Koh Chang Travel Guide
Beaches, rainforest waterfalls, island hopping & practical travel tips
Koh Chang (“Elephant Island”) is Thailand’s third-largest island, nestled in the eastern Gulf of Thailand near the Cambodian border in Trat province. Blanketed in rugged jungle mountains that tumble into turquoise bays, Koh Chang maintains a preserved, laid-back island vibe that feels worlds away from more commercialized resort hubs.
From the lively sands and seaside dining of White Sand Beach to the family-friendly crescent of Klong Prao, the bohemian sunsets of Lonely Beach, and the traditional stilt-house charm of Bang Bao fishing village, the island caters to every travel rhythm. Venture inland for cascading jungle waterfalls or set sail into the Mu Ko Chang National Marine Park for sublime snorkeling and diving.
Top Things to Experience in Koh Chang
- White Sand Beach (Had Sai Khao): The island’s most popular beach, featuring powder-soft sand, calm swimming, lively evening beachfront seafood barbecues and fire shows.
- Klong Prao & Kai Bae Beaches: Expansive, palm-fringed bays perfect for serene walks, kayaking out to offshore islets, and panoramic sunset viewpoints.
- Lonely Beach (Tha Nam): Famous for its bohemian roots, chilled beachfront cafes, cozy bungalows and vibrant backpacker social scene.
- Bang Bao Fishing Village: A historic maritime village built on wooden stilts over the sea, lined with seafood restaurants, dive shops and piers for island-hopping boats.
- Klong Plu Waterfall: Koh Chang’s most famous freshwater cascade, nestled in deep virgin rainforest with cool natural swimming pools.
- Salak Khok Mangrove Gondola: Drift along serene tidal mangrove channels on a traditional handcrafted wooden boat in the quieter eastern corner of the island.
- Mu Ko Chang Marine Park Island Hopping: Take a boat day trip to outer islands like Koh Rang, Koh Yak, and Koh Wai for coral reef snorkeling and crystal-clear waters.
💡 Koh Chang Travel Tips
- Best time: November to April brings sunny skies, calm seas and warm tropical breezes. May to October is the southwest monsoon season; while rain is heavier, lush greenery and lower hotel rates make it appealing for quiet retreats.
- Getting here: Fly to Trat Airport (TDX) from Bangkok or take an air-conditioned bus/private transfer from Bangkok to Trat piers (Ao Thammachat or Centrepoint), followed by a scenic 30-to-45-minute car ferry ride.
- Getting around: Shared open-air songthaew pickup taxis operate along the main western coastal road. Motorbike rentals are popular, but exercise caution on steep, winding mountain passes between Kai Bae and Lonely Beach.
- How long to stay: Plan at least 3 to 5 nights to comfortably balance beach relaxation, a waterfall trek, and a full-day snorkeling excursion to outer marine park islands.
- Money & essentials: ATMs and card terminals are widespread in west-coast towns, but keep Thai Baht cash for national park admission fees, songthaews, and beachfront fruit and seafood stands.
Where to Stay: Recommended Koh Chang Hotels
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Top Koh Chang Tours & Day Trips
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