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Nightlife & Bars
Koh Phangan

The Ugly Duckling

4.7(327 reviews)$$$$

The Ugly Duckling is a popular Irish pub sitting on Taladkao Road in Koh Phangan, drawing a loyal crowd of both expats and travellers looking for a familiar, easygoing place to unwind. With a strong and consistent reputation among visitors, it strikes a comfortable balance between a neighbourhood local and a social hub for those exploring the island beyond the Full Moon Party scene. Guests can expect a laid-back atmosphere with cold drinks, good company, and the kind of unpretentious setting that makes it easy to settle in for a few hours. The pub opens at 9am daily and stays open until 1am, making it a versatile spot whether you are after a morning coffee, an afternoon beer, or a late-night drink. Its mid-range pricing means a night out here is unlikely to break the budget, and the extended hours give it a flexibility that suits most travel schedules. The Facebook page serves as the main online presence for checking upcoming events, promotions, or live entertainment, so it is worth a look before heading over. Located in the Ko Pha-ngan area of Surat Thani province, the pub is accessible enough to work as a regular hangout during a longer island stay. Those visiting during busier periods around the Full Moon Party should expect a livelier crowd and may want to arrive earlier to secure a good seat.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite
Mid-range

Pair your visit. After The Ugly Duckling, round out your day in Koh Phangan with contrasting stops nearby.

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The Ugly Duckling: Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Ugly Duckling worth visiting?

The Ugly Duckling holds a 4.7★ rating from 327 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated nightlife & bars in Koh Phangan.

What are the opening hours of The Ugly Duckling?

The Ugly Duckling is typically open 09:00-01:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

How expensive is The Ugly Duckling?

The Ugly Duckling is moderately priced (฿฿) relative to other nightlife & bars in Koh Phangan.

When is the best time to visit The Ugly Duckling?

The best months to visit Koh Phangan are January – April, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in Full Moon Party nights & December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: October – November (Gulf monsoon peak).

Where is The Ugly Duckling located?

The Ugly Duckling is at 145, 2 Taladkao Rd, Tambon Ko Pha-ngan, Amphoe Ko Pha-ngan, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84280, Thailand, in Koh Phangan. Getting around Koh Phangan: Songthaews from Thong Sala pier to the main beaches; Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day; steep hills to Bottle Beach and Haad Rin).

Location Info

145, 2 Taladkao Rd, Tambon Ko Pha-ngan, Amphoe Ko Pha-ngan, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84280, Thailand+66 84 845 0029www.facebook.com/irishpubtheuglyduckling
Opening Hours
Monday09:00-01:00
Tuesday09:00-01:00
Wednesday09:00-01:00
Thursday09:00-01:00
Friday09:00-01:00
Saturday09:00-01:00
Sunday09:00-01:00

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

January – April

Avoid: October – November (Gulf monsoon peak)

Rainy season

October – December

Avg. temperature

25°C – 32°C(77°F – 90°F)

Crowds

High

Peak: Full Moon Party nights & December – January

Getting there

Ferries run from Koh Samui (30–60 min, ฿300–500) and from Surat Thani town, train station, and airport as combo tickets (2.5–4.5 hrs). Lomprayah and Seatran catamarans also connect from Chumphon via Koh Tao. There is no airport — Samui's is the closest, one boat away.

Getting around

  • Songthaews from Thong Sala pier to the main beaches
  • Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day; steep hills to Bottle Beach and Haad Rin)
  • Longtail boats to coves the roads don't reach

Where to stay near The Ugly Duckling

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Tips for Visiting Nightlife & Bars

Carry Your Passport or a Copy

Clubs and some bars check IDs strictly, especially in Bangkok's Thonglor, RCA, and Sukhumvit areas. A photo of your passport info page on your phone usually works, but carrying a laminated photocopy is safer.

Know the Closing Times

Legal closing time is 2 AM for most venues, though enforcement varies. In Bangkok's designated entertainment zones (RCA, Silom Soi 2/4, Khao San), some clubs stay open until 4 AM. Islands tend to be more relaxed about hours.

Buy Bucket Drinks Cautiously

Island bucket drinks (mixed spirits in a small bucket) are cheap and fun but notoriously strong and inconsistent. Stick to one, stay hydrated, and never leave your drink unattended at beach parties.

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A laid-back whisky bar on Koh Phangan open daily, offering a relaxed alternative to the island's party scene.

SOHO Bar Phangan

SOHO Bar Phangan

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A lively bar and social hub in Thong Sala open daily from morning until the early hours.

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A laid-back bar and music venue on Koh Phangan, open daily from afternoon into the early hours.

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Lucky Bastard's Rock Bar

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A rocky clifftop bar on Koh Phangan open every night until 2am with a perfect rating.

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