Koh Chang offers everything from busy beachfront areas to quiet, hidden bays, making it perfect for every type of traveler looking for a real Thai island experience. Picking where to stay on Koh Chang can make or break your entire trip.
In this guide, you’ll find the six best areas in Koh Chang, with detailed breakdowns of each neighborhood, real price comparisons, and insider tips from my multiple visits. From family-friendly Klong Prao Beach to the backpacker favorite Lonely Beach, each area has its own perks for different travel styles.
Best Hotels in Koh Chang 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Koh Chang Kacha Resort & Spa
- ✨ 5-Star: Santhiya Tree Koh Chang Resort
- 🏨 4-Star: Gajapuri Resort & Spa
- 🛏 3-Star: Chang Buri Resort
- 💸 Cheap: Alina Grande Resort
- 🏢 Apartment: The Pearl Luxury Pool Villas
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Klong Prao Resort
- 🏩 For Couples: The Retreat Koh Chang
Quick Guide to the Best Areas 📃
- 👀 For the First Time: White Sand Beach
- 👪 For Families: Klong Prao Beach
- 💑 For Couples: Kai Bae Beach
- 👛 For Budget & Nightlife: Lonely Beach
- 🔮 For Local Vibe: Bang Bao Bay
- 🕊 For Quiet Stay: Pearl Beach
1. White Sand Beach – Where to Stay in Koh Chang for First-Time Visitors
Getting to the Beach. White Sand Beach Koh Chang gives you the easiest way onto the island with direct beach access from most places to stay. I found this 4-kilometer stretch perfect for immediate beach time without any transport headaches, plus the shallow waters go out 50 meters – great for anyone who’s not a strong swimmer trying Thailand’s gulf waters for the first time.
What’s Around. This area has all of island’s main services lined up along one coastal road between the two ferry docks. ATMs give out THB and take international cards (but expect 220 THB fees), while the Family Mart has international snacks, sunscreen, and phone credit until midnight – a lifesaver when you’re jet-lagged.
| Service | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | When It’s Open |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorbike rental | 200-250/day | $6-7/day | 8:00-18:00 |
| Beach massage | 400-500/hour | $12-15/hour | 9:00-19:00 |
| Fresh coconut | 60-80 | $1.8-2.4 | All day |
| Laundry service | 40-50/kg | $1.2-1.5/kg | 24 hours |
| WiFi cafe access | 100/day | $3/day | 7:00-22:00 |
Getting Around. Most ferries from the mainland dock at Ao Sapparot pier (up north) or Tha Dan Kao pier (in the middle), so you’re right at Koh Chang’s main transport spot. Pickup trucks run every 30 minutes to Lonely Beach (100 THB) and Kai Bae (80 THB), while longtail boats to Koh Wai island cost 1,200 THB return with snorkeling gear thrown in.
Important Stuff. White Sand Beach has the island’s main medical clinic behind Porn Resort (24-hour emergency: 039-551-194), plus the tourist police near Centara resort can help with visa stuff and theft reports. The post office between the piers ships packages worldwide – I sent postcards home for 42 THB each, and they got to Europe in 10 days.
Finding Your Way. The beach splits into three parts: the northern end near Ao Sapparot pier is quieter with safe shallow water for families, the middle section around Hat Sai Khao has tons of restaurants and evening fun, while the southern part toward Klong Prao has cheaper bungalow options. Walking the whole thing takes 45 minutes, but motorbike taxis charge 50-80 THB to get from pier to your place.
Where to stay in White Sand Beach
Expensive hotels
- Koh Chang Kacha Resort & Spa – This luxurious beachfront resort offers spacious rooms with modern amenities and stunning ocean views, plus a full-service spa for ultimate relaxation.
- The Aiyapura Koh Chang – Located on pristine beachfront, this upscale resort features elegant accommodations with premium spa services and fine dining options.
- KC Grande Resort & Spa – This grand beachfront property offers luxury rooms with sea views, multiple pools, and comprehensive spa facilities in White Sand Beach area.
Medium price range
- Du Talay Koh Chang – This comfortable beachfront resort provides good value with well-appointed rooms, pool facilities, and easy beach access on popular coast.
- Chang Buri Resort – Situated in a peaceful setting, this resort offers a perfect balance of comfort and affordability with traditional Thai architecture and modern amenities.
- Alina Grande Hotel & Resort – Located close to the beach, this resort provides comfortable accommodations with friendly service and good facilities at reasonable rates.
Budget options
- Banpu Kohchang – This budget-friendly option offers clean, comfortable rooms with basic amenities and good location for exploring Koh Chang island.
- Chang Cliff Resort – Perched on a hillside, this affordable resort provides simple but comfortable rooms with beautiful views and easy access to beaches.
- Alina Grande Resort – This budget resort offers basic accommodations with essential amenities, making it perfect for travelers seeking affordable stays on Koh Chang.
2. Klong Prao Beach – Best area in Koh Chang for Families
Perfect for Kids. Klong Prao Beach Koh Chang stretches over 5 kilometers with the calmest water on the island’s west side. I watched little kids playing safely in knee-deep water that goes on for 100 meters from shore, and the gentle slope means no scary drop-offs like you get at other Thailand beaches.
Family Resort Central. This stretch has island’s biggest family resorts tucked between two small fishing villages, creating a perfect setup for families who want nice amenities without having to go far. The spot puts you right in the middle – White Sand Beach is 15 minutes north and Kai Bae Beach is 10 minutes south.
| Family Service | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kids’ pool floats | 150-200/day | $4.5-6/day | At beachfront shops |
| Babysitting service | 500-800/hour | $15-24/hour | Through resort front desk |
| Family bike rental | 400-600/day | $12-18/day | Child seats/helmets included |
| Beach picnic setup | 800-1,200 | $24-36 | Table, umbrella, snacks included |
Kid-Friendly Extras. Two mini-marts between the resorts stock baby formula, diapers, and kids’ medicine – stuff I couldn’t find at the smaller beaches. The pharmacy stays open until 21:00, and the clinic at Klong Prao Hospital handles minor cuts and tummy troubles that happen with young travelers.
Learning Fun. Klong Prao is where you catch family-friendly elephant sanctuary visits (1,500 THB per adult, kids under 12 pay half) and mangrove kayaking trips through protected waterways. The Klong Prao River mouth has guided snorkeling in shallow coral spots – perfect for getting kids into underwater exploring.
Where to stay in Klong Prao Beach
Expensive hotels
- Santhiya Tree Koh Chang Resort – This luxury treehouse-style resort offers unique elevated accommodations with stunning ocean views and premium spa services in a tropical forest setting.
- Klong Prao Resort – Located directly on Klong Prao Beach, this upscale resort features spacious beachfront rooms with modern amenities and easy access to family-friendly activities.
- Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resort – This 4-star beachfront resort offers family-friendly facilities with two outdoor pools, full-service spa, and private beach access.
Medium price range
- Koh Chang Resort and Spa – This comfortable resort provides good value with well-appointed rooms, spa services, and convenient location for exploring Klong Prao Beach area.
- Flora I Talay – Situated near the beach, this mid-range property offers a perfect balance of comfort and affordability with traditional Thai hospitality and modern facilities.
- Ramayana Koh Chang Resort & Spa – Located in peaceful surroundings, this resort provides comfortable accommodations with spa services and family-friendly amenities at reasonable rates.
Budget options
- Bhu Tarn Koh Chang Resort & Spa – This affordable resort offers clean, comfortable rooms with basic spa facilities and good location for budget-conscious travelers exploring Klong Prao area.
- Pajamas Koh Chang – A budget-friendly hostel-style accommodation offering simple but clean rooms with essential amenities, perfect for backpackers and young travelers.
- Sol Beach Koh Chang – This budget resort provides basic accommodations with beach access, making it ideal for travelers seeking affordable stays near Klong Prao Beach.
3. Kai Bae Beach – Where to Stay in Koh Chang for Romantic Thai Getaways
Romantic Vibes. Kai Bae Beach creates the most intimate feel on Koh Chang with its 1.5-kilometer crescent shape surrounded by jungle hills. This smaller size gets rid of those massive resort complexes, giving you boutique places scattered along the coast for max privacy.
Sunset Magic. This west-facing beach gives you perfect sunset views from multiple beachfront restaurants and bars. The rocky spots at both ends make natural lookout points – I’d go for the southern rocks near Porn’s Bungalows for the best photo shots without the crowds.
| Romantic Activity | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | How Long |
|---|---|---|---|
| Couples beach massage | 1,800-2,400 | $54-72 | 90 minutes |
| Private sunset boat trip | 2,500-3,000 | $75-90 | 2 hours |
| Beachfront dinner for two | 1,200-2,000 | $36-60 | Wine included |
| Couples kayak rental | 600-800/day | $18-24/day | On your own |
Great Food Scene. Kai Bae packs the island’s fanciest restaurants into a 500-meter stretch, from the elevated Barrio Bonito with Mexican fusion to beachfront seafood at Keeree Mantra. Most places sit up high with ocean views during dinner – book ahead when it’s busy season.
Water Fun. The protected bay is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, with rental spots every 200 meters along the beach. The calm water and pretty backdrop make it ideal for couples wanting those Instagram shots without fighting rough waves.
Where to stay in Kai Bae Beach
Expensive hotels
- Sylvan Resort Koh Chang – This upscale beachfront resort offers luxurious accommodations with stunning sea views and premium amenities in the romantic Kai Bae Beach area.
- The Retreat Koh Chang – Located on peaceful Kai Bae Beach, this boutique resort features elegant rooms with sophisticated design and exclusive spa services for couples.
- Vignette Collection Dinso Resort & Villas Ko Chang by IHG – This luxury beachfront property provides spacious suites with panoramic ocean views and high-end facilities perfect for romantic getaways.
Medium price range
- Gajapuri Resort & Spa – This comfortable resort offers good value with well-designed rooms, spa facilities, and convenient location on scenic Kai Bae Beach.
- Awa Resort Koh Chang – Situated near the beach, this mid-range property provides a perfect balance of comfort and affordability with modern amenities and tropical atmosphere.
- The Dewa Koh Chang – Located in the heart of Kai Bae area, this resort offers comfortable accommodations with good facilities at reasonable rates for couples.
Budget options
- Siam Bay Resort – This affordable beachfront resort offers basic but clean accommodations with essential amenities and easy access to Kai Bae Beach attractions.
- Koh Chang Kai Bae Beach Resort – A budget-friendly option providing simple rooms with beach access, perfect for travelers seeking affordable stays in the romantic Kai Bae area.
- Oasis Koh Chang – This budget resort offers basic accommodations with good location near restaurants and bars, ideal for cost-conscious couples exploring Kai Bae Beach.
4. Lonely Beach – Place to Stay in Koh Chang for Budget Accommodation & Nightlife
Backpacker Heaven. Lonely Beach (Hat Tha Nam) packs Koh Chang’s cheapest places to stay into a tight 800-meter stretch, with dorm beds starting at 300 THB per night. I found the area’s popularity with European backpackers creates a social scene that’s perfect for solo travelers wanting to meet people.
Party Time. This beach has the island’s only real party scene with beach bars going until 2:00 AM when it’s busy season. Oasis Bar and Treehouse Bar are the main spots, while smaller places like Siam Hut have live music and fire shows three nights a week.
| Backpacker Must-Have | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | When Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dorm bed (shared bathroom) | 300-500/night | $9-15/night | All year |
| Motorbike taxi to ferry | 100-150 | $3-4.5 | Anytime you need it |
| Laundry (wash & dry) | 80-120/load | $2.4-3.6/load | Same day |
| Bucket cocktails | 200-300 | $6-9 | After 19:00 |
| Internet cafe | 60/hour | $1.8/hour | 24 hours |
Making Friends. The narrow beach setup makes you interact with other accommodations, creating island’s most social environment. Shared kitchens at several guesthouses and beachfront restaurants with big communal tables help you mix – I met travelers from six different countries during one dinner.
Adventure Central. Lonely Beach is basically headquarters for adventure stuff, with jungle trekking guides working right from beachfront bungalows. The nearby Klong Plu Waterfall trail starts just 2 kilometers away, and boat trips to remote snorkeling spots leave daily from the beach’s southern end.
Where to stay in Lonely Beach
Expensive hotels
- Nestsense Resort – This upscale beachfront resort offers luxurious accommodations with modern design and premium amenities in the vibrant Lonely Beach area.
- Siam Beach Resort – Located directly on Lonely Beach, this comfortable resort provides good value with well-appointed rooms and easy access to the area’s famous nightlife scene.
- Nature Beach Resort – This beachfront property offers a perfect balance of comfort and location with natural surroundings and proximity to backpacker social activities.
Medium price range
- Bhumiyama Beach Resort – Situated near Lonely Beach, this mid-range resort provides comfortable accommodations with good facilities at reasonable rates for budget-conscious travelers.
- Lonely Beach Resort – Located in the heart of the action, this resort provides simple but comfortable rooms perfect for travelers wanting to experience the party scene.
- Paradise Cottage – This beachfront cottage-style accommodation offers rustic charm with comfortable rooms and peaceful surroundings, perfect for travelers seeking authentic island atmosphere at reasonable rates.
Budget options
- Tchin tchin Guesthouse – This budget-friendly guesthouse offers clean, basic accommodations with essential amenities, perfect for backpackers exploring Lonely Beach on a tight budget.
- Blue Sky Resort Ko Chang – An affordable option providing simple rooms with good location for budget travelers wanting to stay close to Lonely Beach’s nightlife and activities.
- Jungle Fever Koh Chang – This premium backpacker party hostel provides both dorms and private rooms with swimming pool, bar, and vibrant social atmosphere between jungle and beach.
5. Bang Bao Bay – Where to Stay in Koh Chang for Authentic Thai Culture & Diving
Real Village Life. Bang Bao village sits on stilts over the water at Koh Chang’s southern tip, keeping its real character as a working fishing community. I found the narrow wooden walkways connecting traditional houses give you a cultural experience you can’t get at the developed northern beaches.
Diving Hub. This spot is the main diving launch point with dive shops clustered around the main pier. Daily trips to Koh Rang Marine Park cost 2,800-3,500 THB with all gear included, while experienced divers can hit deeper sites around Koh Wai and Koh Kham for 3,800-4,200 THB per trip.
| Cultural Experience | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional fishing trip | 1,500-2,000 | $45-60 | 5:00-9:00 AM |
| Local cooking class | 1,200-1,800 | $36-54 | 10:00-14:00 |
| Village walking tour | 300-500 | $9-15 | Anytime |
| Fresh seafood dinner | 800-1,500 | $24-45 | 18:00-21:00 |
Fresh Catch Heaven. Bang Bao’s stilt restaurants serve the freshest seafood on Koh Chang, with daily catches coming right to the main pier. I’d suggest timing dinner for 18:00 when the fishing boats come back – you’ll literally pick your meal from the day’s catch while watching sunset over the Cambodian coast.
Local Connections. The village setup gets you interacting with local families who’ve been here for generations. Several homestays work out of traditional wooden houses, giving you cultural immersion through shared meals and fishing trips with village elders who speak some English.
Where to stay in Bang Bao Bay
Expensive hotels
- Indie Beach Bungalow – This boutique beachfront property offers stylish accommodations with modern amenities and stunning sea views in the authentic Bang Bao Bay area.
- Tropical Beach Koh Chang – Located on peaceful beachfront, this upscale resort provides comfortable rooms with tropical design and easy access to diving activities and cultural experiences.
- Resolution Resort – This well-appointed resort offers good facilities with scenic location perfect for travelers wanting to explore the traditional fishing village atmosphere.
Medium price range
- Chivapuri Beach Resort – Situated near Bang Bao village, this mid-range resort provides comfortable accommodations with good value and proximity to diving departure points.
- Baan Suan Khun Ta – This locally-run accommodation offers authentic Thai hospitality with comfortable rooms and cultural immersion opportunities at reasonable rates.
- Cliff Cottage – Located on elevated grounds, this charming property provides scenic views and peaceful atmosphere with good access to Bang Bao’s attractions.
Budget options
- YuYu Golden Beach – This budget-friendly option offers basic but clean accommodations with beach access, perfect for travelers exploring Bang Bao on a tight budget.
- Hippy Hut Glamping Bungalow – An affordable glamping experience providing unique accommodations with essential amenities, ideal for backpackers seeking alternative stays.
- Seree Bungalows & Chill Bar – These simple bungalows offer basic accommodations with authentic local atmosphere, perfect for budget travelers wanting to experience traditional Bang Bao village life.
6. Pearl Beach – Where to Stay in Koh Chang for Secluded Island Escapes
Hidden Gem. Pearl Beach hides on the island’s southeastern coast, reached by a bumpy 3-kilometer dirt road that keeps most visitors away. This isolation creates the island’s most peaceful environment, perfect for digital detox and meditation retreats.
Super Cheap. Basic bungalows start at 400 THB per night, while beachfront options rarely go over 1,200 THB even during busy season. The limited development keeps prices low – I paid less for a week at Pearl Beach than two nights at White Sand Beach places.
| Budget Option | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic fan bungalow | 400-600/night | $12-18/night | Shared bathroom |
| AC beachfront room | 800-1,200/night | $24-36/night | Private bathroom |
| Motorbike rental | 150-200/day | $4.5-6/day | Helmet included |
| Simple Thai meal | 80-150 | $2.4-4.5 | Local restaurant |
Nature All Around. The 2-kilometer beach borders protected forest areas with hiking trails to hidden waterfalls and viewpoints. Hornbills and monitor lizards hang out here – I spotted both during morning beach walks without even leaving the resort area.
Total Disconnect. Pearl Beach has no ATMs, spotty WiFi, and just three small restaurants, making it ideal for travelers wanting to unplug completely. Stock up on essentials at Salak Phet village (15 minutes by motorbike) before settling in for longer stays.
Where to stay in Pearl Beach
Expensive hotels
- The Pearl Luxury Pool Villas – This luxury beachfront property offers exclusive pool villas with premium amenities and stunning ocean views in the secluded Pearl Beach area.
- The Elegance Pool Villas – An upscale resort featuring private pool villas with modern design and high-end facilities perfect for travelers seeking ultimate privacy and relaxation.
- Macura Resort – This boutique beachfront resort provides comfortable accommodations with peaceful surroundings and easy access to Pearl Beach’s tranquil environment.
Medium price range
- Saffron On The Sea Resort – Located on peaceful beachfront, this mid-range resort offers good value with comfortable rooms and scenic ocean views at reasonable rates.
- Baan Ton Rak Boutique Resort Koh Chang – This charming boutique property provides comfortable accommodations with traditional Thai design and personalized service in a quiet setting.
- Penny's Resort – A family-run resort offering simple but comfortable rooms with friendly atmosphere and good location for exploring Pearl Beach area.
Budget options
- Koh Chang Privilege – This budget-friendly accommodation offers basic but clean rooms with essential amenities, perfect for travelers seeking affordable stays in Pearl Beach.
- TP Hut Bungalows Pearl Beach Koh Chang – Simple beach bungalows providing basic accommodations with authentic island atmosphere, ideal for backpackers wanting budget-friendly stays.
- Ban Na Koh Chang – This budget accommodation offers no-frills rooms with basic facilities, perfect for travelers prioritizing location and affordability over luxury amenities.
FAQs about Visiting Koh Chang, Thailand
How to get to Koh Chang from Bangkok?
You can reach this second largest island in Thailand by taking a bus from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal to Trat, then hopping on a ferry from Laem Ngop pier. The whole journey takes about 5-6 hours including the ferry ride across the Gulf of Thailand.
What’s the best time to visit Koh Chang?
The sweet spot for visiting Koh Chang is during dry season from November to March when you’ll get sunny weather and calm seas. This time gives you perfect conditions for beach stuff and exploring the island without getting soaked by rain.
Which luxury hotels in Koh Chang offer spa services?
Boutique resorts like Santhiya Tree Koh Chang Resort provide comprehensive spa Koh Chang treatments with traditional Thai massage and wellness programs. These luxury resorts feature beachfront locations with full-service spas offering everything from couples massages to rejuvenating body treatments.
How do I get around Koh Chang island?
Getting around Koh Chang is easiest by renting a motorbike or using songthaew pickup trucks that run along the main coastal road. You can also hire private taxis or join organized tours to explore the island and check out nearby spots.
What makes White Sand Beach in Koh Chang so special?
This main beach works as the island’s main hub with the most places to stay and easy ferry access. The sandy beach goes on for kilometers and has everything from budget guesthouses to fancy beach resort facilities.
What beaches in Koh Chang are best for families?
Klong Prao Beach stands out as one of the best beaches for families with its calm, shallow water and resort facilities. The protected bay creates safe swimming conditions while giving easy access to family-friendly activities and dining spots.
Can I visit Koh Mak and Koh Kood nearby?
Both Koh Mak and Koh Kood are reachable by boat from various piers around Koh Chang and make great day trip destinations. These smaller islands have pristine beaches and a more secluded feel compared to the busier areas of the main island.
Which accommodation offers private beach access?
The Pearl Luxury Pool Villas and Emerald Cove Koh Chang feature direct access to secluded stretches of coastline along the west coast. These exclusive properties give guests their own private beach areas with minimal crowds, perfect for intimate beach experiences away from the busier tourist zones.
What should visitors to Koh Chang know about planning?
When planning a trip to Thailand that includes this beautiful island, book your stay in one of Koh Chang’s best areas during peak season way ahead of time. The island offers different experiences from Mu Ko Chang National Park adventures to just chilling right on the beach at various stunning locations.
