Koh Chang Right Now
Ongoing waste issues mean plastic pollution is visible on beaches and roadsides, especially with the onset of the rainy season.
Visakha Bucha Day
Best time to visit
Decent time to visit
May brings warm, humid weather with frequent rain showers, though crowds are much lighter than during peak season. Pack waterproofs and be prepared for potential transport disruptions due to heavy downpours.
SCORE BY MONTH
Visit Koh Chang between November and February for the best weather. These months offer the driest conditions and pleasant temperatures around 31°C (88°F), ideal for beaches and diving. Avoid June through September due to the monsoon season, which brings heavy rain and rough seas.
Visitor data: Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) International Arrivals 2023
Day-to-day in Koh Chang
Walkability
35/100
Walking on Koh Chang means dodging motorbikes on narrow, often absent sidewalks. Reaching anything beyond your resort or a beachfront restaurant usually requires transport.
Sidewalks are often nonexistent or blocked by parked motorbikes and vendors, forcing walkers into the road.
Most tourist areas require a motorbike or taxi to reach essential services beyond immediate beachfront strips.
Motorbike density is high, speeds are often excessive, and drivers show little regard for pedestrians.
Climate works against walking for much of the year. Plan around weather windows.
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Monthly cost
$1,170 / month
AFFORDABLESolo mid-range stay including rent, daily eating out, groceries, and routine costs.
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DIVE
Diving here is known for the HTMS Chang, Thailand's largest shipwreck, suitable for all certified divers. You'll also find vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life around nearby islands.
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Coworking
Coworking
Coworking is around average at $101 per month. There are a few dedicated spaces like KohHub and UnionSPACE, mostly found in Klong Prao and Kai Bae.
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Gym
Gym
Gyms are pricey at $72 per month. Expect commercial-style gyms with free weights and cardio equipment, often found in areas like Klong Prao and White Sand Beach.
Need to Know
- Currency
- Thai Baht (THB)
- Language
- Thai, English common in tourist hubs
- Tap water
- Not safe to drink
- Time zone
- GMT+7 (ICT)
- Power plug
- Type A / B / C / O, 230V
- Dialling code
- +66
- Driving side
- left
- Tipping
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; rounding up the bill or leaving 50-100 Baht in restaurants is common if no service charge is included. Small tips of 20-50 Baht are often given to massage therapists, hotel staff, and bellhops.
- Internet
- Mobile internet coverage, including 4G and 5G, is generally good across Koh Chang, even extending to offshore locations during snorkeling trips. Wi-Fi is widely available in resorts, coffee shops, bars, and restaurants, though speeds can vary.
- Emergency
- 191 (all services), 1155 (Tourist Police), 1669 (ambulance)
When not to go
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Skip Koh Chang in peak rains
Jun, Oct · peaks Aug, SepDo not come expecting reliable beach weather during the wettest stretch of the monsoon. Ferries still run most days, but heavy rain turns roads slick, jungle trails muddy, and some smaller beachfront businesses shut completely for weeks at a time. The sea often loses that clear turquoise look travel photos sell, especially along the west coast beaches. If your trip revolves around swimming and island-hopping, do Koh Samui instead.
Koh Chang itineraries
Upcoming Events & Holidays
Upcoming events — next 30 days
Public holidays & observances — next 12 months
Dates are researched and checked, but events move. Always confirm with the official source before you book anything around them.
Getting To Koh Chang
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Trat Airport (TDX)
17 km northwest of Ao Thammachat Pier
This is the closest airport, with daily flights from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) on Bangkok Airways. The minivan shuttle takes you directly to your hotel on Koh Chang, including the ferry crossing. Taxis will take you to the pier, from where you'll need to buy a ferry ticket and then another taxi on Koh Chang.
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Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)
Approximately 300 km from Koh Chang
Most international travelers will arrive here and connect to Koh Chang. Direct bus and ferry services are the most popular and convenient, often including hotel drop-off on Koh Chang. If flying to Trat isn't an option, these combined tickets are your best bet.
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Immigration and entry process
Standard immigration process, complete TDAC online before arrival
All non-Thai nationals must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 72 hours before arrival. Have your passport, TDAC QR code, and proof of accommodation ready. While Trat Airport can technically process immigration for those on a single ticket, most leisure travelers will clear immigration at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi.
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Ferry to Koh Chang (Ao Thammachat Pier)
Mainland pier for Koh Chang, 17 km from Trat Airport
This is the primary ferry crossing to Koh Chang, arriving at Ao Sapparot Pier on the island. Ferries run frequently, typically every 20-30 minutes during busy periods, from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Tickets are cash-only at the pier; advance booking is not possible.
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Overland from Cambodia
Common route from Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville
Shared minivan services are available from Cambodian cities, crossing the border at Had Lek. These typically include onward transport to the piers in Trat. If traveling independently, take a public bus to the border, then a minibus to Trat, and finally a songthaew to the pier.
Safety Advice
While Koh Chang is generally safe for tourists, some governments advise caution due to its proximity to the Cambodian border, and travel insurance may be invalidated. Petty crime like bag-snatching can occur in crowded areas, so remain aware of your surroundings.
Common Scams
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Scooter Damage Rental
HIGH RISKTrigger:A rental shop demands your passport as collateral for a scooter.
After returning the scooter, the operator claims you caused pre-existing damage, pointing out scratches or fabricating new ones, and demands excessive repair fees, often 10,000 to 50,000 THB. They may refuse to return your passport until you pay. This is common in tourist areas across Koh Chang.
How to avoid: Take detailed, timestamped photos and videos of the scooter from all angles before and after rental. Pay a cash deposit instead of leaving your passport.
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Songthaew Overcharging
MEDIUM RISKTrigger:A songthaew driver quotes a flat rate significantly higher than expected for a short trip.
Songthaews are the main public transport on Koh Chang. Drivers, especially in popular beach areas like White Sand Beach or Lonely Beach, may refuse to use standard fares or take longer routes to inflate the price.
How to avoid: Always agree on the fare before getting in, and check prices displayed on the back of the vehicle.
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ATM Skimming and Fees
MEDIUM RISKTrigger:An ATM looks tampered with or charges an unexpected fee.
While not unique to Koh Chang, ATMs across Thailand often charge a 220 Baht fee for foreign card transactions. Skimming devices can be discreetly installed to steal card information.
How to avoid: Use ATMs attached to banks during business hours. Check for any loose parts around the card reader or keypad.
Mistakes to Avoid
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Not wearing a helmet
SERIOUS CONSEQUENCERiding a motorbike without a helmet is illegal for both driver and passenger. Fines are up to 2,000 THB per person, and travel insurance will not cover head injuries if you are not wearing one. Police checkpoints are common on Koh Chang.
Fix: Always wear a helmet provided by the rental shop, even for short distances.
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Ignoring border conflict advisories
SERIOUS CONSEQUENCEKoh Chang is near the Thai-Cambodian border, an area that has experienced armed clashes. Some governments advise against travel to areas within 10 kilometers of the border, which may invalidate your travel insurance.
Fix: Check your government's latest travel advisories for the Trat province and Koh Chang specifically, and confirm your travel insurance coverage.
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Drinking tap water
SERIOUS CONSEQUENCETap water on Koh Chang, like much of Thailand, is generally not safe for direct consumption due to potential bacteria and contaminants from wells and boreholes. Drinking it can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
Fix: Stick to bottled water, use a water filter, or boil tap water before drinking.
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Inappropriate temple attire
Temples and religious sites on Koh Chang require shoulders and knees to be covered. You may be denied entry or asked to rent covering clothes if you arrive in shorts, tank tops, or revealing attire.
Fix: Carry a sarong or wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when visiting temples.
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Not bargaining at markets
MINOR CONSEQUENCEMany street vendors and market stalls on Koh Chang inflate prices for tourists, expecting you to haggle. Not bargaining means you'll pay significantly more, sometimes double or triple the actual value.
Fix: Always bargain politely, aiming for 25-50% off the initial asking price, especially in tourist markets.
Money & Payments
Carry cash for local markets and taxis, use cards in resorts and larger shops, and always pay in Thai Baht at terminals.
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Cash for Local Spending Cash is essential for most transactions on Koh Chang, especially at street food stalls, local markets, beach kiosks, and for paying songthaews (local taxis). Many smaller establishments do not accept cards. It's best to carry smaller denominations like 20, 50, and 100 THB notes.
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Cards in Tourist Areas, Surcharges Apply Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at larger resorts, upscale restaurants, and some larger shops in tourist areas. However, many smaller businesses and even some larger establishments may add a 3% to 5% surcharge for card payments.
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ATMs Widely Available, Flat Fees ATMs are readily available in all main tourist areas of Koh Chang, including outside 7-Eleven and Lotus minimarts. Local banks with ATMs include Bangkok Bank, Krungthai Bank, Kasikornbank, Siam Commercial Bank (SCB), and Krungsri (Bank of Ayudhya). Most Thai ATMs charge a flat fee of 220-250 THB (approximately $6-7 USD) per transaction for foreign cards. Krungsri (yellow ATMs) often have higher withdrawal limits, up to 30,000 THB (approximately $830 USD), while others may limit withdrawals to 20,000 THB (approximately $550 USD) or even 10,000 THB (approximately $275 USD).
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PromptPay via TAGTHAi App Tourists can use Thailand's national QR payment system, PromptPay, through the TAGTHAi app and a KBank PAY&TOUR prepaid card. You can obtain this card at KASIKORNBANK foreign exchange booths, then link it to the TAGTHAi e-wallet to scan and pay at PromptPay QR locations.
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Exchange at Local Bureaux Currency exchange booths are available in the main beach areas of Koh Chang. Rates are generally better at these bureaux than at resorts or hotels. Big Money in Kai Bae is noted for competitive rates. Remember to bring your passport for exchange transactions.
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Avoid Card Currency Conversion Always choose to be charged in local currency (Thai Baht) when using an ATM or paying with a card. Picking your home currency at the prompt locks in a worse rate from the terminal, not your bank.
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International Transfers To send money to a bank account in Thailand, for things like rent or day-to-day expenses, services like Wise or Remitly usually offer better rates than traditional banks and faster delivery.
You'll typically need the recipient's full name, account number, and SWIFT/BIC code. Some banks may also require a local address.
Costs in Koh Chang
Koh Chang remains a budget-friendly gem compared to other Thai islands, with hostels available for around $10 a night and street food meals for just a couple of dollars. However, prices can escalate quickly at resorts, so it's wise to book accommodations in advance to secure better rates.
SIM Cards & Data
Best option for most travellers: an eSIM you set up before you arrive. You'll be online the moment you land, with no airport queue and no tourist pricing.
Travel eSIMs Connect the second you land. Zero hassle. Skip the airport queue and paperwork. Activate before you fly and land connected. Find the best eSIM →Prefer a local SIM?
Mobile network coverage on Koh Chang is generally excellent, with widespread 4G and growing 5G availability in major tourist areas like White Sand Beach, Klong Prao, and Kai Bae. Speeds are reliable for everyday use, including maps, ride-hailing, messaging, and streaming occasional video. While coverage is strong in developed areas, expect some weaker or dead zones in more remote, mountainous, or undeveloped parts of the island.
What Koh Chang is Like
Stepping off the ferry at Ao Sapparot, the first thing that hits you about Koh Chang is the road. It is a single winding highway clinging mostly to the island's west coast, connecting the beaches, villages, and nearly every hotel people actually stay in. Forget Grab taxis or reliable public transport. Songthaews, those white pickup truck taxis, are the default, and prices climb fast after dark or during rainstorms. If you are not already comfortable riding scooters on steep mountain roads, this is not the island to learn on.
White Sand Beach, or Hat Sai Khao, is the island's busiest and most developed stretch, a long strip of resorts, minimarts, cannabis shops, and seafood restaurants aimed squarely at short-stay tourists. The northern end still has a decent beach if you get there early, but the middle section feels more like a roadside resort town than an island escape. People expecting quiet tropical isolation usually end up disappointed here within about twelve hours.
Head south, and the vibe shifts. Lonely Beach, despite the name, is still the island's backpacker and late-night drinking zone, with cheap rooms, tattoo shops, reggae bars, and music carrying well past midnight along the main road. It has cleaned up a bit compared to its rougher years, but this is still the part of Koh Chang where people arrive for two nights and accidentally stay a week. Kai Bae and Klong Kloi feel calmer without turning sleepy.
For food, Koh Chang works best when you stop chasing beachfront seafood signs and start eating where people actually live. Klong Prao has local markets, roadside curries, grilled chicken stalls, and small family restaurants that stay fairly priced compared to the west coast tourist strip. Bang Bao still draws crowds for the stilt-house setting, but too many restaurants there survive on bus groups and day-trippers rather than repeat customers. The seafood is fresher once you get away from the pier itself.
The island's east coast feels like a different place entirely. Villages like Dan Mai and Salak Kok move slower, with fishing boats, wooden houses, mangrove channels, and long quiet stretches where you can drive for minutes without seeing another tourist. This side stayed less developed partly because the beaches are weaker and the roads less convenient, which is exactly why some people end up preferring it. Koh Chang makes more sense once you leave the west coast resort strip behind.
West Coast
Most people land on Koh Chang, turn left out of the ferry port, and never really leave the west coast road again. The entire tourist machine sits there waiting for them: beach resorts stacked beside minimarts, smoothie stands, cannabis shops, dive offices, and taxi drivers circling White Sand Beach looking for short fares at long-fare prices. By the time you reach Kai Bae or Lonely Beach, the island starts feeling less like somewhere remote and more like one long strip of tourism stitched together by steep corners and sunset bars. A lot of travellers leave convinced Koh Chang is overcrowded and overbuilt because they never saw anything else.
The strange thing is that the west coast is still the correct place to stay for most people. The beaches are better, the swimming is easier, and nearly every hotel, ATM, and restaurant people actually need sits along that road between White Sand Beach and Bang Bao. The mistake is treating it like the whole island instead of the tourist-facing layer wrapped around it. Wake up early, ride past the empty stretches south of Salak Phet, or eat somewhere without laminated seafood menus in six languages. Koh Chang changes fast once the west coast stops selling itself to you.
Areas of Koh Chang
- Local life, villas, quieter stays
Klong Son
Klong Son sits closest to the ferry and feels more residential than resort-heavy, with local shops, roadside food stalls, and scattered villa developments tucked into the hills. Most of the shoreline belongs to private compounds, so beach access depends heavily on where you stay. The upside is less traffic and easier access to the ferry compared to the long west coast drive south. Without your own scooter or car, though, the area can feel isolated fast after sunset.
Good for:Villa stays, longer trips, avoiding the busiest beach strips.
Skip if:You want walkable nightlife or easy public beach access.
- Quiet stays, snorkeling, central access
Pearl Beach
Pearl Beach works for people who want to stay near White Sand Beach without actually sleeping inside it. The shoreline is rocky rather than sandy, which keeps crowds away and makes the area feel calmer even during busy periods. Several small resorts and villas hide behind the roadside greenery, though traffic noise carries further here than many hotel photos suggest. You trade beach quality for breathing room.
Good for:Quiet nights, snorkeling, staying between major beach areas.
Skip if:You want soft sand and long beach walks.
- Families, quieter resorts, long beach
Klong Prao Beach
Klong Prao Beach stretches wider and slower than White Sand Beach, with resorts spread out enough that the area never feels packed unless a holiday weekend hits. The beach breaks around small river mouths, which naturally splits the crowds and gives different sections their own rhythm. Water stays shallow far out, making it better for families and floating around than proper swimming. Stay near the southern end if you want easier access to restaurants without constant road noise.
Good for:Families, slower beach days, resort stays without party noise.
Skip if:You want nightlife or a walkable bar scene after dark.
- Balanced, beach bars, couples
Kai Bae Beach
Kai Bae sits in the middle ground between White Sand Beach chaos and Lonely Beach backpacker spillover. The main road stays busy with cafes, cannabis shops, massage places, and bars, but evenings still calm down earlier than many people expect. The beach itself looks better than it swims during low tide, when the water pulls far back and exposes rocky patches. It works best for people who want restaurants and sunsets within walking distance without sleeping beside full-volume beach bars.
Good for:Couples, mixed beach and nightlife trips, sunset bars.
Skip if:You want deep swimming water directly off the beach.
- Boat trips, diving, seafood
Bang Bao
Bang Bao revolves around the pier, not the beach. Dive boats, snorkeling tours, seafood restaurants, and souvenir stalls dominate the long wooden walkway from morning onward, and the whole area runs on day-tripper traffic heading out to nearby islands. Klong Kloi Beach nearby gives you somewhere to actually swim, though it stays quieter than the main west coast beaches. Stay here if boats are the point of the trip, not because you expect some untouched fishing village.
Good for:Diving trips, island hopping, seafood dinners near the pier.
Skip if:You want a proper beach town or quiet evenings.
- East coast, local life, waterfalls
Dan Mai
Dan Mai feels more like a working Thai town than a tourist beach area, with government buildings, local restaurants, schools, and almost none of the west coast resort atmosphere. The coastline here is narrow and muddy in parts, so nobody comes for classic beach days. What you do get is easier access to inland waterfalls, quieter roads, and an east coast that still moves at local pace. Nights are very quiet.
Good for:East coast exploring, local food, quiet longer stays.
Skip if:You want beach bars, nightlife, or resort infrastructure.
- Fishing village, remote, east coast
Salak Phet
Salak Phet sits deep in the island's southeast corner, surrounded by fishing boats, mangroves, fruit farms, and roads that feel a long way from the ferry port crowds. Most visitors only pass through briefly for seafood lunches or mangrove tours, but staying here gives you a version of Koh Chang that barely overlaps with the west coast resort strip. There is almost no nightlife and very little spontaneous convenience once shops close. That is exactly the appeal for some people.
Good for:Seafood, mangrove trips, escaping the tourist coast.
Skip if:You want beaches, nightlife, or quick access around the island.
- Remote beach, isolation, east coast
Long Beach
Long Beach feels genuinely cut off from the rest of Koh Chang, even now that the road south is fully paved. The final stretch twists through jungle hills before dropping onto a mostly empty beach with only a handful of places to stay and long stretches without shops or restaurants. This is where people come to disappear for a few days, read books, and stop checking their phones. Once you arrive, you stay put.
Good for:Isolation, empty beaches, slow unplugged trips.
Skip if:You need reliable transport, nightlife, or lots of dining options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning & moving around
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Which neighbourhood in Koh Chang should I stay in?
White Sand Beach is your best bet for a lively atmosphere with plenty of restaurants and bars, ideal for first-time visitors and those who want convenience. Klong Prao offers a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe with a wider beach. For backpackers and party-goers, Lonely Beach is the undisputed hub for cheap drinks and late-night music. If you are looking for genuine quiet, consider the East Coast, but know that amenities are sparse there.
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How many days do I need in Koh Chang?
You need at least three full days to get a feel for Koh Chang without rushing. This allows for beach time, a waterfall visit, and exploring a couple of different areas. Staying a week lets you venture to the quieter east coast, do some island hopping to nearby smaller islands, or simply settle into a more relaxed pace.
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Where can I store my luggage in Koh Chang between checkout and my flight?
Most hotels and guesthouses on Koh Chang are happy to store your luggage at their front desk for a few hours after checkout. If you're heading directly to the ferry, the Ao Thammachat Pier on the mainland has small locker facilities, though they are not always secure for valuables. For longer-term storage, consider asking a larger resort near the pier if they offer a paid service, even if you weren't a guest.
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Which markets in Koh Chang are worth visiting and when are they on?
The main night markets in White Sand Beach and Klong Prao are worth a visit for cheap eats and souvenirs, usually starting around 5 PM daily. White Sand Beach Night Market is the most extensive, offering a wide array of street food, clothing, and trinkets. For a more local experience, check out the smaller markets in Dan Mai or Salak Phet on the east coast, which operate more sporadically but offer fresh produce and local snacks.
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What are the best day trips from Koh Chang?
The best day trips from Koh Chang involve island hopping to the nearby Koh Rang National Marine Park, about a 1.5-hour speedboat ride away. Here you can snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs and visit pristine beaches on islands like Koh Mak or Koh Kood. These trips usually run from 9 AM to 4 PM and are genuinely worth it for the underwater scenery and quieter beaches.
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Do you need a licence to rent a scooter in Koh Chang?
Yes, you need a valid international driving permit with a motorcycle endorsement to legally rent and ride a scooter in Koh Chang. While many rental shops will hand over a scooter with just a passport, riding without the correct licence means your travel insurance is void in case of an accident. The roads on Koh Chang are steep and winding, especially around Klong Prao and Kai Bae, making it a poor place to learn, and accidents are common.
Safety & medical
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Is it safe to walk around Koh Chang at night?
Walking around the main tourist areas like White Sand Beach and Klong Prao at night is generally safe, as these areas are well-lit and have plenty of people. However, the roads between beaches are dark, winding, and often lack sidewalks, making walking between towns after dark genuinely risky due to traffic. Always use a songthaew or taxi for inter-beach travel at night.
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What happens if I get sick in Koh Chang?
For minor ailments, pharmacies are readily available in all main tourist areas, often found near 7-Eleven stores. For more serious issues, the best option is the Bangkok Hospital Trat on the mainland, which is a private hospital with English-speaking staff and good facilities. On Koh Chang itself, there are smaller clinics, but anything requiring specialist care or overnight stays will likely mean a transfer to Trat. The local emergency number is 1669.
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Do I need travel insurance for Koh Chang?
Yes, travel insurance for Koh Chang is a non-negotiable. Scooter accidents are frequent due to the challenging roads, and without insurance, medical bills for even minor injuries can quickly run into thousands of dollars. Additionally, many activities like diving or jungle trekking carry inherent risks that standard policies might not cover, so ensure your policy is comprehensive.
Laws & local norms
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What are the drug laws in Koh Chang?
Despite recent changes in Thailand, cannabis laws in Koh Chang are still subject to strict regulations, and public consumption remains illegal. While you might find cannabis shops, be aware that possession of larger quantities or any other recreational drugs like ecstasy or cocaine carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines. Do not assume the relaxed atmosphere extends to drug enforcement.
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Can I vape in Koh Chang?
No, vaping is illegal in Koh Chang and throughout Thailand, with both the sale and import of e-cigarettes and vaping liquids strictly prohibited. If caught, you risk confiscation of your device, a significant fine, or even imprisonment. This is not a law that is lightly enforced, especially in tourist areas, so leave your vape at home.
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Are there any areas in Koh Chang I should avoid?
There are no genuinely dangerous areas in Koh Chang that you need to actively avoid, but certain spots can be less pleasant or riskier after dark. The roads between beaches, particularly the steep and winding sections around Klong Prao and Kai Bae, are poorly lit and should be avoided for walking at night due to traffic. Lonely Beach can get rowdy late at night, and while generally safe, it is best to be aware of your surroundings if you are not there to party.
Food & drink
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Where do locals actually eat in Koh Chang?
Locals on Koh Chang tend to eat at the smaller, unnamed roadside stalls and restaurants, especially away from the main tourist beaches. Head to the villages on the east coast, like Salak Phet or Salak Khok, for authentic seafood restaurants that cater more to Thai families. The night markets in White Sand and Klong Prao are also popular with locals for quick, cheap, and tasty street food.
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Where can I eat late at night in Koh Chang?
Late-night food in Koh Chang is most readily found in White Sand Beach and Lonely Beach. White Sand has several 24-hour 7-Eleven stores with hot food options, and a few small restaurants around the main strip stay open until midnight or later, serving basic Thai dishes. In Lonely Beach, the backpacker bars often serve food until their closing times, which can be well after midnight.
Families
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Is Koh Chang a good place to travel with kids?
Koh Chang is a doable place to travel with kids, but it is not as effortless as some other Thai destinations. Locals are generally welcoming of children, and the slower pace outside of White Sand Beach can be a relief. However, the challenging roads and lack of dedicated sidewalks make getting around with small children or strollers a constant effort, and activities beyond beach time and resort pools are limited.
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Is Koh Chang manageable with a stroller or buggy?
Koh Chang is largely unmanageable with a stroller or buggy outside of resort grounds. The main road is narrow, winding, and often lacks sidewalks, making walking with a stroller hazardous. Even on beaches, the sand is soft, and many establishments are accessed via uneven paths or stairs. Expect to carry younger children or rely on songthaews.
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What happens if a child gets sick in Koh Chang?
If a child gets sick in Koh Chang, your first stop should be a local pharmacy for minor issues, as they stock common children's medicines. For anything more serious, the private Bangkok Hospital Trat on the mainland is the best option for paediatric care, offering a higher standard of treatment and English-speaking staff. There are smaller clinics on Koh Chang, but they have limited capabilities for serious emergencies.
Staying
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Is Koh Chang a good place for digital nomads to settle?
Koh Chang is not a prime digital nomad hub, and the scene is quite thin. While internet quality is decent in most main tourist areas, with fiber optic available in many resorts, dedicated coworking spaces are virtually non-existent. Monthly rentals for a basic bungalow can range from 8,000 to 15,000 THB (220 to 415 USD), but you will need to look locally. The main draw is the relaxed island life, not a bustling nomad community or extensive infrastructure.
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Do I need a VPN in Koh Chang?
You do not strictly need a VPN in Koh Chang to access most common websites, as Thailand does not block many international sites. However, a VPN remains useful for accessing your home country's streaming services like Netflix or BBC iPlayer, which are geo-restricted. It also adds a layer of security when using public Wi-Fi networks in hotels or cafes, protecting your data from potential snoopers.
After-dark
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What changes after dark in Koh Chang?
After dark, Koh Chang transforms from a quiet island to a more lively destination, particularly in White Sand Beach and Lonely Beach. Restaurants and bars along the beaches and main roads light up, and fire shows become a common sight. The roads between beaches become significantly darker and more dangerous for pedestrians, with songthaew prices increasing.
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Where do nights go wrong for travellers in Koh Chang?
Nights in Koh Chang often go wrong for travellers due to scooter accidents, especially after consuming alcohol, given the island's steep and winding roads. Overpaying for songthaew rides late at night is another common friction point, as drivers know demand is high. While generally safe, isolated incidents of petty theft can occur in crowded bars or on deserted beaches, so keep an eye on your belongings.
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What are the best areas for nightlife in Koh Chang?
White Sand Beach offers a mix of beach bars, live music venues, and a few nightclubs, making it the most diverse nightlife area. Lonely Beach is the undisputed backpacker party hub, with reggae bars like Himmel and Ting Tong pumping music until the early hours, known for cheap drinks and fire shows. Kai Bae and Klong Prao have a more subdued nightlife, with a few relaxed bars, but nothing compared to the other two.
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Are there red light districts in Koh Chang?
Koh Chang does not have a designated red light district in the same way as some other Thai destinations. However, you will find a concentration of 'girlie bars' and massage parlours with suggestive atmospheres, particularly in parts of White Sand Beach and Lonely Beach. These are generally visible and easily avoided if not of interest, but be aware that some smaller bars may actively solicit customers for companionship.