Retreat and Restore in Harmony with Nature
we need something here…

Discover how to reconnect with nature and yourself at The Sanctuary Thailand. Our little corner of paradise, set right on a remote and unspoilt beach with no road access, offers the perfect tranquil escape. Whether you opt to lounge on the beach taking in the rhythmic swell of the ocean waves, or recline in a hammock listening to the soft chatter of sweet birdsong,
you’ll co-exist in harmony with nature throughout your stay.
Surrounded by both our warm and nurturing staff, and like minded souls on a shared path to wellbeing, you’ll feel truly held, inspired and cared for during your stay with us. Many of our guests return year after year and build lifelong friendships that stay with them long after they’ve returned home. We know you will too.
What people say about us
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
Volveré seguro ❤️🎉😀
Thank you Nolan, Sam, Tuna, William and the whole staff for making me feel so welcomed and at home. Will be back again soon :)
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
❤️❤️❤️
I took part in the 200 hour yoga teacher training offered by the Swara Yoga Academy in the Sanctuary with the best teachers ever - Randall and Freya. From the first moment they made clear: this yoga course is not about maximum performance, acrobatic tricks or competition. It‘s about experiencing yourself, feeling good, gathering more energy than you loose in your daily life.
At the same time you can learn challenging yoga poses. They guide you there step by step.
In our group we felt like a family and had lots of fun in class. Thank you so much also for this, dear Freya and Randall. I love your sense of humour!
And last but not least: the beautiful blue sea, delicious breakfast every day on the beach, the loveliest staff you can imagine in the restaurants and reception and everywhere in the Sanctuary.
Just simply a wonderful place to be.
I miss you all.
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!
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
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.
I feel so grateful to have been apart of it at the most magical location on the island.
Honestly, there is nothing bad to say. The food, the staff, the location, the accommodation, the service. It was all 10/10.
Great location in the Beach!
Cool Vibe, Lovely Views, Refreshing Drinks & Exceptional Customer Service!
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 🫶🏼
Let´s dance to the same rhythm.
Once you are a ‘bay person’ you are part of our community for life. No matter where you are from, what you do, or who you are – we all dance to the same rhythm.
Recently our waters have been embracing more and more people through word of mouth, social media and some lovely journalistic pieces we’re rather proud of.
This is a place where staff and guests become friends and where friends reunite year after year.
Come with an open heart and mind and see the magic for yourself!
The crew, the heartbeat of The Sanctuary.
The staff here are a wonderful mix of Thai, Karen refugees from the North of Thailand and Burmese migrant workers.
Our Sanctuary Family is diverse but we all have our home in the bay in common. The Sanctuary has been a small family run business since 1991; welcoming all who make it to our remote bay with open arms.
Haad Tien Bay – Our Home
Paradise found….
Our unique beachfront resort sits on the sandy shores of Haad Tien Beach, Koh Phangan, Thailand. We are surrounded by a magical coconut grove, and backed onto the hillside jungle. No roads, traffic or chaotic streets. Just nature, tranquility and good vibes.
We are easily accessible by a 5 minute long-tail boat ride from Haad Rin Beach.
Haad Tien Bay is situated on the east coast of Koh Phangan – an island known for its Thai friendliness and, more recently, for its famous full moon parties in Haad Rin.
The bay is two beaches away from Haad Rin and therefore offers the best of both worlds – the chance to experience the clubs and parties of Haad Rin, and yet you can easily return to the peace and tranquility of an unspoiled island bay with excellent swimming, snorkelling and relaxation facilities.
You can also walk to Why Nam Beach and Haad Yuan Beach – along with Haad Tien, these 3 bays make up our small community. Why Nam is very small and peaceful, with just one bungalow resort and a restaurant. Haad Yuan is more developed, and great for swimming. We encourage you to walk, explore, and enjoy everything our 3 bays has to offer!
There are several different budget bungalow resorts in Haad Tien all offering a unique style of food, accommodation and an assortment of extras.
The beach is kept clean and we all endeavor to take care of ecological waste and, through cooperation, keep this bay very special for all of our visitors and long term residents. In addition to providing a family-type atmosphere, it is a unique place in a fast-changing world.
Theft within the Bay is practically unknown as access is limited to boats, or a stiff jungle walk. You will feel safe and secure throughout your stay with us
The rocks and crystals.
Our resort is built on ancient granite quartz crystals.
The ocean tumbled granite is unique, combining both the elements of water and earth, flowing yet rooted, emotions and practicality mixing. The granite grounds us and keeps us focused whilst allowing us to flow and overcome obstacles.
You cannot help but be embraced by this energy.
Our land and water.
We are located on Koh Phangan Island, tucked away on the remote beach of Haad Tien.
Named after the local Tien trees that grow along our beach line. These trees are hundreds of years old and said to hold healing properties. They connect the land and sea, offering protection, luck and growth.
Our living jungle juxtaposes the concrete of the modern world. This jungle breathes and sighs. Just like the water it will hold you safe in its arms. Take your time here to watch and listen, you will be rewarded. The sea here can be calm and crystal clear, or powerful and raw; depending on the time of year.
But always cleansing, always vibrant and always watching over us with a deep turquoise gaze.
“…It is indeed all about you, over the years all the different people who have been involved to add the different layers to create what it is today…”

GM at The Sanctuary Thailand.