Koh Chang with Kids: Ultimate Family Guide to Thailand’s Island Paradise

Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Chang is a tropical paradise that offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for families. This comprehensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable holiday on Thailand’s second-largest island, ensuring both parents and children have the time of their lives.

Why Choose Koh Chang for Your Family Holiday?

Koh Chang, often overlooked in favour of more popular Thai destinations, is a hidden gem for family travellers. With its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and laid-back atmosphere, the island provides a refreshing alternative to bustling tourist hotspots.

Here’s why Koh Chang elephant island should be at the top of your family holiday list:

1. Diverse Activities: From snorkelling in crystal-clear waters to trekking through rainforests, Koh Chang offers something for every family member.
2. Family-Friendly Accommodation: The island boasts a range of resorts and guesthouses catering specifically to families.
3. Safe Environment: Koh Chang is known for its low crime rate and welcoming locals, providing peace of mind for parents.
4. Natural Beauty: Unspoiled beaches and abundant wildlife make Koh Chang a nature lover’s paradise.
5. Cultural Experiences: Families can immerse themselves in Thai culture through local markets, temples, and fishing villages.
6. Less crowded: Compared to more popular Thai islands like Phuket or Koh Samui, Koh Chang provides a more authentic and peaceful experience.
7. Affordable: Koh Chang offers excellent value for money, with a range of accommodations and activities to suit all budgets.

Getting to Koh Chang

Before looking at family friendly accommodation and diving into a fun-filled week’s itinerary, let’s cover how to get to Koh Chang. There are two options:

1. Fly to Trat Airport: The nearest airport to Koh Chang, served by Bangkok Airways.
2. Take a shuttle or taxi to the ferry pier (about 30 minutes).
3. Enjoy a short ferry ride to the island (approximately 30 minutes). The ferry journey offers stunning views of the coastline, setting the stage for your island adventure.

or

1. Shared Minivan: A budget-friendly choice, taking about 4 to 5 hours to reach the ferry pier from Bangkok.
2. Private Transfer: More comfortable for families with young children or lots of luggage.

Note to self – ensure the minivan or your driver takes you to your hotel on ‘the rock’ and if the ferry fees are included in your transfer costs.

For more details on transportation options, check out the official Tourism Thailand website.

Pro tip: Book your transfers in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure a smooth journey.

Where to Stay on Koh Chang for Families

Koh Chang offers a variety of family-friendly accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some top picks:

1. White Sand Beach: The most developed area, ideal for families seeking convenience and amenities.
   • KC Grande Resort & Spa: Offers family rooms and a kids’ club.
   • Kacha Resort & Spa: Features a children’s pool and beachfront location.
2. Klong Prao Beach: A quieter option with a beautiful stretch of sand.
   • Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resort: Boasts family suites and a kids’ club.
   • The Dewa Koh Chang: Provides spacious villas suitable for families.
3. Kai Bae Beach: A good balance of facilities and tranquillity.
   • Gajapuri Resort & Spa: Offers family cottages and a kids’ pool.
4. Bang Bao: Perfect for families seeking a more authentic island experience.
   • Nirvana Resort Koh Chang: Features family bungalows and a peaceful atmosphere.
5. East Coast: The quite side of the island for those who want to leave the world behind.
   • Serenity Resort: A boutique resort with infinity seafront pool in an idyllic bay.
   • Amber Sands: spacious air-con bungalows set in a tropical garden with views over the bay towards the mainland and the Cambodian mountains in the distance.

When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as proximity to beaches, availability of family rooms, and on-site facilities like kids’ clubs or pools.

Day-by-Day Itinerary: A Week of Family Fun on Koh Chang

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Exploration

• Settle into your family-friendly accommodation
• Spend the afternoon at White Sand Beach, perfect for swimming and building sandcastles
• Enjoy a beachfront dinner as the sun sets and fire show later in the evening

Day 2: Jungle Adventure

• Take a guided jungle trek suitable for kids
• Visit the spectacular Klong Plu Waterfall
• Cool off with a refreshing swim in the waterfall’s natural pool

Day 3: Island-Hopping and Snorkelling

• Join a family-friendly boat tour to nearby islands
• Snorkel in clear waters teeming with colourful fish (many tours provide kid-sized equipment)
• Enjoy a picnic lunch on a secluded beach

Day 4: Elephant Encounter and Cultural Experience

• Visit the ethical Koh Chang Elephant Camp
• Learn about Thai culture at the Baan Kwan Chang Community
• Try your hand at traditional batik painting

Day 5: Beach Day and Water Sports

• Spend a relaxing day at Klong Prao Beach
• Try kid-friendly water sports like kayaking or paddle-boarding
• Build epic sandcastles or hunt for seashells

Day 6: Mangrove Exploration and Fishing Village Visit

• Take a kayak tour through the mangrove forests
• Visit the charming Salak Phet fishing village
• Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

• Enjoy a final morning at the beach
• Do some souvenir shopping at the local markets
• Depart with wonderful memories of your Koh Chang family adventure

More Family-Friendly Activities on Koh Chang Island Thailand

The island of Koh Chang offers a wealth of activities to keep the whole family entertained. Here are some must-try experiences:

Beach Hopping

White Sand Beach: Perfect for swimming, sunbathing and dining.

Lonely Beach: Great for snorkelling and spotting marine life.

Klong Prao Beach: Ideal for long walks and beautiful sunsets.

Island Hopping

Discover the nearby islands of Koh Mak or Koh Kood, just a short trip by speedboat away.

Elephant Sanctuaries

Visit ethical elephant sanctuaries where kids can learn about these majestic creatures and even help bathe them. Always choose sanctuaries that prioritise animal welfare.

Snorkelling and Diving

Explore the vibrant underwater world around Koh Chang. Many resorts offer family snorkelling trips, while older children might enjoy trying a discover scuba diving course.

Jungle Trekking

Embark on guided hikes through Koh Chang’s lush interior, discovering waterfalls and spotting wildlife. Khlong Plu Waterfall is particularly family-friendly.

Kayaking Adventures

Paddle through mangrove forests or along the coastline. Many resorts offer kayak rentals, making this an easy and fun family activity.

Cooking Classes

Learn to make Thai dishes as a family. Several resorts and local restaurants offer kid-friendly cooking classes.

Island Hopping

Take a boat trip to nearby islands like Koh Wai or Koh Mak for a change of scenery and new beaches to explore.

Treetop Adventure Park

Older children will love the challenge of high ropes courses and zip lines at Tree Top Adventure Park Koh Chang.

Family-Friendly Dining on Koh Chang

Top 9 Restaurants on Koh Chang Beach

Thai cuisine is famously delicious, and Koh Chang offers plenty of options for family dining:

1. Night Markets: Visit the Klong Prao or White Sand Beach night markets for a variety of local dishes and a fun atmosphere.
2. Beach Restaurants: Many beachfront restaurants offer a mix of Thai and Western dishes, perfect for pleasing all palates.
3. Resort Restaurants: Most family-friendly resorts have on-site restaurants with kids’ menus.
4. Local Restaurants: Kapow, Ciao and 15 Palms are great options for family friendly dining on Koh Chang.
5. Local Seafood: Try fresh seafood at restaurants in fishing villages like Bang Bao.
6. Fruit Stands: Introduce kids to tropical fruits at local stands and markets.

Kid Friendly Thai Food

So, now we know where to eat, but what to eat? Thai food can be hot and spicy so we’ve served up a list of kid friendly Thai food for your delectation:

• Thai Stir Fried Noodles (Pad Thai)
• Noodles with Sweet Soy Sauce (Pad See Ew)
• Thai Fried Rice (Khao Pad)
• Chicken Satay (Sate Gai)
• Grilled Pork Skewers (Moo Ping)
• Mango Stick Rice (Khaw Heniyen Mamnung)
• Coconut Ice Cream with a topping of your choice – sweetcorn, peanuts, sweets etc. (Itim Maphraw)

Remember to always drink bottled water and be cautious with street food, especially for young children.

Tips for a Smooth Family Holiday on Koh Chang

1. Pack essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen or coconut oil, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.
2. Stay hydrated: The heat and humidity can be intense, so ensure everyone drinks plenty of water.
3. Respect local customs: Teach children about Thai etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering temples.
4. Be flexible: Island life moves at a slower pace, so embrace a relaxed attitude.
5. Learn basic Thai phrases: A few words can go a long way in making local connections.
6. Consider travel insurance: It’s always better to be prepared, especially when travelling with children.

 

The Best Time to Visit Koh Chang

Koh Chang enjoys a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons:

• November to April: The dry season is ideal for family visits, with sunny weather and calm seas perfect for beach activities and boat trips.
• May to October: The wet season brings occasional heavy rains but also lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists. Some families enjoy visiting during this quieter time, but don’t forget your brolly and be prepared for potential weather disruptions.

Sustainable Tourism on Koh Chang

As responsible travellers, it’s important to minimise our impact on this beautiful island:

1. Choose eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators.
2. Avoid single-use plastics and dispose of waste properly.
3. Respect wildlife and marine ecosystems. Don’t feed the monkeys!
4. Support local businesses and artisans.
5. Conserve water and energy where possible.

By following these guidelines, we can help preserve Koh Chang for future generations of family travellers.

In Summary

Koh Chang island in Thailand offers an idyllic setting for a family holiday, combining natural beauty, exciting activities, and a welcoming atmosphere. With careful planning and an open mind, your family can create lasting memories on this tropical island paradise.

Wether you’re building sandcastles on pristine beaches, exploring lush jungles, or savouring delicious Thai cuisine, Koh Chang provides the perfect backdrop for quality family time and new adventures.

Useful Links:

1. Tourism Authority of Thailand: https://www.tourismthailand.org/Destinations/Provinces/Trat/319
2. Trat Airport Information: https://www.bangkokair.com/trat-airport
3. Thai Etiquette Guide: https://www.thailandnomads.com/thai-etiquette/
4. Koh Chang Marine Park: https://www.thainationalparks.com/mu-ko-chang-national-park
5. Weather in Koh Chang: https://www.holiday-weather.com/koh_chang/averages/

 

Koh Chang with Kids: Ultimate Family Guide to Thailand’s Island Paradise