Koh Chang – A Hidden Gem in the Andaman Sea

Koh Chang is a small and peaceful island off the southwest coast of Thailand, about an hour from Ranong. Unlike many other Thai islands, it has preserved its natural beauty and simplicity — a rare treasure these days. It’s the perfect place to slow down, step away from the fast-paced world, and reconnect with peace and tranquility.

For those who love to explore, Koh Chang has plenty to offer: wander through lush jungle trails, stroll along quiet beaches, or walk among rubber and cashew plantations. Along the way, you’ll meet warm and welcoming Thai and Myanmar villagers and may even spot hornbills or other tropical birds flying overhead.

The island’s long beach, Ao Yai, is perfect for families. Its calm waters and wide sandy stretch invite you to jog, play frisbee, or join a game of volleyball. You can rent kayaks, bicycles, or simply swim in the sea or the freshwater lake. If you’d like to unwind even more, you can join one of our classes, enjoy an Ocean Flow session (aquatic bodywork), or receive a soothing Thai massage. While the snorkeling around Koh Chang is modest, the sea itself is wonderfully inviting — and there’s nothing quite like floating on a lilo, letting the water carry you into deep relaxation.

For a little adventure, rent a scooter or bicycle and discover secluded bays and hidden beaches at your own pace.

And if your idea of paradise is simply relaxing, you’ll find countless shady trees perfect for a hammock nap, as well as cozy restaurants where you can enjoy both delicious Thai and Western dishes.

Koh Chang is a place to breathe, explore, and simply be.

How to Get to Koh Chang (Ranong)

When planning your trip, make sure you head south from Bangkok — not east. There is another, larger and more touristic island called Koh Chang on the east coast of Thailand, near the Cambodian border. Our Koh Chang lies in the Andaman Sea, about an hour from Ranong.

From Bangkok, you have two main options:

• By bus: Take a day or night bus to Ranong. Tickets can be booked here: 12Go Asia.
• By plane: Air Asia offers two flights per day during the high season from Don Muang Airport directly to Ranong.

Once you arrive in Ranong, taxis are available at the airport and bus station to bring you to your hotel or straight to the Koh Payam/Koh Chang pier.

Boat connections to Koh Chang

• Slow boat: Leaves Ranong pier daily at 9:30 am and 2:00 pm. Travel time is about 1 hour.
• Speedboat: Takes only 20 minutes. Tickets can be arranged directly at the pier or through Pon’s Placein Ranong.

From the pier on Koh Chang, motorbike taxis are waiting to bring you to your destination.
 

Good to know before you arrive

• There is no ATM on Koh Chang, so please withdraw cash before boarding the boat.
• For mobile connection, we recommend AIS 12call or TrueMove, as both provide good coverage on the island. Many restaurants offer WiFi, but if you’d like internet in your bungalow, it’s best to purchase a data package along with your SIM card.

We look forward to welcoming you soon!