The best areas to stay in Koh Chang are White Sand Beach, Kai Bae Beach, Lonely Beach, Bang Bao Bay, Klong Prao Beach, and Salak Phret.
White Sand Beach is by far the most popular beach and comes with plenty of comforts while some others are more secluded but simultaneously offer fewer facilities.
Koh Chang is one of the largest islands in Thailand, so there is quite some difference between each part of the island.
This might be an overwhelming answer to your question about where to stay in Koh Chang.
But don’t worry, as in this article, we cover what we believe are the best areas to stay in Koh Chang, no matter the type of traveler you are.
If you want to go straight to the recommendations, simply tap on the following button.
Or just continue reading if you want to know just a bit more about Koh Chang.
Although a popular destination, as it’s located near the Cambodian border and not on the common traveling routes, Koh Chang offers far more authenticity than the islands in the south of Thailand.
Yes, you do have to travel quite a bit in order to get to Koh Chang but the combination of the stunning beaches, nature, and unique, laid-back atmosphere is something only a few can compete against.
So, as you can expect, we highly recommend you make this trip all the way to Koh Chang for an unforgettable experience.
To make things easy, we’ve come up with the best areas to stay in Koh Chang so that you can experience the island to the fullest.
At the bottom of this article, you’ll find the answers to frequently asked questions as well as a map of the island with the recommended areas and the island’s highlights.
With that being said, let’s jump straight to our recommendations.
Where to stay in Koh Chang? Keep reading!
Overview of best areas to stay in Koh Chang
Below, you find a table with an overview of all the recommended areas along with a short explanation of what makes that area so special.
You can tap on one of the green links to go immediately to that recommended area, or just continue reading the article.
| Best areas to stay in Koh Chang | What’s so special about the area? |
|---|---|
| 1. White Sand Beach | The most popular and touristy part of the island, known for its stunning white beach. This is the most vibrant part of Koh Chang and a great option for those who want to stay as close as possible to the action. |
| 2. Kai Bae Beach |
This area is popular with families and couples who want a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. There are plenty of restaurants and bars here, as well as a few shops selling souvenirs and beachwear. |
| 3. Lonely Beach |
As the name suggests, this area is more secluded and peaceful than other parts of the island. It’s popular with backpackers and budget travelers, with plenty of affordable accommodation options and a laid-back vibe |
| 4. Bang Bao Bay |
A charming fishing village on the southern tip of Koh Chang. There are several guesthouses and restaurants here, as well as a pier where you can catch boats to nearby islands. |
| 5. Klong Prao Beach |
This area is ideal for those who want a mix of relaxation and adventure. There are plenty of water sports and activities available here, as well as a few bars and restaurants. The beach is also long and wide, with plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming. |
| 6. Salak Phret | A great area to stay in Koh Chang due to its tranquil ambiance, picturesque mangrove-lined coast, and proximity to untouched natural beauty, offering a serene escape away from the more touristy parts of the island. |
How to get around in Koh Chang
Koh Chang is a beautiful island in Thailand, and getting around as a tourist can be relatively easy.
The most common ways of getting around the island are
Songthaews (Shared Taxis)
Songthaews are shared pickup trucks with bench seating in the back.
They follow fixed routes and are a cost-effective way to travel between different areas on the island.
You can flag one down or find them at popular locations.
Motorbike Rental
Renting a motorbike is a popular and convenient option for exploring Koh Chang.
Many rental shops are available, and rates are usually reasonable.
Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and proper insurance and be cautious, especially if you’re not experienced in riding a motorbike.
Taxis
Taxis are available on Koh Chang, and you can hire them for private transport.
Negotiate the fare before getting in, as they might not always use meters.
Bicycles
Many areas in Koh Chang are bike-friendly, and renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the island, especially if you’re staying in a specific area.
Some resorts and guesthouses may provide bicycles for guests.
Island Tours
Joining organized island tours is another way to get around and see the sights.
These tours often include transportation, guides, and visits to popular attractions.
What is the best time of the year to visit Koh Chang?
Stunning beaches, small islands with their own beaches, crystal clear waters.
Yes, Koh Chang is among the most beautiful parts of Thailand!
The best areas to stay in Koh Chang are:
1. White Sand Beach
White Sand Beach is one of the most popular areas to stay in Koh Chang.
It is known for its stunning white sandy beach that stretches for nearly 2 kilometers and its crystal-clear turquoise water.
The sand at White Sand Beach is incredibly fine and powdery, which makes it feel like walking on silk. I
t’s by far the most vibrant area of the island and its vibrant nightlife with a range of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants stays open late into the night.
Visitors can enjoy live music, fire shows, and other entertainment options.
During the day, a wide range of water activities such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, parasailing and kayaking keeps you definitely entertained.
You can also go on snorkeling and diving trips to explore the nearby coral reefs.
There is a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.
And as it’s the first fully-developed part of the island, you have quite some great facilities such as proper shopping options.
During the evening, make sure to explore the night food market which offers a huge variety of delicious and affordable foods.
In other words, White Sand Beach is, with all its comforts, the perfect area on the island to enjoy Koh Chang to the fullest.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Chang in this part of the island are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Kai Bae Beach
Kai Bae Beach is known for its picturesque sandy shorelines and clear waters.
The beach is relatively wide, providing ample space for you to relax and sunbathe.
While Kai Bae is a popular area, it tends to be less crowded and more tranquil compared to some of the busier beaches on the island.
This makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a more relaxed holiday.
Kai Bae offers a good range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range resorts, providing choices for various preferences and budgets.
Many accommodations are situated close to or directly on the beach, offering stunning views.
There are also plenty of restaurants to discover where you can enjoy fresh seafood, local dishes as well and international food that caters to tourists.
Kai Bae’s central location on the west coast of Koh Chang makes it convenient for exploring other parts of the island.
It’s relatively easy to access attractions, viewpoints, and other beaches from Kai Bae.
While not as vibrant as some other areas on the island, Kai Bae does offer a decent selection of bars and lounges, providing a relaxed nightlife atmosphere for those who want to unwind after a day of exploration.
Combining all of this and you understand why it’s the ideal area for families and couples who want a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Chang in this part of the island are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Lonely Beach
Lonely Beach has a laid-back and backpacker-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular choice among budget travelers and those seeking a more relaxed, casual environment.
The area is renowned for its vibrant nightlife.
This part of the island comes alive in the evening with beach bars, live music, and fire shows, making it an attractive choice for those who enjoy socializing and nighttime entertainment.
Lonely Beach is mainly known for its budget-friendliness and offers a range of budget accommodations, including hostels, guesthouses, and inexpensive bungalows.
This is also reflected in the food scene.
Expect affordable restaurants serving both local Thai cuisine and international dishes
While the beach at Lonely Beach may not be as postcard-perfect as some other beaches on the island, it still offers a pleasant setting for sunbathing, beach games, and swimming.
Lonely Beach is a gateway to adventure activities, including trekking and jungle exploration.
Nearby, you can find waterfalls, viewpoints, and hiking trails for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits.
Lonely Beach is often considered an alternative destination compared to the more mainstream beaches on Koh Chang.
This attracts a diverse crowd of travelers seeking a different experience.
If this is not your thing, there are plenty of other options available.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Chang in this part of the island are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Bang Bao Bay
Bang Bao is a picturesque fishing village built on stilts over the water.
The village has retained its traditional charm, and staying here offers a unique experience, allowing you to witness the local way of life.
The bay is home to its iconic pier, one of the main features of Bang Bao.
It’s lined with shops, seafood restaurants, and even homes.
You can stroll along the pier, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy panoramic views of the bay.
Bang Bao is renowned for its seafood restaurants.
Some of these restaurants are located on the water, which is quite a cool experience.
Bang Bao Bay doesn’t have expansive sandy beaches in most of the other areas.
So why should you choose it, aside from being a picturesque fishing village?
Well, Bang Bao is a hub for boat tours and island-hopping adventures.
Many operators at the pier offer trips to nearby islands, snorkeling spots, and other attractions. It’s a convenient base for exploring the surrounding marine beauty.
It’s also a peaceful area, so don’t expect any nightlife.
Lastly, there are quite some unique accommodations available here that offer stunning views of the bay.
Especially those who want to escape the more touristy scenes and immerse themselves in the local atmosphere, Bang Bao is an excellent choice.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Chang in this part of the island are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Klong Prao Beach
Klong Prao Beach offers a long stretch of golden sand lined with coconut palms and lush vegetation.
The beach is known for its scenic beauty and is a great place to relax with a view of the sea.
From luxury resorts to mid-range hotels and budget-friendly guesthouses, Klong Prao offers a diverse range of accommodations.
This makes it suitable for various types of travelers, including couples, families, and solo adventurers.
Klong Prao is conveniently located on the west coast of Koh Chang, making it easy to access other parts of the island.
The proximity to the main road and central location facilitates travel to nearby attractions, restaurants, and activities.
Klong Prao has several shops and markets where you can find souvenirs, clothing, and other essentials.
It provides a good balance between local markets and more tourist-oriented shops.
The calm waters of Klong Prao Beach are suitable for various water activities, including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Many resorts and local operators offer water sports equipment and activities.
While Klong Prao is developed, it tends to have a more relaxed atmosphere compared to some of the busier areas on the island.
This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking both comfort and tranquility.
Several resorts along Klong Prao Beach offer spa and wellness facilities, allowing you to indulge in massages, spa treatments, and relaxation sessions by the beach.
Klong Prao Beach provides excellent sunset views.
Many beachfront accommodations and restaurants offer a front-row seat to witness the spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Chang in this part of the island are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Salak Phret
Palak Phet offers yet again a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
The area is surrounded by beautiful tropical vegetation, mangrove forests, and pristine landscapes.
The natural beauty of Salak Phet provides a serene backdrop that you can enjoy.
It’s known for its extensive mangrove forests.
You can even explore these mangroves by boat or kayak.
The area has a traditional Thai fishing village with a charming local atmosphere.
It offers visitors a glimpse into the authentic lifestyle of the island’s residents.
Salak Phet is home to some secluded and less crowded beaches.
These beaches provide a peaceful environment for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the solitude.
There are several accommodations in Salak Phet that offer stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscapes.
Many resorts are situated in elevated positions, providing panoramic views.
If you choose to stay in this somewhat remote area, you should know that there aren’t that many international restaurants.
If you want to try local food, though, you are in for a treat.
The area’s restaurants often serve fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.
While it may not have the bustling water activity scene found in other areas, Salak Phet is still suitable for activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and boat tours.
Salak Phet serves as a starting point for boat trips to nearby islands.
From here, you can explore the smaller islands, go snorkeling, or simply enjoy the beauty of the surrounding archipelago.
One of the other treats Salak Phret offers is its scenic route.
The roads leading to Salak Phet offer scenic drives through the island’s interior.
Just keep in mind that there are far less amenities compared to the more bustling parts of the island.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Chang in this part of the island are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
Map of the best areas to stay in Koh Chang
The next image is a map of the best area to stay in Koh Chang including its highlights.
The image is in high resolution so you can easily zoom in to see all the details.
A map will follow soon.
There you have it, our recommendations for where to stay in Koh Chang.
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