The spirit of Thailand is especially palpable on Koh Chang (Elephant Island), where jungle-covered peaks and stunning harbors dot the west coast. While the coastline features mostly pebbled stretches, it also boasts sandy beaches. Today, Koh Chang bustles with tourists, particularly drawn to the cities on the western part of the island, which are known for their robust infrastructure. Are you looking to spend a holiday on the beaches of Elephant Island? Explore our guide to the top recreation areas of Koh Chang for an unforgettable experience.
If you're seeking a serene getaway with your family and children, yet find White Sand Beach overly bustling, and Klong Prao too secluded and distant from convenient infrastructure, then Kai Bae Beach is the ideal selection. It offers the perfect blend of family-friendly hotels and easy access to local amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable vacation experience.
White Sand Beach owes its name to the pristine white sands that stretch along its shores, with the exception of the southernmost tip where shingle and rocks take their place. As the oldest beach on Koh Chang Island, the three-kilometer stretch of White Sand Beach harks back to a time when tourists were scarce and the coastline was dotted with simple bungalow houses. These modest dwellings were often rented out by local Thais for a tranquil weekend getaway.
Just south of Pearl Beach lies the tranquil Klong Prao Beach, named after the river that meanders into the sea. Nestled in a serene bay, Klong Prao Beach stands in contrast to White Sand Beach, as it is predominantly adorned with opulent hotels boasting lavish grounds. These luxurious retreats are particularly favored by young families seeking a peaceful haven for their vacation. Those in search of vibrant nightlife would be better served by visiting White Sand Beach, as Klong Prao does not host disco bars or fire shows.
The beach earned its name in those "ancient" times when it was still a challenge to access, hidden behind steep hills. Now, with the advent of a paved road, it has become the island's premier destination for youthful energy and vibrant nightlife. Although it is quite compact compared to other beaches (Lonely is merely 600 meters long, while White Sand and Klong Prao stretch for 3 kilometers), Lonely Beach is not uniformly suitable for swimming. Its rocky southern reaches are reserved for fishing or diving enthusiasts. As the beach gives way to cliffs at its extremity, tourists flock to the northern side to bask in the sea and lounge on the sun-kissed sands.
In the past, before Koh Chang became a tourist haven, the island was primarily inhabited by Thai farmers. Land inheritance within families followed patriarchal traditions: sons received the fertile land in the island's interior, while the other children, less fortunate to be born female, had to make do with meager strips of sandy beachfront, where cultivation was impossible. However, as Koh Chang's reputation as a tourist destination grew, the value of seaside land soared. Today, the descendants of those farmers live in opulence, residing in luxurious villas funded by the profits of land rentals, sipping cocktails, and reveling in the unexpected twist of fate.
Klong Son Beach, the first you'll encounter from the pier at the northernmost tip of the island, nestles in the bay that shares its name. For many years, this stretch of sand remained unnamed, but today it falls under the purview of Siam Royal View's proprietor, who has affectionately dubbed it Chang Noi Beach, a name that now spans its entire length.
Despite its name, Pearl Beach does not offer the quintessential sandy shores one might expect. Instead, it boasts a unique, pebbly landscape devoid of sand. Nestled between White Sand Beach and Chai Chet Hotel, this compact stretch is a hidden gem where you won't encounter throngs of tourists or extensive facilities. Yet, therein lies its charm. Pearl Beach is an idyllic retreat for those seeking solitude without straying far from the comforts of civilization.
Klong Kloi Beach, nestled in a serene bay on the southern coast of Ko Chang, Thailand, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling world. Deriving its name from the Thai word "klong," meaning "channel," a gentle stream meanders along the beach, gracefully dividing it into two distinct areas. Lush mangroves flourish along both shores, adding to the enchanting tropical landscape that captivates visitors seeking a picturesque and peaceful beach vacation.
Tourists unanimously acknowledge that there is no better place than Koh Chang for a tranquil retreat, with days spent lounging by the sea under palm trees. While it may lack historical sites, water attractions, or aquaparks, and there are no club districts with wild nightlife, Koh Chang offers a serene escape. However, should you find yourself yearning for a touch of excitement after a period of relaxation, the journey to Long Beach itself will ignite your adventurous spirit.
Chai Chet Beach, nestled just north of Klong Prao, stands distinct on the map and deserves recognition in its own right. Contrary to being lumped together with its southern neighbor, Chai Chet is set apart by a meandering freshwater rivulet. This charming stream not only separates it from Klong Prao but also serves as a tranquil pathway leading adventurers directly to the enchanting Klong Plu Waterfall.
Discover a serene hideaway on Koh Chang Island at Hat Sai Noi Beach, nestled in the jungle en route from Bang Bao fishing village to Klong Kloi Beach. This secluded gem invites travelers to bask in its tranquil beauty, offering an idyllic escape for those planning a beach vacation in Thailand.
Koh Chang Island has long been a favorite among tourists, with hotels and shops dotting even the most secluded corners, like Long Beach. However, if you're yearning for an untouched paradise, free from the trappings of infrastructure, set your sights on the southern coastline where Wai Chek Beach awaits you. This hidden gem offers a serene escape, promising an authentic beach vacation experience in Ko Chang, Thailand.