Known to Thais as an oldtime pirate hangout where booty was loaded onto
ships before setting sale for trading ports, Haad Salad in the northwest
of Koh Phangan, was a sleepy and relatively undeveloped beach until the
past decade or so when resorts and bungalow operations have sprung up
across the full length of its white sands and up the surrounding hills.
Several budget spots still offer simple rooms to backpackers with
mosquito nets, hammock-strung balconies and little else while a couple
of fancier resorts with all the bells and whistles help visitors unload
more booty. One advantage of this development is that several markets,
internet cafes and travel agencies have sprung up as well.
Nonetheless, this remains a peaceful and mostly quiet spot with an
abundant selection of restaurants and accommodations to choose from for
travellers of all stripes. Old-timers could be disappointed, but nearby
and much smaller beaches provide a little more peace and quiet.
The soft white sand rimmed with palms for shade is great for laying out
or sunset strolls, and a lovely reef with a plethora of colourful
tropical fish and hard and soft corals lies about 150 metres offshore
providing some of the island's best snorkelling. Swimming is best from
November to April when the tides are higher, but the sea provides some
nice splashing opportunities year round.
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