Vacationing on Koh Chang Island

The beaches on the island of Koh Chang are phenomenal! White sand stretches out quite a distance from the tropical tree-covered shoreline. Just kick off your sandals, run across the sand, and voila!, you're in the ocean and splashing about in the warm waves. The island is a tropical paradise, but hey, part of the experience depends on which resort you select - and how much baht (Thai money) you are willing to spend.

A small boy with arm floaties bravely heads into the surf at Koh Chang. Who can blame him!?! The place is as incredible as the photograph.

Elephant Island is a beautiful, rugged place with the best beaches located primarily on the eastern and western faces of the island. Two main roads hug both of these coastlines, with no major connection between these roads except at the main pier to the north. The rest of the island is impassable, mountainous jungle. We decided to stay on the southwestern side of the island, which is more popular and closer to the town.

DRIVING to Koh Chang from Bangkok!

Koh Chang means "Elephant Island" in Thai (Chang is Elephant, Koh designates Island). It's a rather large, mountainous island located in the Gulf of Thailand near Cambodia. There are no elephants on the island- that's just the name. However, the island is known for its pristine beaches and can be quite affordable during the rainy season. The resorts and hotel facilities can also be as modern or rustic as you would want them to be. A long weekend? Why not rent a car and drive on over? Throw in some special promotions from the local establishments and we were set to go!

Locale Thai workman taking in some air above the truck (note there is also a guy relaxing in the shade below)