For those not familiar with the Thai language the word ‘haad’ means ‘beach’ as does the Thai word ‘ao’. Sometimes Chao Phao beach is written ‘Ao Chao Phao’ and sometimes it is written ‘Haad Chao Phao’. They are one and the same place. Chao Phao beach is located on the west coast of the island of Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand.
The great thing about Haad Chao Phao is the size of the beach. It is a 500 meter long stretch of fine white sand. The area has several huge volcanic outcrops and one hundred meters out to sea is a long coral reef network that spreads to the North West corner of the island. There are soft and hard corals and an abundance of marine life to enjoy by either snorkeling or diving. Near Haad Chao Phao is the tiny off shore island of Koh Ma that is linked to the mainland by a sand bar. Koh Ma is the only national marine park in Koh Phangan’s waters. You can see turtles, harmless reef sharks and colorful tropical fish.
Unlike other beaches on the west coast of Koh Phangan the sea shelf drops off steeply from the coast at Haad Chao Phao so it is one of the few beaches on the west coast that enjoys year round swimming.
Not only is Haad Chao Phao blessed with a great beach and nearby snorkeling opportunities it also has a wonderful sunset over the ocean. There are a number of laid back bars and restaurants on Haad Chao Phao where you can enjoy a cocktail (possibly a happy hour cocktail) and watch the sun drop spectacularly into the sea.
Haad Chao Phao was popular with the very first backpackers to the island. It has since then developed slowly and tastefully. There is both luxury and budget accommodation on Haad Chao Phao. While amenities have improved the beach has kept its original laid back feel and it is still popular with people who return to the island.
Ao Chao Phao or Leela Beach?
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ctuaiq_8kU
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