Ko Chang, or “elephant island” is the second largest island of Thailand after Phuket and part of the Mu Ko Chang National Park. Close to the Cambodian border, its kilometre-long beaches, waterfalls, unique mangrove forests and well-preserved coral reefs are major attractions. Tropical rain forest covers around 75% of the total area and is considered one of the best preserved in the whole of South-east Asia.
By Car
The best way to get to Koh Chang requires a 4 to 4 1/2 hours trip to Trat province. Once you are in Trat, ferry services are available at three main piers to go to the island.
Route 1 : Bangna-Chonburi-Ban Bung-Klaeng-Chantaburi-Trat. Distance: 315 km.
White Sand Beach (Had Sai Khao)
A long beach of powdery white sand which expands at low tide creating a huge beach playground. Locals come down for regular football and volleyball games early evening as the sun sets offshore. At night the Koh Chang Lagoon Resort, Best Garden Resort, Ban Pu Koh Chang and a few other resorts serve dinner under the stars which sometimes includes a barbecue on the beach. Had Sai Khao also has a number of reasonably priced bungalow resorts. The main road runs pass all the resorts, shops, restaurants, pubs and coconut groves.