Koh Chang Things to Do:
Massage and Spa Treatments:
One of the most wonderful self-indulgences you can have on Koh Chang is getting a massage and having a spa treatment. Traditional Thai massage and foot reflexology can be had right on the beaches.
The local touch:
For affordable massage services, many beachside huts – run by the locals – offer a traditional Thai massage as well as foot massage (prices range from 300 to 450 baht per person and per hour). Although the services may not be on par with those offered at the leading hotels and resorts, the beachside location of these massage huts and the friendly local touch make up for it.
Nothing is more relaxing than having your body pampered while listening to the sound of the waves lapping against the shore. Barbers and salons by the locals are also on offer if you need dying, braiding, trimming, cutting or even shaving.
Elephant Riding & Trekking:
There are two main elephant trekking operators on Koh Chang. Ban Kwan Chang, supported by the Asian Elephant Foundation, offers half-day tours from 8:30 to 11:30. This normally includes elephant bathing, feeding, performances, and a one-hour trek into the forest. Another operator is The Chang Chutiman Tour (Klong Prao Beach). This takes you into the tropical rainforest, pomelo orchards and the secluded Wang Nam Kiew Waterfall. Elephant-handling lessons by experienced mahouts are available. If you don't have all day, a short one-hour trek (without the waterfall) is also a nice alternative. The tour can be had anytime from 08:00 to 17:00.
Hiking:
Koh Chang is an ideal place for hiking due to its mountainous geography. The best hiking routes can be found in the southern part of the island. More adventurous and challenging routes are located inland filled with forest-clad steep hills. If you want to take a hike in one of these routes, it’s advisable to go with an experienced local guide.
Water Sports:
More invigorating activities can also be enjoyed on Koh Chang. Canoeing and kayaking to nearby islands or beaches provides a fun workout and a great way to break out a sweat. Fascinating underwater world is also not to be missed. Snorkeling and diving tours are offered by many tour operators found in abundance on the island.
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Canoeing & Kayaking in Koh Chang
Canoeing and kayaking offers great workout and a cheap alternative to reach a nearby island. Canoe and kayak rental usually costs 100 an hour and 500 baht for a full day. Some resorts offer these free of charge for their guests.
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Snorkeling & Diving in Koh Chang
The best time to dive is during the cool season from around October/November to April. The west and the south of the island, between Koh Chang and Koh Kood, is an excellent spot to dive. Snorkeling on other small islands off Koh Chang like Koh Kham, Koh Rayang, Koh Wai and Koh Laoya are also worth checking out.
Tattoo:
For a permanent reminder of Koh Chang, why not get a tattoo while you’re on the island. A lot of tattoo parlours can be found on the island. Both permanent and henna tattooing (and some also offer body piercing) are available. The cost depends on the design and size of the tattoo.
Thai Cooking Classes:
Master the art of Thai cooking by taking Thai cooking classes offered on the island. Some Resorts offer a variety of fun and educational classes that teach you how to create popular Thai dishes as well as how to carve vegetables and fruits.
Waterfalls:
Spending a half day at one of the waterfalls and plunging into the fresh water pools after a short jungle trek is becoming a favorite activity. The most popular waterfall is the Klong Plu Waterfall which is only 2 kilometers from the main road at Klong Prao. The more adventurous tend to reach out to other waterfalls which are more challenging but rewarding.
Visiting Monkey School:
Watch how clever this primate is! They are trained and learn to perform a variety of stunts, tricks as well as how to pick coconuts and fruit from trees. The school is located at the southern end of White Sand Beach.
Boat Trips:
Boat trips can easily be arranged to most resorts, beaches and fishing villages. Many boat operators can be found in White Sand, Klong Prao, Kai Bae and Bang Bao beaches. Prices depend on the distance and the number of passengers. Basically, the fewer people, the more expensive it becomes. Most boat trips also include lunch and drinks. A full-day trip usually begins at 9:00 and lasts to around 17:00. Some resorts on other islands such as Koh Kood, Koh Mak and Koh Ngam also include boat trips in their package tours.
Bird Watch:
Home to many species of birds, Koh Chang’s unspoiled forests are home to various species of birds such as parrots, sunbirds and hornbills. Bird watching activities are usually organized year-round by Koh Chang and the Nok and Nature Club. A one-day tour starts from 1,000 baht