Eat and meet

Ao Wong Duen

There is nothing too remarkable on Ao Wong Duen as far as entertainment is concerned, but people flock here regardless -- candle-lit restaurants take over the beach at night, and it is easy to enjoy a decadent seafood feast without breaking the budget.

In keeping with the resort's hip beach atmosphere, the bar and restaurant at Vong Duern Villa offers the best spot on the beach to chill out. Isolated on the far southern corner of the beach, it feels miles away from the soccer games and sand castles that crowd the rest of the island. There are axe pillows and white canvas lounges looking out over the ocean, and private concrete booths built right at the edge of the ocean -- perfect for an intimate party, or a romantic dinner. The menu is great value, with well-prepared Thai and European seafood dishes.

Back on the main beach, the Baywatch Bar sits right on the beach near Sea Horse 2 and is a typical Thai beach bar, with very friendly staff. Tall wooden barstools surround the bar, and triangle pillows on the sand bid welcome. A wide selection of liquors is available and beers start at 55B. Be warned: they have a Bay Watch Babe competition. The adjacent Nice & Easy Bar and Chilli's Bar down the beach have a similar vibe.