Bailan beach
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.
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Beach description
Bailan Beach was once the least developed part of Koh Chang Island. Recently, everything has been changing: several-story buildings are being constructed on the outskirts, and a couple of years ago, a huge hotel, Mercure Hideaway, with a garden and park area, appeared.
The proximity to Lonely Beach bestows a certain reputation upon Bailan: tourists perceive it as a quieter alternative. It is the most suitable place for those who wish to stay longer on the island with all the necessary facilities and at a reasonable price. The advantage of Bailan is the peaceful rest it offers. Nightlife is just a five-minute drive north. If you're eager to swim with fish, a ten-minute drive south takes you to the village of Bangbao, the best place for diving.
The rich underwater world thrives just off the coast of the beach. To enjoy it, scuba gear is not even necessary; a mask and snorkel are sufficient. However, this diverse underwater life has a downside: when entering the water, it's possible to stumble upon coral debris, so wearing water shoes is advisable. Twenty years ago, dolphins were a common sight in the distance; now, they occasionally swim past the island. Near the jungle, it's possible to spot monkeys, but feeding them is not recommended.
The beach curves in a crescent shape, with sand interspersed with rocks in some areas. The slope into the sea, as elsewhere on Koh Chang, is gentle, but the waves can be strong, especially in the high season, which may not be ideal for small children.
In general, despite the relatively undeveloped infrastructure, Bailan is much less commercialized and more laid-back than neighboring Lonely Beach. It is perfect for those who wish to relax on the beach and lose themselves in a good book. However, to reach the more social spots, renting a scooter is advisable. One downside is the challenge of traveling to the island's center from here, as a serpentine mountain road leads to the beach.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Ko Chang for a beach vacation is during the dry season, which spans from November to February. During these months, the weather is ideal with minimal rainfall, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures that are perfect for beach activities and exploring the island.
- November to February: This is the peak season for tourism due to the excellent weather conditions. The sea is calm, making it great for swimming and water sports. However, it's also the busiest time, so expect more crowds and higher prices.
- March to May: These months mark the transition from the dry to the wet season. The weather is hotter and more humid, but you can still enjoy sunny days on the beach. It's a good time for those looking to avoid the peak season crowds.
- June to October: This is the monsoon season with frequent rains and rougher seas, which may not be ideal for beach activities. However, the island is less crowded, and the lush greenery is at its peak, offering a different kind of beauty.
In conclusion, for the quintessential beach vacation experience in Ko Chang, planning your visit between November and February is highly recommended.
Video: Beach Bailan
Infrastructure
Discover the charm of Koh Chang Bailan Beach Resort, boasting a well-developed infrastructure complete with swimming pools for both adults and children, as well as in-room coffee machines. This quintessential three-star hotel offers all the essentials for a comfortable stay. Further north along the shore, Bailan Bay Resort invites you to experience their newly updated and renovated rooms. Ideal for those who cherish nature over direct beach access, this hotel promises a serene retreat. For unbeatable value, consider Harley Moon Hideaway, nestled in the heart of the island. Here, cozy and comfortable bungalows are available at reasonable prices, offering the best value on the entire beach.
The central beach area is a culinary hotspot with an array of restaurants. Local residents have transformed their homes into quaint dining spaces, where tourists can savor a diverse breakfast menu, from rice with curry to corn flakes. Select eateries even offer cooking classes, allowing you to enjoy a meal made with your own hands.
Weather in Bailan
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Of all the beaches of the Koh Chang island, this can rightly be called the most athletic. Lovers of active rest and parents of teenage children can be advised the Treetop Adventure Park - here it is possible to climb the ropes at the tops of trees, among the jungle and vines, feel like a real Tarzan.
There is also a Muay Thai training camp in the outskirts the beach. It is possible to pay for several classes (600 baht each), or it is posible to buy a monthly subscription for 9,000 baht, and get acquainted with the art of Thai boxing in detail.