We couldn’t wait to get back here! Pulling up to This place on a longtail makes your heart stop… is it too good to be true? Nope… it is 100% extraordinary! What an amazing little gem… the staff, the service, the location had us booking again!! Their attention to detail is incredible and they are very concerned with the environment and don’t use plastic water bottles on their property- instead, they have a refilling station for everyone to get filtered water… something you don’t see in Thailand! The staff are amazing, they are so warm and kind and do whatever they can to ensure your stay is perfect. The rooms are very comfortable and spacious… and all have a peek a boo view of the ocean which is just steps away! They even built a house for the Great Hornbill’s to be comfortable!

It’s perfect!!!

Koh Ngai is a dream of an island and of all the hotels that line the long beach on the west side of the island, the Mayalay sits in the best location. If you like snorkeling, you can simply walk out towards the coral reef. When we were there, the weather wasn't ideal and the view for snorkeling not very good, but we got a glimps on our first day when it was totally calm. The snorkeling might not be as good as Koh Kradan, but you can certainly have a good time during dry season. The Mayalay has some nice bungalows, which are clean and comfortable. The food was also decent and the staff very welcoming.

They have a lot of work after having been closed for covid for a long time. The property doesn't look at all like on the photos. Rennovation is dearly needed. At first, I wasn't sure if we were in the right hotel, because it was stripped down to the bare minnimum. But I'm sure with time and with customers coming back, they will be able to restore this property again. But based on the current state, I think the price for the rooms is too high. My advice to the hotel: Either restore the hotel to how it looks on the photos (outside bar, spa area, and so on) or update the photos and reduce the price.

My stay at Mayalay Resort was truly a memorable experience! The standout feature is undoubtedly the amazing view from the bungalow, which is situated right on the beach. Waking up to the sound of waves and a serene ocean view was pure bliss. The location of the resort is excellent – it's peaceful, quiet, and feels like a secluded paradise, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The breakfast offered was delightful, with a good variety to start the day off right. The staff deserve special mention for their warmth and attentiveness – they truly made the stay even more enjoyable. If you're looking for a tranquil escape with stunning beachfront views, Mayalay Resort is a fantastic choice. I would definitely recommend it and hope to return someday!

The only minor downside is that the rooms could use some renovation, as they are a bit dated. However, this did not detract much from the overall experience.

To me, this is the best hotel on Ko Ngai. My partner and I spent three nights here and felt like we were living an island fairytale. The island is a small slice of paradise—a pristine white sand beach with crystal-clear water and a serene, magical tranquility. Best beach in my life. The property is literally on the beach, with sleeping huts set back slightly for privacy. After trying food at several other resorts for variety (there are no native community or standalone restaurants on Ko Ngai), I can confidently say Mayalay Resort is the most atmospheric place. Resorts closer to the ferry pier felt overly polished and commercialized (with too many kids), while those farther down the beach became increasingly basic (with beach only accesible at low tide). Mayalay strikes the perfect balance: all the amenities you need with an alaways accesible beach, while maintaining a laid-back, elegant vibe. The open, airy design of the dining area—with white sun shades and white furniture—gives the resort understated elegance. It’s easily the islands most aesthetically pleasing resort. The coral reefs and beach (though unfortunately mostly dead) seemed better than at other parts of the beach. We noticed that longtail boats tend to anchor closer to the pier, making those sections of the reef busier, while resorts farther down the beach often attract large groups of day tourists. Mayalay’s beach, in contrast, felt like a tranquil enclave, perfectly suited for relaxation and adding to its recharging atmosphere. The staff were attentive yet respectful, giving us a sense of privacy that helped us fully unwind. They were always friendly and talkative when engaged but never intrusive, creating an enchanting, stress-free experience. Having arrived with an early ferry from Ko Lanta, the staff made our room available even before check-in. My girlfriend and I are already planning to return with our parents to share the joy of this magical place.

Nothing.

I have visited this place several times. It's worn out during the years but I was told that they will renovate everything this spring. Anyway to me going there feels like coming home. I just love this tiny island and the breathtaking views they have. I love the natural feeling in this place, being surrounded by nature and waking up to the sounds of waves and birds. So very relaxing.

The prices are higher in the island than in bigger places but it makes sense since everything must be brought there by boat. Also accomodation is pricier than in bigger islands.

The perfect location on a fabulous beach. The staff are all friendly and helpful. We returned to end our holiday there as it was the best place we had stayed during our 4 weeks in Thailand. The sea facing bungalows are really comfortable with soft pillows and nice quiet aircon. The sea in front of the bungalows is ideal for swimming and the water temperature is perfect. The Great Hornbills outside the room were fascinating.

The island, the beauty, the simplicity, the evening meals, sand under your feet when enjoying delicious food. Loved the authentic beach accommodation in thatched ‘huts’. Beach on the doorstep … no shoes for most of the holiday!

The breakfast was a disappointment … Cold, congealed eggs not very appetising! All food was cold. The breakfast really needs to be improved because it spoils what is a wonderful experience at this accommodation. Breakfast from 7 - 10, but sometimes very little remaining from 9 and on one occasion packed away by 9:45.

The location was amazing, our bungalow was beachfront, always quiet, beautiful, romantic sunrise beach. The bungalow was very cozy, always clean, had a conditioner.

The prices at the restaurant were quite high, we had to go eat somewhere else. First two days the breakfast menu was rather simple for such a luxurous resort.

Best part of the beach, friendly and helpful staff 🙏 large bungalows with good aircon, steps from the beach

Very relaxing music played in the day which was lovely, could be livened up at night but we were here start of low season. No complaints everything was well catered for, easy and pleasurable

Basic bungalows with the best location in koh Ngai beach, helpful staff. Very relaxed atmosphere, restaurant and massage available on the beach.

Bed very hard