Long beach
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.
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Beach description
At first glance, it may seem that reaching the beach is straightforward: although the journey is lengthy - you must circumnavigate the entire island due to a southern tear that forms a horseshoe shape, taking about an hour - the route appears clear on the map. However, upon arriving at the entrance to the beach, you'll encounter a series of surprises. The first is a vast pit just beyond a perilous curve, which has remained untouched for five years. The bridge to span the pit was never constructed, and to bypass it, you must navigate a makeshift structure of mud and clay. This serves as excellent practice for novice drivers, honing their maneuvering skills.
Once past the pit, you'll soon discover that the road ends, giving way to an uneven terrain that often becomes completely eroded during the rainy season. Flanking the road are steep hills, prone to erosion and hazardous due to frequent landslides. This treacherous stretch spans three kilometers. But don't be too quick to dismiss Long Beach. After the tranquil comfort and relaxation of upscale hotels, the thrill of feeling like a pioneer can invigorate and uplift you. Embrace the journey to Long Beach as a challenge - the reward will be all the sweeter when you finally arrive at the beach.
Despite its name, Long Beach is actually shorter than Klong Prao or the popular White Sand Beach. Its remote location makes it the most secluded on the island, with very few visitors and limited infrastructure - there's only one hotel on Long Beach. The sea is shallow, the water crystal clear and inviting, suitable for swimming at both high and low tides. If you cherish tranquility and have a zest for adventure, Long Beach is the ideal destination for you.
When is the best time to go?
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 Long
Infrastructure
The very secluded Tantawan Resort Koh Chang consists of a row of bungalows perched at the very edge of the clear blue water. Each bungalow is equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay, standing on long stilts directly over the water, to which a small ladder descends. In the morning, to invigorate yourself, you can plunge from the balcony into the sea with a cannonball dive. The hotel features a restaurant, some of whose tables are situated on the pier. However, for such breathtaking beauty and proximity to nature, one must be prepared to pay a premium. Be advised that the hotel does not offer free Wi-Fi, and mobile communication at this end of the island is unstable, occasionally losing signal.
Overall, the infrastructure on the beach is limited: there are no shops whatsoever. Dining options are also confined to the hotel at the Tantawan Resort Koh Chang.
On a brighter note, the island is not replete with gas stations; however, en route to Long Beach, you will encounter a large one. Not only will they refuel your vehicle, but they also offer bottled gasoline for convenience.
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On the coast of the mainland, on the other side of the island, there is a majestic memorial to the fallen in the battle of Koh Chang island - a naval battle during the Franco-Thai war of 1940-1941, when the Thai soldiers failed to recapture the bridgeheads of the land from French Indochina. At the southeastern top end of the island, near Long Beach, there is also a memorial, dedicated to this historic event. However, it looks much more modest: constructed of a tree, it resembles an oriental temple in miniature, on it there are Buddha figurines and bowls with incense.