Things to Do in Koh Chang, ประเทศไทย

Koh Chang, Thailand's second-largest island, is a pristine tropical paradise located in the Gulf of Thailand near the Cambodian border. Known as 'Elephant Island' due to its elephant-shaped headland, this mountainous island offers a perfect blend of lush rainforest, cascading waterfalls, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Unlike some of Thailand's more developed islands, Koh Chang maintains much of its natural charm while still providing excellent tourist infrastructure. The island's western coast features stunning white sand beaches like White Sand Beach and Lonely Beach, while the eastern side offers a more authentic local experience with fishing villages and mangrove forests. Koh Chang National Marine Park encompasses much of the island and surrounding waters, protecting diverse ecosystems that include over 60% forest coverage. Whether you're seeking adventure through jungle trekking and water sports, relaxation on beautiful beaches, or cultural immersion in local communities, Koh Chang delivers an unforgettable Thai island experience without the overwhelming crowds found elsewhere.

Top Things to Do in Koh Chang

Island Hopping and Snorkeling

Explore the crystal-clear waters around Koh Chang's neighboring islands including Koh Wai, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood. These pristine islands offer excellent snorkeling opportunities with vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and secluded beaches perfect for swimming and relaxation. Most tours include multiple stops, lunch, and snorkeling equipment.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost 800-1,500 THB per person. Book through your hotel or local operators for better prices than beach vendors. Choose tours with smaller groups (under 20 people) for a more personalized experience. Best weather is November-April.

Waterfall Trekking

Discover Koh Chang's spectacular waterfalls including Klong Plu, Khiri Phet, and Klong Nonsi waterfalls through jungle hiking adventures. These treks take you through dense tropical rainforest with diverse wildlife, ending at refreshing natural pools perfect for swimming. The trails vary from easy 30-minute walks to challenging multi-hour hikes.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are 200 THB for adults at national park waterfalls. Hire local guides for 500-800 THB for difficult trails and wildlife spotting. Bring insect repellent, water, and proper hiking shoes. Visit during dry season for safer trails.

Elephant Sanctuary Visit

Experience ethical elephant encounters at Koh Chang's elephant sanctuaries where you can feed, bathe, and observe rescued elephants in natural settings. These sanctuaries focus on elephant welfare and conservation education rather than riding activities. You'll learn about elephant behavior, conservation efforts, and enjoy meaningful interactions with these gentle giants.

Booking Tip: Ethical sanctuaries charge 1,500-2,500 THB including transfers and lunch. Avoid places offering elephant riding. Look for sanctuaries that prioritize elephant welfare over entertainment. Book directly or through reputable tour operators. Morning visits are cooler and more comfortable.

Mangrove Kayaking

Paddle through Koh Chang's pristine mangrove forests on the island's eastern coast, exploring narrow channels lined with ancient trees and diverse wildlife. These eco-tours offer opportunities to spot birds, monitor lizards, and learn about mangrove ecosystem importance. The calm waters make it suitable for all skill levels.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost 800-1,200 THB including equipment and guide. Book tours that include Salak Phet Bay for the best mangrove experience. Early morning tours offer better wildlife spotting and cooler temperatures. Choose operators that emphasize environmental education.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Explore Koh Chang's underwater world with excellent diving and snorkeling sites featuring colorful coral reefs, diverse marine life, and good visibility. Popular dive sites include Hin Luk Bat, Hin Rap, and the waters around nearby islands. The area offers sites suitable for beginners through advanced divers with PADI certification courses available.

Booking Tip: Two-tank dives cost 2,500-3,500 THB, snorkeling trips 1,000-1,500 THB. PADI Open Water courses run 12,000-15,000 THB. Choose PADI-certified dive centers with good safety records. Best diving conditions November-May with 15-25m visibility.

Getting There

Reaching Koh Chang requires traveling to Trat province on the mainland, then taking a ferry to the island. From Bangkok, take a bus from Ekkamai or Mo Chit bus stations (5-6 hours, 200-300 THB) or drive via Highway 3 to Laem Ngop pier. Alternatively, fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport (1 hour, 3,000-6,000 THB) then take a taxi to the ferry pier (45 minutes, 600 THB). Ferries run every 45 minutes from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM, taking 45 minutes and costing 80 THB for passengers plus 120 THB for cars. The main ferry route connects Laem Ngop to Ao Sapparot pier on Koh Chang's northern coast.

Getting Around

Transportation on Koh Chang primarily consists of songthaews (shared pickup trucks) that run along the main coastal road connecting all major beaches and towns. Songthaew fares range from 50-100 THB depending on distance, with more expensive rates after dark. Motorbike taxis are available for short trips (40-60 THB), while renting a scooter (200-300 THB/day) or car (1,200-2,000 THB/day) provides the most flexibility for exploring. The island's roads can be steep and winding, so drive carefully and wear helmets. Taxis are limited and expensive, mainly used for airport transfers or longer journeys around the island.

Where to Stay

White Sand Beach (Hat Sai Khao)

Klong Prao Beach

Kai Bae Beach

Lonely Beach (Hat Tha Nam)

Bang Bao Village

Salak Phet Bay

Food & Dining

Koh Chang's dining scene offers everything from beachfront seafood restaurants to local street food and international cuisine. The island is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly at Bang Bao fishing village where restaurants serve catches of the day with stunning sea views. White Sand Beach and Klong Prao offer the most dining variety, including Thai, European, and fusion restaurants, while Lonely Beach caters to backpackers with budget-friendly options and beach bars. Don't miss trying local specialties like som tam (papaya salad), massaman curry, and grilled fish at local markets in Dan Mai and Klong Son villages. Many resorts offer excellent Thai cooking classes, and the island's night markets provide authentic street food experiences with dishes starting from 40-80 THB.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Koh Chang is during the cool, dry season from November to February when temperatures are comfortable (24-30°C), humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal. March to May brings hotter weather (up to 35°C) but still excellent beach conditions with calm seas perfect for water activities. The rainy season from June to October sees heavy downpours, rough seas, and many businesses closed, though accommodation prices drop significantly. November to April offers the best weather for outdoor activities, diving, and island hopping, while May to October is ideal for budget travelers who don't mind occasional rain and want a more authentic, less crowded experience.

Insider Tips

Visit Bang Bao fishing village in the late afternoon for the best photos and freshest seafood as boats return with their daily catch

Rent a scooter to explore the less-visited eastern side of the island where you'll find authentic fishing villages, mangrove forests, and significantly lower prices

Book accommodations well in advance for December-January peak season, but consider visiting in November or February for great weather with fewer crowds and better prices

Things to Do in Koh Chang