March 24th, 2006 | The lowdown by Gordon Candelin

Coaster's Bungalows, Ocehteaul Beach.

Coaster's is by far one of the best places to stay on Serendipity/Ocehteaul beach these days.

Let's hope it stays that way. What began as simple wooden bungalows on a lazy little hill ($10 for a small bungalow with a double bed, $15 for two double beds) has turned into a mini-complex with the addition of brick and plaster bungalows which can run upwards of $50.

The wooden bungalows have fans and mosquito nets, with a small en-suite bathroom and a balcony with a view. The bungalows are simple but comfortable, and just meters from the beach.

The extras are there too: shampoo, soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste are all at hand in case, as it happens, you left yours in Thailand.

The restaurant has a good selection of western and asian food, and is cheap enough. The dining area/bar is right on the beach and has a beautiful view. Even if you aren't staying here, stopping by for a drink or two is worth it.

Don, the Irish owner is doing a great job of creating a relaxed environment on a beach that has seen so many changes in the last year one wonders what could possibly happen next. Land grabs, shady deals and other degrees of corruption continually threaten to change this beach forever. Come and visit while you can.