The first resort found on Baan Tai Beach if coming from Thong Sala, First Villa is a family-run spot with good-value air-con rooms, a swimming pool and one of the spunkiest managers on the island.

The seafront directly in front of the resort consists of a rocky break wall, but it takes very little effort to step down to the sand that stretches for miles to the east. The priciest freestanding concrete bungalows face a medium-size swimming pool and unexpected Jacuzzi, with the sea also visible from porches with wooden chairs.

We’d settle into a smaller bungalow set a little further back and offering excellent value for a comfortable bed, fridge, TV, safe and hot-water bathroom. Several family rooms are available further back on the property in two-storey buildings, and groups can rent out adjoining rooms in single-floor structures. While there’s little in the way of decor, the rooms are all well kept and comfy.

The family-run charm is most evident in the lone dark-wood bungalow set towards the rear of the property. Manager Bobo told us that her uncle sleeps here when arguing with her auntie about what to watch on TV.

Bobo is as affable as they come, always smiling and asking guests how they’re doing and if they need anything. Though she was busy taking a phone call and trying to check in guests when we arrived, she paused to ask a staffer to bring us a cold pineapple juice while we waited to see a room. Kids will have fun with her, and parents will appreciate how quiet the resort becomes after dark.

Other good and affordable air-con resorts with swimming pools on the south coast include Morning Star, Sabaii Bay and Milky Bay.

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145/1 Moo 1, Baan Tai, Ko Pha Ngan