Introduction
As Thailand’s second largest island, you’d expect Koh Chang to be a lot busier, a lot more developed and a place just teeming with those pesky tourists! The truth is, with a natural palm fringed coast line, a mountainous jungle-clad interior and stunning coral reefs just off shore, it’s a nature lovers’ paradise; and a world away from the tourist destinations of Phuket and Koh Samui.
Discovered in the mid 1970’s by exploratory backpackers hitching rides with local fishing boats; the island existed as an untouched tropical paradise for many years. Even just ten years ago, the island was without electricity or phone connection and many beaches could only be reached after a tricky trek through thick jungle coverage. When travellers first arrived on ‘Lonely Beach’ they found a secluded escape where they could strip off their hippy attire, let their dreadlocks down and live raw beach life as nature intended, hence the name.
Nowadays, it’s far from ‘lonely’ as backpackers and locals meet to watch beautiful sunsets over a beer or two and party the night away on the sands, but as the waves roll into the palm fringed shore against a tropical jungle back drop, you’ll find the wonder of nature is never far away…
Places to Stay
Backpackers will feel right at home in the laid back atmosphere of Lonely Beach (Hat Tha Nam) with its chilled beach life and late night party vibe and the charming fishing village of Bang Bao. Plus, the great range of bungalow style accommodation in both areas won’t break the bank.
