The Mellow Mango Resort

Klong Khong Beach lies a hundred metres from the gate, close enough to reach on foot between a swim and lunch. The Mellow Mango Resort sits on Ko Lanta, in southern Thailand, where the coast runs to surf breaks and reef dives further offshore. The bungalows stand freestanding among garden planting, each with its own terrace or balcony facing pool or greenery rather than a shared corridor. Rooms stay simple. Double and king configurations come with air conditioning, a minibar, and an en-suite bathroom, and most look onto the salt water pool or the garden's palms. The pool itself sits under palm cover, edged by planting rather than open lawn, and doubles as the resort's social point outside meal times. A restaurant on site runs breakfast through lunch, built on Thai and international dishes made with ingredients sourced locally rather than shipped in. Diving and snorkelling operators work the waters off Ko Lanta, and surf schools rent boards and give lessons along the same stretch of coast. Scooter hire and island tours can be arranged through reception for trips further afield, including the island's national park. Airport transfers run from Krabi, roughly two to three hours by road, with ferry links from nearby islands as an alternative. The resort takes a private parking area for guests arriving by car or bike.