Many tourists arriving in Koh Ngai are unaware that besides the long, undeniably stunning and photogenic Koh Ngai Beach, there are other beaches in the south of the island. The most famous of these is Paradise Beach. But there's also the beach of the Koh Ngai Resort by the pier, which I personally don't find so appealing; the deserted Ao Muang beach, frequented mainly by local fishermen; and Nui Beach at the end of Paradise Beach, a lovely spot to explore. However, I want to focus on Paradise Beach, because for me, the journey there through the forest and the hike to the southwestern tip of the island is the most beautiful part. Paradise Beach lies in a small bay, accessible only via a jungle trail (see directions below). There's only one hotel there, the Koh Ngai Paradise Beach. The location, somewhat removed from the other resorts, surrounded by nature and coconut palms with access to this small beach, has always appealed to me. However, the prices have always deterred me so much that I've never stayed there. Furthermore, during my visits to Paradise Beach on Koh Ngai, only a few bungalows were occupied. Yet it's the ideal place for anyone seeking absolute peace and quiet! (And for those who aren't too concerned about the cost, as the boat transfer is significantly more expensive.) Alternatively, you can simply take the boat from Koh Ngai's main beach to Paradise Beach, grab a bite to eat or order drinks at the bar, and settle into a sun lounger – and you're ready to enjoy the place!

Please note that the resort is only open from November to May.

The path to Paradise Beach starts behind the Thanya Resort. If you're staying there, go all the way to the back, past the last bungalows… and follow the monitor lizards. (Just kidding, you often see them there, as they dig for food a little further up in the rubbish dump.) It's best to take the path that leads up the hill. If you're not staying at the resort, follow the path between the Thanya Resort reception and the small supermarket. It's very easy; Paradise Beach is signposted. There are no signs at the first intersection, so take the left-hand path. At the end of this path, you'll reach the far end of Koh Ngai Paradise Beach, from where you'll need to walk back up to the beach. Allow about half an hour for the entire walk. Take water and mosquito repellent with you! And be back before nightfall!

How to get there

How do you get to Paradise Beach? The path starts behind the Thanya Resort. If you're staying there, go all the way to the back, past the last bungalows… and follow the monitor lizards. (Just kidding, you often see them there, as they dig for food a little further up in the landfill.) It's best to take the path that leads up the hill. If you're not staying at the resort, follow the path between the Thanya Resort reception and the small supermarket. It's quite easy; Paradise Beach is signposted. There are no signs at the first intersection, so take the left-hand path. At the end of this path, you'll reach the far end of Koh Ngai Paradise Beach, from where you'll need to walk back up to the beach. Allow about half an hour for the entire walk. Take water and mosquito repellent with you! And be back before nightfall!