Koh Chang, in Trat province near the Cambodian border, is a large, hilly island covered in forest, with beaches along the west coast and a handful of fishing villages. It is quieter and less developed than Phuket or Koh Samui, and easier to reach from Bangkok than the Andaman islands. For travellers, the appeal is a mix of beach time, jungle walks, waterfalls and boat trips to smaller islands.
This guide covers how to get there, when to go, the best beaches for different travellers, things to do, costs and an itinerary. It builds on the overview on the Koh Chang hub.
All schedules, fees and prices are approximate (as of 2026). Check each operator or official site before you go.
Is Koh Chang right for you?
| Koh Chang suits... | Another island might suit you better if... |
|---|---|
| Visitors who want a laid-back island and nature | You want luxury, nightlife and dense restaurant choice (see the which island guide) |
| Families who like a quieter beach | You want very clear water year-round |
| Travellers who are happy with a longer journey | You have only a weekend (consider Pattaya or Hua Hin) |
How to get to Koh Chang
The route has two parts: reach Trat province and then cross by ferry.
Step 1: Bangkok to Trat or Laem Ngop pier
- Bus or minivan: typically 5 to 6 hours, from Bangkok's Eastern (Ekkamai) and Northern (Mo Chit) terminals or from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Many services connect directly to Laem Ngop or Trat town. Check the operator or the Transport Co. site for timetables and fares.
- Flight to Trat: Bangkok Airways has operated this short flight, about an hour in the air. Check the airline's page for current availability. Trat Airport is roughly an hour from the ferry piers by road.
- Private car: about 4.5 to 5.5 hours with traffic, and you can take the car on the ferry.
Step 2: ferry to the island
Car ferries run from Ao Thammachat, near Laem Ngop, to Koh Chang's Sapparot and Centrepoint terminals. The crossing is typically 30 to 45 minutes, with frequent departures in the day and fewer in the evening or low season. Check the current timetable and last sailings with the operator; if you miss the last ferry, you will need to stay on the mainland overnight. On arrival, songthaews meet the ferry and take you to the beach.
If your bus or flight arrives late, plan a night at Trat town or near the pier and take the ferry the next morning. This avoids rushing and the risk of missing the last boat.
For wider transport options within Thailand, see the Thailand getting-around guide.
Best time to go
- November to February: the best weather, driest days and calmest seas. Prices and demand are highest.
- March to April: hot and calm, good for boat trips.
- May to October: rainy season with heavy showers, rough seas and fewer boats. Some businesses close. Waterfalls are strongest, but travel can be disrupted.
See Thailand best time by region for an overview of how Koh Chang compares with the Andaman side.
Beaches and where to stay
| Beach | Vibe | Good for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Sand Beach (Hat Sai Khao) | Busy, lively | First-timers, nightlife | Widest range of shops and restaurants |
| Klong Prao | Quieter, long beach | Families, couples | Pleasant for walking, river at one end |
| Kai Bae | Smaller, laid-back | Families, snorkelling trips | Close to boat departure points |
| Lonely Beach | Backpacker, party | Budget travellers, younger visitors | Hilly and loud at night |
| Bang Bao | Fishing village on stilts | Seafood, boat trips | Not a swimming beach |
| Salak Khok and Salak Phet | Quiet bays on the east side | Peaceful stays | Fewer services |
Many bungalows and small resorts close or reduce services in the wet season, and some stretches of beach shrink with the tide. Always check the exact beach location and what is nearby before booking.
What to do
Snorkelling and island trips
Most boat tours go to small islands such as Koh Wai, Koh Rang and Koh Kloum, with several snorkelling stops. Trips usually run from Bang Bao or Kai Bae and include lunch and equipment hire. Tour prices vary with the number of stops and the type of boat. Check what is included, how many people the boat carries, and whether life jackets and a licence are available. Water visibility depends on season and wind.
Waterfalls and jungle
The two best-known falls are Klong Plu and Than Mayom. Both are best after the rains and need decent shoes. Hiking in the forest, often with a local guide, takes you into the national park. Park fees apply in some areas and are set by the Department of National Parks, so check the official site.
Elephants and animal experiences
Several camps operate on the island. Standards differ, and many travellers choose places that avoid riding and shows. See our ethical elephant visits guide for criteria you can apply anywhere.
Kayaking, diving and viewpoints
Kayaking tours, jungle walks and viewpoints operate from several beaches. Introductory diving and fun dives are available through local operators. Look for a recognised training agency and ask about safety procedures.
Bang Bao and sunsets
Wander the Bang Bao boardwalk, try grilled seafood and take a longtail boat for sunset. Fish is priced by weight, so ask before ordering.
Beach bungalow rooms can be around THB 500-1,200 per night in the low season and higher at peak times, with mid-range resorts around THB 1,500-4,000 (approx., as of 2026). Meals at local restaurants cost THB 80-250 per dish.
Beyond Koh Chang: Koh Mak and Koh Kood
Koh Mak and Koh Kood are quieter islands in the same group. Boats connect to them from the mainland and from Koh Chang in season, but timetables and operators change, particularly in the wet season. Consider them as an add-on for 2 to 3 nights if you want a more remote beach experience. Verify the boat before you commit to onward bookings.
Sample 4-day itinerary
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Travel to Trat, ferry to island | Settle in at your beach | Beach dinner |
| Day 2 | Island snorkelling tour | Rest at the beach | Seafood at Bang Bao |
| Day 3 | Waterfall hike (Klong Plu or Than Mayom) | Elephant sanctuary visit or kayak | Local restaurant |
| Day 4 | Beach time, check out | Ferry to mainland, onward travel | Arrive in Bangkok or Trat |
Getting around the island
Songthaews run along the west-coast road at fixed prices by distance, with fewer services in the evening. Taxis and motorbike taxis charge set rates. Scooter rental is common but risky because the roads are steep, winding and slippery in the rain. Walking is realistic only within a single beach area.
Safety and what to bring
Koh Chang's hills and bends make scooter accidents among tourists common. Wear a helmet, avoid riding in the rain or at night, and confirm that your insurance covers motorcycles. In the wet season, strong currents and rough water make swimming dangerous on some beaches.
Pack sun protection, insect repellent, a rain jacket, sturdy sandals for waterfalls and a dry bag for boat trips. Carry some cash because small businesses may not take cards. Emergency numbers: police 191, medical emergency 1669, Tourist Police 1155. Travel insurance that includes medical care and evacuation is advisable. See the Thailand safety, scams and health guide.
FAQ
How long should I stay on Koh Chang?
Three to five nights is a comfortable length: one day for travel in, a snorkelling tour, a waterfall day and beach time.
Is Koh Chang worth visiting in the rainy season?
It can be, if you are flexible and want lower prices and green scenery. Expect rain, rougher seas and some closed businesses. Check the forecast and boat cancellations.
Can I visit Koh Chang from Pattaya?
Yes, but the journey is long. It is better treated as a separate trip, or combined in a one-way route from Bangkok to Pattaya and on to Trat.
Do I need cash on Koh Chang?
It is wise. ATMs exist on the main beaches, but small shops, songthaews and some bungalows are cash only.
Is Koh Chang good for diving?
It offers introductory and fun dives with visibility that depends on season and wind. For top-tier diving, many travellers look to the Andaman Sea or Koh Tao instead.
Official sources and further reading
Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Figures here are approximate as of 2026; always confirm on the official or operator page before you book. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
