Zen Beach Koh Phangan: Everything You Need To Know 2025

Zen Beach, although not as well known as the famous Full Moon Beach, Haad Rin, is still a popular place for backpackers to relax, enjoy Thailand's nightlife, and meet like-minded people. 

This area of Koh Phangan is known for its wellness and yoga scene which is mirrored on Zen Beach through laid-back hippie vibes, music on the beach and fire shows in the evening. 

Although there’s lots going on at Zen Beach, when we visited it wasn’t over-crowded and had plenty of space for us to sunbathe, enjoy the calm waters and explore the neighbouring Srithanu Beach. 

Read on to discover everything you need to know about Zen Beach Koh Phangan. 

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Where Is Zen Beach?

Zen Beach is located just south of the more popular Haad Yao area on the west coast of Koh Phangan. This scenic stretch of sand is part of a beautiful coastline dotted with tranquil beaches which you must explore when you visit the island, in fact Srithanu Beach is just next door!

The west coast of Koh Phangan is known for its breathtaking sunsets, calm waters, and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the island’s party hubs, making it the perfect spot for families or backpackers looking to relax.  

How To Get To Zen Beach?

Easily accessible by scooter or taxi, Zen Beach Koh Phangan is a 20-minute drive from Thong Sala Pier, the island’s main town and ferry port. The beach is along the main road up the island which is well maintained. 

We recommend you put Zen Beach Parking into your directions as this will bring you to a place to leave your scooter for free. Once you turn off the main road, the terrain is sandy and bumpy, if you take it slow you should be fine. Park up, then follow the signs down to the beach, there were plenty pointing us in the right direction and the walk only took around 1 minute to get to Zen Beach. 

How Much Does Zen Beach Cost?

The parking at Zen Beach Koh Phangan was free and we didn’t have to pay an access fee making it a completely free beach to visit. 

What To Expect At Zen Beach Koh Phangan 

The beach is classic Thailand, towering palm trees, white sand and turquoise water greet you as you walk down to the shore. If you choose to visit in the evening, then you have a good chance of seeing one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island, joined by other travellers who have gathered to watch the sun dip below the horizon.

This beach definitely has hippie roots, as the sun sets people will start playing their instruments, dancing and occasionally there will be a fire show put on for you to watch. If you’re looking for a drink on Zen Beach head to Grasshopper Beach Bar where you can also grab some cheap Thai food for dinner. 

One thing we haven’t mentioned yet but you should probably know is that Zen Beach has a nudist section. Nudism is actually illegal in Thailand, so we were surprised to stumble across this area, however it seemed respectful and quite busy!

What To Do At Zen Beach

Watch The Sunset 

Famous for the best sunsets on the island, Zen Beach is the place to head in Koh Phangan. Overlooking the Gulf of Thailand the sun will put on a show while the beach comes alive with music and performers. You will often find people mediating and practising yoga at sunset as well. 

Embrace The Nudity 

Zen beach is often nicknamed ‘Naked Beach’ due to the nudism area on the beach. This area is located on the right side. Being British we naturally didn’t take part but due to the remote destination and ‘Zen’ environment next time perhaps we will!

Enjoy The Evening Entertainment 

Usually there is some evening entertainment on the beach. This sometimes is a live DJ near the shore creating a dance floor on the sand, or on Friday’s there is a live drumming season where people create a beat that draws people to dance and let go of their bodies. 

Yoga At Sunset

You will find groups gathering to practice yoga during sunset, if you’re new to yoga then there are plenty of retreats and classes on Koh Phangan for you to try, some of the best include Orion Healing Centre and Agama Yoga. 

Where To Eat Near Zen Beach

Grasshopper Beach Bar is the perfect beachfront restaurant to get a cocktail, coconut or some cheap Thai Food. It is located on the sand so you won’t have to leave the beach for lunch or dinner. If you’re looking for Vegan food then Kira Ora Café is a short drive away and serves delicious Poke bowls, smoothies and fresh juice. 

Best Time To Visit Zen Beach

If you want to sunbathe and enjoy the water at the beach then head down during the morning when it’s less crowded. Zen Beach however comes alive during the evening, therefore we recommend coming to the beach for sunset when you can experience the true vibe and magic of people coming together and playing music on the sand. 

Where To Stay At Zen Beach

Zen Beach Lake Villa 1

A luxury Villa with 3 bedrooms perfect for a group or family. The villa comes with air-conditioning, an outdoor pool and balcony. Close to Zen Beach you would be in a prime location popular with tourists wanting to discover the quieter side to Koh Phangan. 

Nice Sea Resort 

Next to Zen and Srithanu Beach is Nice Sea Resort. A family run beachfront resort which offers bungalows straight onto the sand and with sea views. It’s perfect for those looking for an affordable yet comfortable stay right on Srithanu Beachfront which is a 5 minute walk from Zen Beach. 

What To Bring To The Beach 

You don’t need much for Zen Beach but definitely bring your swimming costume, sun cream and of course you'll need a good Microfibre Towel which is lightweight and compact, perfect for travelling. If you have one then bring your musical instrument for the evening gathering so you can join in with the music!

What’s Nearby Zen Beach Koh Phangan

There are plenty of other beaches to explore including Srithanu Beach which is only a 5 minute walk and is often less crowded than Zen Beach.

Zen Beach is a hub for yoga and wellness retreats, some of the best include Orion Healing Centre and Agama Yoga. The area of Zen Beach Koh Phangan is also packed with excellent vegan, vegetarian, and health-conscious cafes, including: Eat.Co, Karma Kafe and Srithanu Kitchen.

Other beaches a close drive away include Ao Hin Kong Bay and Haad Yao Beach, which are beautiful stretches of golden sand where you can paddle board and snorkel. 

Laem Son Lake is a unique freshwater lake surrounded by palm trees. It is a great spot for a swim or to relax in one of the shaded hammocks nearby. There’s also a fun rope swing if you’re feeling adventurous!

Final Thoughts on Zen Beach Koh Phangan

Overall, Zen Beach is the perfect place for travellers to relax, unwind and meet like-minded people. If you enjoy dancing barefoot on the sand, listening to the heartbeat of drums and watching the sunset, then Zen Beach Koh Phangan is a must visit beach! 

A spiritual environment that has a unique vibe compared to anywhere else on the island, we loved Zen Beach and would recommend you visit during your time on the island. 

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