Koh Chang
Sitting in the Gulf of Thailand near the Cambodian border, Koh Chang is one of Thailand's largest islands and one of its most diverse. Dense jungle climbs steeply from the coastline, punctuated by waterfalls and hiking trails, while coral reefs and clear waters make it a popular base for diving and snorkelling. The island draws visitors looking for more than just a beach holiday, with Thai cooking classes, day trips, and a wide range of restaurants rounding out the experience. The atmosphere leans relaxed rather than frenetic, and long-term visitors note that despite growing tourism, the island retains a sense of escape that busier destinations in Thailand have largely lost. Accommodation runs across all price points, from budget guesthouses to established beach resorts, and the dining scene is well developed. That said, the island is hilly with winding, steep roads and tight hairpin turns, which makes getting around more challenging than on flatter islands. Travellers planning to explore beyond their resort should be aware that motorbike hire is common but the roads demand caution, particularly for inexperienced riders. Many businesses add a surcharge of three percent or more for card payments, so carrying cash is advisable. The dry season, running roughly from November to May, offers the most reliable beach weather, though the island sees visitors year-round.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Koh Chang, round out your day in Pattaya with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Koh Chang is an absolutely stunning island and easily one of the best destinations in Thailand. The moment you arrive, you’re met with lush jungle-covered mountains, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed island atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home. The beaches are beautiful — from the lively White Sand Beach to the quieter, more peaceful spots down south — and the sunsets are genuinely breathtaking. The island has the perfect balance of nature, adventure, and comfort: waterfalls to explore, great snorkelling and diving, friendly locals, and plenty of fantastic food. What really makes Koh Chang special is its laid-back vibe. It never feels overcrowded, and you can still find that authentic Thai charm everywhere you go. Whether you want to relax, explore, or enjoy some nightlife, Koh Chang delivers it all.
My absolute favourite island in Thailand 🇹🇭 I’ve been visiting this island for over a decade, and although tourism has increased significantly, it still feels like a paradise compared to places like Phuket, Koh Samui, and similar destinations. Locals are super friendly, beaches mostly clean and the diversity and quality of food has definitely increased throughout the years. Unfortunately, in recent years the island has become very crowded with a particular group of tourists from a country run by a war mongering dictator in Eastern Europe, and the overall atmosphere sometimes suffers due to loud and inconsiderate behaviour that contrasts with the generally relaxed and respectful vibe most visitors bring.
Big island with so many things to do. The beaches are great. We had Thai cooking school, great restaurants. Various types of hotels with all prices. Diving shops. Waterfalls and day trips to see beautiful locations. View points in many different spots. We preferred the southern beaches more but it's a matter of taste. We stayed at the Kai bae area and felt its central and close to the bang bai pier for divings and boat tours and cool beaches. I recommend getting a scooter for flexibility. Also I recommend going to Koh ngam and the most southern beaches which require a day tour by a scooter to the edge of the island. Worth it.
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Koh Chang: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Koh Chang worth visiting?
Koh Chang holds a 4.6★ rating from 1,385 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated islands in Pattaya.
When is the best time to visit Koh Chang?
The best months to visit Pattaya are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: June – October (rainy, rough seas).
Where is Koh Chang located?
Koh Chang is at Koh Chang, in Pattaya. Getting around Pattaya: Baht buses (songthaews on fixed routes); Grab (widely available).
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: June – October (rainy, rough seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minibus from Suvarnabhumi Airport (~1.5 hrs). Bus from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal Ekkamai (~2 hrs). No direct train.
Getting around
- •Baht buses (songthaews on fixed routes)
- •Grab (widely available)
- •Motorbike taxis
- •Ferry to Koh Larn island
Where to stay near Koh Chang
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Tips for Visiting Islands
Book Ferries on 12Go.Asia
The 12Go platform lets you compare ferry operators, times, and prices between islands. Book a day or two ahead in high season. Avoid the cheapest operators if reviews mention safety concerns.
Check Island Closures
Similan Islands, Surin Islands, and Koh Tachai close mid-May to mid-October. Some smaller islands reduce ferry service in monsoon season. Always verify schedules before planning your route.
Snorkel Gear Is Cheap to Buy
Rental gear is often scratched and ill-fitting. Buy a decent mask and snorkel at a Big C for 300–500 THB — cheaper than two days of rentals and much more hygienic.
Similar Islands Across Thailand
Mu Ko Similan National Park
A remote national park archipelago off Phuket's coast, famed for turquoise waters, white sand, and world-class diving.
Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe, in Thailand's far southern Andaman near the Malaysian border, is the country's closest answer to the Maldives — powder-white sand at Sunrise and Pattaya beaches and water in improbable shades of turquoise, with snorkeling straight off the shore into the protected Ko Tarutao Natio.
Ko Pha Ngan
A laid-back Thai island of white-sand beaches, jungle interior, and the legendary monthly Full Moon Party.
Where to stay near Koh Chang
Find hotels in Pattaya on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Free cancellation on most rooms
- No booking fees
- Compare live prices
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Best rates in Asia
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Hotels.com Rewards
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: June – October (rainy, rough seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minibus from Suvarnabhumi Airport (~1.5 hrs). Bus from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal Ekkamai (~2 hrs). No direct train.
Getting around
- •Baht buses (songthaews on fixed routes)
- •Grab (widely available)
- •Motorbike taxis
- •Ferry to Koh Larn island