Hansar Casuarina Cha am

We came for some peace and quiet, and got exactly that. There aren't many other guests, so the pool was mostly ours, and there was no noise from other customers. It's a great spot to relax if privacy is what you're after, but not a fit if you want parties, crowds, or a supermarket nearby. The beach is fine for a walk in front of the hotel, and better for lying down just beside the resort. Our room was clean and good. We booked a Standard vila room on Agooda without knowing about the seaview option. Some rooms don't show up on agoda, so you'll need to book by phone for a seaview room. The sea view room has a sakuzzi, which was very nice. They moved us there free of charge on our second night, even though it usually costs twice as much. The resort and pool are a bit older, and the pool could use some maintenance, though it was clean. Staff were very, very friendly. There's a restaurant with decent food, but the nearest 7/11 is 8km away. Bring food if you'd like to save money, and have a car or ask them to arrange a taxi if you want to explore.

The staff were good, the grounds are very large, and the rooms are spacious and clean inside, though a little bare. The bungalows are in decent condition but badly need paint. With proper upkeep, this could be a very nice place, and I hope an investor comes in to renovate it. As it stands, I don't think it deserves the 4 stars shown on Agoda and Google, maybe 2.5. The outside of the resort is poorly maintained and slowly falling apart. Wild dogs roam around the dilapidated property, and staff burn garbage piles right beside the outdoor lobby. The landscaping needs attention too: there are tall, beautiful trees, but mostly lawn and bare mud on the ground. Breakfast was OK, but there's only one option and it's not what I'd expect from a 4 star place. There's no beach, just a lawn facing the water. No amenities are nearby, and the neighborhood looks like an unfinished construction site. You'll have to drive at least 10 minutes to reach restaurants and cafés. At these prices, the condition just isn't acceptable.

I felt very well looked after by the pleasant, friendly staff. The included breakfast was great, with rice porridge, omelette, toast, fresh fruit, coffee or tea, fruit juice, and cereal. A highlight of my room was the private outdoor shower and jacuzzi tub. The resort is right on the beach, where there was hardly anyone around. It's a lovely place to unwind if you're trying to get away from the busyness of life. I stayed five nights, and without your own transport it's best to bring some snacks and drinks. The restaurant has limited opening hours and stock, and there isn't a convenience store within walking distance. One very kind staff member drove me to the closest 7/11, about 10 minutes away, and back so I could pick up a few things.

The garden looks great and the pool is nice and big. It's an amazing property, but it's been left run down. Book online, since their direct prices are higher.