Koh Chang: Dream beaches, jungle and island adventures in Thailand

Contents:

• Travelling to Koh Chang from Switzerland

• The most beautiful beaches on Koh Chang

• The most beautiful waterfalls and natural highlights on Koh Chang

• Diving, snorkelling and island hopping around Koh Chang

• Bang Bao on Koh Chang – fishing village, jetty and lighthouse

• The unspoilt east coast of Koh Chang

• Restaurants and street food on Koh Chang

• The best time to visit Koh Chang

• Practical tips for your trip to Koh Chang

• Conclusion: Koh Chang: Between the beach and the jungle

Travelling to Koh Chang from Switzerland

The easiest way to travel to Koh Chang is via Bangkok. SWISS operates direct flights from Zurich to Bangkok. The flight time is around eleven hours, and return flights are currently available from around CHF 700, depending on the time of year. Significantly cheaper deals are sometimes available from around CHF 354, for example with Saudia via Riyadh (RUH). However, due to the current tense situation in the region, we would not recommend this route. From Geneva, options include KLM via Amsterdam or Turkish Airlines via Istanbul. Both routes are good alternatives if you wish to avoid flying via the Middle East where possible. Prices vary significantly depending on the time of year and when you book.

The quickest option is the approximately one-hour flight with Bangkok Airways to Trat. Return flights are available from around CHF 70, depending on special offers. From Trat Airport, you then take a transfer to the ferry terminal and continue by ferry to Koh Chang.

A cheaper option is to travel directly from Bangkok by bus or minivan, including the ferry crossing. You can compare different operators, departure times and prices via 12Go. One-way tickets are currently available from around CHF 15, with many routes costing around CHF 20–25. Depending on the route, the journey takes around six to ten hours. In some cases, the transfer to your hotel on Koh Chang is also included.

Prices: As of August 2026. Flight and transfer prices may vary significantly depending on travel dates and availability.

The most beautiful beaches on Koh Chang

Koh Chang’s best-known beaches are on the west coast – and each has its own character. From lively holiday resorts to quiet coves, there’s something to suit almost every type of traveller.

• White Sand Beach – lively and central: White Sand Beach is one of the island’s most popular beaches. Here you’ll find the widest selection of hotels, restaurants, bars and shops – ideal if you prefer to stay in a central location and want to be able to reach most places on foot. Despite the good facilities, the view of the forested mountains gives you a real sense of being on an island.
• Klong Prao Beach – long and laid-back: If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, Klong Prao Beach is the place for you. The long beach offers plenty of space and often feels pleasantly relaxed, even in peak season. There are numerous resorts along the coast, whilst restaurants and small shops are usually just a few minutes’ walk away.
• Kai Bae Beach – the perfect middle ground: Kai Bae Beach combines a relaxed atmosphere with a good selection of restaurants, cafés and accommodation. The location is particularly beautiful, with several small islands just off the coast. Above the beach, it’s also worth stopping off at the Kai Bae Viewpoint, especially at sunset.
• Lonely Beach – laid-back and lively: The beach is no longer quite as ‘lonely’ as the name suggests. Lonely Beach was once particularly popular with backpackers and remains known to this day for its laid-back atmosphere. During the day, you can relax on the beach, whilst in the evening the area around the village is much livelier than at many other beaches on Koh Chang.
• Klong Kloi Beach – the laid-back south: In the south of the island lies Klong Kloi Beach, near Bang Bao. Small beach bars and restaurants create a relaxed atmosphere, and if you walk a little further along the beach, you’ll usually find quieter stretches.

The most beautiful waterfalls and natural highlights on Koh Chang

Koh Chang is far more than just a beach destination. Around 70 per cent of the island is covered in rainforest, and the mountainous interior is home to waterfalls, jungle trails and mangrove forests.

• Klong Plu Waterfall – the most famous waterfall: Klong Plu Waterfall is one of Koh Chang’s most famous natural highlights. From the entrance, a short path leads through the rainforest to the waterfall, which plunges between tall rocks into a natural pool. It is at its most impressive during and shortly after the rainy season.
• Than Mayom Waterfall – a quieter spot on the east coast: The Than Mayom Waterfall on the east coast is significantly less visited. Surrounded by dense rainforest, the waterfall is also part of Mu Ko Chang National Park and makes for a great stop-off on a tour of the quieter part of the island.
• Through the mangroves of Salak Phet: In the south-east of Koh Chang, the Salak Phet Mangrove Forest is well worth a visit. A long wooden walkway leads right through the mangroves towards the sea – a lovely way to discover a completely different side of the island. It’s particularly pleasantly quiet here in the morning.
• Kai Bae Waterfall – the hidden waterfall: The Kai Bae Waterfall, in the hinterland of Kai Bae, offers a slightly more adventurous experience. This small waterfall is far less well-known than Klong Plu and can be reached via a narrow path through the jungle. At the end, a natural pool awaits, which is perfect for a refreshing dip when there’s enough water. A visit is particularly worthwhile during and shortly after the rainy season. 

Tip: Sturdy shoes are recommended for waterfall and jungle excursions. After rain, the paths and rocks can be very slippery.

Diving, snorkelling and island-hopping around Koh Chang

Koh Chang also has plenty to offer underwater. The island is surrounded by coral reefs, small islets and one of Thailand’s most famous wreck diving sites.

• HTMS Chang Wreck – a highlight for divers: The HTMS Chang Wreck is arguably the best-known dive site around Koh Chang. The former warship was deliberately sunk in 2012 and has since developed into an artificial reef. The wreck, which is around 100 metres long, lies at a depth of up to about 30 metres and is now home to numerous species of fish. For experienced divers, a dive here is one of the island’s most special experiences.
• Koh Rang – Snorkelling amongst coral reefs: For snorkellers, the Koh Rang archipelago is one of the most popular destinations. The small islands form part of Mu Ko Chang National Park and are surrounded by coral reefs, rocks and clear water. Day trips usually combine several snorkelling spots and small beaches.
• Koh Wai – small, peaceful and tropical: Koh Wai is also ideal for a day trip. This small, largely undeveloped island lies south of Koh Chang and is particularly well known for its peaceful atmosphere and the coral reefs just off the coast. If you fancy it, you can not only go snorkelling here, but also simply spend a few hours on the beach.

• Koh Ngam – small but special: Koh Ngam is particularly worth a visit because of its unusual shape: two forested parts of the island are connected by a narrow sandbank. This creates small bays on both sides. The island is a popular destination for private boat and snorkelling trips, amongst other activities, and is ideal for swimming and relaxing.

• Koh Laoya – a tranquil island paradise: The small archipelago of Koh Laoya, also known as Koh Lao Ya, consists of three islands south of Koh Chang. Koh Laoya Nai, in particular, is renowned for its long white sandy beach. The surrounding area is ideal for swimming and snorkelling and is often combined with a day trip to Koh Wai and other small islands.

  Our recommendation: BB Divers in Bang Bao is an excellent choice for diving and snorkelling. Two dives currently cost THB 3,500 (approx. CHF 86), whilst a snorkelling trip costs THB 1,000 (approx. CHF 25). Transport, equipment and meals are included. (Prices: as of August 2026. National park fees may apply in addition.)

Bang Bao on Koh Chang – fishing village, jetty and lighthouse

Bang Bao, a former fishing village whose houses were traditionally built on stilts above the water, is situated in the far south-west of Koh Chang. Today, the village has changed considerably: along the covered jetty, you’ll find small shops, cafés, seafood restaurants, diving schools and operators offering boat trips. Many snorkelling, diving and island-hopping tours to the surrounding islands set off from here.

Despite the growth in tourism, a stroll along the pier is well worth it. The views of Bang Bao Bay, the densely forested mountains and the sea are particularly beautiful. At the end of the long pier stands the white-and-red Bang Bao Lighthouse, one of the island’s most famous photo opportunities. However, it is not always possible to go inside the lighthouse.

Tip: If you’d like to explore Bang Bao at your leisure, it’s best to visit the pier between around 10 am and 3 pm or in the late afternoon. It can get considerably busier around 9 am and 4 pm, when the excursion and diving boats set off or return.

The unspoilt east coast of Koh Chang

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the west coast, you should plan a trip to the east and south-east coasts. Here there are fewer hotels and classic sandy beaches, but instead quiet roads, small villages, mangroves and plenty of unspoilt island life. The areas around Salak Khok and Salak Phet are particularly worth a visit.

In Salak Khok, you can paddle a kayak through narrow mangrove channels and glide past traditional fishermen’s huts. Around Salak Phet, you’ll find a large sheltered bay, small fishing villages and one of the island’s most beautiful mangrove trails. A long jetty leads right through the dense greenery out towards the sea.

Tip: For the east coast, it’s worth hiring a car or scooter, as songthaews run much less frequently here. Allow plenty of time – there is still no direct road link between Bang Bao and Salak Phet.

Restaurants and street food on Koh Chang

Koh Chang also has plenty to offer in terms of cuisine. From simple street food stalls and lively food markets to seaside restaurants and hidden cafés set amongst greenery, the choice is surprisingly varied. You’ll find numerous restaurants serving Thai and international cuisine, particularly around White Sand Beach, Klong Prao and Kai Bae.

If you enjoy trying local specialities, you should also visit smaller restaurants off the main tourist routes. As well as seafood and classic Thai dishes, there are now plenty of vegetarian options on the island.

Our recommendations

• Klong Prao & Chai Chet Street Food: Around Klong Prao and Chai Chet to the north, you’ll find numerous small food stalls and street food stands in the late afternoon and evening. Here you can easily sample local Thai dishes, snacks and fresh fruit – in many places, the atmosphere is far less touristy than at White Sand Beach.

• Khao Kwan Restaurant: Here, traditional Thai cuisine is given a modern twist and presented beautifully. One of our recommendations for a rather special dinner on Koh Chang.

• Saaitara Restaurant: This restaurant combines Thai cuisine with a stylish ambience and a lovely sea view – ideal for a relaxed lunch or dinner.

• Eat Here Klong Son Restaurant: A cosy spot in Klong Son serving Thai dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Particularly lovely for a casual lunch or dinner away from the busier holiday resorts on the west coast.

• Ronnie’s Organic Coconut Garden: A real little hideaway amongst the coconut palms. This tucked-away café is ideal for a quiet break, fresh drinks and light meals amidst tropical surroundings.

• The Mount Café: A lovely café stop with views over Koh Chang’s lush green countryside. Perfect for coffee, something sweet and a relaxing break whilst touring the island.

The best time to visit Koh Chang

The most pleasant time to visit Koh Chang is between November and April. During these months, the weather is usually dry and sunny, and the sea is relatively calm – ideal conditions for days on the beach, snorkelling trips and island hopping. December to February are particularly popular, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is low. Consequently, this is also the busiest time of year.

From May to October, the south-west monsoon brings significantly more rain. The island is at its greenest during this period, waterfalls have a greater flow, and accommodation is often cheaper. However, the sea can be rougher, and boat services and trips to the surrounding islands may be restricted due to the weather.

Tip: If you’d like to combine good weather with slightly fewer crowds, it’s best to visit in November or March.

Practical tips for your trip to Koh Chang

• Getting around: If you want to explore Koh Chang at your own pace, a hire car is a good option. Scooters are also popular, but the island’s roads are in places very steep and winding. You should therefore only ride one if you have the relevant experience and a valid driving licence. The traditional songthaews are ideal for shorter journeys.
• It is not possible to drive all the way round Koh Chang: there is no continuous road between the south-west near Bang Bao and the south-east around Salak Phet. To visit the east coast, you will therefore need to travel via the north of the island.
• Choose the right area: if you prefer to stay centrally, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops and accommodation around White Sand Beach. Klong Prao and Kai Bae combine proximity to the beach with a bit more peace and quiet. Koh Chang is even more unspoilt and significantly more relaxed in the south and on the east coast.
• Carry some cash with you: Cash is often the easiest way to pay, particularly at small restaurants, local markets, when using songthaews or with smaller tour operators. You can order Thai baht before your trip via the Swiss Bankers banknote delivery service.

• Keep an eye out for hornbills: Various species of hornbill live on Koh Chang. With a bit of luck, you can spot these striking birds in the treetops, particularly in the early morning and towards evening – sometimes even near hotels and restaurants.

• Take a close look at animal-related activities: There are still various elephant-related activities available on Koh Chang. Opt for establishments that do not offer elephant rides, shows or forced bathing, and instead promote respectful treatment of the animals.
• Check your insurance cover in advance: Boat trips, scooter rides and outdoor activities are a staple of many travellers’ visits to Koh Chang. With TravelProtect from Swiss Bankers, you can take out cover before you even set off.

Conclusion: Koh Chang: Between the beach and the jungle

Koh Chang brings together everything that many people love about Thailand: beautiful beaches, good food and warm hospitality – combined with a touch of unspoilt nature that has long since become a rarity on many other islands. If you’re looking to switch between relaxing on the beach, trips to small islands and adventures in the jungle, this is the perfect place for you.