Travel Guide: Ban Na, Ko Chang

Introduction

Tucked away on the quiet western side of Ko Chang, Thailand’s second-largest island, Ban Na is a hidden gem for travelers looking to escape the crowded resorts of the island’s more popular beaches. Set directly on Kai Mook Beach (also known as Pearl Beach), this low-key, nature-focused accommodation blends laid-back island living with thoughtful amenities, making it ideal for family getaways, pet-friendly retreats, and slow travel lovers alike.

Hotel Overview

Ban Na’s address is 36/1 Moo 4, Kai Mook Beach, 23170 Ban Map Khangkhao, Thailand, and all of its accommodation sits on ground level, making it accessible for travelers of all mobility levels. Guests can bring pets along for their stay (note that a small extra fee may apply), and core perks include free private parking, free property-wide WiFi, and a private stretch of sandy beach that never feels crowded.

Accommodation ranges from cozy solo rooms to spacious family units, all non-smoking, and every room includes tea and coffee making facilities, plus a private en-suite bathroom with a shower or bathtub. Outdoor spaces are the star of the property: guests can barbecue on shared grills, dine al fresco in the outdoor eating area, warm up by outdoor fire pits in the cool evening, or relax on private balconies overlooking tropical gardens, rolling hills, or the central courtyard. For families, there are both indoor play areas and outdoor children’s play equipment, while active guests can book on-site water sports, snorkeling, diving, or fishing trips. Additional amenities include a full shared kitchen for self-catering, on-site massage services (for an extra fee), and a 24-hour security team for peace of mind. The staff speak both English and Thai, and offer tour booking and car rental to help guests explore the island.

Local Attractions

Three can’t-miss spots within a short drive of Ban Na include:

• Kai Mook Viewpoint: A 10-minute hike from the hotel, this sweeping overlook offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand and Ko Chang’s jungle-cloaked interior, with sunset views that draw few crowds compared to the island’s more popular viewpoints.
• Mu Ko Chang National Park: A 20-minute drive away, this protected rainforest park boasts winding hiking trails, hidden waterfalls (including the iconic Khlong Phlu Waterfall, where you can swim in cool jungle pools), and abundant wildlife including wild monkeys and tropical bird species.
• Bang Bao Fishing Village: Half an hour south of the hotel, this charming stilted fishing village is lined with casual seafood shacks, colorful wooden docks, and boat departure points for day trips to the surrounding smaller islands. It’s the perfect spot to sample fresh grilled barracuda and watch local fishermen unload their daily catch.

Travel Tips

Book your room in advance during peak season (November to February) to secure a garden or sea-view unit. If you plan to cook in the shared kitchen, stop for groceries at the Tesco Lotus in the main town of Chai Chet on your way to the hotel, as small local shops near Kai Mook Beach have limited stock. Ask the front desk to arrange a shared island shuttle for a lower fee than private taxi transfers from the ferry terminal. Don’t forget to pack reef-safe sunscreen if you plan to snorkel off the hotel’s private beach, and bring a light sweater for cool December evenings, when outdoor fire pits make for a cozy end to the day.