Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort

Hidden away on the east side of the island, away from the crowds and touristy beaches, Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort's thatched huts and bungalows exhibit timeless island simplicity. Palms lean over the white sand, dotted with striped beach chairs and the traditional long-tail boats tied up in the shallows. The lobby is little more than a wood and rattan hut set among the cluster of traditional bungalows.

The resort is surrounded by jungle hills on the eastern coast of Ko Phi Phi Don ("Ko" means island in the native language). There's nothing within (reasonable) walking distance apart from another small resort further down the beach, and with no roads from town, the only way to get here by land is via an hour-long trek on foot through the jungle. Public ferries leave from Krabi on the mainland (and from Phuket) to deliver travelers to Tonsai Pier, from which guests must travel by another boat along the coast to the resort. Expect a three-hour trip, which includes the 30-minute drive from Krabi Airport to Krabi Pier (also known as Klong Jilad Pier) and the voyage by ferry or private boat to the island. Phi Phi Don is the largest of the Phi Phi Islands, with attractions on the smaller Ko Phi Phi Le, like Maya Beach and Viking Cave, accessible by boat.  

The resort has 47 traditional bungalows with hardwood floors and rustic en-suite bathrooms that have open showers beside the toilets. Each is small and basic, made with a simple wood construction and thatched roof. Double beds have mosquito net canopies and every bungalow has a small private deck with simple day beds. Amenities are slim, with no air-conditioning or mini-fridges, though every room has a fan. The larger Top Sea View Bungalows are located in the hills above the beach with commanding views of the sea, while the Paradise Beach Bungalows are the resort's equivalent of suites, with larger rooms and beachfront terraces. Each of these also come with a free kayak rental and a one-hour Thai massage. 

The resort's stretch of Pak Nam Beach is marked by pristine waters and the beautiful coral reefs which make it a great spot for snorkeling. Hammocks and loungers under shady palms are the main leisure attraction, with traditional long-tail boats leaving for town, and/or fishing and diving excursions (for extra fees). There's also a beach hut with Thai massage for singles and couples. With no other dining options nearby, the restaurant and beach bar have captive audience prices compared with eateries in town (or the mainland) and breakfast isn't included, but it has a variety of international cuisine along with fresh seafood and Thai dishes to suit the variety of tastes.