Location details
Ban Salak Phet, Salak Phet Bay, Koh Chang | Trat Province
Ban Salak Phet (also known as "Ban Rong Than") is the largest and oldest traditional fishing community on Koh Chang. It is located in Salak Phet Bay, at the southernmost tip of Koh Chang, in Trat Province.
General Information and Highlights
• Topography: Small islands, such as Koh Phrao Nai and Koh Phrao Nok, act as natural breakwaters, shielding the area from strong waves, winds, and currents during the monsoon season. This makes the bay a safe harbor for mooring boats and building homes.
• Way of Life: The local residents have traditionally engaged in coastal fishing and fruit orchard farming.
Key Attractions and Activities
• Ban Salak Phet Pier: A former fishing pier transformed into a tourist attraction, featuring a white lighthouse and a pavilion that offers a 360-degree view of the sea. It serves as a docking point for fishing boats, snorkeling tour boats, and private yachts.
• Wat Salak Phet: An historic temple established in 1906 (during the reign of King Rama V). It houses a replica of Phra Phuttha Chinnarat and a principal Buddha image known as "Luang Pho Phet Samrit," and also features a community museum.
• Ban Salak Phet Mangrove Forest (Ban Na Nai Mangrove Forest): A nature trail through the mangrove ecosystem. A red wooden bridge stretches for over 700 meters, featuring highlights such as an archway of *fad* trees (with their striking red blossoms) and a vast field of golden *prong* (mangrove) shrubs.
• Baan Rak Kala: A learning center and OTOP (One Tambon One Product) outlet showcasing handcrafted items made from coconut shells.
• Khiri Phet Waterfall: A tall, single-tiered waterfall located just 3 kilometers from the local community.
• Nearby Activities: Take a traditional wooden boat (*ruea mat*) to admire the natural scenery at Baan Salak Khok, or charter a boat to visit nearby islands such as Koh Lao Ya and Koh Wai.
Accommodation and Dining
• Options include traditional-style homestays and seaside resorts, such as Mae Somboon Homestay, Baan Chan Le Homestay, and Salak Phet Seafood & Resort.
• Renowned for fresh seafood sourced directly from local artisanal fishermen.
Location: Salak Phet Bay, on the eastern side of southern Koh Chang, Trat Province.