Had Rin

Koh Phangan's most popular beach is split over two sides of a narrow isthmus.

Had Rin West is pleasant enough viewed from one of the sea view bungalows above it, but up close is shallow and very rocky.

It's also where the Big Buddha ferry docks three times a day bringing with it diesel fuel and other pollutants, which can make swimming there an unpleasant experience. 

Had Rin Beach East

On the other hand could be one of the best swimming beaches on the island - the sand is perfect and the water's clear and deep - but heavy longtail boat traffic frequently makes swimming hazardous.

Had Rin East is, however, the home of the Full Moon Party and the town is Ko Phangan's nightlife central. Nowhere else on the island comes close to Had Rin's esoteric mixture of bars, restaurants, shops, clubs, hippies, performance artists and ravers, which all help to create a debauched, but friendly, atmosphere