This fishing village is still active but also lives from tourism. Bang Bao is probably one of the most peaceful places in Koh Chang. The pier and the streets before it with these clothes and souvenir shops and restaurants offering seafood dishes (among other more traditional dishes) are very pleasant places to hike. It is also from there that leaves excusrions or boat trips to neighboring islands of Koh Wai, Koh Mak, Koh Koot and Co. You can book snorkeling or diving packages.
If you decide to stay there, you will have to choose between the charm of the pier and docks and the beach because there is not any option close enough to get from one to the other by a short walk. Among the houses on stilts before the little harbor and its white lighthouse, there are several guesthouses or homestays possibilities. Prices are from 800 THB to 1500 THB but is better to book in advance as they are often full. Bang Bao is a good place to stay if you plan to go diving or discover the surrounding islands, although it is obviously possible since everywhere in Koh Chang, you will just be brought here. It is a charming and quiet place far from White Sands Beach tumult and offers a setting like you won't find elsewhere on Koh Chang.