When I first heard about Klong Prao Beach on Koh Chang, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I’d seen photos of its long, sandy shoreline and read snippets about its laid-back vibe, but nothing prepared me for the magic of experiencing it firsthand. As someone who craves a balance between relaxation and adventure, Klong Prao turned out to be the perfect destination. Over the course of a week, I immersed myself in its natural beauty, local culture, and serene atmosphere. Here’s my story of exploring Klong Prao Beach, complete with the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
Arriving at Klong Prao: First Impressions
Getting to Klong Prao Beach from Bangkok was an adventure in itself. I opted for the bus-and-ferry combo, which was both affordable and scenic, costing around $25 and taking about seven hours. The journey included a ferry ride from Trat to Koh Chang, where the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand first came into view, teasing what was to come. Once on the island, a quick songthaew ride (a shared taxi truck) took me to Klong Prao Beach, located on the west coast of Koh Chang, about 4 km from the famous Khlong Phlu Waterfall.
As we approached Klong Prao, I was struck by the lush greenery and the sense of calm that seemed to envelop the area. Unlike the bustling White Sand Beach to the north, Klong Prao felt quieter, almost like a secret waiting to be explored. The beach itself stretches over 3 km, making it the longest on the island, and is split into two sections by the Klong Prao river estuary. The northern end starts at Laem Chaichet, a cliff that separates it from White Sand Beach, while the southern end is home to some of Koh Chang’s best resorts.
Settling In: My Home Away from Home
I chose to stay at Klong Prao Resort, a 4-star property that sits right on the beach, nestled between a lagoon and the Gulf of Thailand. The resort’s tropical grounds, dotted with coconut palms and vibrant gardens, immediately set a relaxing tone. My room, a deluxe double with a balcony, offered a glimpse of the ocean, and I loved waking up to the sound of waves each morning. The resort’s buffet breakfast was a highlight, with an egg and noodle station that became my daily ritual. However, I did notice that the standard rooms could use some updating, and the air conditioning was a bit noisy, but the beachfront location more than made up for it.
The resort’s pool area, just steps from the beach, was perfect for lazy afternoons, and the staff were incredibly kind, especially to families and elderly guests. One evening, I caught a fire show on the beach, which added a fun, lively vibe to the otherwise tranquil setting. The only downside? The sunbeds were limited and a bit worn out, so I often opted to sprawl out on the sand instead.
The Beach: A Slice of Paradise
Klong Prao Beach itself was the star of the show. The sand is soft and white, shelving gently into the sea, making it ideal for wading or swimming, especially for families with kids. I spent hours walking along the shore, particularly in the late afternoon when the tide receded, revealing a wide expanse of sand perfect for strolls. The water was crystal clear, and I was thrilled to spot a few small fish darting around my feet. One morning, I walked from the resort to Flora I Talay Resort, about a 15-minute stroll, and found the beach remarkably clean and free of rocks or coral.
That said, I was warned about jellyfish, which can be a nuisance at the beginning and end of the rainy season due to the river estuary. Luckily, during my visit in the high season, I didn’t encounter any, though I kept an eye out. Sandflies were another concern mentioned in reviews, but I followed advice to use a strong mosquito spray and avoided dawn and dusk beach visits, which worked like a charm.
The beach’s serene atmosphere was exactly what I needed. Even with resorts like The Dewa and Centara Tropicana nearby, it never felt crowded. The southern end, where these resorts are located, had a bit more activity with beach bars and restaurants, but the northern part near Santhiya Tree was quieter, perfect for those seeking peace. I spent one afternoon just lying under a palm tree, listening to the waves and reading a book, feeling like I’d found my own little corner of paradise.
Exploring the Village: A Taste of Local Life
Klong Prao village, a short walk or quick songthaew ride from the beach, was a delightful surprise. Unlike the tourist-heavy areas of some Thai islands, the village felt authentic, with local shops, a temple, a school, and even an elephant camp. I visited Wat Klong Prao, a stunning Buddhist temple with a colorful main hall and a serene atmosphere. Watching monks perform morning rituals was a humbling experience, and I made sure to dress respectfully and remove my shoes before entering.
For food_tip, Kati Culinary, a roadside restaurant near the elephant camp, was a standout. Their Thai food was authentic and affordable, with dishes like green curry and som tam that burst with flavor. I also grabbed coffee at a nearby bakery and browsed the minimarts for snacks. The village’s mix of local and tourist-friendly spots made it easy to feel immersed in Thai culture without the overwhelming commercialism of places like Phuket.
Adventures Beyond the Beach
While the beach was my main draw, I couldn’t resist exploring more of Koh Chang. A short songthaew ride took me to Khlong Phlu Waterfall, a tranquil spot in the jungle with a large swimming hole. The hike to the waterfall was easy, and swimming in the cool, clear water was a refreshing break from the beach. I also booked a snorkeling trip through a local operator, which took me to nearby islands like Ko Rang. The coral reefs and colorful fish were breathtaking, though I wished I’d brought a waterproof camera.
Back in Klong Prao, I rented a scooter one day to explore nearby Kai Bae Beach, which is smaller but has a lively atmosphere with more bars and cafes. However, I found myself drawn back to Klong Prao’s calm vibes. For those seeking nightlife, Klong Prao isn’t the place, but a quick ride to White Sand or Lonely Beach offers plenty of evening entertainment.
Food and Dining: A Culinary Journey
Dining in Klong Prao was a mix of resort restaurants and local gems. At Klong Prao Resort’s Fueng-Fa Restaurant, I enjoyed delicious Thai cuisine with beachfront views. Their seafood dishes, especially the crab, were fresh and flavorful. However, the area around the resort had limited dining options, so I ventured to the village for variety. Tonsai Restaurant and Nong Bua Seafood, both recommended by locals, served up mouthwatering dishes at reasonable prices. I also tried a beachfront massage at Coco Massage, which was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.
One evening, I stumbled upon a small beach bar near The Dewa, where I sipped a Singha beer and watched a breathtaking sunset. The lack of crowds made these moments feel intimate, like the beach belonged to me and the handful of other travelers around.
The Challenges: Not Everything Was Perfect
No trip is without its hiccups, and Klong Prao had a few. The limited number of cafes and shops near the resort meant I had to travel to the village or beyond for variety, which wasn’t ideal without a scooter. Mosquitoes and midges were noticeable, especially near the lagoon, so bug spray was a must. Some reviews mentioned rude staff at Klong Prao Resort, but I found most to be kind, though the front desk could be slow at times. Lastly, the rainy season warnings about debris and riptides didn’t apply to my trip, but it’s worth noting for off-season travelers.
Why Klong Prao Stole My Heart
What makes Klong Prao special is its balance of natural beauty and understated charm. It’s not as commercialized as White Sand Beach or as party-focused as Lonely Beach, making it ideal for travelers like me who want relaxation with a touch of adventure. The beach’s length and quiet vibe allowed me to feel connected to nature, whether I was swimming, walking, or simply soaking in the sunset. The village offered a glimpse into local life, and the nearby attractions provided just enough excitement to keep things interesting.
Tips for Your Klong Prao Adventure
- Timing Matters: Visit during the high season (November–April) to avoid jellyfish, debris, and riptides. The weather is also more predictable.
- Pack Smart: Bring strong insect repellent and sunscreen. A waterproof phone case is great for snorkeling or waterfall trips.
Transportation: Rent a scooter for flexibility, or use songthaews to get around affordably. - Accommodation: Book a deluxe room or villa at resorts like Klong Prao for better amenities and views. Check for updates, as some standard rooms are dated.
- Explore Locally: Don’t miss Wat Klong Prao and Kati Culinary in the village for culture and great food.
Final Thoughts
Klong Prao Beach left an indelible mark on my heart. It’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time, letting the rhythm of the waves and the warmth of the sun melt your worries away. Whether you’re a family looking for a safe beach, a couple seeking romance, or a solo traveler craving peace, Klong Prao delivers. I’m already dreaming of my next visit, perhaps to explore more of Koh Chang’s hidden beaches or to simply lie under those palm trees again. If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, put Klong Prao on your list—you won’t regret it.
