
Palm fringed beaches, lush jungle interiors and a turquoise sea bursting with marine life are what lay in wait when you choose Koh Chang holidays. You’ll find the tropical idyll located just off Thailand’s south east coast – and it isn’t an exaggeration to describe it as a picture perfect paradise.
Unlike bigger sister island Phuket, Koh Chang has a much more laidback ambiance and endless natural attractions, making it the ideal destination for lazy beach holidays or active adventures. Stay in Koh Chang hotels right by the ocean and spend your days soaking up the sun on the sand, swimming in warm waters or exploring peaceful seaside spots like Bao Bang Floating Village.
Diving is one of the top activities in Koh Chang, whether you’re keen to swim with whale sharks or explore an underwater wreck. Discover dive sites directly off the coast or take a speedboat to neighbouring untouched isles like Koh Wai.
Journey up magical mountains in the heart of Koh Chang
Beyond the beaches, you’ll discover Koh Chang is blessed with verdant mountains criss-crossed with great walking trails. Opt for a guided trek and venture to stunning viewpoints on foot, where you can awe at panoramic vistas of the island and sea.
Koh Chang also has numerous waterfalls in its National Park. Hike the many trails before stopping for a refreshing dip. You’ll find the island’s jungle interiors are bursting with beautiful flora and fauna, in addition to native wildlife like cheeky macaques, wild boars and vibrant lizards and insects.
Our favorite hotels
Get ready to bed down at a luxury Koh Chang resort, featuring barefoot beach bars and beautiful oceanfront accommodation.
Explore Koh Chang
You won't be stuck for things to do when staying in Koh Chang, there is plenty to see and do. Or you can simply just relax and sit back and take in the stunning scenery and soak up the laid back atmosphere.

Koh Chang's beaches
Discover some of Thailand's best beaches and live the Thai life at a slower pace.
Best time to visit Koh Chang
Koh Chang holidays are a great option at any time of the year thanks to the island’s balmy tropical climate. While sunshine is almost always guaranteed, you’ll find December, January and February are the least rainy months to visit.
- Best Weather
- Good Weather
- Average Weather
Average Weather in January
Average Weather in February
Average Weather in March
Average Weather in April
Average Weather in May
Average Weather in June
Average Weather in July
Average Weather in August
Average Weather in September
Average Weather in October
Average Weather in November
Average Weather in December

“There are lots of even smaller islands around Koh Chang – I’d recommend setting aside a day to explore some of them. My favourite was Koh Wai, which felt very authentic and truly off the beaten tourist path.”

“You’re really close to Cambodia in Koh Chang, so why not add a second country to your itinerary and spend a few days seeing how they compare and contrast?”
Songkran
Also known as Thai New Year, Songkran is a hugely important celebration throughout Thailand. If you’re planning Koh Chang holidays in mid-April, you’ll find festivities happening right across the island. Most will include traditional entertainment and delicious feasts, plus you’ll find many locals return home from the cities to visit family and friends. One of the most iconic elements of Songkran is water throwing, so be prepared to get soaked.
Koh Chang Fruit Fair
This quaint island festival usually takes place in early May and sees local farmers bringing their best fruit crops to Koh Chang Municipality for locals and visitors to taste. Expect to savour delights like rich rambutans and sweet mangosteens, as well as the smelly yet popular durian fruit.
Loy Krathong Festival
Also hosted in Koh Chang Municipality, this important countrywide celebration takes place on the 12th full moon of the year (usually in November). More commonly known as the Festival of Lights, it sees locals ceremonially placing candlelit lanterns (called krathongs) into the water to carry away their misfortunes. There’s also firework displays and various dance performances, plus other exciting entertainment.
Kluay Tort
These are mouth watering banana fritters which you’ll find at most street markets. Make sure you order them piping hot for the best experience.
Khao Lam
This simple yet tasty treat is easy to pick up at a roadside food stall. It’s made up of sticky rice which is boiled in coconut milk, wrapped in a bamboo leaf and then grilled on a charcoal BBQ.
Kanom Krok
This popular snack is essentially a mini pancake made from coconut, rice flour and sometimes a spoonful of pumpkin or sweet corn. It’s cooked on a skillet over an open charcoal fire and best served fresh.
Street food
Koh Chang is a great place to sample sensational Thai street food as you’ll spot no shortage of stalls in the towns or along the busier beaches. Most vendors typically cook up one type of dish, whether that’s grilled meat and seafood on skewers or steaming bowls of Pad Thai.

a beach with a palm tree

a close up of a yellow building

a glass of water on a table

a group of palm trees on the side of a lake

a group of palm trees on a beach near a body of water
You might also like these
We think you might also like to take a look at these destinations. If you'd like some advice, our Destination Specialists will be able to find something that is right for you.
Let’s talk
There’s no question too small. Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists.
Sign up to our newsletter
Receive the latest travel inspiration and destination news.

How we tailor make your holiday
The Hayes & Jarvis Way
We've been tailor making holidays for 65 years. With over 60 destinations to choose from, talk to us and we'll listen to your travel ideas to create unforgettable holiday experiences.