Baan Chao Mai Beach House

We booked two days, but the photos gave a misleading impression. It’s advertised as beachfront, yet a restaurant run by sellers on the beach blocks the view. Breakfast was poor too, with a cold buffet that didn’t seem to get much attention. This place could do much better with better management. It’s a shame.

After driving 14 hours from Bangkok, we arrived about two hours before check-in. We knew we were early and weren’t expecting to get straight into the room, but hoped staff might check which guests had arrived and perhaps prioritize the cleaning. Instead, despite seeing us waiting, nobody checked if the room was ready or could be cleaned sooner. When we politely asked a housekeeper, she seemed annoyed and cleaned in strict ground-floor-to-upstairs order, leaving our room until last. We watched later arrivals get keys and head to their rooms while we waited, exhausted and desperate for a shower. Our room was finally cleaned right at check-in time. We never raised our voices and asked politely each time, but the response made it feel like patience was punished and persistence was unwelcome. It was a welcome we won’t forget.

A peaceful place with lovely views of padi fields. My room was right in front of the pool, so swimming was very convenient. Breakfast was simple but enough, and you’ll need your own transport because it’s quite a distance from town.

We spent the weekend here and are already looking forward to coming back. It’s a real hidden gem, well away from the farang tourist trail, which is just how we like it. There are more places to eat on the beach than you’d expect, with very good food and drinks at great prices. The rooms were modern and clean, the staff really friendly, and the location is beautiful.