Set along a scenic beach, and with lush tropical grounds, the Koh Phangan Dreamland Resort is a rustic property that attracts low-key travelers with its low rates and pretty location. The resort’s buildings and bungalows are largely constructed from wood, and simply decorated with dated local flair -- think wicker furniture with patterned, faded fabric, hanging lights, and framed photos of the country's leaders. The lobby and restaurant are both open-air, and most spaces are positioned to face the beautiful stretch of beach. Travelers are an even mix of families and couples, and the atmosphere is quiet and relaxed.

Koh Phangan Dreamland Resort is located on the idyllic white-sand Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach, the larger of the two beaches in Thong Nai Pan Bay on the northeastern coast of the island. The location is quiet and somewhat secluded, but there are some small shops, bars, and restaurants in the vicinity -- a few along the beach. The Thong Sala Pier can be reached in around 40 minutes by car, and the resort offers transfers at an additional charge. Meanwhile, the tourist enclave and home of the famous Full Moon Party, Haad Rin, can be reached in around half an hour by car. The closest airport is on the neighboring Ko Samui, which can be reached by a 45-minute ferry ride or 20 minutes by speedboat. The resort can organize motorbike and speedboat hire, and on-site parking is free.

Rooms here are simple and rustic, decorated in a basic locally inspired style heavy on wood and rattan. Lower-category rooms have little adornment aside from throw pillows in various hues, plus they lack air-conditioning. They do have furnished outdoor spaces and fans, however. Upgraded units, meanwhile, have a bit more character with intricate carved headboards and satin bedding in green and blue, as well as frangipani flower artwork in some. These units add air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and TVs. None of the rooms have safes, but guests can leave their valuables at reception during the day. Bathrooms vary, some have bland beige or dated floral tiling, while others have cheerful blue tiles. All have showers and basic toiletries. 

The standout here is undoubtedly the lovely, quiet white-sand beach that's lined with loungers. Overlooking here is an attractive freeform swimming pool, set in a wooden deck with cushioned loungers shaded by umbrellas. It has a swim-up bar and an adjacent pebble-lined hot tub.There are no spa or gym, but water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling are available for free. An on-site PADI-certified Dreamland Diver can organize scuba-diving trips to various locations around the island for a fee. 

The affordable open-air restaurant serves Thai and international dishes all day. Breakfast is not included in room rates, however. A small supermarket adjacent to the lobby sells snacks, drinks, alcohol, beachwear, and souvenirs. Next to the restaurant is a small corner with free-to-borrow books. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.