Where to Stay on Koh Chang for Every Budget & Style [2024]

Koh Chang, a beautiful island in Thailand, offers a variety of accommodation options for all types of travellers. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly bungalows, the island caters to different preferences and budgets. Whether you are looking for a quiet retreat or a lively spot near the nightlife, there is a perfect place for you on Koh Chang.

On my frequent visits to Koh Chang, I’ve discovered many diverse and unique places to stay. The island’s natural beauty and the comfort of its accommodations are sure to make your stay a memorable one. With so many choices, you can easily find the best fit for your ideal holiday experience.

15 Palms

When I visited the 15 Palms Beach Resort on White Sand Beach, I was impressed by its unique ambience. This charming resort has eight boutique-style rooms that are modern and stylish. The beds are super comfortable, and the rooms are located very close to the beach. Mine was on the first floor, pool-side and also had a mezzanine with ocean views.

The resort’s pool is a delightful spot. It is built using natural materials and sits right in front of the rooms. If you are on a family vacay, this makes it easy to watch your kids play while enjoying a meal at the nearby restaurant. The laid back restaurant is right on the beach and serves food from 8 am until late, everything from a full English to healthy smoothie bowls are included.

Their bar offers many exciting cocktails, cold draught Guinness and fresh fruit shakes and with seating spilling out on to the beach, it’s a perfect spot for catching the beautiful sunsets.

The island’s outdoor opportunities, like boat trips and snorkelling, add to the appeal of this well appointed resort.

When you book your room via their website, you will get a 10% food and beverage discount in 15 Palms as a special promotion.

Rating: 4.5 (373 reviews)
Location: 1/2 Moo 4, Baan Haad Sai Khao, White Sand Beach, Ko Chang District, Trat 23170, Thailand
Contact: +66 81 781 1542
Website: 15Palms

Amber Sands Resort

Arriving at the lush garden entrance of Amber Sands Resort, I immediately felt a sense of tranquillity. Nestled on the serene east coast of Koh Chang, this family-run resort offers an intimate and relaxed atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle. The resort, just meters from a quiet beach, has eight spacious air-conditioned bungalows set within a lush tropical garden.

The bungalows provide stunning views over the bay, with the Cambodian mountains in the distance. I loved how the resort promotes a “shoes-off” and “barefoot” grounding attitude, enhancing the sense of peace and relaxation. The fresh water swimming pool is a delightful alternative to the sea, perfect for cooling off after soaking up the sun.

Dining at their open-sided restaurant was a treat, offering both traditional Thai dishes and a range of Western foods. There are options for children too, which makes it ideal for families. Whether you prefer to relax by the pool or engage in activities, the resort caters to all holiday paces.

Amber Sands Resort feels like a home away from home. The staff here truly make you feel special, not just another room number. After a day exploring Koh Chang, returning to this tranquil retreat is a joy. It’s 300kms from Bangkok or a quick 45-minute flight, making it easily accessible.

Book direct with this resort to get the vest rates.

Rating: 4.6 (159 reviews)
Location: Amber Sands
Contact: +66 82 212 0698
Website: Visit Website

Elephant & Castle Resort

I recently stayed at the Elephant & Castle Resort on Koh Chang, and it was a delightful experience. Situated near Pearl Beach and opposite Lotus’s, this resort offers a peaceful environment. The mountain-side location is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the island. The owner is friendly, a real character and eager to help, making my stay even more enjoyable.

The resort’s accommodation was comfortable and clean. I was impressed by the well-maintained rooms and the cosy atmosphere. Each room had all the necessary amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. There is no on-site restaurant but plenty of areas to sit and get to know the owners many dogs.

Rating: 4.7 (79 reviews)
Location: 13/13 1 Moo 4 Pearl Beach, Ko Chang District, Trat 23170, Thailand
Contact: +66 86 027 6344
Website: Visit Website

Serenity Resort

Serenity Resort on Koh Chang’s east coast is a hidden gem. I was immediately struck by the lush, tropical gardens. Wild orchids, palms, and bamboos create a peaceful atmosphere. Spacious bungalows and 2-bedroom jacuzzi villas are scattered throughout this idyllic retreat.

The infinity seafront pool was my favourite spot. It offers stunning views of the sea and the Cardamon mountains in Cambodia. The poolside area is perfect for relaxing, with plenty of loungers and shaded spots.

Some of the many highlights is the resort’s sun deck, cocktail bar on the beach and koi fish pond.

I enjoyed an English breakfast and some delicious Thai dishes there. It’s a great place to unwind with a drink while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Rating: 4.7 (355 reviews)
Location: 51/18, Ko Chang, Ko Chang District, Trat 23170, Thailand
Contact: +66 88 092 4452
Website: Visit Website

The Pearl Luxury Villas

The Pearl Luxury Villas on Koh Chang is a hidden gem. I felt at home the moment I walked into my villa. The villa features a private 6m x 4m pool, perfect for swimming or just relaxing. It’s much more than just a hotel room; it felt like having my own luxury island home-from-home.

The villas are incredibly spacious, comfortably sleeping six people. The beds have super soft mattresses and toppers, making every night’s sleep restorative. Situated in a peaceful area, it’s easy to recharge and relax.

I loved the location of The Pearl. It’s nestled down a quiet side road but just 100 metres from a beautiful pebble beach with stunning mountain views. On the top road is the Koh Chang Post Office, so finding this pearl is a walk in the park, not a shot in the dark. It’s also conveniently located between White Sand Beach and Chai Chet Beach, offering easy access to some of the island’s best spots for dining and nightlife.

The facilities at The Pearl are top-notch. The modern kitchen allowed me, I mean my wife, to cook meals, and the strong WiFi kept us connected to the world outside. Each bedroom has a Smart TV, and there’s a larger one in the lounge with Netflix, which kids I’m told will adore. The staff were always helpful, ensuring my stay was perfect.

Rating: 4.8 (41 reviews)
Location: 99, 31 Moo 4 Soi Kai Mook 1, Hat Kai Mook, Ko Chang District, Trat 23170, Thailand
Contact: +66 92 532 2923
Website: Visit Website

Best Locations to Stay in Koh Chang

Koh Chang offers a variety of locations that suit different preferences, whether you’re looking for bustling beaches or quieter, more serene areas. Here are the three best spots to consider, each with unique benefits.

White Sand Beach

White Sand Beach is the most developed and popular choice on Koh Chang. It has a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of resorts, guesthouses and bungalows.

Restaurants and bars line the shore, offering plenty of dining and nightlife options. The beach itself is clean, with fine, soft sand and clear waters, making it perfect for swimming and stunning sunsets.

Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts, ensuring that all travellers find a place to stay. Adventure seekers can also enjoy activities like snorkelling, kayaking and paddle-boarding.

Kai Bae Beach

Kai Bae Beach is known for its relaxed vibe and beautiful scenery. It’s a bit quieter than White Sand Beach, perfect for those looking for a more laid-back holiday.

The beach is flanked by palm trees and has stunning views of small islands offshore. Here, you can find mid-range hotels and bungalows, along with a few luxury resorts.

Dining options are plentiful, with a mix of local Thai eateries and international restaurants. My favourites are El Barrio (Mexican), Khao Kwan (Thai) and The Wine Gallery (Mediterranean).

The shallow waters also make it a great spot for families with children.

Klong Prao Beach

Klong Prao Beach offers a balance of natural beauty and modern comfort. It’s less crowded, making it ideal for those wanting a peaceful retreat.

The beach is long and wide with golden sand, bordered by coconut palms and mangroves. Accommodation ranges from budget bungalows to high-end resorts.

This area is perfect for those who enjoy nature activities, such as kayaking and jungle trekking. It also has some great seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh, local dishes.

Accommodation Types on Koh Chang

Koh Chang offers a diverse range of accommodation for travellers. Whether you seek luxury, are on a budget, or prefer an eco-friendly stay, there are options to suit your needs. Each type of accommodation provides unique amenities and experiences.

Luxury Resorts

High-end travellers will find many luxury resorts on Koh Chang. These places offer stunning views, exceptional service, and top-notch amenities. For instance, Mercure Koh Chang Hideaway and Parama Resort provide not just comfortable stays but also access to private beaches and excellent dining options.
Santhiya Tree offers contemporary Thai design, a spectacular stretch of sand-carpeted shoreline on the island’s sunset coast and private transfer to and from the island.

Many luxury resorts feature swimming pools, spas, and wellness centres. Rooms often come with large balconies, offering scenic views of the ocean or lush gardens. Such resorts are perfect for visitors who wish to indulge in comfort and luxury during their stay on the island.

Budget-Friendly Options

Travellers on a budget have plenty of choices as well. Areas like White Sand Beach and Lonely Beach are known for their affordable yet comfortable accommodations. Popular budget options include beachside bungalows, guesthouses, and smaller hotels.

For example, 15 Palms offers rates starting at 3,500 baht. This makes it a good choice for those looking to save money while still enjoying a beachside location. Basic amenities in budget-friendly places usually include clean rooms, Wi-Fi, and often breakfast.

Eco-Friendly Stays

Environmental-conscious travellers will appreciate the eco-friendly accommodations on Koh Chang. These places are designed to minimise their impact on the environment and often use sustainable practices. Such accommodations range from stylish eco-resorts to charming bungalows made from natural materials.

Several eco-friendly stays offer organic meals, solar-powered utilities, and involvement in local community projects. These places provide a unique experience, allowing guests to connect with nature while supporting sustainable tourism. The Spa Koh Chang is one resort known for its lush gardens, farm to fork menu and as a detox and yoga retreat.

Choosing an eco-friendly stay not only benefits the environment but also supports the local community and provides a more authentic, green travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m here to answer common questions about the best places to stay on Koh Chang. Whether you’re travelling with family, a partner, or seeking luxury, there’s an option for you on this beautiful island.

What are the best areas to stay in for families visiting Koh Chang?

For families, White Sand Beach and Klong Prao Beach are ideal. These areas offer a range of family-friendly hotels and resorts, such as 15 Palms. There are numerous activities, plenty of dining options, and safe environments for children to enjoy.

Which accommodations are most suitable for couples in Koh Chang?

Couples often prefer the more tranquil and romantic spots. I recommend Amber Sands Resort and Serenity Resort. These offer private settings, beautiful views, and intimate dining experiences, perfect for a romantic getaway.

Could you recommend some five-star hotels on Koh Chang?

If you’re seeking luxury, look no further than Santhiya Tree or The Pearl. These resorts provide top-notch facilities, exceptional service, and stunning views, ensuring a high-end holiday experience.

Which beaches in Koh Chang are considered the most attractive?

White Sand Beach is the most developed and popular, offering a long stretch of soft sand and clear waters. For a more relaxed vibe, Lonely Beach is a great choice. Both of these beaches are known for their natural beauty and easy access to accommodations and amenities.
For those more adventurous, take the road less travelled to Long Beach.

How long is an ideal stay on Koh Chang to experience its highlights?

To fully experience Koh Chang, I suggest staying for at least 5-7 days. This allows you to explore the island’s diverse beaches, engage in outdoor activities like trekking and snorkelling, and enjoy the local cuisine and markets without feeling rushed.

Can you provide insights regarding the nightlife on Koh Chang?

Koh Chang’s nightlife is mainly centred around White Sand Beach and Lonely Beach. White Sand Beach offers a range of bars and beach clubs; Oodies Place, The Rock Bar and Sabay Bar, while Lonely Beach is known for its laid-back vibe and frequent beach parties and late night party spots like Ting-Tong and Himmel Bar. Both areas provide a lively yet relaxed atmosphere to enjoy your evenings.

Where to Stay on Koh Chang for Every Budget & Style