can be found down small streets in coconut groves.
The North of the island is the village of Chaloklum, a marvellous place that has maintained its Thai charm in the north. In this village, as long as you don't mind being a 15-minute drive from the centre of Thong Sala, you can join other long-termers and a down-to-earth crowd. Many ex-pat families choose to live in Chaloklum because, while enjoying the charm of the family-friendly village and its laid-back beach lifestyle, you can find a long-term family house slightly cheaper than in other places. This community has restaurants with play areas for youngsters, events for other families to enjoy, several diving schools and snorkelling spots and two of the most beautiful beaches, Malibu and Haad Khom.
You can read more here about the different budgets for these areas as they differ from place to place around the island.
If you choose not to use an agent or third party, when you encounter the landlord of your chosen home, it is most important to be kind and friendly. Of course, they will have a fixed price in mind for the rental, but you will find that most landlords are very open to negotiating a good deal. It is widespread for them to offer a discount for rentals of 3 months and generally more discounts for six months and longer. The longer you promise to stay, the more you can negotiate the price. Thai culture is gentle and sweet, and people don't want to lose face, so be conscious of it. It's best to be respectful and ensure the landlord cares about the house because that's vital to them. Be patient when negotiating a fair price for the rent.
When you and the landlord are satisfied with the price you have settled on, you should ask for a lease agreement to be signed. This way, you know that you will have the correct rent price for the duration of the rental you have already committed. Even if it’s just one piece of paper with the price, time, any deposit that has been taken and your signatures on it, at least you have written documentation and are covered.
It is the usual practice here on Koh Phangan for landlords to take a deposit from you. This is to cover any damage, loss or payment situation. Deposits can range from very little to one month's rent (or more). Deposits are often returned as long as you have paid all rent, and there is no damage to the property or its contents.
If you know the kind of rental you want and would instead not go through the running around and hassle of finding it yourself, you may want to use an agent or company to do this for you. Many reputable people do this on Phangan, working directly with the landlords. Of course, you may have to pay a one-off fee, but it’s most affordable and saves you a lot of time, so it is worth it.
Be wary of foreigners advertising houses for sublets; this is against Thai Law though in some cases, it might be in their contract but usually not. You wouldn’t want to rent a house on Koh Phangan and then be asked to leave or be forced to leave. It’s best to go about it correctly and rent directly through the landlord.
When renting a house on Koh Phangan for a period of a few months to years, it will not be just the rental price you’ll need to consider. Like renting back in your home country, some bills and utilities must be paid.
In some circumstances, you may find a place where costs such as electricity, water or internet include the monthly rent. These properties are usually smaller without air conditioning, depending on the rental type and the landlord/owner. Some luxury villa rentals might include such things.
Electric - This is the main one and will strongly depend on air conditioning use and if you have a swimming pool. If you use AC, then this might get your monthly electric bill up into the thousands each month. Using it less frequently or fans can help keep costs down. Swimming pools also use a lot of power for the pump; this alone could be 4000 Baht. Electricity can vary for each property from 500 Baht per month up to 10,000 Baht or more.
Water - This bill will depend on whether your house has a well is supplying your water or government water. Water is usually free if you have a well; with government water, you will get a bill, but it’s not much. Depending on your usage, it can be from a few hundred Baht to 1000 on average.
Internet/WIFI - Some landlords will include wifi in the monthly rent as they will have one or two routers serving an area comprising several properties. If you have your router for your particular house, though, you will need to pay for this, plus you’ll be getting better internet. The average monthly Wi-Fi cost at a property is between 700 - 1500 Baht, depending on the speed and provider.
Gas - Gas bottles are the most common way to cook here. Your rental will usually come with one, whether full or slightly complete. But you will be expected to pay for a new one when it runs out. Depending on whether you have a small or large, this will cost between 150 - 500 Baht each time it needs refilling, which is about every 2 or 3 months depending on how often you use it.
Some properties on the island will come fully furnished, especially high-end villas. These might include a built-in kitchen, sofas, beds, tables and chairs and all kitchen and cooking equipment. Most properties, however, will only be partially furnished. Generally, you can expect a bed and some furniture, including a wardrobe, chairs (unlikely you will get a western-style sofa), a table and usually a gas bottle and cooking hob are provided along with maybe some essential eating equipment. Be aware that other long-term rentals will be completely unfurnished, but these properties usually have the same tenants for years and will bring their furniture anyway.
If you need some kitchen equipment or furnishings whilst here, it is easy to get some for any budget! Even the 20 Baht shops sell kitchen utensils if you don’t want to spend a lot of money, and then you have Limpingpong selling more investment, high-quality tools for the kitchen and of course, you can order things online.
Furniture is available at Homemart if you want something more western. Also, there are many Thai shops selling furniture and home pieces around the island if you look at them. It is easy to get creative and make a house your own.
Once you have stayed in your long-term rental for the duration of the contract or time agreed and are ready to move on, it’s time to move out. As long as you have kept to the agreement, paid your rent and been an excellent tenant, this should be easy and hassle-free.
Leave the property how you found it, if not in an even better way! Have a deep clean; if you don’t want to do it yourself, you can employ a local cleaner to help. Remove your belongings and furniture, leave some for the next guests if it’s ok with your landlord, or sell them.
Next, your landlord will check the property, and your deposit will be refunded. If there is any damage, you should be honest and show them that they might take some out of the warranty to cover the cost of replacement or work. Just to let you know, this is normal.
Once you’ve gone through this, received your deposit and said thanks and goodbye to your landlord, it’s time to move on, wherever that might be?!
Although renting a house on Koh Phangan is a bit different than you might be used to, the general rules are still the same. It would help if you treated landlords and agents respectfully and did not try to wriggle out of any mistakes. This is their livelihood and business, so you should treat them as you would in your home country. Renting a house here is a safe and easy process, and as long as you are a decent tenant should be enjoyable too!
If you are looking for more affordable accommodation, Sabaii bay, owned and managed by Mai from Thailand and Per from Sweden, can be the perfect solution.
The resort is located on the beach in Ban Tai, south of Koh Phangan, five minutes walking distance from Big C market, restaurants and bars.
The resort's most significant advantage compared to all other alternatives in the area is the variety of facilities available at the venue.
Having all these facilities at the same place you stay makes a difference and brings added value during your visit.
Bliss Villas is a collection of three boutique beachfront villas located along the beach in Koh Phangan, each with included WiFi. All guests who drive will benefit from free private parking.
This house has an outdoor swimming pool with magnificent sea and mountain views and is surrounded by thick flora. Three spacious bedrooms, a living room, and a dining space are included in each villa. A spa bath and complimentary toiletries are included in the en suite bathroom. Guests can unwind in the living area on a plush sofa while watching television.
The beach is only a 1-minute walk away from this house. Nibbana Villas is located on Koh Phangan's Hinkong Beach and offers a private beach area and an outdoor swimming pool. There are also free pick-up services from the airport and surrounding piers.
Each apartment has a kitchen, a living room, a dining space, and a satellite flat-screen television. There's also a coffee machine and a kettle.
A BBQ is available at the villa. Rentals of motorcycles, cars, and bicycles are available for an additional fee.
The View Villa is located in Srithanu, adjacent to Srithanu Beach and 1.7 kilometres from Chao Phao Beach. It offers a terrace with sea views, an outdoor swimming pool, and grilling facilities. The air-conditioned apartment is located 750 meters from Hin Kong Beach and has free WiFi and private parking.
The villa has three bedrooms, three bathrooms, bed linens, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully furnished kitchen, and a poolside deck.
Shades of Blue offers accommodation in Srithanu with free WiFi and pool views, an outdoor pool, a communal lounge, and a garden. This home offers free private parking as well as a communal kitchen. A kitchen, a lounge room, a dining area, and a flat-screen TV are included in this air-conditioned villa. This accommodation provides towels and bed linen.
The beach is only a 2-minute walk from this house. Baan Taolili villa has three bedrooms, is roughly 100 meters from Hin Kong Beach, and offers accommodation with a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, and a bar. This villa has a private pool, a garden, and free private parking.
The villa features three bedrooms, four bathrooms, bed linens and towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with pool views.
Each morning, the villa offers continental and buffet breakfast options.
Jayden Villas is located in Hongkong in the Koh Phangan district, close to Hin Kong Beach and Srithanu Beach. It offers free WiFi and private parking.
A private beach area, as well as a garden, are available at the villa.
Baan Manaao is located in Hongkong, close to Hin Kong Beach and one kilometre from Srithanu Beach, and features a patio with pool views, an outdoor swimming pool, and a garden. A private pool and free WiFi are also included in this villa.
The air-conditioned villa has three bedrooms, one bathroom with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries, and seating space. There is a dining room and a kitchen with a microwave, refrigerator, and stovetop.
The beach is only a 2-minute walk from this house. This standalone property, located in Hongkong, Koh Phangan, has a terrace and a garden with an outdoor pool. The balcony is available to guests.
The ten bedrooms are two villas in Baan Tham and two swimming pools. Each villa contains a living room, a dining room, and an oven-equipped kitchen. There are flat-screen televisions available.
Free WiFi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and a kitchenette are included in every accommodation. Each room has a private bathroom with a shower.
On-site vehicle and motorcycle rentals are available. A tour desk is also available to give guests travel advice and to book tours.
Restaurants, as well as yoga, meditation, and healing facilities, are all within a short walk of the hotel.
The Joy Beach Villas are located in Hongkong, a few meters from Hin Kong Beach and a 16-minute walk from Srithanu Beach. They provide air conditioning and access to a garden with an outdoor swimming pool.
A kitchen with a dining area and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and shower are included in each unit. There's also a fridge, a burner, a toaster, an electric teapot, and a coffee machine.
The beach is only a 1-minute walk away from this house. Charu Bay Beach Villa is located along Ao Bang Charu Beach and offers two types of private, wholly furnished villas and a luxurious seaside cottage. A tropical garden villa, a beachfront villa with a private plunge pool, or a studio-style cottage with beach access is available to guests. The property has a beautiful view of the sparkling ocean. On-site parking is available for a fee.
Each unit has a multimedia-equipped living area and comfortable air-conditioned bedrooms with sunset views. All-you-need culinary appliances are provided in a full kitchen or kitchenette.
Thong Sala Town is a 5-minute walk from Da Kanda Villa Beach Resort, located 801 meters from Thongsala pier. There is a free 2-way transfer from Thongsala Pier.
Da Kanda Villa's rooms are decorated and include a private balcony, cable TV, and a minibar. The rooms have open-style bathrooms with bathtubs and views of the sea or pool.
Guests can enjoy Thai massages and treatments at the Da Kanda Villa's spa. A pool and a sauna are also available for relaxation.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at Da Fresh Restaurant, which serves Thai and international cuisine. The hotel can also arrange excursions and boat outings.
The spacious air-conditioned rooms at Milky Bay are decorated with Thai fabrics and wooden furnishings and come with a cable/satellite TV and DVD player. Beautiful views and light snacks from the mini-bar can be enjoyed from the balcony.
Afternoons can be spent relaxing at the outdoor pavilion, playing billiards or getting a massage. Fishing and diving are two water sports that can be enjoyed on the beach.
The open-air eatery serves traditional Thai cuisine as well as homemade Italian pizzas. In the mornings, there is also a continental breakfast offered.
The bungalows, surrounded by a lush garden, all include air conditioning, a kitchenette with essential cooking items, a microwave, an electric kettle, and a refrigerator. A hot shower is provided in the private bathrooms.
Guests staying at Carpe Diem Residence can rent motorcycles and vehicles to explore the local areas. Hiking, cycling, and diving are just a few of the nearby activities they can partake in.
Summer Luxury Beach Resort & Spa - SHA Extra plus is located on the beachfront of Baan Tai Beach and offers contemporary-style suites. The resort has an outdoor pool, and the Pharoah Spa offers relaxing treatments.
Thongsala Walking Street and the main pier are about a 2-minute drive away. A 15-minute drive takes you to the famed Haad Rin Beach, where the Full Moon Party takes place.
This resort's suites are air-conditioned and have a 50-inch flat-screen satellite TV. They provide views of the sea, garden, or pool from indoor and outdoor living spaces. A private pool is available in some suites. The amenities include a daybed, a coffee machine, and a minibar. A shower, bathrobes, and a hairdryer are included in the private bathroom.
The Double Volume Beach Restaurant and Wine Bar serve Thai and international cuisine. The Salt Water Cooking School offers guests the opportunity to participate in a cooking class.
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