Koh Chang, Thailand: The Ultimate Guide to Your Island Paradise Getaway

Nestled in the eastern Gulf of Thailand, Koh Chang is the largest of the 52 island archipelago off the coast of Trat province. It’s a tropical gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation.

As Thailand’s second-largest island, it boasts pristine beaches, lush jungles, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re a beach bum, nature enthusiast, an expat looking for a home or a culture vulture, Koh Chang has something special in store for you.

Koh Chang holds a special place in my heart. I’ve been there as a tourist, lived on ‘the rock’ twice, (first as a single man and later married), and I’m still a frequent visitor as I now live on Trat mainland. This give me some unique perspectives on the elephant island and I’ll share them with you here.

So, let’s dive into this comprehensive guide and discover why Koh Chang island should be at the top of your Thailand travel itinerary.

Getting to Koh Chang: Your Journey Begins

Before we explore the island’s wonders, let’s sort out how to get there. Koh Chang is conveniently located about 300 kilometres east of Bangkok, and less than 100 kilometres from the Cambodian border crossing making it easily accessible for travellers.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Koh Chang is Trat Airport, served by Bangkok Airways with daily flights from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. From Trat Airport, it’s a short drive of about 10 to 15 minutes to the ferry pier.

It’s recently been announced that the airport is to be extended to take international flights from 2026, so watch this space for further updates.

By Bus:

For budget travellers, buses run regularly from Bangkok’s Ekkamai Eastern Bus Terminal to Trat. The journey takes about 5-6 hours and is an affordable option. Buses are also available from the Suvarnabhumi Airport.

By Ferry:

Once you reach the mainland pier, you’ll need to hop on a ferry to reach Koh Chang. There are two ferry services that operate:

Ao Thammachat Pier to Ao Sapparot Pier (on Koh Chang)
Centrepoint Pier to Dan Kao Pier (on Koh Chang)

The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the approaching island.

By Bridge:

Hold your horses! Koh Chang has a bridge? Not yet but it may have in the future. Feasibility studies are currently being carried out.

If the general consensus is to build a bridge to Koh Change (many say, and I have to agree it will be a bridge too far) we will be looking at driving to Koh Chang from the middle of the next decade onwards. However, it may take even longer to find a car parking space once you arrive there.

When to Visit: Choosing the Perfect Season

Let’s face it, it’s a good time to visit Koh Chang anytime! The island enjoys a tropical climate, but knowing when to visit can make or break your trip if you don’t like it too hot or too wet.

High Season (November to February):

This is the most popular time to visit, with perfect weather conditions. Expect clear skies, calm seas, and comfortable temperatures. However, be prepared for higher prices and more crowded beaches.

Shoulder Season (March to April):

These months offer a good balance between weather and crowd levels. It’s getting hotter, but you’ll still enjoy plenty of sunshine and lower prices than during peak season.

Low Season (May to October):

This is the rainy season, with September and October being the wettest months. While you might encounter some showers, you’ll benefit from significantly lower prices and fewer tourists. Many find the lush, green landscape during this time particularly beautiful.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options for Every Budget

Koh Chang caters to all types of travellers, from backpackers to luxury seekers. Here’s a breakdown of the main areas and their accommodation options from hotel, resorts, Airbnb and camping.

White Sand Beach

The island’s most developed area, offering a range of hotels and resorts, you’ll find something for everyone and all budgets. It’s perfect for those who want easy access to amenities and nightlife.

Klong Prao Beach

Known for its upscale resorts and quieter atmosphere. Ideal for couples and families looking for a more relaxed vibe.

Kai Bae Beach

A good middle ground between bustling and tranquil, with a mix of budget and mid-range options.

Lonely Beach

The go-to spot for backpackers and partygoers, with plenty of budget accommodation and a lively nightlife scene.

Bang Bao

A quaint fishing village on stilts, offering unique home-stays and boutique resorts for those seeking a more authentic experience.

The East Side

Know as the quite side of Koh Chang, the east side has a number of boutique resorts for those who like to get away from it all. Notable places include, Serenity Beach Resort, Amber Sands, The Spa Koh Chang and Parama.

Things to Do: Unveiling Koh Chang’s Treasures

Koh Chang is brimming with activities and attractions. Here are my eight must-do experiences:

Beach Hopping

With numerous beaches to choose from, spend your days exploring the island’s coastline. Don’t miss White Sand Beach, Klong Prao Beach, and the secluded Wai Chek Beach. If your more adventurous travel the road less travelled to Long Beach.

Snorkelling and Diving

The waters around Koh Chang are teeming with marine life. Join a snorkelling trip to nearby islands or get PADI certified at one of the local dive shops. I can highly recommend BB Divers who always provide excellent service and if you are lucky, you may encounter one of the oceans gentle giants, a whale shark.

Hiking to Waterfalls

Trek through the lush jungle to discover stunning waterfalls like Klong Plu, Than Mayom, and Kai Bae Waterfall. Remember to bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water.

Elephant Encounters

While riding elephants is no longer considered ethical, you can visit reputable sanctuaries like Koh Chang Elephant Camp or Klong Son Elephant Camp to observe and interact with these magnificent creatures responsibly.

Island Hopping

Take a day trip to nearby islands like Koh Wai, Koh Mak, or Koh Kood for pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Kayaking Through Mangroves

Explore the island’s rich ecosystem by kayaking through the mangrove forests in Salak Phet Bay.

Thai Cooking Classes

Learn to whip up your favourite Thai dishes at one of the many cooking schools on the island. Popular kitchens include, Napalai Thai Cuisine School, Blue Lagoon Cooking School and Kati Culinary.

Enjoy the Sunsets

Don’t miss the breathtaking sunset views from Kai Bae Viewpoint or the aptly name Sunset Club at Pearl Beach.

Culinary Delights: Savouring Koh Chang’s Flavours

No trip to Thailand is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Koh Chang offers a delectable array of dining options:

Street Food:

Head to the night markets in White Sand Beach or Kai Bae for authentic Thai street food. Don’t miss the mango sticky rice, roti and meat skewers!

Seafood:

Being an island, Koh Chang is renowned for its fresh seafood. Try the grilled fish or spicy tom yum goong at beachfront restaurants.

International Cuisine:

For those craving a taste of home, you’ll find plenty of international options, especially in the more touristy areas. If you are craving a Sunday Roast, 15 Palms will satisfy your appettite.

Local Specialties:

Be sure to try some local specialties like Massaman curry at Kapow, which is one of my favourite dishes and particularly good on the island. Fancy some mighty fine Indian cuisine? Shane’s Kitchen at the Sunset Club is the place to to head too.

Getting Around: Navigating the Island

Koh Chang is relatively large, so you’ll need to consider transportation options:

Motorbike Rental

The most popular and flexible way to explore the island. Just be cautious on the steep, winding roads, especially during or after the rains.

Songthaews:

These shared taxi trucks run along the main road and are an affordable option for getting between beaches.

Private Taxis:

More expensive but convenient and comfortable for longer trips or groups.

Walking:

Some areas, like White Sand Beach, are easily explored on foot.

Practical Tips for Your Koh Chang Adventure

ATMs and Currency:

While ATMs are available in the main tourist areas, it’s wise to bring enough cash, especially if you’re staying in more remote parts of the island.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity:

Most hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi but consider getting a local eSIM card for more reliable and safer internet access.

Safety:

Koh Chang is generally safe but take standard precautions like securing your valuables and being cautious when swimming, especially during monsoon season.

3a. Swimming – Rip Curls.

Sadly, a number of people get caught in rips and perish every year. Learn what to do should you get caught in one, or better still stay out of the ocean when the red flags are up.

After the rainy season some coastal areas of Koh Chang are swarmed by jelly fish. While most are harmless, there are some that are deadly and it’s next to impossible to see or tell them apart.

Respect Local Customs:

Remember to dress modestly when visiting temples and always ask permission before taking photos of locals.

Environmental Awareness:

Help preserve Koh Chang’s natural beauty by using reef-safe sunscreen (or avoid covering your body in chemicals and use virgin coconut oil), avoiding single-use plastics, and participating in beach clean-ups with Koh Chang Trash Heroes if possible.

Your Koh Chang Adventure Awaits

Koh Chang offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. From its pristine beaches and lush jungles to its vibrant local culture and delicious cuisine, this island paradise has something for everyone.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a backpacking adventure, Koh Chang will leave you with unforgettable memories and a yearning to return. But be warned, there’s something about the island that makes you not want to leave.

So, pack your bags, book your tickets, get an eSIM and get ready to experience the allure of Koh Chang. This tropical haven is waiting to enchant you with its charm and beauty.

Remember, the best adventures often happen when you step off the beaten path, so don’t be afraid to explore and discover your own slice of paradise on this remarkable island.