Ko Chang

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Palm trees at White Sand Beach, Ko Chang Island

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Overview

With steep, jungle-covered peaks, picturesque Ko Chang (Elephant Island; เกาะช้าง) retains its remote and rugged spirit – despite the transformation of parts of it into a package-tour destination. Sweeping bays are sprinkled along the west coast; some have superfine sand, others have pebbles. What the island lacks in sand it makes up for in an unlikely combination: accessible wilderness with a thriving party scene.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Lonely Beach

Ko Chang

The last thing you'll be here is lonely, as this is Ko Chang's backpacker enclave and the liveliest place to be after dark – until at least 5am. Here,…

Ban Bang Bao

Ko Chang

At this former fishing community built in the traditional fashion of interconnected piers, the villagers have swapped their nets for renting out portions…

Ao Salak Kok

Ko Chang

The dense tangle of mangroves here is protected by a group of fisherfolk who recognises its ecological importance. Mangroves are the ocean’s nurseries,…

Ban Salak Phet

Ko Chang

To discover what Ko Chang was like before tourists came, visit Ban Salak Phet, in the far southeastern corner. This sleepy community is full of stilt…

Mu Ko Chang National Marine Park

Ko Chang

This land and marine national park covers the entire archipelago and protects much of the central part of the island. Conservation efforts are a bit…

Ao Khlong Prao

Ko Chang

Khlong Prao’s beach is a pretty sweep of sand pinned between hulking mountainous headlands and bisected by two estuaries. At low tide, beachcombers stroll…

Hat Kaibae

Ko Chang

A companion beach to Khlong Prao, Hat Kaibae is a good spot for families and 30-something couples. A slim strip of sand unfurls around an island-dotted…

Nam Tok Khlong Plu

Ko Chang

The island's biggest and most impressive waterfall, this is a three-tiered cascade with a pool where you can swim (with fish). It's easily accessible from…

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