Koh Chang the Island of Your Dreams

Koh Chang is a stunning island, situated in the Trat province on the south east coast of Thailand, just off the mainland close to the Cambodian border. Koh Chang is about as far east as you can go along the shoreline and still be in Thailand. It is the largest island in the gulf of Thailand and the second largest of Thailand's islands after Phuket. Travelers can reach the island in a 45-minute flight or a five-hour road drive from Bangkok and a short 45 minute ferry ride from the mainland. It is the largest island of the Koh Chang National Park containing of an archipelago of 52 islands. Koh Chang is a wonderful place with clear blue water, white sand coves, colourful corals, fascinating marine life and wildlife, steep cliffs, scenic waterfalls, undisturbed tropical forest, lush jungles and high peaks such as the 744m Khao Jom Prasat.

Koh Chang is thought to be one of the very few remaining islands all over the world that still has kept it natural resources intact that has survived the mass development and tourism that others have suffered. It still keeps it's true "island" feeling. On Koh Chang there are only few residents. There are virtually no good roads with the exception of one new ring road that circles the island. The only form of public transport is by shared pick-up taxis. On the island there are only few motorcycles and cars. Electricity comes from the mainland via cable underneath the sea only to the northern area of the island. This all makes the island a true hideout, a dream vacation spot, far away from the hustle and bustle of hectic city life. Koh Chang is being developed from a paradise for backpackers to Thailand's newest top-level vacation spot for tourism and is quickly developing.

When visiting Koh Chang it's really important not forget insect repellant, this is a tropical island where mosquitoes are expected.

Accommodations

In Koh Chang you can find any beach huts, hotels or resorts at any of your budget. Standards can vary quite a bit. Most of accommodations are located on the western side of the island, where the sandy beaches are accessible. During the rainy season from May to September some of them close down. Since the island has become more and more popular most of them have opened the whole year and provide special rates for low season.

Koh Chang Hotel Tip

Koh Chang Paradise Resort

The 3.5 star Koh Chang Paradise Resort & Spa is situated on the western side of the island on the glistening white sands of Klong Prao Beach. The location is very private, so if you want to have good relaxation and a quiet stay, this is the place to be. Koh Chang Paradise Resort is one of a kind that really lives up to its name! Get an experience that is out of this world.

The resort offers 69 beautiful, air-conditioned rooms with cable TV, robes, and a private safe. You can lie by the beautiful blue swimming pool or relax at the spa that is designed very nicely.The offered treatments are great and always worth the money. For visitors wanting to spend a little bit less the Spa runs an academy at the nearby plaza less fancy but with the same quality to the treatments.

When you step down to the beach you can enjoy all the water sports. In the afternoon you should go northwest of the beach where you'll find a fantastic spot to savor the sunset at the cliffs.

Nearby the resort in walking distance there is a small local centre with approximately 10 restaurants serving delicious dishes including tasteful Italian food. This centre is also the place to make your tour arrangements. Walking along the beach you will find a friendly family style and simple beach restaurants which serves excellent food at very reasonable prices. Yo can also take a taxi to go down Klong Phrao to visit Ka Ti Culinary restaurant that offers excellent Thai food and a cheery fun Thai cooking class.
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Beaches of Koh Chang

The better beaches of Koh Chang are along the west coast. Most popular is Hat Sai Khao (White sand beach). About 4km south of White sand beach is Ao Klong Prao (Coconut Bay). This beach is a bit calmer and not so crowded. Other notable beaches on the west side are Hat Klong Makok, Hat Kaibae and Hat Tha Nam.

Things to do in Koh Chang

The island is a great place for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.The best dive sites you will find at the islets off the southern tip. There are many dive centres for novice divers as well as experienced divers. Instruction material is available in many languages.

At Hat Sai Khao and Hat Kaibae you can rent mask and snorkels, sailboats, kayaks and boogie boards. At several places on the island mountain bikes can be rented.

Koh Chang features scenic waterfalls and undisturbed tropical forest. Most of them are in the interior of the island. Some of the waterfalls can be reached by well marked footpaths. The most interesting hikes are in the southern part of the island. If you're looking for a more adventurous hike there is also a footpath from Ban Khlong Phrao on the west coast to the east cost. However it's not possible to go in for this adventure without a local guide.

Elephant trekking is another popular activity. There are some elephant camps where tourists can hire elephants for treks into the rainforest.

It is also possible to venture trips to the neighbor islands. Most trips are day tours, but overnight trips can be arranged.

When to visit Koh Chang

Koh Chang is influenced by the northeastern and southwestern storms. The rainy season is from May to September. With regard to climate and visibility, from November to April is the best time to visit Koh Chang.