Ultimate Koh Chang Travel Guide
Koh Chang is one of Thailand's most beautiful islands. It is known for its pristine beaches, waterfalls, mangroves, and a rainforest that has been virtually untouched for centuries. Koh Chang is home to a diverse range of species, which includes an incredible variety of birds, monkeys, lizards, and other species. The island has a wide range of sights and activities, and the area is well-known for its great diving and snorkeling opportunities.
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Let's dive right into the beautiful island of Koh Chang!
Guide Contents:
Arriving on Koh Chang
Your First Days on Koh Chang
All About Koh Chang
How to Get to Koh Chang
Unless you are already in Pattaya, Rayong, or Trat, the best way to start your trip to Koh Chang is from Bangkok. This gives you the most options - from fast and easy to slow and cheap. Regardless of how you choose to get there, every route will take you to the Koh Chang ferry pier.
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Getting back to Bangkok from Koh Chang is easy but does take some planning. If you don’t already have a return ticket arranged as part of your trip, there are trucks that will take you from the pier to the bus terminal where you can buy a return ticket. Be sure to look at the ferry and bus/van schedules ahead of time and do all your planning before you leave on your trip.
Flying to Koh Chang
By far the quickest way to get to Koh Chang would be flying into the Trat Airport which only takes about an hour. From there it is just a short 20-minute drive to the pier where you will catch your ferry to Koh Chang. This option is the most expensive because only one airline services the small Trat Airport – expect to pay between 2,500 to 4,500 baht for a round-trip flight. The trip between the airport to the pier is not included in the ticket price.
Taking a Van to Koh Chang
The most common way tourists get to Koh Chang is by van or minibus. The drive from Bangkok to the ferry pier can take around 6 hours. Chartered vehicles generally do not make stops to pick up more passengers but will stop for breaks along the way. Finding a ticket is easy - services can be found online or by walking to the different travel agencies around the Sukhumvit Soi 10 or Khao San areas. Expect to pay in the neighborhood of 1,000 baht for a round-trip ticket. If you are traveling as a large group and want to pay for a private van, this option can end up being quite affordable.
Taking The Bus to Koh Chang
For those looking for the cheapest option, there are public buses that make the trip daily. These cost around 300 baht for a one-way trip but do take the longest of any option because of the frequent stops - expect the trip to take around 7 hours. Buses depart from the various terminals in Bangkok, but we recommend starting from the Ekkamai Eastern Bus Terminal. If you choose to buy your ticket at the terminal instead of online or at an agent, just make your way to the windows or counter and ask for Koh Chang tickets – someone will be able to direct you to the correct counter. You might find different people saying they can sell you bus tickets. This is perfectly normal - there is more than one legitimate service operating out of the terminal. Choosing which one you like is up to you. Just don’t forget to ask about the return trip! The public options won’t take you straight to the pier so you will need to make a transfer when you arrive, but people will be waiting there to sell you ferry passes and take you the rest of the way.
Getting From the Koh Chang Pier to Your Hotel
Once your ferry arrives at Koh Chang you will immediately see quite a few trucks, known as Songtaew, waiting to take you wherever you need to go. Just find the first one you see with room and head on your way. The price may be up for some negotiation if your group wants to pay for their own personal truck, but the price drivers ask for a shared ride should be the same standard price for everyone based on where you are going.
How to Get Around Koh Chang
Although Koh Chang is one of the largest islands in Thailand, you will find there are not many options for getting around. This is because the island is still largely undeveloped and the few major roads have some quite steep and hilly terrain. The silver lining is that you probably don’t need many options. Chances are you at coming to Koh Chang to relax - and zipping around an island is probably not what you had in mind.
Songthaew on Koh Chang
These covered trucks with bench seats are the most common way to get around the island. Depending on where you stay it may be possible to flag one down yourself, but chances are you will need to contact the front desk of your hotel and ask them to call one for you. Prices can vary quite a bit depending on where you want to go. Expect to pay anywhere from 100 baht for a short trip to a few hundred baht if you need to go across the island. Don’t forget to think about how you will be getting back to your hotel! You may need to negotiate a return trip with the driver.
Scooters on Koh Chang
Many locals and tourists ride scooters on Koh Chang. This can be a great way to get around and gives you the freedom to explore and take in the sights on your own schedule. Even though renting a scooter can be a good option for some, we don’t recommend this unless you already have experience riding a scooter or motorcycle. Koh Chang is not the place to learn the ropes because of the island's rain and numerous steep and curving slopes. Be honest with yourself and don’t ride unless you are confident you can do so safely.
Your First Days on Koh Chang
Changing Money on Koh Chang
Koh Chang is not a heavily populated island, so your money exchange options are limited. Chances are your only option might be an ATM or a local bank. Because of this we recommend you bring your island trip budget with you in cash. This could save you the equivalent of a meal or two in exchange rates and fees depending on how large your budget is. You can expect things to cost slightly more than they would in the mainland, even money exchanging - plan accordingly and bring a little extra just in case.
Get to Know Koh Chang
One of the most important things to consider when planning your trip is the season. You don’t want to fly 12 hours then take a 7-hour bus ride just to find out that it is the middle of the rainy season.
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November to February is considered the peak dry season because it has the best weather. You will have the least chance of regular rain and it is just before the hot season begins. The only downside is that hotels will be the most expensive during this period.
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March to April is considered the hot season, and although you shouldn’t have to worry about constant rain, the heat is more intense than the peak season.
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May to October is the rainy season meaning you can expect the cheapest hotels, but also a healthy amount of wind, rain, and cloudier waters that can potentially ruin the best-laid plans.
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Now that we have the seasons sorted, we can start exploring the different areas of the island. Koh Chang can be split up into two halves – the eastern side and the western side.
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The western side of Koh Chang is where you will find most of the hotels, resorts, and restaurants. The largest town on the island can be found here and is nestled just behind Klong Prao Beach, right smack-dab in the middle of the west coast. Here you can find most of the resorts, restaurants, shops, and grocery stores. If you are looking for a beach resort that is both relaxing and remote, but also within stones throw of other resorts and activities, then then we recommend you start your planning here.
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The eastern side of Koh Chang is mostly dotted with vistas, trails, and parks. There are no clusters of resorts like you would find on the west coast and there are not many picturesque beaches, but if you are after that secluded island resort life, then you might want to start looking here. What might your average day look like? Take in an afternoon hike and spend the evening relaxing in the pool and eating good food at your hotel.
The Beaches of Koh Chang
Let’s be real – beaches are the reason you are island hopping in Thailand and the good news is Koh Chang does not disappoint. You won’t find perfect snorkelling here because the surrounding waters are too deep, but the water feels fantastic and the gulf breeze is quite relaxing. Here are some of the more popular – and our favorite – beaches to visit while on the island.
Klong Prao Beach Koh Chang
Klong Prao Beach is the name given to the central region of Koh Chang’s west coast. It is a very popular location on the island since it has something to offer everyone, from solo travellers to couples to families who are looking for a relaxing vacation. Inland waterways known as klongs divide the beach into two portions separated by fine sand and tranquil waters. There are trails and better-paved pathways that connect the beach to the road. Numerous restaurants and bars can be found along the whole stretch of the main road.
White Sand Beach Koh Chang
One of Koh Chang's most popular and picturesque beaches is the White Sand Beach, also known as White Sands Beach. Because it is quite long and situated near the north-western tip of the island, which is close to the ferry pier, this beach is one of the more popular places to stay. This area is home to a slew of luxurious resorts and hotels, a wide range of dining options, and even some shopping.
Kai Bae Beach Koh Chang
If you are searching for a pleasant, romantic getaway, look no further than Kai Bae Beach. It's one of the more serene beaches since it is set in a more natural environment. The beach is shallower than most of the others on the island, so it is great for a quick dip or relaxing walks. If you are lucky you might even see a few elephants relaxing on the beach or wading in the ocean while you take a kayak ride out to the island of Koh Man Nai.
Lonely Beach Koh Chang
Lonely Beach is a popular destination for backpackers and social travelers. You certainly won’t be lonely here because you will always have a neighbor in the little wooden huts that dot the beach. The beach is perfect for swimming since it is relatively small and the water deepens quickly. Lonely Beach is also quite popular for beach parties if you are itching for a good time.
All About Koh Chang
Food on Koh Chang
Another reason why a large number of people return to Koh Chang as a vacation destination time and time again is the abundance of fresh fish and local cuisine available on the island. While walking around the beaches of the island you will inevitably come across plenty of seafood restaurants, often with big ice trays of colourful fish made to draw you in.
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Normally we would write about some of the local favorites – food you can try that would give you an authentic taste of the location. Koh Chang is a bit different. Everyone who visits, both locals and tourists, feast on the variety of fish, prawns, squid, scallops, and the works. Instead of a list of different foods, we have decided to present you with the most popular ways people eat their seafood.
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Grilled Seafood Platter
This is far-and-away the number one, most popular preparation. The open flames and coals bring out the flavors of fish, prawns, scallops, and squid in a way that marries perfectly with the bright and spicy lemon chili seafood sauce. When the spicy sauce starts to become a bit too much, the ice-cold beer or fruit drinks are there to balance things back out in one of the most enjoyable and social dinners you could have.
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Whole Steamed/Fried Fish
This Thai family-style classic can be found all over the country. Take a whole fish, stuff it with herbs, then steam it or fry it whole. The result is a juicy and delicate fish with your choice of sauce. Some of the favorite sauces include the staple lime chili sauce, a soy ginger sauce, and the sweet/salty/sour tamarind sauce. It is not a matter of choosing one – just order a whole fish a few times during your stay and try each!
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Seafood Yam
Yam, or spicy salad, is a Thai staple with many different variations. This dish is all kinds of bright, sour, spicy, and salty and is made with fish sauce, chili, and lime tossed in with noodles, leaf celery, and tomatoes. What makes seafood yam a must-try on the islands is the selection of fresh squid, shrimp, and fish that gets mixed in to make one our favorite lunches ever. Take your pick of glass noodles, instant noodles (ma-ma in Thai), or even no noodles and enjoy!
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Goong Chae Nampla
Stick with us for a second – we are about to talk about fresh raw shrimp. Some of you might be thinking “no way,” but raw shrimp is much more common than you would think. Goong chae nampla is an easily shareable Thai favorite. You will be presented with a platter of individual shrimp tails that are paired with a slice of bitter melon and soaking in a bath of fish sauce. Each piece is topped with some chili and a single sliver of garlic. The idea is you stack up a single piece on a spoon, dip it in seafood sauce, then enjoy the different flavors and textures.
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Hotels on Koh Chang
Whatever your budget - whether you're with a family, a couple, a bunch of friends, or on your own, you'll find something perfect for you on the island of Koh Chang. Here are some examples of the different styles of resorts and hotels you can find here.
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Luxury
Some of the most expensive resorts in all of Thailand are the island resorts. Although the luxury options on Koh Chang are somewhat limited, prices for the most luxurious pool villas vary from 4,000 baht upwards to 20,000 baht or more. The sky is the limit here and you can truly have the most private and exclusive of experiences – at a cost of course.
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Mid-Range
Mid-range hotels can offer the most value for money spent. For the cost of a standard no-frills hotel back home, you could have access to a pool, great dining, modern furnishings, and even a view. Most have costs ranging from 1,500 baht to 3,000 baht per night.
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Boutique
Boutique hotels are among our favorite styles of hotel to stay at while island hopping. They might not be as full-featured as a mid-range resort, but they can more than make up for it with unique charm and a chill vibe. You can expect to spend between 1,000 to 3,000 baht per night for a decent boutique resort.
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Villas
There are also lots of rental houses and villas on Koh Chang which are located throughout the island. You can take your pick from communal beach life to a private jungle escape. Prices can vary wildly depending on the location and finish. Just don’t forget to think about how you will be getting around or even back to the pier.
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Budget
For those traveling on an extreme budget, there are guesthouse rooms starting for as little as 250 baht per night with a fan, communal bathroom, and a cold shower. Rooms with AC and a little more privacy are available for those willing to pay a bit more.
Activities and Excursions on Koh Chang
Koh Chang is a tropical island paradise, with jungle-covered mountains, glittering blue bays, and gushing waterfalls adorning its landscapes. Even the most demanding visitors to Koh Chang Island will find enough things to keep them entertained. Here are some excellent choices if you need a break from the hours spent lounging in a hammock.
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Go Diving on Koh Chang
Diving is one of the most thrilling activities you can participate in while you are on Koh Chang. There are fantastic dive locations at the local coral reefs of Koh Rang and more experienced divers can take a trip to the wreck of the HTMS Chang off the south-western edge of the island.
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Go Island Hopping, Snorkelling, or Fishing on Koh Chang
When visiting Koh Chang, you should try to spend at least one day on the sea. Go snorkeling, fishing, or just cruising among the islands of the archipelago. Arranging these trips are generally easy. You can either ask your hotel to help or head to a travel agent. To find local travel agents, just head to a populated area and look for someone sitting next to a wall covered with pictures of boats, trails, and people.
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Go Sailing and Kayaking on Koh Chang
If you're interested in seeing more of Thailand's islands, sailing through the Koh Chang archipelago, which includes smaller islands like Koh Wai and Koh Ngam, is a fantastic way to do it. For those wanting an easier and more affordable option, most beaches should have kayaks available for exploring the shore.
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See the Waterfalls of Koh Chang
There are seven large waterfalls on Koh Chang and the most famous of which is Klong Plu. It's easy to get there and features a big, beautiful pool. Other notable waterfalls include Kai Bae, Klong Jao Leuam, Than Mayom, and Klong Nonsi. You may need to pay a small fee to access some of the waterfalls because they are part of the system of natural parks.
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Visit the Bang Bao Floating Village on Koh Chang
Many of the snorkelling and diving cruises leave from Bang Bao port which has its own floating town. It has lost much of its novel appeal as a fishing village in recent years; it is now a tourist destination for souvenir shopping. There are still a few natives fishing from these piers, but most of the structures have been converted to restaurants, stores, or guesthouses. It may not be worth the long trip if you are staying on the other side of the island, but if you happen to be in the area, have a look around and snap a few shots. If you're looking for a lovely place to relax, this can be a great option.
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Trek Through the Forest of Koh Chang
If you're looking for something that is more challenging than a simple walk, several half-day and full-day hiking programs are available on the island. Mount Koh Chang and Mount Kai Bae are just a couple examples of the moderate hikes available. Depending on what hikes you choose, you'll get to view the many beautiful waterfalls, brilliant green trees, exotic reptiles, and other sights; just remember that Thailand is very hot and humid - carry plenty of water with you and protect yourself from long exposure to the sun! The first things in your bag should be a hat, sunblock, and a few bottles of water.