Travel & Location
Getting Here
Located off the Southeast coast of Thailand, the paradise island of Koh Phangan, just a boat ride away from the nearest airport of Koh Samui, is considered one of the best kept secret destinations for travellers worldwide. Surrounded by white sand beaches hug the sparkling blue ocean waters for deep relaxation & fun-filled adventures~ snorkelling, diving, hiking, kayaking are but a few.
Pure Flow Yoga retreat Thailand is located between the secluded bays of Haad Yuan and Haad Thien which are located a 10 minutes boat ride away from the bustling beach town of Haad Rin where all the usual amenities of bank machines, money exchange, travel agents, shops, and clinics can be found.
Getting Here: Quick Travel Info
Step 1: Fly
Closest airports: Surrat Thani – Air Asia – from Singapore, KL, Bkk + a 4 hour ferry and taxi ride from our location on Koh Phangan Koh Samui – from Singapore, KL, Bkk
Step 2: Ferry
From Samui/ Big Buddha Pier – KP Ferry departures daily
10:30 am 1:00 pm 4:00 pm 6:30 pm
From KP- Samui
9:30 am 11:40 am 2:30 pm 5:30 pm
Supply boat from Koh Samui – Koh Phangan
In dry season, when the waves are calm, there is supply boat – the Thong Nai Pan Ferry, that leaves direct from Koh Samui’s Mae Nam dock, to Had Thien at 12 pm daily. This is by far the most direct route.
Step 3: Taxi boat
From Koh Phangan: The easiest way to get here is by taxi boat – about 10 minutes – or truck – about 45 mins – from Haad Rin, a major ferry port on Koh Phangan.
In general, this should cost 300 b per person. If you are alone, they may try to charge you up to 1000b.
Travel: Planes, Trains,& Bus, Oh my!
→ FLY to Koh Samui – Easiest & Quickest Route
Bangkok to Koh Samui:
The easiest way to get from Bangkok to Koh Phangan is to take a plane from Bangkok to the neighboring island, Koh Samui. Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways are the only airlines that currently operate on this route.
Bangkok Airways provide over 20 flights daily between Bangkok and Koh Samui and flights typically range in price from $100-$150 USD one way. Flight departures begin at 6am thru 9pm, 7 days a week and are easy to purchase on-line. Thai Airways also operates two flights per day from Bangkok to Koh Samui, at 7:45 am and 4pm.
Bangkok Air — www.bangkokair.com
Thai Airways — www.thaiairways.com
Air Asia — www.airasia.com
Kuala Lumpur (KL) to Koh Samui
FireFly — http://www.fireflyz.com.my/
Firefly airlines flies from Subang airport in Kuala Lumpur to Koh Samui, Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays and Sundays, departing at 1:35PM arriving 2:35 PM of the same day. Flights typically cost around $150 USD one-way.
→ FLY to Surat Thani – Most Affordable Route
Bangkok to Surrat Thani
Air Asia offers 3 flights / day to Surrat Thani, at 7am, 14:30Pm, 18:20 Pm
Kuala Lumpur to Surrat Thani
Air Asia operates flights from KL to Surrat Thani on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday departing 10:35 arriving 10:50.
→ Traveling to Koh Phangan by train or bus
To travel from Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur to Koh Phangan by either train or bus, you will need to take 2 extra days to arrange tickets and for travel time. Taking either the train or bus are cheaper alternatives to flying from Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur to Koh Phangan.
To get from Bangkok to Koh Phangan, you can go by bus or train from Bangkok to Surat thani, and then from Surrat Thani you would take a ferry to Koh Phangan. The bus or train from Bangkok to Surrat Thani involves a very long overnight journey, followed by a morning ferry from Surrat Thani to Koh Phangan. Many people take this trip every day, as Koh Phangan is a popular destination. You can easily book this journey at any travel agency in Bangkok, for example on Kao San Road, or in Kuala Lumpur by simply asking to go straight to Koh Phangan. The travel agents will arrange every step of the way- you will even be picked up directly from your hotel if you wish.
Many travelers choose to take the train over the bus from Bangkok to Koh Phangan. The train can be a much more comfortable journey than the bus if you book 2nd Class A/C (a condition), where a bed with a curtain for privacy is provided, and there is ample room to store your backpack underneath your bed. The bus, on the other hand, is more crowded, less comfortable, and has no privacy, with a large number of thefts being reported.
The cost of travel from Bangkok to Koh Phangan by either train or bus is under $20 USD. To book a return ticket from Bangkok to Koh Phangan is also possible, and is much more affordable than flying.
From Phuket to Koh Phangan is a 7-hour bus journey costing 700 baht from the Phuket bus terminal, located on Thepkasattri Road between Mission Hospital and Supercheap shop.
→FERRY: From Koh Samui
Once you have landed on Koh Samui, you will need to get from Big Buddha Pier, Koh Samui to Haad Rin in Koh Phangan. At the Samui airport you will be approached by the airport staff to assist you- tourism is a big industry for Thailand and they are very attentive to tourists. Let the staff at Samui airport know that you need to go to Haad Rin, Koh Phangan. It is approximately a 10 min. mini bus ride from the airport to the Big Buddha Pier, Koh Samui, and a 45 min. ferry ride from Big Buddha Pier to Haad Rin Pier, Koh Phangan. The cost for the mini bus ride & ferry is approximately 10 USD and can be purchased at the airport upon arrival.
Ferry departures from Big Buddha Pier, Koh Samui to Haad Rin Pier, Koh Phangan are at the following times:
10:30 am / 1:00 pm / 4:00 pm / 6:30 pm
Upon your return home, the ferry schedule from Haad Rin, Koh Phangan to Big Buddha, Koh Samui is as follows:
9:30 am / 11:40 am / 2:30 pm / 5:30 pm
→TAXI BOAT: From Haad Rin (Koh Phangan) to Pure Flow Yoga (Haad Yuan Bay)
Once you arrive in Haad Rin, Koh Phangan, you can easily ask a taxi boat driver to take you to Haad Yuan or Haad Thien beach. This should take roughly 10-15 min by boat, and should cost 300 Baht. If you are alone, the boat drivers will either charge you more, or ask you to wait for more people.
You will be approached at Haad Rin Pier by many taxi boat drivers willing to take you, as well, there will often be a number of trucks parked to the left of the pier that can also take you to Haad Yuan or Haad Thien beaches by road.
Depending on whether the waters are too rough to ride straight from the pier, the taxi boat drivers may guide you to the neighbouring Sunrise Beach, Haad Rin which is a 10 min. walk away in order to travel safely by taxi boat. There are times when the waters are too rough for taxi boat drivers to take you safely to Haad Yuan or Haad Thien beaches, during which times you should take any available trucks by road. The boat trip from Haad Rin to Haad Yuan or Haad Thien beaches takes approximately 10 min., while travel by road takes about 45 min.
Our Magical Location
Thailand Beach Yoga Retreat
Koh Phangan, Thailand’s Island Paradise
A creative & vibrant community offers the experience of dance, spoken word, movies under the stars, drumming & chanting, and a kaleidoscope of workshop possibilities to expand your heart & horizons – that’s what makes us the best Yoga retreat in Thailand. Yoga, meditation & healing is at your doorstep with Pure Flow Yoga Thailand beach yoga retreat being situated atop a lush jungle canopy surrounded by the magical sounds of rare birds & creatures while overlooking the majestic ocean below. Amazing Healers & Therapists from a collection of traditions are available to support your healing & needs, and feel free to take refuge in the lap of luxury with massage therapy & the pampering experience of the nearby Spa.
While remaining isolated and pristine in nature, Koh Phangan shares the benefits of Koh Samui’s international airport for easy access by air and boat. Tourism, being one of Thailand’s leading industries, provides you with a smooth, safe & carefree journey to Koh Phangan by either plane, train, bus & boat to meet your various budget needs. Travel agents line the streets of Bangkok and Koh Phangan, which is also conveniently located near the well sought out diving & snorkelling mecca of Koh Tao.
A few tips to enjoy our bays
Thailand beach yoga retreat
Time on retreat in magical and simple Koh Phangan invites you to relax and unwind. It is an ideal environment to unplug a bit, reconnect with your self while delighting your senses and meeting amazing new friends from all over the world.
Relax / Laugh / Play / Chill
Enjoy hammock- time. Borrow a book from our library, or curl up with your own, write in your journal, play music, daydream….
Pamper Yourself
Treat yourself to a Thai of Oil massage, the steam bath, or indulge in the beauty services on offer at the Sanctuary Resort & Pariya Resort
Connect to Nature & Walk Barefoot
Indulge your senses as you admire the beauty of nature, the sounds of the sea, the aroma of the frangipani trees, and delight in the sweet nectar of the coconuts and exotic fruits. Enjoy a deeper connection with nature as you connect to the Earth here, which is made of the powerfully amplifying quartz crystal
Viewpoints & Lost Paradise Beach Hikes
Enjoy the incredible jungle with a nature hike.
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- Had Thien Viewpoint- 20 minutes
- Had Rin 1.5 hours
- Had Yao Beach – 1 hour
Walk the Labyrinth
Enjoy this sacred public walking meditation space located on Had Thien Beach. This space offers us the opportunity to let go of what is no longer serving us as well as practicing the art of calling in and opening to receiving at our beautiful yoga retreat thailand.
Dance Dance Dance…
- Sunday Hoop Jams – 5pm @ Big Blue – This is a high –vibe community Hula Hoop and Play event. All contributions support Spark Circus – For more info www.hooplovetribe.com / www.sparkscircus.org
- Eden Garden on Saturday nights and Guys Bar on Friday nights in Had Thien, offer locals and tourists alike an all-night dance groove in a spectacular setting. If dancing is not your thing, be sure to wear ear- plugs on those party night
- Full Moon Party – Every month, people from all over the world come to celebrate and take part in the internationally famous Full Moon Party. Our location is just one bay over, yet it is the perfect escape. During full moon, there is generally a small party at the nearby Eden Garden Bar. Check Upcoming Full Moon party dates here.
Meet New Friends
Our magical little gem of a paradise is home to many expats and other travellers who are living their dreams. “Magic Bay” or “The Bay” as it is affectionately referred to as by locals, is a particularly fascinating and inspiring place to connect with people from around the globe.
Splash & Play in the Ocean
Big Blue Rentals: Kayak, Snorkel, and Fishing Rod
Kayaks: 130 baht/hour for 1 seater, 200 baht/hour – 2 seater, 250 baht/hour – 3-seater. Fishing Rod – 200 baht/session
Explore Koh Phangan
Some island highlights:
Discovering Idyllic Beaches and Bustling town areas
Bottle Beach, Thong Nai Pan, Than Sadet: Discover some of the idyllic palm-fringed beaches that dot the stunning coastline
Thongsala – Saturday Market: 5- 10PM: A little taste of Thai culture, with Thai traditional food and snacks, clothing and accessories, kids toys and art.
Enjoying a Day Trip
• Ang Thon National Park Day Trip: 2200 Baht: Leaves Had Rin, 8:15 – 4:30pm. Includes 200 baht booking fee, light breakfast & lunch
• Koh Tao Day Trip– 2100 Baht: Includes speed boat, light breakfast, lunch, snorkeling, Fishing Rod – 200 baht extra
• Half day Boat Trip – 700 Baht: Pick up in Had Yuan, 12:30- 5:30 Includes lunch, snorkels, visits to Bottle Beach and Haad Yao
Travel Info
VISAS
You are only granted a 30-day visa upon landing by flight into Thailand. If you plan on travelling though Thailand before or after your retreat we advise our students to obtain a Two-Month tourist visa from your local Thai Consulate in your home country. If you intend to stay even longer you can extend this two-month visa by 30 days on Koh Samui. If you intend to stay even longer, you can obtain another two- month visa by making a trip to Penang, Malaysia or cross one of Thailand’s borders.
When filling out your Thai visa application form, you can put Bamboo Huts, Koh Phangan, Thailand for your guarantor/and or place to stay in Thailand. When you apply for a 2- month tourist visa state on your application form that you are visiting as a tourist. It is best not to mention that you’re doing a Yoga Retreat here, otherwise you will have to apply for a special visa that is difficult to obtain and involves so much paperwork and each Thai embassy has their own right to reject your application form if they don’t feel you have the exact paperwork that they see fit!!!
WIFI, INTERNET, LAPTOPS
There is Internet and WIFI in Haad Yuan at Big Blue, Pariya Resorts, & Bamboo huts, and in Had Thien at the Sanctuary Resort. The nearest post office is in Haad Rin (the internet is also readily available there). You can make calls on Skype via the Internet, at Big Blue Resort in Haad Yuan, or at the Sanctuary in Haad Thien. Also you can call with a phone card at a local telephone booth, from your cell phone or from the travel agents or Internet stores in Haad Rin.
LAUNDRY, SHOPPING…
You can get your laundry done on the island at most of the resorts, for approx. 40 Baht per pound or you can hand wash it yourself and hang them to dry on your balcony.
Basic snack foods, toiletries, and gift items are available at the Big Blue Shop in Haad Yuan, and at the Sanctuary Gift Shop.
MONEY, COMMUNICATIONS, LANGUAGE
The local currency is the Thai Baht and it is the only currency that is accepted in Haad Yuan, and the rest of the local bays here. There are no ATM’s, or ability to use visa or traveler’s cheques here, so each person should get whatever money they need in Thai baht beforehand (for example at the airport or Had Rin) for the entire length of the yoga retreat. You may store your cash safely, in the safety deposit at Bamboo Huts or wherever you are staying for the duration of your stay.
Of course it is both easy and possible to take a 5-10 min boat taxi to Haad Rin to take out money, but it does involve more time and money to do this exchange. In the bay area of Haad Yuan and Haad Thien, many of the places often run a tab, of which you can pay off at the end of your visit- for any extra stuff you may want to purchase during your time here.
You can exchange cash, traveler’s cheques, and use your debit card and visa in Had Rin through ATM’s, exchange centers, and banks or in Bangkok- I would recommend getting whatever you need for the time you are here in terms of Thai baht in Bangkok or Haad Rin.
The local language is Thai, and although most people speak English, and Burmese, the Thais love it when we try and greet them in their own language.
HEALTH
For shots and vaccines, you can consult your local travel clinic to see what they suggest. It is really up to the individual for what they choose and what they feel comfortable with.
Water safety
There is no need to bring iodine tablets or purification liquids; the water is safe to drink in Thailand. However, the bottled water is even better and is sold everywhere. As well, you can refill your bottle at Bamboo Huts and other Resorts.
Food & Accommodation
Accommodation
SIMPLY packages allow you to arrange your own lodgings. | PURE packages come with a private bungalow at Bamboo Huts | Deluxe Packages include accommodation at the luxury 4-star Boutique Hotel Pariya Haad Yuan | “FOR TWO’ Parter / Friend Packages allow you to share your “Pure” or “Deluxe” accommodation with your friend or partner, and save some $.
Bamboo Huts
Bamboo Huts, included in the PURE packages, are simple Thai style bungalows surrounded by lush, well tended gardens, with the refreshing ocean, white sand, Yoga shala, and multiple eateries just a few minutes away.
A perfect compliment to the minimalist yogi lifestyle, these simple, rustic wooden bungalows have a double bed, small bathroom (no hot water, but trust us – that’s a good thing!), fan, limited shelving/clothes hanging, and a hammock on the deck so you can relax and take in the paradise vibes. It doesn’t take long from the time you step off the boat, to realise that in fact, simplicity offers you space to grow in your practice, and yourself. Yogis have been teaching this for centuries.
Pariya Haad Yuan
Pariya is a beautiful beachfront boutique resort located on Haad Yuan/Yuan Beach, just a 10 minute beach walk to Pure Flow Yoga.
With its secluded tropical location, guests will experience the beauty nature has to offer while relaxing in the comfort of the resorts villas, complete with beachfront swimming pool, natural therapies and spa.
Set along the slope of a hill that leads down to the resorts lush gardens, each villa comes with its own private terrace and modern amenities, including hotel shower, air conditioning and mini-fridge, so guests have a stress-free stay.
Food
In general, you can eat and drink anywhere on the island from $12- 40 USD/day.
Bamboo Huts Restaurant & Lounge, located just 2 minutes walk from the Pure Flow Yoga Studio in Haad Yuan Bay, is renowned for its restaurant. Offering an array of meals (both Western and Thai), and a fully stocked kitchen ready to customise a dish for you, Bamboo offers scrumptious food at affordable prices and you are sure to enjoy the friendly staff, and unimpeded ocean views.
Thailand has arguably some of the world’s best cuisine, and the food options available in our local area is no exception. From healthy, raw and vegan and vegetarian options, to gourmet Western fare, and let’s not forget the local Thai and Burmese specialities. Come and enjoy a culinary symphony which will satiate all appetites at our Thailand yoga retreat, and leave you dreaming of Koh Phangan long after you have gone.
If you’re venturing further Haad Thien Bay in home to the popular Sanctuary Spa & Health Resort which specialises in a fasting, raw food, and health conscious menu. The Sanctuary’s in house Wellness Center offers a range of products and services. Check it out!
There are several other restaurant in the area all easily accessed on foot and all delicious…
We give students the option to purchase a meal plan as part of their retreat (offered at checkout).
Meal plans are $15/day of credits towards your meals at the Bamboo Huts restaurant. At the end of the week if you have spent more at the restaurant than your meal plan budget, you will be expected to pay the difference. Please note that this meal plan is non-refundable.
*Please note that Pure Flow is an independent yoga school only with no onsite accommodation. We have organised preferential booking for our “Pure” and “Deluxe” Retreats ” and these exclusive rates apply only when booking a package through Pure Flow Yoga.
Alternative Accommodation
Welcome to the Magical Tri-Bay Area!
If our accommodation packages are full, for budget travellers and those looking for more luxurious upgrades, you are welcome to book your own accommodation and join us for the SIMPLY packages.
There is a wide range of alternative accommodation options that you can self-book that are all within a 5-10 minute walk to the Pure Flow Yoga studio.
* Please note: Most of the accommodation in this area are small and humble family run establishments with no online or phone booking systems. You simply need to travel here in person and find a room upon arrival.
* Prices listed here were accurate as of 2018 for low season, and thus may fluctuate depending on the individual resort’s policies
* During the high season months (Aug, Jan, Feb) accommodations are in high demand and finding a budget bungalow can be challenging.
Haad Yuan Bay – Blissful Tropical Waters
Big Blue | Barcelona | Horizon
Haad Yuan Beach is 7 minutes away from Pure Flow Yoga. Haad Yuan Bay has the most beautiful white sand beach of all the three bays that compose our local area, with turquoise blue warm water. There is an assortment of resorts & restaurants to suit all budget needs, and there is both WIFI and internet access on Haad Yuan, as well as a small convenience store for basic amenities. There is a weekly dance party each Tuesday & Saturday night at the Eden Bar and we suggest to students whom are light sleepers, to bring earplugs for those nights when the music can be loud.
Big Blue Resort
Big Blue Resort is right on Haad Yuan Beach- footsteps from the crystal blue ocean waters & a 7 minute walk to Pure Flow Yoga. The Big Blue Resort offers internet access & wifi for laptops, a small convenience store, kayak rentals & other entertainment options. The open air restaurant offers Thai & western food and a weekly movie night. There are a number of small bungalows at Big Blue Resort as well as a couple of bigger Houses that can accommodate a small family. There are also a few bigger bungalows that rest along side the hill at Big Blue that provide for a very quiet and peaceful stay, allowing even the very light sleepers to make it through the night with the weekly dance parties in the bay. Budget Bungalows: $14- $16 USD/night These simple, wooden bungalows have a nice western style bathroom with a double bed & a hammock on the deck. Basic Bungalows : $20 USD/night Perched upon a hill, with the gorgeous Haad Yuan Beach footsteps away, these larger and quiet bungalows offer a peaceful and private stay
Horizon Bungalows
Recently renovated bungalows with amazing sea views, located on the ridge between Haad Juan and Haad Thien. You can book directly with Horizon through their Facebook Page here
Haad Tien Bay – A Conscious Community in Paradise
Beam Bungalows | The Sanctuary | Family | Spice
Haad Thien Bay is just a 10 min. walk away from the Pure Flow Yoga Studio along the front ocean side path, and a 5 min. walk from the Blooming Lotus Yoga studio when taking the back jungle path. Haad Tien Bay has a beautiful sand & coral beach with a strong community feeling with many workshops, healing and group sharing opportunities throughout the year. Alternative & unique, it attracts international travellers looking for something different and out of the box. An eclectic community of meditators, healers and spiritual seekers all gather here to experience & experiment with altered states of consciousness. The weekly dance party can be loud but offers an opportunity for the community to come together and bond through music, dance & movement. Earplugs may be necessary for light sleepers on these Saturday party nights.
Beam Bungalows
Beam Bungalows is located on a jungle hill above the coconut groove and ocean. It has a large restaurant, nice tropical gardens, beautiful views & easy access to the beach with a 12 minute walk to Pure Flow Yoga. Dormitory: $5 USD/night Ideal for backpackers and young budget travelers this dormitory is spacious, clean & provides the most affordable option of all the 3 bays. A double mattress, pillow and mosquito net is provided amongst an open spaced room that accommodates up to 20 people. A shared toilet and shower room is located just outside in the garden. Budget Bungalows: $15 USD/night These rustic bungalows have a double bed, nice garden and ocean views, a porch with a hammock and asian style squat toilets. Mid Range Bungalows: $20-$30 USD/night These newer and more spacious bungalows have a big double beds, a western style bathroom, a big deck with hammock and built in closets.
The Sanctuary
An internationally renowned alternative resort, The Sanctuary is a peaceful haven that provides spiritual seekers a wide variety of opportunities to find peace within. From their ongoing workshops at the “Tea Temple”, their detox, cleansing & fasting programs at the “Wellness Center,” and their adjoining Spa that offers healing massages and a sauna The Sanctuary is great place to connect with yourself and the eclectic community of Haad Tien. It’s health food restaurant offers some of the best vegetarian food around and is located right on Haad Tien Beach only a 5 minute walk to the Pure Flow Yoga Shala. Dormitory: $11 USD/night The simplest and most basic option that The Sanctuary offers is an open dormitory space that fits up to 14 people, situated at the top of a jungle hill overlooking the ocean. A mattress, pillow, and mosquito net is included with the bathroom being shared between dorm members. Bungalows: $22-$50 USD/night A wide variety of private bungalows are scattered amongst the tropical gardens and jungle hillsides of The Sanctuary. The rustic bungalows have comfortable beds, great views and easy access to the beach. Some have their own attached bathrooms while others are shared. Visit www.thesanctuarythailand.com to learn more.
Family Bungalows
Family Bungalows is a quaint, family run bungalow resort nestled at the bottom of the jungle hills with a garden view. A quiet and peaceful option with the Sanctuary “Tea Temple” right next door. Only 3 minutes walk to the ocean and a 5 minute walk to the Pure Flow Yoga Shala. It has no restaurant attached, leaving each guest the freedom to choose where to dine. Spice restaurant next door is a popular evening dining option, specialising in seafood platters and fine dining. Budget Bungalows: $17- $27 USD/night These simple, rustic bungalows have double beds, asian style toilets with a hammock on the deck overlooking a garden. One room also has two double beds for any students wishing to share a bungalow.
Whynam Beach– Home away from Home
Whynam Resort is about a 10 minute walk from Pure Flow Yoga, and is the smallest of our bays. Home away from home for many long-term residents and repeat visitors , Whynam is known for its chill vibes, friendly creative people, and art, dance and music happenings. Great coffee and Burmese food here too! You can book here through the Why Nam Facebook page.
“Koh Phangan is a perfect jungle setting. Peacefully motor free, overlooking the blue ocean saturated with conscious community and connected to Mother Nature.” – Francie, Canada