Although less popular than its neighbour, White Sand Beach, Klong Prao Beach is, in fact, not just an ordinary beach. Thanks to its location, the beach is split roughly into three sections by Klong Plu Waterfall’s river estuary. This creates magnificent and unique views of both the river and the sea. Being the largest beach on Koh Chang, Klong Prao beach is ideal for all sorts of activities including canoeing and kayaking to the adjacent islands of Koh Yuak and Koh Pli where great snorkeling can be enjoyed.
Facilities in Klong Prao Beach
The beach itself doesn’t offer much in terms of facilities. Most facilities like public restrooms and internet cafés can be found on both sides of the main road not too far from the beach. Hotels and resorts are usually the ones who provide deck chairs. However, a beach towel is essentially all it takes to enjoy the sand and the sun. Those with tense muscles are also in luck, as there’s quite a few massage places where at around 200 to 300 baht you can have your body and feet pampered.
Beach Vendors
Don’t be surprised if you see a horde of beach vendors coming straight to you when you’re in the middle of sunbathing. Expect to see the usual mix of touristy knick-knack such as scarves, bracelets and necklaces. To avoid incessant nagging, try not to make an eye contact if you’re not planning to buy their goods. If that fails, usually a simple “No, thank you” would do the trick. Although there are quite a few beach vendors selling all kinds of souvenirs and trinkets, not many food hawkers are seen on the beach. This is perhaps due to the fact that most hotels and resorts’ restaurants are conveniently located along beachfront, making it easy for beachgoers to enjoy food without having to go very far.
Beach Activities
Given its size and the lack of jet skis, banana boats, parasail and other fast-moving vehicles, Klong Prao Beach is perfect for many fun beach activities - sand castle building, Frisbee throwing or having a picnic. Feels like a game of volleyball or football? For a more challenging game, ask someone from a hotel close by to set up a net for you (they’re likely to have some provided).
What to eat in Klong Prao Beach
Restaurants serving up local Thai dishes and popular Western fare can be found dotting both sides of the road. Northeastern specialties like spicy papaya salad, grilled chicken and minced pork in roasted rice and basil leaves are sold at many restaurants in this area, especially around the front of Klong Plu Waterfall. A variety of fresh crustaceans and fish are also a must.
