This is undeveloped non-tourist Thailand. We took the 3rd class train from HUA HIN which was very, very cheap (something like 35 baht) and a great experience passing through scenic countryside. On arrival at Bang Saphan Noi train station we were surprised - there were no taxis or tourists at all. We called the owner of Sananwan Beach B&B who contacted one of his friends (a semi-resident at the B&B) to come and pick us up. It took a while, as we had not booked in advance, and the friend was busy elsewhere, but we eventually got there.
One of the best things about staying here is that the local people are really, really friendly - the complete opposite of the jaded view of tourists that can be found in some parts of Thailand. There is a great weekly market nearby within walking distance (4km) where you can experience local food and drinks, or vegetables, fish and other meats which the B&B staff will cook for your meal. We were walking back from the market, and a man came running out of his house to offer us two coconuts that he had just picked from his tree. Another man randomly gave us a free pineapple. Several people stopped on their mopeds and offered us a lift. Another time a man saw us trying to pick a coconut, laughed, and then climbed up the tree to get it for us. Amazing friendly people.