For me it was perfect. I think I was pretty much the only one who stayed there, which added to my experience. Bungalow was everything to be expected at these rates and maybe even more. Really good breakfast by mr. NoNo for only 200 baht, including everything and even more one could expect. I can recommend this place

Stayed in April 2024

Th beach next to the resort wasn't good for swimming, but unfortunately this was the situation in a lot of places in Thailand when I went (water was infested with jellyfish or just dirty as a result of human activity) But still it was very beautiful on the surface.

This was one of the best bungalows I've ever had. Amazing view and so quiet. The only things I would constantly hear were birds, the trees and the sea which contributed to a relaxing experience overall. Greetings again to Pond who was the sweetest and most helpful person ever. It was great meeting her and the 15+ adorable cats living their life around the resort. The staff were always very nice the food was one of the best on the island - if you stay at this resort you have to try their coconut soups. The breakfast was also good - lots of fresh fruit besides the classic western-style buffet with daily added custom local specialties.

Stayed in March 2024

Very nice rooms and a great location.

Stayed in April 2024

Friendly owner Wonderful view Remote

Stayed in April 2024

There is really not a thing we didn’t like about the property! We spent 2 days there and it wasn’t an issue for us but it’s good to know when booking that the northern part of Koh Yao Yai is a bit isolated and there isn’t much to do around (which we loved because of nature’s closeness and tranquility) but if you don’t rent a scooter you are pretty much reliant on pick ups from the hotel (which can be arranged, we did it and it worked for us). The hotel has its own driver.

We absolutely loved staying at Esmeralda! We booked an aircon bungalow with a sea view. The view was stunning and sitting on our terrace felt like being in paradise, beautiful sea view and surrounded by trees and nature- great to watch the sunrise! The bungalow itself was beautiful- wooden with character, clean and equipped with everything you might need- fridge, tv wardrobe, toiletries etc. they have nice breakfast with great spread of foods on offer. There is a beach with wonderful views- it is possible to swim during high tide but a bit rocky. The staff was amazing- friendly, helpful and kind, family feel and friendly atmosphere! Pond at the reception helped us with all our questions and made us feel welcome. They have restaurant on site with chef Nono cooking great food- we especially recommend fish dishes, one of the best fish curry we had during our trip around Thailand. Thank you for making our stay so special! We hope to be back one day!

Stayed in March 2024

Nothing

Everything was perfect: food, staff, accommodation.

Stayed in March 2024

I don’t like cats climbing over the counter or on top of the fridge, when I asked for a menu it had a big clump of cat fur on putting me off eating at there restaurant.

Excellent view, and very helpful staff

Stayed in February 2024

Although located on the shoreline, there is no "real" beach in the classic sense. No pool either. Transportation on the island is difficult (no Grab) unless you rent a motorbike (which they have available on-site). However, even w/o scooter, we were able to arrange rides from the property's driver (sometimes for a fee, but sometimes free if they were going nearby anyway). There's no wifi in most bungalows (use cell hotspot), but there is wifi at the main reception/restaurant area.

Pond (the manager) is a delightful, truly exceptional lady. She (and her family) made such a huge, positive difference throughout both of our stays. We can't say enough good things about her. Nono (the chef) was cheerful, helpful, and provided much better than expected food at the on-site restaurant. Many of the dinners we had there were delicious. The breakfast buffet has a good variety of choices. Esmeralda is a beautiful property with bungalows that are rustic, charming, and (mostly) functional. *Make sure you confirm exactly which class of bungalow you're booking so there are no surprises when you get there*. We stayed twice within a 3 week period, in the deluxe C-3 and the corner deluxe B-4 (spa bathtub!). Absolutely beautiful views from both units. Complete privacy (except for the geckos ;) Both had well-functioning AC. The bungalows could use a bit more maintenance, but nothing too major or unexpected for an island property. We appreciated that the staff took seriously the few minor issues that did come up. They really care about their guests.

Stayed in February 2024

Pond and NoNo are brilliant. Nicest people ever. The whole vibe was excellent. Our chalet with the sea view was so lovely. We loved everything .

Stayed in February 2024

Location is very remote. You need to rent a scooter if you want to get anywhere. The local beach is not really maintained - broken chairs, lots of trash.

The place is really peaceful with lots of cats and chickens. Our room had a wonderful sea view. The bathroom is huge with a shower and a bathtub too. You can enjoy the breathtaking view while taking a shower. The owners are wonderful people with good English. They helped us organize transportation and day trips. Restaurant food was excellent.

Stayed in February 2024

Some areas could be renovated but I really didnt mind, gives more authentic feeling :)

Amazing view from the sea view bungalow. Very calm, nice surroundings. Pond was really nice and helpful. Its quite far from everything but they help you to get around or offer renting a scooter!

Stayed in January 2024

There is nothing negative to notice

Feels like you’re visiting family

Stayed in January 2024

No immediate beach access but this was not a problem.

Excellent accommodation. Breakfast buffet was very good. The staff were very friendly and helpful.

Stayed in January 2024

Calm beautiful place with wonderful views and very kind helpful people. Nice room and comfortable bed.

Stayed in January 2024

There was nothing to dislike about the property however unless you hire a moped there isn’t really any way to get about. It’s too far to walk anywhere. This said the hotel staff are happy to give you a lift anywhere. The beach at the property is a little difficult to get to but definitely worth it. The views are breathtaking.

The property was absolutely beautiful. Such an idilic setting. The staff were so kind and helpful, nothing was too much trouble.

Stayed in January 2024

A really beautiful location and lovely traditional huts / cabins to sleep in. Quiet part of the island, but the food at the resort is delicious. Very easy to get taxi or scooter to beaches on the island. The staff are so wonderful! And we loved all of the cats

Stayed in January 2024

Friendly stuff, we.felt so welcome all the time. Great cousine, and they offer great trips, also private boat trip starting directly from the resort. Highly recommended. The view is stunning!!!

Stayed in January 2024

Beach access area could be maintained a bit more thoroughly.

Bungalow with sea view. Very friendly staff. Great Thai food - freshly cooked (be prepared to wait a litte).

Stayed in January 2024

Nothing! Everything was perfect

We loved how clean and homey it was. The staff were so friendly, the view from the room was incredible! The breakfast was so good, there was a huge selection and it really stood out compared to other places we’ve stayed. And the fresh eggs from the chickens on site were lush! Nothing was too much - we had help getting to and from the pier as well as help with renting scooters, we tried a few before deciding what we wanted and Boarn the resort manager was so patient. Speaking of Boarn, she is so lovely and kind, with lots of amazing local knowledge and advice! We loved our stay so much that we extended by one night and if we could’ve we would’ve stayed even longer. It has been our best stay on our month long trip. We would love to come back one day ☺️ thank you so much ❤️

Stayed in January 2024

The bathroom wasn't the nicest, but clean and functional.

The staff was very friendly and helpful. We followed the chef's recommendations as to where to go by scooter and we were not disappointed. They were helpful with our onwards travels. Also the room was very nice.

Stayed in December 2023

This is a very special place. Quiet and peaceful. Staff is so friendly and helpful. You feel cared for. The villa’s are spacious and clean. Great porch for relaxing. Exceptional views. We rented a scooter which we took to some beautiful quiet beaches. Great morning buffet and other meals are available if you want. The value is excellent. This is our second stay and we would return again.

Stayed in December 2023

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This place was just amazing! We felt more than welcome from the first moment we arrived. The staff was so helpfull and kind. Landscapes, bungalow, breakfast, atmosphere – all perfect!

Stayed in December 2023

There was nothing to not like. We had the best time ever!

The resort is beautiful and so peaceful with the best view over the sea and neighboring islands. The bungalows are made so beautifully, really gives cabin/jungle vibes. Our expectations were exceeded by far, as the photos do not do justice to what the real experience of the stay is/will be 🫶

Stayed in December 2023

Wonderful, peaceful place to stay. The staff is so friendly and kindly sees to every need. Highly recommend!

Stayed in November 2023