Koh Chang Travel Guide - Free Web & App

Your ultimate guide to Koh Chang. Discover top landmarks, proposed trips, and local tips. Free on the web or via the Evendo companion app.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
Koh Chang
Koh Chang photo 2
Koh Chang photo 3
All photos

Koh Chang, Thailand, pairs rainforest mountains, beaches, waterfalls and island villages with snorkelling, kayaking and coastal adventures in Mu Ko Chang National Park.

Mountainous Island Landscapes

Koh Chang rises from the eastern Gulf of Thailand near the Cambodian border, its forested interior forming the largest island in the Mu Ko Chang archipelago. Much of the island belongs to Mu Ko Chang National Park, whose steep mountains, streams and dense rainforest create a markedly wilder character than Thailand’s heavily developed beach resorts. The western coast contains the principal visitor beaches, including White Sand Beach, Klong Prao, Kai Bae and Lonely Beach, while the more sparsely settled eastern side leads towards fishing communities, mangrove scenery and quieter coastal roads.
Read more about Koh Chang

Beaches, Waterfalls and Island Life

Koh Chang’s appeal lies in the contrast between accessible seaside settlements and an interior that remains largely green and mountainous. Waterfalls such as Klong Plu and Than Mayom provide established nature excursions, while offshore reefs and smaller islands support snorkelling and diving trips when sea conditions permit. Bang Bao, at the southern end of the island, retains a strong connection with fishing and boat-based tourism, although its waterfront is also oriented towards visitors. The island’s roads, viewpoints and coastal villages reveal different moods as they pass from busy western beaches to plantation landscapes and less developed eastern shores.

Culture and Coastal Rhythm

Koh Chang is not simply a beach destination: its identity reflects Buddhist traditions, fishing, rubber and fruit cultivation, forest conservation and a long history of maritime connections. Food ranges from central Thai staples to seafood, tropical fruit and dishes influenced by Trat’s eastern coastal culture. Days may combine swimming, walking, kayaking or boat excursions with time in small settlements, and evenings are generally relaxed rather than defined by large-scale nightlife. Weather, sea conditions and the mountainous terrain all shape the pace of exploration.

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang?

Best: December–February · 32–33°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January (best)3250
February (best)3350
March3350
April34100
May33200
June33200
July32200
August32200
September32200
October32200
November32100
December (best)3250

Getting to and around Koh Chang

How to get there

Most visitors reach Koh Chang through Trat province on Thailand’s eastern seaboard. Buses, minibuses and private transfers connect Bangkok with Trat and the ferry piers on the mainland, while Trat Airport serves the regional gateway rather than the island itself. Vehicle and passenger ferries cross from mainland piers to Koh Chang, with the principal arrival area at Ao Sapparot in the island’s north. Travellers should distinguish transport to the ferry terminal from transport on the island, and check current sailing arrangements before setting out, particularly when travelling with a vehicle or during Thai public holidays.

Transportation

Koh Chang is large and mountainous enough that transport choices affect the experience considerably. Shared songthaews operate along established coastal routes, but services and availability can vary by season, time and location. Scooters and cars offer greater independence, although the island’s roads include steep gradients, bends and sections where riding conditions require care, especially after rain. Taxis and private transfers may be arranged through accommodation or local travel businesses. Walking works well within individual beach settlements but is not a practical way to connect the island’s widely separated beaches, villages and waterfalls.

Best attractions in Koh Chang

Koh Chang’s principal attractions combine beaches, rainforest and coastal communities. White Sand Beach is the most developed of the island’s main western beaches, while Klong Prao offers a longer, more spacious shoreline and Kai Bae provides a convenient base for beach activities and views towards offshore islands. Klong Plu Waterfall is among the best-known inland excursions, reached by a forest path within the national-park landscape, while Than Mayom Waterfall lies on the eastern side near a quieter coastal setting. Bang Bao, at the southern end, is associated with fishing boats, seafood and trips on the surrounding waters. Visitors can also explore mangrove scenery and village life around the east coast, or join boat excursions towards smaller islands in Mu Ko Chang National Park for snorkelling and swimming where conditions and local regulations permit.

Show more attractions

Best landmarks in Koh Chang

The defining natural landmark of Koh Chang is its forested mountainous interior, protected in large part through Mu Ko Chang National Park and visible from the island’s coastal roads and beaches. Klong Plu and Than Mayom waterfalls are prominent expressions of this landscape, where streams descend from the island’s uplands through rainforest. The surrounding archipelago, with its smaller wooded islands, reefs and sheltered channels, gives Koh Chang a distinctly maritime identity. Bang Bao’s settlement and pier represent the island’s long relationship with fishing and coastal travel, while the waters of the archipelago also carry the historical significance of the 1941 Battle of Koh Chang. Beaches such as Klong Prao and Kai Bae are not monuments in the architectural sense, but their contrasting shorelines, coastal vegetation and views towards offshore islands form important elements of the island’s visual character.

Show more landmarks

Explore Koh Chang on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants and hotels are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Koh Chang

Koh Chang’s dining scene is concentrated along the western beach settlements and in villages such as Bang Bao, while the eastern coast has fewer choices and a more local, dispersed character. Seafood is naturally prominent, with fish, prawns, squid and shellfish appearing alongside Thai staples such as curries, stir-fries, noodle dishes and spicy salads. Tropical fruit, coconut, rice and locally grown produce reflect the agricultural landscape of Trat province. Beachfront restaurants, small family-run eateries, food stalls and cafés cater to different budgets without creating a single formal dining district. Bang Bao is particularly associated with seafood and boat-based eating, whereas the larger visitor beaches offer the widest range of international and vegetarian dishes. Menus and opening patterns can be seasonal, so travellers staying away from the main settlements should plan meals and transport accordingly.

Show more restaurants

Best bars in Koh Chang

Koh Chang’s evening life is centred on relaxed beach hospitality rather than a large club scene. The western settlements, particularly around White Sand Beach, Kai Bae and Lonely Beach, have the greatest concentration of casual bars, beachfront drinks and informal music, although the atmosphere and venue availability change over time. Traditional local restaurants and small bars provide quieter evenings in other parts of the island, while guesthouses and resorts often serve as social hubs for travellers. Bang Bao settles into a more subdued maritime mood after daytime boat activity. The east coast generally offers fewer nightlife options, making it better suited to low-key evenings and early starts. Visitors should not assume that every venue operates year-round or that transport between beaches remains readily available late at night.

Show more bars

Best nightclubs in Koh Chang

Koh Chang’s evening life is centred on relaxed beach hospitality rather than a large club scene. The western settlements, particularly around White Sand Beach, Kai Bae and Lonely Beach, have the greatest concentration of casual bars, beachfront drinks and informal music, although the atmosphere and venue availability change over time. Traditional local restaurants and small bars provide quieter evenings in other parts of the island, while guesthouses and resorts often serve as social hubs for travellers. Bang Bao settles into a more subdued maritime mood after daytime boat activity. The east coast generally offers fewer nightlife options, making it better suited to low-key evenings and early starts. Visitors should not assume that every venue operates year-round or that transport between beaches remains readily available late at night.

Show more nightclubs

Best shops in Koh Chang

Shopping on Koh Chang is practical and holiday-oriented rather than extensive. The western beach settlements contain small shops, convenience stores, pharmacies, beachwear outlets and businesses selling souvenirs, while Bang Bao is known for visitor purchasing connected with the fishing village and boat-tour setting. Typical finds include dried or packaged seafood, Thai snacks, tropical fruit products, handicrafts, clothing, woven goods and locally made gifts, though quality and availability vary between businesses. Visitors may also encounter small food shops and produce stalls serving island households rather than tourists. More substantial retail and banking services are available on the mainland in Trat, so travellers staying on Koh Chang should not expect a major shopping centre or a broad permanent market. Purchases should respect environmental rules: coral, shells, wildlife products and plants are not appropriate souvenirs.

Show more shops

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Koh Chang, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from attractions and restaurants to essentials and local phrases, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Koh Chang essentials

Currency and Payment
Thailand uses the baht (THB). Larger hotels, established restaurants, supermarkets and tour businesses commonly accept cards, while smaller food stalls, local shops, transport providers and some rural establishments may prefer cash. Cash machines are available in the main tourist settlements, but visitors exploring the eastern coast or staying away from the principal beaches should not rely on finding one immediately. Carrying modest baht, while retaining a secure reserve for transport and emergencies, is practical. Foreign currency exchange is more likely in busy visitor areas than in smaller villages.
Safety
Koh Chang’s terrain and tropical climate require sensible preparation. Rain can make paths near waterfalls slippery, while steep roads and changing traffic conditions make scooter travel demanding for inexperienced riders. At beaches, heed warning flags and local advice, and be cautious with currents, changing weather and boat activity. Hiking in forested areas is best undertaken with adequate water, suitable footwear and a clear understanding of the route. Mosquitoes, heat and sun exposure are common practical concerns. Protect coral and coastal habitats by avoiding contact with reefs and by following guidance from national-park staff and boat operators.
Emergency Situations
Thailand’s main emergency numbers are 191 for police, 1669 for medical emergencies and 199 for fire and rescue. When calling from Koh Chang, provide the name of the beach, village, road or nearby landmark and explain whether access is by road or boat; location information can be especially important in forested or less densely settled areas. For serious illness or injury, contact emergency services and ask accommodation staff or local providers to assist with communication and transport. Carry travel insurance details and do not assume that a remote beach or trail has immediate medical facilities.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress respectfully when visiting temples, remove shoes where requested and behave quietly around religious spaces. In the national park and along the coast, keep to permitted routes, take rubbish with you, avoid feeding wildlife and never remove coral, shells or plants. Do not enter farmland or approach houses without permission, and give working boats and fishing equipment adequate space. Swim and snorkel only where conditions and local guidance allow. At restaurants and guesthouses, polite behaviour is valued; tipping is discretionary rather than compulsory, though good service may be acknowledged with a modest gratuity.
Local Tips
The western beaches provide the broadest choice of accommodation, food and organised excursions, whereas the east coast offers a quieter perspective and more rural scenery. Koh Chang’s mountainous spine means that seemingly nearby places can take longer to reach than expected, so group visits by area rather than attempting the entire island in one day. Start waterfall walks early in hot weather and carry cash for smaller businesses. Boat trips to surrounding islands depend on sea conditions and may vary seasonally, while the wet season brings greener landscapes but can affect roads, paths and marine excursions.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
Helloสวัสดี[sawasdee]
Goodbyeลาก่อน[laa kon]
Yesใช่[chai]
Noไม่[mai]
Please/You're welcomeโปรด/ยินดีต้อนรับ[prôd/yindî tôn rap]
Thank youขอบคุณ[khop khun]
Excuse me/Sorryขอโทษ[kho toht]
How are you?สบายดีไหม[sabaidee mai]
Fine. And you?ดีค่ะ คุณละ[dee ka khun la]
Do you speak English?คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม[khun poot phasa angkrit dai mai]
I don't understandฉันไม่เข้าใจ[chan mai khao chai]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseฉันอยากดูเมนู ของหน่อย[chan yak du menu khong noi]
I don't eat meatฉันไม่กินเนื้อ[chan mai kin nuea]
Cheers!ชนเครื่องดื่ม![chon khreung deum]
I would like to pay, pleaseฉันต้องการจ่ายเงิน ของหน่อย[chan tong kan chai ngern khong noi]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!ช่วยด้วย![chuai duay]
Go away!ไปข้างหน้า![pai kang naa]
Call the Police!โทรตำรวจ![tho tamruat]
Call a doctor!โทรหมอ![tho mo]
I'm lostฉันหลงทาง[chan long tang]
I'm illฉันไม่สบาย[chan mai sabai]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...ฉันอยากซื้อ...[chan yak seu...]
I'm just lookingฉันแค่ดู[chan kae du]
How much is it?ราคาเท่าไหร่[ra ka thao rai]
That's too expensiveแพงเกินไป[paeng kuen pai]
Can you lower the price?ลดราคาได้ไหม[lot ra ka dai mai]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?เวลาเท่าไหร่[wela thao rai]
It's one o'clockเป็นโมงตีหนึ่ง[pen mong tee nuea]
Half past (10)สามสิบครึ่ง[sam sip khreung]
Morningเช้า[chao]
Afternoonบ่าย[bai]
Eveningเย็น[yen]
Yesterdayเมื่อวาน[meua waan]
Todayวันนี้[wan nee]
Tomorrowพรุ่งนี้[phrung nee]
1หนึ่ง[nuea]
2สอง[song]
3สาม[sam]
4สี่[si]
5ห้า[ha]
6หก[hok]
7เจ็ด[chet]
8แปด[paet]
9เก้า[kao]
10สิบ[sip]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?...อยู่ที่ไหน[...yoo tee nai]
What's the address?ที่อยู่คืออะไร[tee yoo keu arai]
Can you show me (on the map)?แสดงให้ฉันดู (บนแผนที่) ได้ไหม[saeng hai chan du (bon paen tee) dai mai]
When's the next (bus)?รถถัดไปเวลาเท่าไหร่[rot that pai wela thao rai]
A ticket (to ....)ตั๋ว (ไป....)[dtua (pai...)]

History of Koh Chang

An Island Shaped by Sea and Forest

Koh Chang is a mountainous island formed within the coastal island system of Trat province, where forested ridges descend towards bays, beaches and channels separating the archipelago from the mainland. Its geography long encouraged communities to concentrate near the coast, while the steep interior remained more difficult to cultivate and cross. The island’s name, meaning “Elephant Island”, is generally associated with the shape of the main island’s headland or with traditional local associations, although the name does not indicate that wild elephants are a defining part of the modern visitor landscape.

Coastal Communities and Maritime Life

Before mass tourism, Koh Chang’s communities depended primarily on fishing, small-scale agriculture and the movement of goods and people by boat. Villages along the coast developed in response to sheltered bays and access to the surrounding waters, while rubber, coconut, fruit and other crops became part of the island economy. Bang Bao is particularly associated with maritime life and fishing, and several settlements still express the practical relationship between island households, boats, coastal resources and the mainland of Trat.

The Royal Naval Encounter of 1941

The waters off Koh Chang were the setting for the Battle of Koh Chang in January 1941, during the Franco-Thai War. Thai and French naval forces clashed in the archipelago, and the engagement remains an important episode in the island’s modern history. The battle is remembered locally through commemorations and maritime references, linking Koh Chang’s otherwise peaceful coastal setting with the strategic importance of the eastern Gulf and the wider political tensions of the period.

National Park and Tourism Development

Mu Ko Chang National Park was established in 1982, bringing the main island and surrounding marine landscapes within a protected-area framework. The designation helped place rainforest, mountains, waterfalls, coral environments and smaller islands within a conservation context, although tourism and settlement continue around parts of the coast. Improved ferry connections and growing interest in Thailand’s eastern islands gradually changed Koh Chang from a relatively remote coastal community into a substantial visitor destination, with beaches and accommodation concentrated especially along the west coast.

Koh Chang in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

0 / 0

Neighbouring destination travel guides

The closest destinations to Koh Chang, if you have time for more than one.

Explore more

Eastern Thailand
More of the region

Explore more of Eastern Thailand

Discover Eastern Thailand: A region of vibrant cities, serene islands, lush national parks, and rich cultural heritage, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

Explore Eastern Thailand
Thailand
More of the country

Explore more of Thailand

Discover Thailand: A land of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern attractions.

Explore Thailand
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Koh Chang

Discover the best of Koh Chang with Evendo, your 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more, all in one place.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details for each location
  • Easy booking of hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Plan your perfect trip to Koh Chang with Evendo! Discover top attractions, restaurants, and more with our comprehensive travel guide app. Download now for free!

  • History of Koh Chang and travel essentials for visitors
  • Local advice to maximize your travel experience
  • User-friendly navigation with a 'Near me' feature
  • Curated local tips for an authentic travel experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs
  • Global coverage of over 7,000 destinations

Welcome to Evendo, the ultimate app-based travel guide for Koh Chang, Thailand! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Evendo helps you make the most of your trip by putting all the essential information right at your fingertips. From stunning beaches like White Sand Beach and Kai Bae Beach to breathtaking landmarks such as the Klong Plu Waterfall and Bang Bao Village, Evendo covers it all.

Planning your meals? Evendo features detailed information on top-rated restaurants like Saffron on the Sea and Iyara Seafood Restaurant. Looking for nightlife? Discover the best bars and nightclubs, including Himmel Bar and Sabay Bar, with ease. Our app also offers rich details on shops, hotels, tours, and experiences, complete with images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details.

With Evendo, you can easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app. No more hassles of searching multiple sites; everything you need is in ONE place. Our app also includes comprehensive travel essentials, the history of Koh Chang, and tons of valuable local advice to ensure you get the most out of your visit.

Navigate effortlessly through Koh Chang with our easy-to-use app, featuring a 'Near me' option to find attractions, restaurants, and activities close to your current location. Experience Koh Chang like a local with our curated tips and insights.

Best of all, Evendo is completely free to use, with no in-app purchases or hidden costs. And with global coverage of over 7,000 destinations, Evendo is your go-to travel companion wherever you go. Download Evendo today and start exploring Koh Chang like never before!

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.