Koh Chang: Thailand’s Best Kept Secret
Looking for a Thai island that’s still quiet, but also wild and brimming with adventure? Koh Chang is the answer. Unlike the tourist-packed shores of Koh Samui and Phuket, this untamed gem offers secluded beaches, lush jungles, and an atmosphere that feels almost mythical. Here’s why Koh Chang is Thailand’s best-kept secret.
1. Hidden Hippie Beaches
While White Sand beach is absolutely worth the visit, the real magic lies in Koh Chang’s lesser-known shores. Just under an hour away by scooter lies Kong Koi beach - here you will find rustic bungalows surrounded by palms and pink flowers, swaying hammocks, cute roaming cats and dogs, and the distant strum of a guitar, creating an atmosphere where time slows down. These beaches are where barefoot travelers from across the world gather under the stars, swapping stories and soaking in the island’s laid-back energy.
Relaxing on a wooden swing on Ghost Ship beach
2. The Mystery of Ghost Ship Beach
One of Koh Chang’s most intriguing spots is Ghost Ship Beach, an eerie and beautiful stretch of sand. The drive down to the beach which lies at the southern-most tip of the island, is overgrown with trees and random sights of enormous elephants statues. You will also almost certainly encounter some wild and curious monkeys. The name of the beach comes from the huge cruise ship carcass that lies abandoned there - as the story goes, it was once a floating luxury hotel that became decommissioned, then some years later it caught on fire. Nowadays, there are cranes operating at the beach everyday, deconstructing the ship - in a few years it will surely all be gone. Unlike the flashy nightlife of Phuket, this beach offers something different—a haunting beauty that feels raw and almost supernatural. Note, there is an 100 baht entrance fee per person.
The abandoned cruise ship on Koh Chang
3. Adventures in the Wild
For nature lovers, Koh Chang offers a playground of untamed beauty. Trek through rainforests to discover hidden waterfalls, kayak through mangrove forests, or take a motorbike along winding jungle roads to find your own secret beach. It’s an island that rewards those who love to explore.
Admiring the 4 Koh Man Nai islands visible from the Kai Bae viewpoint
4. Escape from mass tourism
Despite its stunning landscapes, Koh Chang has managed to avoid the overcrowding seen on other Thai islands. Maybe it’s because it requires a ferry ride from the mainland, or perhaps it’s the unpredictable energy that keeps mass tourism at bay. Whatever the reason, Koh Chang remains a rare sanctuary for those who prefer their paradise wild, quiet, and wonderfully unpredictable.You won’t find high-rise hotels or crowds of package tourists—just the sound of waves, rustling palm trees, and the occasional beachside café where locals still outnumber visitors.
Empty beaches on Koh Chang even during the peak season
5. Bang Bao Village: Floating markets
Bang Bao Pier in Koh Chang, Thailand, is a must-visit for its charming stilted village built over the water, offering a unique glimpse into traditional fishing life. The pier is the gateway to stunning nearby islands, making it the perfect starting point for snorkeling, diving, and boat tours. Lined with seafood restaurants and local shops, it provides a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy fresh catches of the day. The scenic views of the turquoise sea and surrounding hills create a picture-perfect backdrop for photography lovers.
Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or a break from the usual tourist traps, Koh Chang is an island that delivers something truly special. It’s a place that lingers in your memory long after you leave.
