Welcome back! Today, we’re exploring Haad Yao, a beautiful west coast stretch on Koh Phangan with a long, chill beach—perfect for a relaxed lifestyle.
Haad Yao has a community of about 1,000 locals, blending expats and families in harmony. The wide beach offers plenty of space for stunning sunsets at spots like Seaboard Bungalows. The vibe is laid-back but not too sleepy—a steady place to live. No big stores here—Thong Sala, 15 minutes south, has Tesco Lotus and a hospital.
Land prices are mid-range—ideal for building a home or starting a rental project. It’s not wildly expensive or dirt-cheap, just a balanced pick for tranquil living without the high costs of tourist-heavy zones.
Topography and Land Opportunities
Haad Yao’s marked with a blue circle on the west coast, red circles for other communities. A 3 km radius from Haad Yao Beach shows:
- White flat areas: Coastal land—great for easy builds.
- Green hills: Inland rises—scenic views with planning.
- Blue zone: Shoreline—wide and chill.
Slope rules:
- Red zones: Over 50% slopes—no construction.
- Yellow zones: 35-50% slopes—80 square meter limit.
The vibe’s laid-back, with a solid coastal road to Srithanu (10 minutes south) and Thong Sala (15 minutes south) for ferries. It’s spot-on for calm living, not parties or malls.
Building Regulations
Here’s the zoning breakdown:
- Light Green Zone (10-50 meters from the beach): Max 6 meters high, 75 square meters, 75% open space. Beach is public.
- Yellow Zone (white flats): 40% open space—easy and flexible.
- Dark Green Zone (green hills): 60% open space, up to 12 meters if slopes permit.
- Red Zones: Over 50% slopes—no building.
Check the Koh Phangan City Land Use Planning Map, Land Slope Controls, Ministerial Regulation No. 22, and Environmental Control Map. Rules can shift—confirm locally.
Is Haad Yao for You?
Haad Yao suits those seeking a balanced lifestyle—perfect for private homes or rentals. It’s easy, scenic living, not for bustling city vibes or big stores.
Learn more on my Home page, reach out, or see my story at About. Keep reading for more Koh Phangan insights!