Find Your Sanctuary
Create your very own paradise retreat where wilderness meets wellness on the magical island of Koh Pha Ngan. Whether you want to reset and restore amongst our lush tropical gardens or embrace your adventurous side with the more vibrant side of the island, you can find your true self here at The Sanctuary Thailand.
What people say about us
Staff are amazing (big shout out to Sami,Hong, Tuna, Abel, Wah Wah, May and Soe)
food is great the menu is extensive and interesting... A little pricey
There is a disco in the jungle on Friday night which is well publicised - either go dance or wear earplugs.... Don't complain about it. The Thais have to make a living as well!
The people are what make it special.. So don't tell anyone about Sanctuary when you leave.... Keep it the best kept secret
❤️❤️❤️
Otherwise, the service is very good and the food is amazing. Enjoy your moment!
You don’t simply arrive at The Sanctuary; you surrender to it. The boat journey to Haad Tien Bay becomes a gentle unwinding, each wave carrying you further from who you were when you left shore. When you step onto that pristine beach, something inside you exhales—perhaps for the first time in months.
I’ve watched this place evolve over twenty years, seen new faces become old friends, witnessed the careful dance between development and preservation. What strikes me most is how The Sanctuary has grown without losing its soul—like watching a beloved friend mature while keeping their essential spark intact.
The accommodation defies every convention of luxury travel. Forget marble bathrooms and thread counts. Here, your shower is beneath stars, your bedroom walls are living stone that has stood for millennia. The geckos darting across your ceiling aren’t intruders—they’re housemates, reminders that you’re living within something larger than yourself.
But perhaps the most transformative element isn’t the setting—it’s the people. The Sanctuary attracts souls in transition, hearts seeking something they can’t quite name. I’ve shared sunset conversations with artists rediscovering their voice, watched burned-out executives remember how to breathe, seen couples fall in love all over again. This trip, I brought my nine-year-old son Archie, and watching him embrace this magical chaos reminded me why I keep returning. Children understand what adults forget—that paradise isn’t perfection, but authentic connection.
The food isn’t just nourishment; it’s daily celebration. Each beachfront meal becomes a ceremony of gratitude, flavors so vibrant they contain sunshine’s essence. Conversations flow like tides, strangers becoming confidants over shared plates.
What The Sanctuary offers isn’t polished wellness—it’s something rawer, more honest. Yoga sessions happen as the sun paints impossible colors across the sky. Meditation workshops don’t promise quick fixes but something more valuable: permission to simply be. The healing programs understand that transformation isn’t about returning to who you were, but discovering who you’re meant to become.
True luxury isn’t what’s done for you, but what you discover about yourself. The Sanctuary provides the canvas; you create the masterpiece. Some guests plan two-week retreats and find themselves still there three months later, having found exactly what their souls were seeking.
Twenty years on, I still feel that familiar flutter as the boat rounds the bay. The Sanctuary isn’t just a destination—it’s homecoming to a version of yourself you’d forgotten existed. Where the world’s noise fades to whispers, time moves differently, and ordinary moments become extraordinary simply because you’re present enough to notice them.
This isn’t for those seeking conventional luxury or party thrills. The Sanctuary is for hearts ready to be surprised, souls brave enough to remember what peace feels like. For anyone suspecting the life they’re living might not be the life they’re meant for.
Some places visit you as much as you visit them. The Sanctuary has been a constant thread through two decades of my life’s tapestry, offering exactly what I needed—adventure in my twenties, healing in my thirties, perspective in my forties, and now, watching my child discover magic.
It’s not just a place I return to; it’s a place that returns to me in quiet moments when the world feels too much, reminding me that paradise isn’t about perfection—it’s about coming home to yourself
If you want to come down, relax and have a good time with nice people and enjoy steam baths, Yoga etc. then this is the right place.
I was disturbed by people that had their calls or watching videos/reels via their mobile speakers. People aren‘t aware anymore, but it disturbs, especially when you want to relax.
Maybe a reminder/notifications would be helpful.
The travel to get there is not so easy but doable and worth it
Sending greetings to the Sanctuary, happy that I was there 🫶🏼
Amazing atmosphere, clean and pristine beach, clean jungle rooms, perfect staff and also the guests themselves, people with great personalities one by one.
As someone who has a lot of complaints and criticisms, I have nothing bad to say about this place
Thank you Nolan, Sam, Tuna, William and the whole staff for making me feel so welcomed and at home. Will be back again soon :)
It is the most inspirational place I've come across for writing, creativity, and focus. My trips to the sanctuary are always highlights of my year.
If you're looking for a break from the world—to reset your body, clear your mind, and reconnect with what matters—The Sanctuary is a rare gem. Nestled in the lush jungle of Koh Phangan, on the beach of Haad Thien, this rustic and quirky retreat offers more than just detox programs and yoga classes—it offers space to breathe, a place to reflect and restart.
I came here for a 3½ -week stay that included a 5-day “Detox” and a 16-day “Reshape Your Life” fitness program, and I left feeling lighter in every sense: physically, mentally, emotionally. The location is both remote and magical—you reach it via a long boat ride, which already feels like a crossing into another dimension. Don’t expect marble floors or air-conditioned luxury; expect the raw charm of wooden bungalows in the trees, jungle paths, barefoot meals on the beach, and symphonies of cicadas and waves, a unique experience.
The wellness offerings are intense and immersive: daily colonics, shakes, massages, personalized fitness training, yoga and meditation classes. If you’re here to truly reset, this place gives you all the tools. The team, from the personal trainer Aunn to Waa and Janina and the other yoga and meditation coaches, to the wellness staff led by Boon, the wonderful restaurant staff led by Sam, Tuna at the reception and the incredible massage therapists—they all made the difference. Each brought warmth, skill, and genuine care.
A few things to note:
• This is not a party place. Nearby full-moon events and other parties can occasionally bring in sound from neighbouring beaches, but the Sanctuary itself remains focused on healing and stillness.
• The infrastructure is rustic. Don’t expect flawless Wi-Fi or five-star plumbing. But the simplicity grows on you.
• The food is exceptional. After detox, every bite of the fresh, healthy meals feels like a celebration. The wonderful setting of the restaurant on the beach, with the kind of view people use as screensavers, enhances every meal.
There’s also a unique community vibe. You’ll meet fellow travellers—some here to heal from burnout or depression, others seeking clarity or change. Some here for weeks or months. It’s the kind of place people return to again and again—often for years, sometimes for decades. Conversations go deep quickly.
Why not 5 stars? A few organizational kinks and some wear-and-tear infrastructure, likely due to staff turnover after the recent passing of the beloved GM. But none of that overshadowed the overall positive impact of this experience.
Come with an open mind, a willingness to simplify, and a deep breath. The Sanctuary won’t fix your life—but with their charming and knowledgeable help it might give you the quiet and clarity to start doing it yourself.
Eric B., Switzerland, Guest April–May 2025
A special thanks to Sue, Abel, William, Sam, Tuna, Mey, Abale, and the entire crew for making everything perfect, and to the amazing teachers Randel and Nina for sharing their wisdom and guidance.
The Sanctuary changes its guests everytime I come but each set of people are remarkably similar to the previous - amazingly friendly and interesting folks
I can't imagine doing my annual recharge anywhere better
Wir waren in einem der Budget Bungalows, die zwar weiter hinten, aber immer noch sehr schön und hochwertig eingerichtet sind.
Ps: the first time I stumbled upon the sanctuary was in 2008! I promised myself I'd be back one day! Only took me 16 years!
Waa is such a great yoga teacher, I enjoyed her classes so much. Nina is an amazing too, she brings joy to the yoga studio in a way no-one else does.
Hope I can get back there soon.
Volveré seguro ❤️🎉😀
A little madness, a lot of magic!
It’s amazing what a little madness and a lot of magic can do!
The Sanctuary is a place to simply ‘be’. Reconnect and explore yourself thoughtfully and energetically. Think of us as your recharging point on your journey. The Sanctuary aims to provide a unique and enriching experience, fuelled by magical people, healing opportunities and a beautiful, restful setting.
Through our personal and well thought out menu to our Wellness Centre, to the Spa; we always have our minds on self-care, comfort and harmony.
We work to balance the body, mind and soul, with daily and diverse yoga classes and a weekly changing schedule of workshops and talks from our amazing healers and therapists.
For those who prefer to keep things simple, The Sanctuary also welcomes you to just kick back and relax. Lounge on the sand, soak up the tropical sun, and let the gentle rhythm of the waves take you away.
All this heaven is kept safe by the mystical Thai sea. Dive deeper into self-awareness and fun with a retreat like no other.
This is your experience, your adventure, your home away from home.
Trust us, the magic and the bay to take care of you.
FAQ´s.
We have noticed many folks ask similar questions, if you can´t find your answer here please fill out the form on our contact page.
Please see our dedicated Travel info page.
You can book many of our houses and bungalows in advance, particularly our higher end options.
All of our cheaper accommodation, including our dormitory beds, are non-bookable.
You just turn up on the day and see what is available!
Please Note: We cannot guarantee availability during High Season.
Sorry, we are unable to accept credit cards.
Unfortunately, there is no main phone line to Haad Tien bay so we can not connect to the banking system, while at the Sanctuary, you will need CASH.
Booking deposit and payment can be made via PayPal (please ask reception)
The nearest ATMs and banks are in Haad Rin, 10 minutes away by taxi boat. We recommend you bring as much cash as you are comfortable with to avoid unnecessary trips to Haad Rin.
Most people at The Sanctuary Thailand retreat are adults who come here to relax and unwind or are on a personal healing/health/wellness program. We try to create an environment that is peaceful and chilled for all & while, we try to cater for all, we are an adults orientated resort.
Many of us do have children and while they are welcomed here we simply need the parents to be aware of the peace of our other guests and to take appropriate action if their children are disturbing the ambience of the environment they are in: – the communal areas, restaurant, therapy areas, Wellness Centre etc.
Babies and very young kids can easily ‘pop the bubble’ of peace for our other guests who have come specifically for detox and relaxation; while there are probably many other locations more suitable for young families.
We feel that night time is time for adults in the restaurant and prefer children not around the bar after dark when others are socially talking and drinking.
We ask that you please be aware of others that do not have children and keep your children under parental control.
It should also be noted that we do not offer any special child-support, baby sitting , children’s menus, services or facilities. It should also be considered that we are located in an extremely rustic jungle setting. The weather can overly be hot and humid for babies especially. At certain times of the year there can be mosquito-born disease on the Island, as well as other jungle bugs.
The terrain is wild in areas of the resort; where even adults quite occasionally are injured when not taking care of steps, paths and other jungle hazards. Medical Facilities are not near by and transportation in and out, especially at night, is very difficult and often only by boat.
Our air conditioned Sanctuary Gardens rooms offer more child-friendly accommodation, in a flat garden area.
Thanks for taking the time to read our thoughts and for your understanding.
Nolan & The Sanctuary crew
Most folk coming to the Sanctuary and Haad Tien bay tend to stay on the bay. While ‘day trips’ are possible it’s not necessarily easy depending on time of year – it means getting taxi transport off the bay and then organizing transport on the other side of the island. One then has to organize transport back to the Sanctuary.
There is a taxi boat service from Haad Rin to Haad Tien (The Sanctuary) as well as taxi boat and truck service out of Haad Tien. This service is provided by local Thai families who set their own terms & conditions.
We strongly recommend Travel Insurance when travelling.
The Sanctuary, given its location, accepts no responsibility for any accidents / injuries or property damage.
Staying and loving us long time?
Here’s all you need to know:
Most travellers are issued a one month tourist visa upon arrival in Thailand at one of the country’s international airports. Most passport holders can obtain a further 30 days at the local Koh Samui Immigration office – However it is recommended you visit your own countries Thai embassy for specifics, as countries do differ.
If you think you will want to spend more than 1 month in Thailand, we recommend getting a tourist visa in your own country.
If you cross the Thai border by road you will only be given a 15 day visa.
We have 24-hour electricity and all rooms have several plug sockets (you will need to bring an adaptor with you for international appliances and should also check the voltage compatibility)
WiFi is available throughout the Sanctuary.
We do not offer any transport services.
However we can arrange a Private Speedboat to or from the airport for you at 7,500 THB one way.
The driver can collect you from Koh Samui airport, take you to the boat and bring you directly to The Sanctuary. We can also arrange a return journey when leaving The Sanctuary.
For safety purposes, the driver will not operate after dark.
Please book at least one week prior to your arrival with us via Reservations (holidayasiabookings@gmail.com) and at least one day prior to your departure from The Sanctuary with Reception.
Our High Season is mid-December to mid-April and during this period sometimes the waves can be high
- December through to January the weather can be somewhat erratic.
- February and March we usually have great weather.
- April and May are very hot.
- June is one of our quietest periods and still hot, though a little more forgiving. During these months the sea is very calm and flat.
- Mid-July to the end of August is another busy season, with great weather and calm seas.
- September and October are quiet months, also with probably the nicest temperature, weather and calm seas.
- November is monsoon: now the waves pick up again and it’s the rainy season. This can mean sunny days & intermittent showers to occasional deluges.
Every season has its own pleasures, come and discover!
It´s time to meet The Sanctuary
Because it’s all about You!
With 35 years of experience serving our cherished guests, we’ve listened to your desires and proudly crafted our offerings to meet and exceed your expectations.