One of the most charming places on Koh Chang to immerse yourself in authentic Thai culture is Salak Khok Fishing Village. This small but extremely picturesque fishing village offers unforgettable views of the surrounding mangroves. Houses on stilts and moored fishing boats create the perfect setting for photography. According to travelers, the best time to visit is before sunset, when golden rays illuminate the bay, creating a magical atmosphere. The village, though small, has several restaurants serving fresh seafood - it's worth trying local delicacies at one of them, such as Ban Dit, which has a good reputation among visitors.

To further explore the charms of Salak Khok and the surrounding mangrove forests, take the Salak Khok Boat Tour. This 40-minute longboat tour gives you an up-close view of the unique mangrove ecosystem. Many tourists stress that it is best to take this tour early in the morning, when the waters are calm and nature is awakening. The ticket price is about 200 baht per person, a reasonable investment for an unforgettable experience.

When comparing the two attractions, it's worth noting that the Salak Khok Fishing Village offers a more static but authentic experience of local community life, while the Salak Khok Boat Tour allows active exploration of the surrounding nature. The two attractions complement each other, creating a complete picture of this part of the island. The fishing village has a higher rating (4.2) than the boat tour (4.5), which may suggest that the place itself is more impressive to tourists than the short ride.

It's worth remembering that getting to Salak Khok can be a challenge - it's located on the opposite end of the island from the popular beaches, and can take up to an hour from Khlong Prao beach to get there. Also, as tourists note, it is advisable to plan to return before dark, as the roads are not well lit. However, these inconveniences are compensated for by the authenticity of the experience and the opportunity to get away from the crowds of tourists.

One of the most picturesque and lesser-known spots on Koh Chang is Klong Kloi Beach. This tranquil, sandy beach offers a very different experience from the crowded resorts in the northern part of the island. Klong Kloi Beach has a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere and is ideal for families looking for a quiet getaway. The beach is surrounded by trees that provide natural shelter from the sun, and there are many bars and restaurants along the shore offering free loungers for customers. Note the hammocks and swings, which add to the beach's charm and are a great place to relax. The water is clean and the beach is cleaned daily, which tourists appreciate. An additional attraction is the nearby coral reef, ideal for snorkeling.

For those looking for breathtaking views, a must-see on the Koh Chang map is Kai Bae Viewpoint. This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the surrounding islands, the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand and the horizon. It is the perfect place to take souvenir photos and enjoy the sunset. Many tourists insist that no photo fully captures the charm of this place - you have to see it with your own eyes. It is worth noting that there is a sizable parking lot next to the viewpoint for easy access, and a pub/bar is being built nearby, which may make the place even more attractive in the future.

Comparing the two attractions, Klong Kloi Beach offers a more active vacation with swimming, snorkeling and relaxing on the beach, while Kai Bae Viewpoint is a short stop, perfect for taking photos and enjoying the island's panorama. Klong Kloi Beach has a slightly lower rating (4.5) than Kai Bae Viewpoint (4.6), but offers more activities.

For those looking for luxury accommodations in quiet surroundings, consider The Aiyapura Koh Chang. This resort, located off the main road, offers beautiful views of the bay and the sea. Guests praise the spacious rooms, some with an outdoor shower, which adds to the exotic charm. The resort also offers complimentary kayaks and SUP boards, allowing guests to actively explore the area. The 4.3 rating suggests that despite some shortcomings (some guests note that some of the furnishings are a bit dated), the overall experience is very positive.

It's worth noting that both Klong Kloi Beach and The Aiyapura Koh Chang are located in quieter parts of the island, which may require renting a scooter or using hotel transportation to more crowded areas. However, this is ideal for those who appreciate a quiet and authentic experience.

Exploring the lesser-known corners of Koh Chang requires proper preparation and planning. Here are some practical tips to help you fully enjoy the charms of the island:

1. transportation: renting a scooter is the most popular way to get around the island, especially if you want to reach remote places like Salak Khok Fishing Village or Kai Bae Viewpoint. However, remember to drive carefully, especially on mountain roads. Alternatively, you can use local cab services, although this can be a more expensive option.

2 Travel time: When planning your visit to Salak Khok, keep in mind that the road from the popular beaches can take up to an hour. It is advisable to plan your trip to return before dark, as the roads are not well lit.

3. accommodation: If you value tranquility and authenticity, consider staying in less touristy parts of the island. The Aiyapura Koh Chang offers luxurious accommodations away from the hustle and bustle, but keep in mind that this also means limited access to entertainment and shopping.

4 - Boat Tours: Using the Salak Khok Boat Tour, choose the morning for your excursion - the waters are at their calmest then and nature is awakening. The price of about 200 baht per person is standard.

5. beaches: Klong Kloi Beach offers a quieter alternative to the crowded beaches of the north. Be sure to bring snorkeling gear to enjoy the nearby coral reef.

6. Viewpoints: When visiting Kai Bae Viewpoint, plan your visit for sunset - the views are most spectacular then. Be sure to bring your camera, but be aware that no photo can fully capture the beauty of this place.

7 - Food: In Salak Khok, try fresh seafood at local restaurants. Ban Dit restaurant has a good reputation among tourists.

8. Respect for local culture: When visiting traditional villages like Salak Khok, be sure to dress appropriately and maintain respect for local customs.

9. Prepare for different conditions: The weather on Koh Chang can be changeable. Take sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a light rain jacket with you.

10 Reservations: During the high season, it's a good idea to book accommodation and tours in advance, especially if you plan to stay in quieter parts of the island.

Remember that exploring the lesser-known corners of Koh Chang requires flexibility and an openness to surprises. It is these unplanned moments that often become your most treasured travel memories. Enjoy the authentic charm of the island, respect the local culture and nature, and Koh Chang is sure to reveal its most beautiful face to you.