Koh Chang
Thailand's third-largest island, Koh Chang (Elephant Island) is a mountainous, jungle-covered gem in the eastern Gulf near the Cambodian border. Unlike the more developed islands in the south, Koh Chang retains a wilder, more rugged character with dense rainforest covering its interior, dramatic waterfalls, and a less commercialized feel. The west coast offers a string of beaches from the bustling White Sand Beach to the bohemian Lonely Beach, while the undeveloped east coast features fishing villages and mangrove forests.
Beaches on Koh Chang
White Sand Beach (Haad Sai Khao)
The longest and most developed beach on Koh Chang, stretching 2.5 kilometers with soft white sand. The northern end is quieter with luxury resorts, while the southern end has more budget accommodation, bars, and a lively evening scene.
Lonely Beach (Haad Tha Nam)
Despite its name, this beach has become the backpacker and party hub of Koh Chang. The small beach is framed by boulders and jungle, with a village of budget bungalows, bars, and tattoo shops behind it. The vibe is bohemian and youthful.
Klong Prao Beach
A long, quiet beach split by a river estuary, offering a more relaxed alternative to White Sand Beach. The southern section has lovely resorts set among coconut palms. Kayaking up the estuary at sunset is magical.
Kai Bae Beach
A medium-sized beach with a nice mix of accommodation options and a pleasant, not-too-busy atmosphere. The offshore island of Koh Man Nai is visible from the beach and reachable by kayak during low tide. Good for families.
Bailan Beach
A small, less-developed beach between Kai Bae and Lonely Beach, offering a tranquil escape. The beach is narrow but scenic, and the area is home to several wellness-oriented resorts and cooking schools.
Things to Do on Koh Chang
Klong Plu Waterfall
$The most accessible and popular waterfall on Koh Chang, located in a lush jungle setting within Mu Ko Chang National Park. A short walk from the parking area leads to a beautiful cascade with a natural swimming pool. Entry fee ΰΈΏ200 for foreigners.
Snorkeling & Diving at Koh Rang
$$The Koh Rang archipelago, within the national marine park, offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in eastern Thailand. Day trips visit several uninhabited islands with pristine coral reefs. Visibility is best from November to May.
Jungle Trekking
$$Koh Chang's mountainous interior is covered in primary rainforest, home to hornbills, macaques, and diverse wildlife. Guided treks range from half-day walks to challenging full-day hikes to the island's peaks. Always go with a guide as trails are poorly marked.
Bang Bao Fishing Village
FreeA picturesque fishing village at the southern tip of the island, built entirely on stilts over the water. The wooden pier has been converted into a long walkway lined with souvenir shops, seafood restaurants, and dive operators. Boats to nearby islands depart from here.
Night Market (White Sand Beach)
$A nightly food market near the southern end of White Sand Beach serving affordable Thai dishes, fresh seafood barbecue, smoothies, and snacks. A great way to experience local food culture and mingle with both travelers and locals.
How to Get to Koh Chang
Bus + Ferry
5-6 hoursDirect buses from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) or Mo Chit to Trat, then a short songthaew ride to Centerpoint Pier for the 30-minute car ferry crossing. The most popular and affordable option.
Minivan
4.5-5.5 hoursPrivate minivans operate from Bangkok directly to the Koh Chang ferry pier, offering door-to-pier convenience. Some include the ferry ticket. Faster and more comfortable than public buses.
Flight to Trat + Ferry
2-3 hoursBangkok Airways operates daily flights from Suvarnabhumi to Trat airport (1 hour), then a 20-minute transfer to the ferry pier. The fastest option but limited flight availability.
Self-drive
4-5 hoursDrive east from Bangkok on Route 344 and Highway 3 to Trat. The car ferry takes vehicles for about ΰΈΏ120. Koh Chang has roads but they are hilly and winding, so drive carefully. Car rental is available in Trat.
Book Transport to Koh Chang
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Where to Stay on Koh Chang
White Sand Beach
$$-$$$$The main tourist hub with the widest range of accommodation, dining, and nightlife. Best for first-time visitors wanting convenience and a lively atmosphere.
Klong Prao
$$-$$$$A quieter, more spacious area with upscale resorts tucked among coconut groves along the estuary. Excellent for couples and families seeking tranquility with easy access to the rest of the island.
Lonely Beach
$The backpacker zone with the cheapest accommodation on the island. Bungalows from ΰΈΏ300/night and a fun social scene. Can be noisy at night during peak season.
Kai Bae
$-$$$A pleasant middle ground between busy White Sand Beach and bohemian Lonely Beach. Good value accommodation and a family-friendly atmosphere with enough restaurants and shops.