When I decided to visit Koh Chang, I knew I wanted a place that offered both a beachfront escape and a touch of authentic Thai charm. After sifting through reviews and recommendations, I landed on Klong Prao Resort, a 4-star property nestled along the stunning Klong Prao Beach. Over the course of a week, I soaked in the resort’s serene vibe, explored its amenities, and got a real feel for what makes this place special—and where it falls short. Here’s my personal take on staying at Klong Prao Resort, written from the heart of someone who loves a good mix of relaxation and adventure.
Arrival and First Impressions
Getting to Klong Prao Resort was part of the adventure. I took a bus from Bangkok to Trat, followed by a ferry to Koh Chang—a journey of about seven hours that cost around $25. The ferry ride offered my first glimpse of the island’s turquoise waters, and I was already buzzing with excitement. From the pier, a quick songthaew ride (about 100 baht) dropped me at the resort, located on the west coast of Koh Chang, right on Klong Prao Beach, the island’s longest stretch of sand.
As I arrived, I was greeted by the resort’s lush, tropical grounds—think swaying coconut palms, vibrant flowers, and a serene lagoon that runs alongside the property. The open-air reception area had a relaxed, welcoming feel, with staff offering cold towels and a refreshing drink. The setting immediately screamed “vacation,” with the beach just steps away and the sound of waves in the background. However, I did notice the check-in process was a bit slow, and the front desk staff, while polite, seemed slightly overwhelmed during peak arrival times.
The Room: Comfort with a View
I booked a deluxe double room with a balcony, hoping for a glimpse of the ocean, and I wasn’t disappointed. The room was spacious, with a clean, simple design that leaned into the tropical vibe—wooden furniture, bright linens, and a private balcony overlooking the lagoon and, in the distance, the sea. Waking up to the sound of waves and birds chirping was pure bliss. The bed was comfortable, and the room had all the essentials: a minibar, safe, and a decent-sized bathroom with a hot shower.
That said, the room wasn’t flawless. The air conditioning unit was a bit noisy, which was noticeable at night, and some of the furnishings felt dated, like they could use a refresh. Wi-Fi was free but spotty in the room, though it worked better in the lobby and pool area. For a 4-star resort, I expected a bit more polish, but the view and proximity to the beach made up for these minor gripes. If you’re considering a stay, I’d recommend splurging on a deluxe room or villa for the best experience, as some reviews mentioned standard rooms being less impressive.
The Grounds and Amenities: A Tropical Haven
Klong Prao Resort’s layout is one of its biggest strengths. The property is sprawling, with low-rise buildings and villas scattered across manicured gardens, giving it a sense of space and tranquility. The lagoon, which connects to the Klong Prao river estuary, adds a unique touch, and I loved watching small fish dart through the water from the wooden bridges. The main pool, just steps from the beach, was a highlight—clean, spacious, and surrounded by loungers where I spent many lazy afternoons with a book and a coconut.
The beachfront location is the resort’s crown jewel. Klong Prao Beach is soft, white, and gently slopes into the clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand. I spent hours walking the shore, especially at low tide when the sand stretched out endlessly. The resort provides kayaks and paddleboards, which I tried one morning, gliding along the calm waters near the estuary. However, the sunbeds were a bit of a letdown—there weren’t enough for all guests, and some were worn out. I often ended up spreading a towel on the sand, which was just as enjoyable.
The resort also has a small spa, Coco Massage, where I treated myself to a Thai massage for about 300 baht. It was heavenly, with the sound of waves in the background and a skilled therapist who melted away my travel stress. One evening, I caught a fire show on the beach, which was a fun surprise, complete with twirling flames and upbeat music. For families, the resort is a great pick—there’s a kids’ play area, and the shallow waters are perfect for little ones.
Dining: Hits and Misses
The resort’s main restaurant, Fueng-Fa, was a standout for its beachfront setting and diverse menu. Breakfast was a buffet with everything from fresh fruit and pastries to made-to-order eggs and Thai noodle soup. I couldn’t get enough of the noodle station, where the chef whipped up a spicy, flavorful bowl in minutes. Dinner at Fueng-Fa was equally impressive, with fresh seafood dishes like crab and prawns stealing the show. Prices were reasonable for a resort—around 200-300 baht for a main dish.
However, dining options within the resort were limited. There’s only Fueng-Fa and a small beach bar, so if you’re staying for a week like I did, you might crave variety. I ventured into Klong Prao village, a 5-minute songthaew ride away, to try spots like Kati Culinary and Nong Bua Seafood, which offered authentic Thai flavors at lower prices. The resort’s beach bar was great for a sunset drink—sipping a Singha while watching the sky turn pink was a memory I’ll cherish—but the cocktail menu was basic, and service could be slow when it got busy.
Exploring Beyond the Resort
While the resort was my base, I couldn’t resist exploring Klong Prao and beyond. The beach itself is perfect for long walks, stretching over 3 km from Laem Chaichet in the north to the southern resorts like The Dewa. I rented a scooter (about 250 baht/day) to visit Khlong Phlu Waterfall, a 10-minute ride away, where I swam in a cool, jungle-surrounded pool. I also booked a snorkeling trip through the resort’s tour desk to nearby islands like Ko Rang, which was worth every penny for the vibrant coral and fish.
Klong Prao village, just a short walk or ride from the resort, was a gem. I visited Wat Klong Prao, a beautiful Buddhist temple, and grabbed coffee at a local bakery. The village felt authentic, with local shops and minimarts, and it was refreshing to see a slice of Koh Chang life away from the tourist bubble. If you’re craving nightlife, you’ll need to head to White Sand or Lonely Beach, as Klong Prao Resort and its surroundings are more about calm vibes than late-night parties.
The Challenges: Room for Improvement
No stay is perfect, and Klong Prao Resort had its quirks. The slow check-in process and occasional language barriers with staff could be frustrating, especially when asking for recommendations or resolving small issues like a flickering room light. Mosquitoes were noticeable near the lagoon, so I kept bug spray handy, especially in the evenings. Some guests mentioned in reviews that the resort felt understaffed at times, and I noticed this during peak dining hours when wait times crept up.
The resort’s facilities, while charming, showed signs of age. The sunbeds, as I mentioned, were limited and worn, and some areas of the property could use a fresh coat of paint. For a 4-star resort, I expected a bit more consistency, but these issues didn’t overshadow the overall experience. The beach and the relaxed atmosphere were the real draws, and they delivered in spades.
Why Klong Prao Resort Stands Out
What makes Klong Prao Resort special is its prime location and laid-back charm. The beachfront setting, with its soft sand and clear waters, is hard to beat, and the tropical grounds create a sense of escape that’s perfect for unwinding. It’s ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a balance of resort comforts and easy access to Koh Chang’s attractions. The staff’s warmth, especially toward kids and elderly guests, added a personal touch that made me feel at home.
Tips for Your Stay
- Book Smart: Go for a deluxe room or villa for better views and newer amenities. Check recent reviews for updates on room conditions.
- Pack Essentials: Bring bug spray and sunscreen. A waterproof bag is handy for kayaking or beach days.
- Explore Nearby: Rent a scooter or take a songthaew to Klong Prao village or Khlong Phlu Waterfall for a change of pace.
- Timing: Visit during the high season (November–April) to avoid jellyfish and enjoy the best weather.
- Dining: Try Fueng-Fa for convenience, but venture to the village for authentic, budget-friendly meals.
Final Thoughts
Klong Prao Resort was the perfect base for my Koh Chang adventure. It’s not a flashy, ultra-modern resort, but its natural beauty, beachfront access, and relaxed vibe won me over. From morning swims in the Gulf of Thailand to sunset drinks by the shore, every moment felt like a gift. If you’re looking for a place to disconnect, soak in nature, and dip your toes into Thai culture, Klong Prao Resort is a solid choice. I’m already daydreaming about returning to those palm-lined paths and that endless stretch of sand.
