Fodor's Expert Review AKWA Guesthouse

Editor's Note: This location is no longer in operation.

Rooms at Australian proprietor Timothy Schwan's guesthouse have giant pop-art paintings on the walls, chairs in the shape of giant hands, and kitschy lamps. Small details, like shelves of books (including Thai language manuals and beach novels), a stack of DVDs atop the TV, colorful beach towels, and even the odd stuffed animal make it feel like you're crashing in a friend's well-designed bedroom. A penthouse room has a huge terrace with two teak sun beds, an outdoor dining area, and a lazy banana bed with a sweeping view; indoors, a private bathtub overlooks the terrace angled toward Chawaeng Beach. Breakfasts are arguably the best on the island. Other meals are decent as well, and the vibe in the lobby's bar-restaurant is friendly and easygoing.