Travel Guide: Travellers Rest, Koh Chang

Introduction

Nestled along the soft golden sands of Klong Prao Beach on Thailand’s idyllic Koh Chang, Travellers Rest is a laid-back, budget-friendly hideaway that lives up to its name. Perfect for backpackers, slow travellers, and small families seeking a low-key escape from the island’s busier tourist hubs, this charming property puts you steps from the Andaman Sea while keeping all of Koh Chang’s top natural attractions within easy reach. Whether you’re stopping over for a few days of beach relaxation or basing yourself for a week of island exploration, Travellers Rest delivers comfortable, unpretentious accommodation at an unbeatable value.

Hotel Overview

Travellers Rest is located at 42/2 Moo 4, Klong Prao Beach, Koh Chang, Trat 23170, a quiet stretch of coastline tucked between the island’s busy White Sand Beach and the secluded southwestern coves. The property caters to every travel style, with a mix of private and shared accommodation options that all include free WiFi, complimentary on-site private parking (accessible for guests with disabilities, with advance booking), and air conditioning or ceiling fans to beat the Thai heat. All rooms include access to either private or shared bathrooms, with extras like in-room kettles, flat-screen TVs, and simple kitchenettes with microwaves, fridges, and washing machines available in most units. Outdoor space is a highlight: the property features lush tropical gardens, shaded outdoor dining areas, and shared barbecue facilities perfect for evening cookouts with fellow travellers. For an added fee, guests can book on-site spa services including massages, manicures, pedicures, and hair treatments, while the front desk offers island tour bookings, wake-up calls, dry cleaning, and private check-in/out for convenience. The entire property is wheelchair-accessible, with all accommodation located on the ground floor, and staff speak both English and Thai for smooth communication.

Local Attractions

Just a 10-minute drive from Travellers Rest, Klong Plu Waterfall is Koh Chang’s most famous natural landmark. A short, easy 15-minute hike through dense rainforest leads to a 30-metre cascading fall that empties into a cool, swimmable natural pool—ideal for escaping the midday heat. Local vendors near the entrance sell fresh coconut water and grilled mango sticky rice for a post-hike snack.

For beach lovers, Lonely Beach is a 20-minute drive south of Klong Prao. This bohemian stretch of shoreline is known for its soft white sand, gentle surf, and laid-back beach bars that serve sunset cocktails and fresh grilled seafood. It’s far less crowded than White Sand Beach, making it perfect for a full day of sunbathing.

A 25-minute drive from the hotel, Koh Chang Elephant Camp offers ethical elephant encounters, with no riding allowed. Visitors can walk alongside rescued elephants through the jungle, help prepare their food, and watch them bathe in a natural river—an unforgettable experience that supports conservation efforts.

Travel Tips

Travellers Rest books up fast during peak season (November to February), so reserve your room at least four weeks in advance. If you plan to explore the island independently, rent a scooter from a local shop near the hotel for around 200 THB per day—Klong Prao’s main road is well-paved and easy to navigate. The hotel’s kitchenette facilities make it easy to save money on meals: pick up fresh seafood and tropical fruit from the daily Klong Prao night market, 10 minutes’ walk from the property, and use the shared barbecue grills for a cheap, delicious dinner. Finally, don’t forget to pack reef-safe sunscreen if