16 Unimaginable Issues To Do in Koh Chang: Greatest Seashores and Journey Information

A few of our hyperlinks are affiliated, we are going to earn a fee while you purchase a service or product. This can haven’t any further value for you. For additional data please discuss with our Privateness Coverage

Tucked away within the Trat Province of Thailand, the island of Koh Chang is among the most scenic and laidback islands within the nation. And certainly one of our favorites!

That will help you plan your Koh Chang itinerary whereas island hopping in Thailand, I’ve detailed the 16 greatest issues to do in Koh Chang. From water sports activities and waterfalls to massages and sunsets, there’s something for everybody on this paradise island.

This information is greater than an inventory of one of the best seashores in Koh Chang, and issues to do and see. We’ll begin with what to do in Koh Chang and as soon as you’re already dreaming of your journey we are going to transfer to the sensible stuff.

On the finish of this weblog publish, you will discover journey suggestions like the best way to get to Koh Chang, the place to remain, and one of the best time to journey to the island. The whole lot I wish to know earlier than touring there.

Do you know?

Koh Chang interprets to Elephant Island. From the sky, you’ll rapidly see why; Koh Chang Island is formed similar to an elephant’s head.

---

Greatest issues to do in Koh Chang, Thailand

Not like Koh Phangan, an island with a “nightlife repute”, and Koh Tao, an island recognized for its world-class diving, Koh Chang flies below the radar and is usually missed by most vacationers that go to Thailand.

However, with an exquisite nationwide park, aquamarine bays, pleasant locals, and close by islands, it might be a pity to skip Koh Chang.

Should you’re planning to go to this aspect of Thailand, add these 16 greatest Koh Chang actions so as to add to your to-do listing:

1. Watch Koh Chang’s sunsets

You merely can not go to Koh Chang with out watching a sundown on the seashore. Put in your favourite playlist, convey a drink, and discover the right spot.

Listed here are a number of of our favourite locations to observe the sundown on the island of Koh Chang:

Klong Prao Seashore, Koh Chang

Not solely is Klong Prao Seashore among the finest locations to observe the sundown in Koh Chang, however it’s additionally among the finest areas to see the sundown in your entire nation. Located on the west coast of the island, this seashore is calm and tranquil, making for a soothing sundown expertise.

The seashore is plagued by tall palm timber and along with a front-row seat for the sundown, you’ll additionally get to see the silhouettes of the rolling hills within the distance. No must say it’s among the finest seashores in Koh Chang.

Lonely Seashore, Koh Chang

One of many the explanation why we love Koh Chang a lot is as a result of in contrast to different islands in Thailand, Koh Chang’s seashores keep comparatively garbage-free; Lonely Seashore is certainly one of them.

Positive, Koh Chang Lonely Seashore is understood for its seashore bars and events, however it’s also among the finest locations in Koh Chang to observe the sundown. Seize a drink with pals or sit on the white sand seashore in solitude whereas the solar dips beneath the horizon.

2. Take a look at Khlong Phlu Waterfall

Together with epic sunsets, Koh Chang is understood for its waterfalls.

Khlong Phlu Waterfall is among the hottest falls on the island, and it’s straightforward to see why. Not solely is it breathtakingly lovely, however you may swim proper beneath it within the pure pool. Don’t neglect your swimming go well with; the water is cool and clear.

How To Get To Khlong Phlu Waterfall

To succeed in Khlong Phlu Waterfall, you’ll must enter Mo Koh Chang Nationwide Park. For foreigners, anticipate to pay 200 baht per particular person (about USD 6).

From the parking space, a half-mile hike will take you to the waterfall. That is a simple path that may be accomplished by guests of all health ranges.

3. Go snorkeling in Koh Chang

The island is house to pristine coral reefs and with light tides and nutrient-rich waters, it creates a pure habitat for all sorts of fish. Whether or not you be part of a guided tour otherwise you do a self-guided tour, you’ll love what you may uncover within the ocean surrounding the island.

To seek out one of the best snorkeling spots on the island, go to Bang Bao Pier and join a Koh Chang snorkeling journey or catch a ship to one of many small neighboring islands: Koh Rang or Koh Wai snorkeling spots are wonderful. These islands boast a number of the most lovely reefs within the Gulf of Thailand.

Just a few sea creatures to search for whereas snorkeling the island reefs are the yellow boxfish and the moray eel.

Here’s a Snorkeling Tour in Koh Chang (click on to see it) with good opinions which you can e book on-line by way of GetYourGuide.

4. Go for a day journey to Koh Yuak

One other among the finest issues to do on the island of Koh Chang is to go to Koh Yuak.

This small island is accessible solely by boat and has lovely white sand seashores for absorbing the solar. There are additionally loads of alternatives for water sports activities corresponding to kayaking or paddleboarding.

To get to Koh Yuak from Koh Chang, go to the west aspect of the island close to Kai Bae Viewpoint. Many locals park their boats right here and supply rides to vacationers.

Should you’re struggling to discover a boat to take you to Koh Yuak, ask one of many many resorts close to Kai Bae Viewpoint and they’ll simply have the ability to level you in the precise route.

5. Volunteer with the Koh Chang Animal Venture

Any animal lovers on the market searching for what to do in Koh Chang? 

Koh Chang Animal Venture is a worthwhile trigger that helps animals in want on the island.

The ability was created by a girl named Lisa McAlonie whose aim was to develop a spot that helped locals perceive, study, and care for his or her pets. Additionally they present look after stray road canine and cats which have been deserted.

Volunteering on the Animal Venture is among the greatest issues to do on the island as a result of not solely will you study rather a lot about caring for animals, however you’ll even be giving again to the island. You’ll be able to arrange a time to volunteer by going to their web site, Koh Chang Animal Venture.

6. Pleased Hour on Koh Chang seashores

One of the crucial reasonably priced issues you are able to do on the island of Koh Chang is get pleasure from glad hour at a seashore bar with pals.

Not like many different locations on this planet, Thailand is wildly reasonably priced and that continues to be true for this paradise as properly. A cheerful hour drink or two will solely value a couple of bucks and it’s a good way to calm down and benefit from the informal vibe of the island. For more information about Thailand journey prices click on right here.

However, an vital factor to find out about having fun with glad hour in Koh Chang is figuring out which seashore bars to go to. Listed here are our favourite seashore bars in Koh Chang:

Mimo Seashore Bar

This seashore bar stays a hidden gem on the island. Seize a number of low cost beers (Singha is our favourite) and change tales with the bartender as you await the solar to set.

To seek out Mimo Seashore Bar, head to the south finish of Lonely Seashore.

Stunning Bar

I believe the identify speaks for itself right here… Stunning Bar is located proper on the ocean, simply south of Lonely Seashore. Cocktails at this seashore bar are scrumptious and reasonably priced and for those who keep lengthy sufficient, you’ll get to observe an epic hearth present in Koh Chang.

7. Koh Chang dive expertise

Positive, Koh Chang isn’t as well-known for its diving as Koh Tao, however it’s nonetheless an incredible place to get your scuba diving repair. There are some wonderful dive websites in Koh Chang for each newbie and skilled divers, so spend a day exploring the underwater world.

One of the best Koh Chang diving spots are:

Koh Rang

Whether or not you come for snorkeling or scuba diving, you’ll be completely impressed by the reef right here. Because of the nationwide park that protects this space, the sealife is prospering.

Shipwreck

One other superior dive web site is the HTMS Chang Wreck, a deliberate shipwreck for divers. In case your present certification permits it, this dive can be an unbelievable exercise so as to add to your Koh Chang to-do listing.

8. Go to a fishing village

One of the crucial distinctive issues to do in Koh Chang is to go to a fishing village. Salakkok is a fishing village positioned on the south finish of the island and it’s an incredible place to immerse your self into the Thai tradition. Amongst all Koh Chang vacationer sights, that is the lesser recognized, however it’s price doing it. Watch the locals residing and dealing on this secluded village, in addition to participate in a few of their day-to-day actions.

Just a few of one of the best issues to do in Salakkok village embody:

Firefly Watching

Should you determine to go to Salakkok Fishing Village in any respect, it’s essential to keep till the solar goes down. Take a conventional Thai boat into the darkish mangroves and watch as fireflies become visible. Quickly you’ll be dazzled by hundreds of them flying round you. That is really one of many prime issues to do in Koh Chang.

Discover Mangroves

Take a canoe tour right here to expertise the quiet mangroves of southern a part of the island. This conventional Thai boat trip will expose you to a number of the most secluded areas of the island.

9. See the island from above

There’s no higher method to see Koh Chang than from above. With its lush jungle, rolling hills, and lovely seashores surrounded by vivid blue water, catching a glimpse of all of it from a viewpoint is among the greatest issues to do in Koh Chang.

Kai Bae Viewpoint

The primary viewpoint I counsel visiting is Kai Bae Viewpoint. From right here, you’ll have the ability to see the Koh Man Nai and the expansive views of the Gulf of Thailand from two separate remark decks. 

We actually loved this Koh Chang viewpoint as a result of it’s an incredible place to spend time; they’ve constructed a small cafe close to the point of view that’s excellent for refreshments and fast snacks.

White Sand Seashore Viewpoint

One other fashionable viewpoint in Koh Chang is the White Sand Seashore Viewpoint. In my view, this one doesn’t fairly examine to the Kai Bae Viewpoint, however it nonetheless provides sweeping views of the ocean and the white sand seashore beneath.

My largest reservation about this viewpoint is that there are many macaques (monkeys) ready to prey on vacationers. Monkeys aren’t my cup of tea, however for those who like them, you may get pleasure from this viewpoint greater than I did. 

Ao Ka Rang Viewpoint

A hidden gem that goes by the identify of Ao Ka Rang. Positioned on the southeastern leg of the island, it’s a lot quieter than different areas that have a tendency to draw vacationers.

So whether or not you need a view of the dense jungle inside or a view of the bay full of tiny islands, Ao Ka Rang is the place to go.

10. Kayak to Koh Man Nai

For adventurous actions in Koh Chang, contemplate renting a kayak and paddling out to the small island Koh Man Nai.

Koh Man Na island is positioned simply off the west coast of Koh Chang close to Lonely Seashore. Kayaks are low cost to hire and the island isn’t tough to succeed in due to its shut proximity to the mainland.

When you attain Koh Man Nai, spend a while on the less-crowded seashores and take a dip within the ocean to chill off earlier than your return paddling journey.

11. Expertise Koh Chang’s Nightlife

Positive, Koh Chang isn’t Koh Phangan or Koh Phi Phi (two islands popularly recognized for his or her seashore events), however the nightlife in Koh Chang shouldn’t be neglected.

Should you’re a backpacker or just trying to have a number of cocktails whereas listening to music, there are numerous bustling bars and nightclubs across the island. I counsel spending time in Lonely Seashore, an space recognized for Koh Chang nightlife, enjoyable hostels, and good events.

After watching the sundown on the seashore, head into the city close to Lonely Seashore and uncover glow-in-the-dark events, low cost buckets of booze, and pleasant vacationers trying to meet new pals.

12. Take a Boat to Koh Wai

For much more seashore magnificence, take a day journey out to the island of Koh Wai, positioned simply south of Koh Chang.

When you get to the island, spend your time wandering round and exploring this little paradise, snorkeling and discovering the unbelievable reefs, or simply stress-free on the seashore.

There are two methods to get to Koh Wai: by speedboat or by gradual boat. There are a number of journeys to Koh Wai every day from the pier at Bang Bao. Count on to pay extra for the pace boat than the gradual boat. To be protected, I’d funds roughly $15 every manner for the boat trip.

13. Hike to the highest of Koh Chang

Get off the overwhelmed path by summiting the island’s tallest mountain, Mount Salakphet. From the highest of this peak, you’ll see the coast of Cambodia to the north, a sprawling valley to the west, and an expansive view down south.

However earlier than you bounce on the path, it’s vital to notice that this hike just isn’t for the faint of coronary heart. Throughout your trek, you’ll conquer practically 2,500 toes of elevation acquire in just some miles. With the warmth and humidity, make certain you’re ready with loads of water and replenishing electrolytes.

14. Calm down on Koh Chang’s greatest seashores

You’ll be able to’t go to a Thai island with out spending time at a seashore. Fortunately, this island has loads of them and they’re a number of the most lovely seashores within the nation. So listed below are two of our favourite Koh Chang Seashores:

Klong Prao Seashore, Koh Chang

For one of many island’s prettiest beachside vistas, head to the west aspect of the island to Klong Prao Seashore. Whether or not you’re touring as a pair or with your loved ones, this seashore is the right place to get pleasure from a drink, soak up some solar and surf, or simply calm down for a day.

White Sand Seashore, Koh Chang

Enterprise north to a different certainly one of Koh Chang’s greatest seashores, White Sand Seashore. This seashore stretches over two kilometers and due to its pure white sand, it’s fashionable with {couples}, households, and backpackers alike.

With loads of eating places lining White Sand Seashore Koh Chang, you received’t should go far to search out meals or drinks, which makes it the right place to spend a whole day.

15. See Wat Salak Petch

Should you didn’t spend sufficient time in Bangkok to see the gorgeous temples, you’re in luck! There may be an unbelievable temple on the island referred to as Wat Salak Petch.

Ornately embellished, Wat Salak Petch is among the greatest issues to see in Koh Chang if you wish to get away from the crowds and immerse your self in Thai tradition. Convey a bit of more money with you throughout this outing to donate to the temple and to buy small knick-knacks and bracelets from the locals.

16. Go to Koh Chang Night time Market

We are able to’t speak about what to do in Koh Chang with out speaking about meals.

When the solar goes down, head to the White Sand Seashore Night time Market and bask in a number of the island’s greatest delicacies. The night time market in Koh Chang is open till 11 pm each night time and provides a wide range of dishes which can be certain to please everybody.

That is the right place to eat in Koh Chang for dinner earlier than returning to your lodge or hostel for the night time. You’ll discover contemporary seafood, BBQ skewers, and a wide range of Thai desserts (strive a roti, you received’t remorse it). Costs on the night time market are less expensive than something you’ll discover in one of many resort eating places.

Now that what to do in Koh Chang, seashores, adventures and viewpoints, let’s speak about journey suggestions. Beneath you will discover all the data that you must plan your Koh Chang vacation.

---

What number of days do you want in Koh Chang?

What number of days must you keep in Koh Chang? Nicely, that relies upon!

It’s one of many largest islands in Thailand, so it might take weeks to discover all that it has to supply. That mentioned, Koh Chang remains to be price visiting even for those who solely have a number of days.

Ideally, you’ll have a minimum of 4 days on the island to be able to go to the nationwide park, Koh Chang seashores, and take day journeys to the beautiful islands close by. Spending 4 days on the island will even justify the in depth journey wanted to get there.

Positioned close to the japanese Thai border, the island is likely to be a superb cease in your method to island-hop alongside the coast of Cambodia.

Attending to Koh Chang, Thailand

There are a number of alternative ways to get to Koh Chang however it is going to utterly rely on the place you’re coming from. Listed here are the most typical methods to succeed in the island:

The best way to get to Koh Chang by Flight

The quickest method to get to Koh Chang is by aircraft. Though there isn’t an airport on the island of Koh Chang, there’s a small airport on the mainland in Trat province.

Direct flights depart each day from Bangkok. Bangkok Airways serves this route, however flight occasions change relying on the day of the week and the time of 12 months. You’ll be able to seek for one of the best flights to Koh Chang utilizing Skyscanner or Kiwi.com. 

When you attain the Trat airport, you’ll take a taxi over to Ao Thammachat Pier. On the pier, buy a ticket to Ao Sapparot Pier in Koh Chang. You’ll pay roughly $2-3 for a one-way ferry trip.

The best way to get to Koh Chang by minibus

My favourite method to journey in Thailand is by “minibus”. And for those who’re new to touring in Thailand, a minibus is what they name these massive cargo vans that may match 12-15 folks.

These minibusses are low cost, snug, and rather a lot sooner than using the bus. Hop on a minibus on the Ekkamai Bus Terminal (conveniently a cease on the BTS) and anticipate to pay round 450 to 600 baht a method.

Another choice is to e book a switch out of your lodge in Bangkok (or in any vacation spot close by) to the island. These companies are dependable and you’ll e book prematurely, so that you don’t want to fret throughout your journey.

Take a look at this feature of switch from Bangkok/ Hua Hin / Pattaya to Koh Chang.

The place to remain in Koh Chang: accommodations and hostels

 As for lodging in Koh Chang, you may have a number of choices.

Similar to wherever else in Thailand, you’ll discover loads of hostels however anticipate to pay extra for a dorm room bunk mattress right here than somewhere else within the nation.

For one of the best hostels in Koh Chang, try Pajamas Koh Chang or Cafe Del Sunshine.

Then again, there are mid-range accommodations and upscale resorts in Koh Chang as properly. Our favourite place to remain in Koh Chang was at The Chill Resort & Spa, which supplied luxurious at an affordable worth.

However for those who’re trying to splurge, there’s no higher place to remain in Koh Chang than Marina Sands Resort Koh Chang. Count on top-tier service, privateness, and luxurious at this beachfront property.

In case you are unsure about the place to remain in Koh Chang, no worries. Maintain trying to find your Koh Chang lodging on Reserving.com and Agoda, they normally have one of the best properties and costs in Thailand. For extra recommendations on the best way to e book the right room for any journey learn this Lodging Information right here. 

The best way to get round Koh Chang, Thailand

When you attain the island, you may select from a number of totally different transportation choices.

Bike

By far the best method to get round Koh Chang is by bike. Renting a motorcycle will value roughly USD 8 per day and there are rental outlets on each nook. You’ll want to convey your passport since you’ll must current it to the bike rental store.

Notice: Should you’re uncertain the best way to hire a motorcycle otherwise you want help, I like to recommend asking your lodging host. They’re certain to be very useful. And don’t neglect to purchase Journey Insurance coverage earlier than touring and driving your bike in Thailand, SafetyWing and HeyMondo are good choices.

Additionally, learn Love and Street’s Journey Insurance coverage Information right here.

Songthaew

Should you’ve by no means pushed a motorcycle earlier than, I wouldn’t essentially advocate beginning in Thailand. As an alternative, you may contemplate taking songthaews to get across the island.

Songthaews are truck taxis that may carry many individuals without delay. These truck taxis are available, so flag one down, pay the small price, and attain your vacation spot with out having to drive your self.

Touring round Thailand? Learn our Thailand Guides right here!

When to go to Koh Chang?

When planning your Koh Chang go to, attempt to schedule your journey in the course of the dry season. The dry season in Thailand lasts from November till April. It’s one of the best time to go to Koh Chang and plenty of different locations within the nation.

Throughout these months, you’ll expertise extra sunshine and cooler climate. Sadly, that is additionally thought-about “excessive season” in Thailand, so you may anticipate extra vacationers throughout these months.

Fortunately, Koh Chang is way much less fashionable of a vacation spot than different Thai islands like Koh Samui or Koh Tao, so that you’ll nonetheless get to expertise this island paradise with out combating huge crowds throughout these months.

Love this Koh Chang Information? Pin it for later!!