White Sand beach
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.
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Beach description
Much has changed since then, and now White Sand Beach is the most popular on the island, boasting the most developed infrastructure. A three-kilometer-long sandy strip on one side is flanked by a wide road, along which you'll find an array of bars, clothing stores, souvenir shops, restaurants, tattoo parlors, ATMs, exchange offices, pharmacies, karaoke, and day spas. Accommodations cater to every taste and budget: from economical bungalows to luxurious villas.
The beach itself lies close to the ferry pier. From atop a high, steep hill, one can behold a stunning panorama: the jungle, the beach, and the sea, as blue as a summer sky. This beach is perfect for families with small children, as the coast is shallow and requires a bit of a walk to reach deeper waters. If you believe that swimming in the sea and a leisurely beachside retreat constitute the ideal vacation, then there is no place better than White Sand Beach.
Regrettably, like other beaches on Koh Chang, water attractions are not available. The island has been designated a National Park of Thailand, and as such, not only is the use of water attractions (which pollute the clear water with gasoline) prohibited, but the construction of buildings above three to four stories is also restricted to preserve the breathtaking views.
White Sand Beach is traditionally divided into two halves: north and south. The southern side features more upscale hotels and a higher population density, while the northern half is more modest, with numerous bungalows and hotels situated directly on the beach, accessible not from the roadside but from the shore itself.
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 White Sand
Infrastructure
White Sand Beach is renowned for its highly developed infrastructure on the island. Along the adjacent road, you can discover establishments catering to every taste, many of which remain open until the early hours of the morning or even operate around the clock. If you opt for a bungalow or a small hotel, be prepared for a potential inconvenience: some cannot be booked in advance, and you may have to search for available accommodation upon arrival, which can be particularly risky during the peak season.
For affluent tourists, the Chang Buri Resort & Spa is an ideal choice, with its units situated on both sides of the road and within walking distance of the beach. To make up for the relatively long distance (by local standards), the resort offers two swimming pools and a stunning sea view. Another opulent establishment, KC Grande Resort & Spa, not only features three standard units but also luxurious bungalows right on the beachfront. For a comfortable stay with all amenities, consider Koh Chang Kacha Resort & Spa, centrally located on the beach.
At the northernmost tip, you'll find White Sand Beach Resort. Its secluded location means fewer tourists, but the limited transport options could be a significant drawback. The beach also offers a plethora of budget-friendly accommodations: colorful guesthouses and bungalows at Rock Sand allow you to save money (with bungalows starting at 400 baht per day) and enjoy the sea views right next to your lodging.
White Sand Beach boasts a diverse array of dining establishments, suitable for anything from a light snack to a hearty meal. You can savor traditional Thai cuisine accompanied by live music, indulge in European-style steaks at the pubs, or experience beach bars with fire shows and pulsating music that continues until six in the morning.
Weather in White Sand
Best hotels of White Sand
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At the southern top end of White Sand Beach on the hilly side there is the Bangkok Trat International Clinic: in case you are not lucky and fall ill on vacation.