Ao Thong is one of the most scenic beaches in the area. Fine, white sand fringed with coconut palms and trees overlooking the often turquoise coloured Andanman Sea. Set back from the beach, nestled between the trees lies Ao Thong Beach Bungalows and Restaurant. A small, family run business with huge hospitality. Mr Nueng believes in running his business like a family which certainly comes across in this relaxed, friendly setting. Mr Nueng's wife, Nong, cooks delicious Thai specialities, fresh seafood or western snacks which can be enjoyed in the restaurant or served in intimate wooden salas at the beach's edge. What better way to enjoy the magnificent sunsets at Ao Thong Beach, which some consider to be the best place to view from?

Nong uses many Thai herbs in her cooking, which the locals say are excellent for good health. The food is prepared in clean, hygienic conditions with no added flavour enhancers or artificial flavourings. Eating Thai food in this natural atmosphere, you could say 'Ao Thong Beach Restaurant is good for your health!' Should you wish to stay at Ao Thong Beach you can click here for more information about our bungalows.

Beachfront Dining at Ao Thong Beach Single Bungalow for 2

Ao Thong Beach is only 10km from Khao Lak. Take Highway 4 north, this is the main road through Khao Lak. Take the left turn signposted for the Sarojin Resort which is just after 7-11. After 1km take the right turn, also signposted for the Sarojin Resort.

Go past the Sarojin and take the 2nd left turn, clearly signposted for Ao Thong Beach Bungalows and Restaurant. Be careful not to take the first left as this will take you to a different resort. Mr Neung is more than happy to arrange transport.

Double 'Family' Bungalow

Ao Thong is situated approximately 10km north of the Khao Lak. In English Ao Thong means Golden Bay. However this was not always the case. In the not too distant past, large mangrove forests covered the area and provided the perfect habitat for monkeys. So numerous were these monkeys that the bay was aptly named Ao Ling, meaning Monkey Bay. With the rapid rise in tourism in the Phang Nga coastal region the name was later changed to Ao Thong. As well as meaning Golden Bay, 'Thong' in Thai also means 'richness'. The bay certainly has an outstanding 'richness' of nature and some breathtaking views.

In 2002 Mr Nueng and his wife, Nong built a small restaurant on the edge of the beach. Attracting many customers from the Khao Lak area, Ao Thong Beach Restaurant was soon well established as a local specialty. The restaurant was later expanded with the addition of seven bungalows, some with fan or some with air-con.

Disaster struck the region in December 2004, leaving Ao Thong Beach Bungalows badly damaged. Devestated but not disheartened, Mr Nueng vowed to continue and with the help of Nong, repair work commenced in 2005. Ao Thong Beach Restaurant re-opened in February 2006, albeit it on the original smaller scale. With the return of regular and new customers the restaurant was enlarged to its former size with the addition of five new, air-con bungalows.

Many people find this quiet, idyllic location the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Khao Lak or Phuket life. Kick back and enjoy Ao Thong Beach, lounge in the shade or take a dip in the sea. The sea is shallow with very few rocks and is great for swimming. Ao Thong Beach Bungalows facilities include sun loungers with beach umbrellas and clean toilets and showers. Should you wish to stay and enjoy the sunset or have dinner by the sea or better do both, Mr Neung can arrange a taxi service back to Khao Lak. There is also a motorbike rental service. And if you do feel the urge to check in with the real world, there is WiFi Internet available.

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