Staying on Ko Chang, Trat – beaches compared
White Sand Beach, Klong Prao, Kai Bae, Lonely Beach and Bang Bao compared. Where to stay on Ko Chang, how to get there and when to go.
Ko Chang, “Elephant Island”, is Thailand’s third-largest island and the centrepiece of Mu Ko Chang National Park. Most of its interior is mountainous rainforest, with waterfalls and hiking trails, while development is concentrated along the west coast.
The beaches
| Beach | Feel | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| White Sand Beach (Hat Sai Khao) | Busiest, most choice | First-timers, nightlife |
| Pearl Beach | Rocky, quiet | Couples, good value |
| Klong Prao | Long, wide beach with lagoons | Families, resorts |
| Kai Bae | Small, views of islands | Families, couples |
| Lonely Beach (Tha Nam) | Lively, budget | Backpackers |
| Bang Bao | Fishing village on stilts | Seafood, boat trips |
| Long Beach | Remote, south-east | Seclusion |
Who it suits
Ko Chang suits families and couples looking for a green, relaxed island with a range of resorts, and backpackers at Lonely Beach. The main road is steep and winding in places; take care if you rent a scooter.
Getting there
From Bangkok, it takes about five to six hours by road to the ferry piers near Trat, or you can fly to Trat Airport. Car ferries cross from Ao Thammachat and Center Point piers in about 30–45 minutes, and songthaews take passengers on to the beaches.
When to go
November to April is the best season. From about May to October, heavy rain and rough seas are common, but waterfalls are at their best and prices are lower.