Koh Chang (เกาะช้าง) is an island in Trat Province, Eastern Thailand. Ko Chang is Thailand’s second largest island, and the biggest in Eastern Thailand. The name means Elephant Island, named for the elephant shape of its headland, although elephants are not indigenous to the island.
Koh Chang has an area of approximately 429 square kilometres. 70 percent of this undisturbed island is rainforest, steep hills, cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife, fine beaches, coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. The island also offers tall mountains and rock cliffs. The island and its vicinity are great places for snorkeling, diving and jungle hiking. The “discovery” of the island as a tourist destination since 2000 has brought on significant development while still far quieter than places like Phuket or Ko Samui.
Most villages are located on the western side of the island, where the sandy beaches are. (Source wikipedia)
Klong Prao
Klong Prao (mean “Coconut Canal” in Thai), village is located on the western side of the island, 4 kilometers south of White Sand Beach (Koh Chang’s only ‘town’) and about 8 km from the ferry terminal. It has a very central location being halfway to the north and to the south of the island, making it a perfect location to get anywhere quickly.
The village spreads widely over 3 km on each side of the main road an offers a vast selection of all sorts of convenience (Tesco, Seven Eleven, pharmacy, etc.) or specialty shops (hardwares store, mobile shop, computer repairs, etc.) as well as a large choice of Thai or western restaurants including a great bakery across from the village temple. The village also has its own local clinic and is located 2 km from the island’s International Clinic.
Klong Prao Beach is the largest beach on Koh Chang.It is quite unique as it is divided into three sections by the river estuary of Klong Plu Waterfall and a river channel in the south. Much quieter than White Sand Beach, Klong Prao beach is ideal for those who appreciate tranquil surroundings and gorgeous coconut framed beaches. As well as the usual beachside activities, there are a few excellent cooking schools towards the southern end of the beach. Klong Prao is also the place to access the Khlong Phu waterfall and Chang Chutiman Trekking elephant camp.
Klong Prao has sprung up in recent years as a centre for major upmarket resorts (with stunning swimming pools open to drop-in guests) and health spas.
Klong Prao Beach Lagoon/Canal (where Baan Moon is located)
One of Klong Prao beach’s highlights is the lagoon/canal going inland from the sea and offering stunning views over the mountains and mangrove: a great opportunity to kayak up the river or have a meal at one of the cute riverside seafood restaurants; some of them even take customers on fireflies’ watching trips at night – an unforgettable experience. See the pictures or the map of Baan Moon with aerial views