Things to Do in Koh Chang

Koh Chang sits in the Gulf of Thailand as the country's second-largest island, a mountainous jungle destination that somehow manages to feel both developed and wild. The island's western coast hosts the main beaches and resort areas, while the eastern side remains largely untouched, with fishing villages and mangrove forests that give you a sense of what Thailand might have looked like decades ago. You'll still hear more Thai than English. Despite the size and popularity, Koh Chang retains a laid-back atmosphere that's harder to find on more famous Thai islands. The pace moves slow. Daily life follows a distinctly island rhythm here.

Koh Chang's food scene ranges from excellent beachfront seafood restaurants to simple local joints serving authentic Thai dishes at local prices. The fishing village of Bang Bao offers some of the island's best seafood, often caught the same day, while the main beach areas have everything from pizza joints to high-end resort restaurants. Look for places where locals eat. You'll find the most authentic and affordable Thai food away from the beach areas—particularly around the island's interior towns. Night markets pop up in different locations throughout the week. They serve the usual Thai street food favorites along with fresh tropical fruits.

The best time to visit Koh Chang falls between November and March, when you'll get sunny skies, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall. This is also peak season with higher prices and more crowds. April brings intense heat. May can feel uncomfortable, while the rainy season from June to October sees frequent afternoon downpours and some businesses closing—but also lush green landscapes and significantly lower accommodation rates. The rain comes in bursts. You might still enjoy plenty of sunshine even during the wet months.