Koh Chang tourist guide

Translating as ‘Elephant Island’, Koh Chang is the second largest of the Andaman Sea islands belonging to Thailand and is located 225kms southeast of Bangkok. It is also the largest of the 47 islands that make up the Koh Chang National Marine Park, but is still home to only around 5,000 permanent residents, although that figure is increasing steadily with the onset of tourism.

Thailand's so-called eco-tourism island

The new millennium saw Koh Chang begin its transformation from what was previously a sleepy backpacker retreat to the burgeoning holiday centre that it is today. Despite selling itself as an ‘eco-tourist’ island, there has been some unchecked development in the popular beach areas but since most of the island is steep terrain, it remains an unspoilt destination. Large upmarket resorts are characteristic of the island’s most developed areas although there is still a market for backpackers and shoestring tourists, with mid-price and budget accommodation still available at the quieter, less developed beaches.

Almost all development is on the west coast and on beaches such as White Sand and Klong Prao, where visitors looking for comfort and luxury at an extra cost generally reside. Of these two areas, White Sand Beach is the most developed and the place to find not only quality accommodation, but also great restaurants and pleasant spots to enjoy a drink in the evening. The beach itself is suitably stunning, with soft sands and scenic views out to sea. Wander along the waters edge at sunset and choose from a number of well located restaurants.

For less development and purse-friendly accommodation and restaurants, the Lonely Beach area is still the place to be with its no-frills bamboo huts and bohemian atmosphere. Kai Bae Beach meanwhile is somewhere between sleepy and wide awake and offers a good balance of quality accommodation and tranquillity.

Koh Chang has a rugged, unspoilt coastline

Koh Chang’s tourist infrastructure is still developing and despite classy resorts, some basics such as a viable road network and transportation are still somewhat primitive. There’s no airport on the island and it’s unlikely that there will be one since development is restricted by the Forestry Department of Thailand. It’s only a five-hour drive from Bangkok, but you can fly to Trat and catch a shuttle over if you are in a hurry. Essentials such as telephone, internet and ATMs are all present as well as shopping outlets selling basics and souvenirs.

Koh Chang tourist guide

Attractions

Activites

Hotels

Restaurants & bars