OK2 Bungalow

We ended up eating and drinking at the beach bar, which has free entry, a small beach, and nice music. You can see the same stairs from there, and they come down to this free beach anyway. On the way toward Shark Bay, the bar is on the left and the Shark Bay sign is about 20m farther on. We first drove past it, but were asked for 50 THB per person just to use the stairs to a public beach. It felt like a total tourist trap, so skip the yellow sign by “OK2 bungalow” and head straight to the beach bar instead.

The best thing here might be just slowing down, putting your phone away, and enjoying a simple stay in a tropical setting. I’d recommend OK2 to friends and family, and I’ll be back. It’s worth spending at least two nights to get away from Koh Tao’s crowds. We’ve stayed here several times. The stilt bungalows are basic but lovely, surrounded by nature and wildlife, with beautiful views over Shark Bay. It’s peaceful, and the sunsets are incredible. Staff greet you with warm smiles at reception, including mamajim. They can carry your bags up the very steep path, so take it slowly. Food and drinks are served at the reception restaurant. There’s a wide choice, mostly Thai with western dishes and salads too, and everything we tried was fresh and full of flavor. The rooms are minimal, with timber frames, comfortable large beds, and ensuite bathrooms. Some have unusual features shaped around the natural landscape. There’s no A/C, just a fan, though the sea breeze can be cool at night. WiFi is intermittent and unavailable in some bungalows, but mobile signal and data work fine. Bring bug spray: there may be ants when you first arrive, and midges and mosquitoes can be a nuisance if you leave lights on at night. You can get into the water via rocks and steps, but they’re slippery and sharp in places. Snorkeling gear is inexpensive to rent, though rentals depend on the weather, sensibly enough. If the sea’s rough, come back another time or enjoy the food and view. Nearby are beach access and viewpoints, a 7/11 and local shops five minutes downhill, scooter rentals, taxis, laundry, and boat trips and tours. I’d book those directly with a guide or captain. For the price, I can’t complain too much, though the bungalows could use some general decorating and basic refurbishment. A mini fridge would be useful in some rooms.

The bungalow has access to the beach, a comfy mattress, and a truly beautiful setting with a great view of Shark Bay. But it needs a major renovation, a proper clean, and more attention to the little details.

The location is lovely, but the bungalows are very low standard. We can usually live with that, but cockroaches, ants, and bedbugs in our room made us leave a night early. The owner didn't apologize, sadly. I can't recommend it.