Ta Yai Beach Resort

The busiest part of this place is right outside: there's a big parking area and a path to the beach, with tourists constantly coming and going. From the balcony you can watch the crowds, but they can also see into the other balconies, so privacy is limited and I had to keep the day blinds shut. I thought the beach would be quieter because it's farther from the main ferry ports, but it's actually a popular Instagram spot. The resort is just eight rooms, more like sea-view cabanas. Each has a partial view, good air conditioning, a small fridge and an okay TV. Rooms are spacious, but the fixtures feel cheap, including a very wobbly glass half-wall in the shower. Bathroom supplies are sparse: no toothbrush or toothpaste, just a small bar of soap and small bottles of no-name shampoo and body wash. There isn't a pool, gym or other resort amenity. There's no front desk, so check-in happens at the restaurant down the hill by the beach. Staff didn't seem very service-minded. I had to remind housekeeping to clean, and the restaurant wasn't ready for breakfast when it opened. It also plays cruise-ship-style dinner chimes throughout the day, loud enough to hear from the rooms. During the day the roof made a steady noise. I heard footsteps above and asked the staff, who said it was from the sun's heat. I wouldn't count on sleeping during the day with that going on.