Welcome back! Today, we’re exploring Mae Haad, a serene north coast retreat on Koh Phangan where nature steals the show. If you’re craving seclusion, raw beauty, and an off-grid vibe, this could be your ideal spot.
Mae Haad is tiny, with maybe 500 locals calling it home. It’s a laid-back fishing village where time slows to a crawl. The beach stands out, linked by a sandbar to Koh Ma which is Koh Phangan’s top snorkeling gem, perfect for a quiet dip. Don’t expect nightlife, big resorts, or supermarkets as it is just a small, scattered community of families and nature lovers.
For amenities, you’ll head south; Thong Sala is 25 minutes away for hospitals, banking, or groceries like Tesco Lotus. A few local restaurants and guesthouses dot the area, but no major stores. If self-sufficiency, nature, and peace are your priorities, Mae Haad is a dream. If you need connectivity or convenience, it might feel too remote.
Topography and Land Opportunities
- % slopes—no building.
Check the Koh Phangan City Land Use Planning Map, Land Slope Controls, Ministerial Regulation No. 22, and Environmental Control Map for details. Rules can flex—verify with local authorities.
- White flat areas: Coastal land—easy to build on, though plots are scarce.
- Green zones: Inland hills, rising gradually—great for views with careful planning.
- Blue zones: Coastline and sandbar—stunning but regulated.
Slope rules matter here:
- Red zones: Over 50% slopes—no construction.
- Yellow zones: 35-50% slopes—80 square meter cap.
Mae Haad’s location offers seclusion—25 minutes north of Thong Sala for ferries to Koh Samui, with Chaloklum nearby for a fishing village fix. It’s perfect for off-grid retreats, not bustling hubs.
Building Regulations
Here’s the zoning breakdown:
- Light Green Zone (10-50 meters from the blue coast): Max 6 meters high, 75 square meters, 75% open space. The beach is public—no private builds.
- Yellow Zone (white flats): 40% open space—practical and flexible.
- Dark Green Zone (green hills): 60% open space, up to 12 meters if slopes allow.
- Red Zones: Over 50
Is Mae Haad for You?
Mae Haad shines for nature lovers seeking quiet, off-grid living or serene retreats. It’s not for those needing constant connection or convenience—just pure, untouched beauty.
Learn more on my Home page, reach out via Contact, or see my story at About. Keep reading for more Koh Phangan insights! Also don’t forget to check out our sister Youtube Channel which is packed full of great information on tropical design.
