Introduction

Koh Chang, Eastern Thailand’s largest islands has long, white sandy beaches, a wide range of wildlife, including 61 species of birds, snakes, deer and some elephants. Located close to it’s to sister islands Koh Mak and Koh Kood, Koh Chang is an excellent beach holiday and the perfect place to spend a holiday exploring the island. There are many resorts to choose and depending on your budget, you may go for high end or laid back-beach bungalows.

Popular for snorkeling and diving, the surrounding waters include a marine conservation zone. Less developed than islands like Koh Samui and Phuket, Koh Chang is one-hour flight from Bangkok. About 85% of the island is part of the Ko Chang Marine National Park, including the rainforests of the interior of the island. Nearby coral reefs are also protected.

Because Koh Chang is a very popular destination, you should book well ahead for peak and high season accommodation bookings and for all reservations on Thai public holidays. Listed here are some good suggestions.

Activities
Hiking is popular, with some beautiful waterfalls to visit, and mountain bikes are available to rent at Hat Sai Khao and Hat Kaibae. Elephant Trekking, organised by the Asian Elephant Foundation, is available at the Ban Kwan Chang Elephant Camp at Klong Son. Canoeing the mangrove forests of the waterways is also available as an option.

Ko Chang has plenty of spas offering massage, herbal scrubs, aromatherapy, and reflexology.

Dining
The island eateries offer a variety of local seafood, abundant tropical fruits, including: rambutan, durian and pineapples, and a variety of fresh vegetables. You will find restaurant menus similar to the rest of Thailand, and they open both daytime and evenings on most parts of the island. Be sure to try fruity local wines made from mangosteens, pineapples and grapes. At Rock Sand Resort you can dine on a terrace over the sea with fantastic sunset views. The Koh Chang nightlife and bar scene is not as vibrant as some Thai resorts, but you can always find somewhere to be entertained at nights.

Accommodation
Most of the hotels are located on the west side of the island, with many resorts and guest houses all along the road that leads down the coast. Generally speaking, prices drop off the further away from the port you get. Supply far out-strips demand, so finding a place to stay should never be hard, though the best or cheapest places may fill up at weekends and Thai national holidays.