Focus on Koh Chang: A Tropical Paradise with a Touch of Luxury

[CharlieH]

 

Imagine an island where the jungle hums with life, beaches stretch endlessly under golden sunsets, and the pace of life slows to match the rhythm of the waves. Welcome to Koh Chang, Thailand’s hidden gem. Here, adventure meets tranquility, and luxury mingles seamlessly with the untouched beauty of nature.

Nestled within this paradise is Blue Haven Bay, a haven of elegance and calm, offering an upscale escape that perfectly complements the island’s wild heart.

Getting to Koh Chang

Koh Chang, part of the Mu Ko Chang National Park, is located off the coast of Trat Province. Getting there is an adventure but well worth the journey.

• By Plane: Fly into Trat Airport (1 hour from Bangkok). From there, take a taxi to the ferry terminal for the crossing to Koh Chang.
• By Land: Buses and minivans connect Bangkok to Trat (5–6 hours). Private taxis are another comfortable option.
• By Ferry: Ferries from Ao Thammachat or Ao Sapparot terminals run regularly and take 30–40 minutes. Once on the island, songthaews (shared taxis) or private transfers are readily available.

Where to Stay

Koh Chang caters to all types of travelers, offering everything from budget hostels to luxurious resorts.

• Blue Haven Bay: This is the epitome of upscale relaxation, featuring beachfront villas, modern condominiums, and boutique resorts. With amenities like infinity pools, a golf course, and a marina, it’s perfect for families and couples seeking privacy and indulgence.

• For Backpackers: Lonely Beach offers affordable accommodations with a lively nightlife scene.

• For Families and Couples: Klong Prao Beach features midrange and high-end resorts in a tranquil setting.

Where to Eat

From vibrant street food to fine dining, Koh Chang is a feast for the senses.

• In Blue Haven Bay: Enjoy fresh seafood, Thai classics, and international dishes at waterfront restaurants. Highlights include grilled prawns with tamarind sauce and mango sticky rice.

• Local Markets: Visit Klong Son village or White Sand Beach’s night market for delicacies like som tam (papaya salad) and crispy roti (Thai pancakes).

• Unique Experiences: Bang Bao fishing village serves exceptional seafood in stilted restaurants. The steamed crab and seafood curry are must-tries.

Getting Around

While Koh Chang is not overly large, getting around requires some planning:

• Songthaews (Shared Taxis): Affordable and available along main roads.
• Scooters and Motorbikes: Rentable for exploring the island at your pace—but exercise caution as roads can be steep and winding.
• Car Rentals: Ideal for families or groups who value comfort and safety.
• Boats: Explore nearby islands with chartered boats or join snorkeling tours.

Things to Do

Koh Chang offers a wealth of activities for every type of traveler:

• Relax on the Beaches: Start with the serene shores of Blue Haven Bay, then explore White Sand Beach, Kai Bae, and others.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life at Koh Rang or Koh Wai.
• Jungle Adventures: Hike to hidden waterfalls like Klong Plu and Than Mayom. Swim in their natural pools for an unforgettable experience.
• Golf and Yachting: Enjoy a round at Blue Haven Bay’s golf course or set sail from its marina for an island-hopping adventure.
• Cultural Visits: Visit Bang Bao fishing village or Wat Salak Phet to immerse yourself in local traditions.

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s:

• Respect local culture and dress modestly at temples or in villages.
• Familiarize yourself with Thailand’s scan-and-pay culture. Most places, including street vendors and taxis, accept QR code payments via mobile banking apps or digital wallets. This eliminates the need to carry large amounts of cash.
• Try the street food—safe, delicious, and often payable digitally!

Don’ts:

• Avoid driving a scooter if you’re inexperienced; the roads can be tricky.
• Don’t rely entirely on cash. While a small amount is handy for emergencies, QR code payments are widely available and far more convenient.
• Refrain from disturbing wildlife, including monkeys.

Why Visit Koh Chang Now?

In a world of over-touristed destinations, Koh Chang remains a rare gem—a place where you can still feel like an explorer. From the luxurious comforts of Blue Haven Bay to the rugged beauty of its jungles and beaches, this island offers something truly special.

Here, every sunrise feels like a gift, every meal an adventure, and every moment an invitation to slow down and savor life. Whether you’re lounging on a private beach, hiking to a hidden waterfall, or dining on freshly caught crab as the waves roll in, Koh Chang will leave you dreaming of your next visit before you’ve even left.

So, are you ready to trade the hustle and bustle for the whisper of the waves? Koh Chang awaits.

 

 

   Dec 2024

[geisha]

Personally, I’ve been to Koh Chang at least 10 times if not more , staying 10 days, sometimes more. I love the island with its perfect beaches , lots of restaurants, and going on boat trips. This year I want to go, but unfortunately, the hotel prices have soared. I prefer the high end hotels for my comfort, but I know I can better rates on other islands. I think they might price themselves out of the market. 

[Real Name Hidden]

I visit Koh Chang three times a year.  I stay at Kai Bae low season when room rates are rock bottom.

[Hammerheads]

Hi, I'm coming to Thailand at the end of April. I fancy checking out Koh Chang for a week. Anyone know the island well, can give me some pointers in terms of the better areas to stay/visit. Many thanks

[Woke to Sounds]

Depends what you want.

 

If you dont mind 90% Russian tourists and noise/action then go White Sands Beach.

 

That said there were still a few old school hippie shacks last time I checked.

 

Generally the further south you go the quieter and greener it gets.

[Real Name Hidden]

I visit three times a year and usually stay in Kai Bae for the bars and restaurants, White Sands is too touristy.  Gajapuri and Awa resorts are reasonably priced comfortable places to stay.  The Retreat is a new resort but very pricey.  Morgi & Fuggi or Little Italy for Italian food, El Barrio for Mexican, lots of inexpensive Thai restaurants.  Kai Bae Walking Street bar area is on the edge of the village.

[Harrisfan]

7 hours ago, Hammerheads said:

Hi, I'm coming to Thailand at the end of April. I fancy checking out Koh Chang for a week. Anyone know the island well, can give me some pointers in terms of the better areas to stay/visit. Many thanks

Hire a car and see for yourself 

[TorquayFan]

We visited Koh Chang at Christmas and stayed at the Chai Chet resort in the Klong Prao beach area, a large bay just South of Whitesands.

 

They offer bungalows at beach fronts or hillside. Good swimming in sheltered waters, an excellent and inexpensive restaurant and prices include breakfast. No need to stray far from the Resort but there are other Restaurants/Bars on the 'main' road, (100 metres away).

 

We are planning another trip soon!

 

 

[impulse]

The OP needs to specify his/her interest.  I loved the quiet side of the island, making a left out of the ferry terminal instead of a right.  But I was looking for peace, quiet, scenery and kayaking. 

 

Taking a right leads to excitement, fun and debauchery if that's in your plans.

 

[thaibeachlovers]

1 hour ago, Harrisfan said:

Hire a car and see for yourself 

That has to be the worst idea I saw, unless he's used to driving in LOS. By all means hire a vehicle with a driver.

 

IMO don't go to Chang- Phangan is way better, especially up north east.

[Harrisfan]

1 minute ago, thaibeachlovers said:

That has to be the worst idea I saw, unless he's used to driving in LOS. By all means hire a vehicle with a driver.

 

IMO don't go to Chang- Phangan is way better, especially up north east.

Chang has little traffic. Actually the best way to explore the island. Best way to explore Phuket and Samui too. Best way to explore most cities too.

[thaibeachlovers]

12 minutes ago, Harrisfan said:

Chang has little traffic. Actually the best way to explore the island. Best way to explore Phuket and Samui too. Best way to explore most cities too.

Rubbish. I walked all over much of Chang. That is the best way to explore anything, not concentrating on driving.

I did that in Bkk too.

[thaibeachlovers]

1 hour ago, impulse said:

Taking a right leads to excitement, fun and debauchery if that's in your plans.

Must have changed since I was there then. I was staying just south of White Sand and it was very quiet.

[Harrisfan]

6 minutes ago, thaibeachlovers said:

Rubbish. I walked all over much of Chang. That is the best way to explore anything, not concentrating on driving.

I did that in Bkk too.

You walked the east coast to west coast over hills? That's more dangerous than driving. Also would take 24 hours of walking.

[Ralf001]

2 minutes ago, Harrisfan said:

You walked the east coast to west coast over hills? That's more dangerous than driving. Also would take 24 hours of walking.

bwahahahaha 24hrs to walk.

 

[Yagoda]

34 minutes ago, thaibeachlovers said:

Must have changed since I was there then. I was staying just south of White Sand and it was very quiet.

Are there still Beer Bars down by the Makro?

[CharlieH]

There is an article all about Koh Chang in the travel forum....MOVED

[impulse]

1 hour ago, thaibeachlovers said:

Must have changed since I was there then. I was staying just south of White Sand and it was very quiet.

 

What I was trying to say (poorly) is that the west side of the island is a lot more developed than the east side.  I loved the east side, where it was miles between resorts.  But I also drove the west side just to see what's there.  It looked a lot more developed.  And being in Thailand, I figured that development was funded by sin and debauchery.  Still, looked like gorgeous beaches and a lot of fun.

 

Depending on what the original OP wants to do on Koh Chang, he can hang a left or a right out of the ferry terminal.  I liked the left turn, but I am pretty boring since I took the oath in 1988.  More into relaxing, kayaking and nature than parties.

 

[supersomchai]

If they go ahead with the bridge from the mainland to ko chang ,which is a strong possibility it will most likely ruin ko chang .

if you know ko chang you will realise the roads just cant handle heavy traffic,especially from on the road to lonely beach and bang bao.☹️

 

[captain_shane]

On 3/10/2025 at 9:55 AM, Harrisfan said:

You walked the east coast to west coast over hills? That's more dangerous than driving. Also would take 24 hours of walking.

It's not 24 hours but Koh Chang is very unwalkable in general.

[Harrisfan]

3 minutes ago, captain_shane said:

It's not 24 hours but Koh Chang is very unwalkable in general.

21 hours according to google

[ujayujay]

On 3/10/2025 at 10:01 AM, Ralf001 said:

bwahahahaha 24hrs to walk.

 

Thats not over Hills

[Harrisfan]

On 3/10/2025 at 10:01 AM, Ralf001 said:

bwahahahaha 24hrs to walk.

 

You missed a bit lol

 

 

[Ralf001]

22 minutes ago, Harrisfan said:

You missed a bit lol

 

 

 

Errr... no that is not what you said.