Thailand has added another major accolade to its name: Koh Chang has been voted “The Best Island in Asia for 2025.” Once known mainly as a quieter alternative to Phuket or Samui, Koh Chang has now stepped confidently into the regional spotlight. Its combination of pristine nature, relaxed atmosphere, and accessible comforts has positioned it as one of the most desirable destinations in Southeast Asia — not only for tourists, but for long-stay visitors and lifestyle-seekers considering a more permanent connection to Thailand.

🌴 An Island That Still Feels Like Thailand

Koh Chang has long been appreciated by those who value authenticity over mass tourism. Even as visitor numbers grow, the island still retains a sense of “old Thailand”: small fishing villages, calm stretches of coastline, and dense, wildlife-rich forests. This is precisely what set Koh Chang apart in the 2025 rankings.

The island’s appeal lies in its natural diversity. Long beaches, dramatic mountain peaks, rainforest hiking routes, slow-moving mangroves, and hidden waterfalls all sit within reach of one another. Visitors can spend the morning at a quiet bay, take a scooter into the jungle by midday, and enjoy a sunset beachfront dinner without ever leaving the west coast.

Unlike some famous island destinations that feel crowded or overly developed, Koh Chang manages to balance tourism with tranquility — a rare achievement in today’s travel landscape.

🏖️ Beaches for Every Type of Traveller

One of the reasons Koh Chang stands out is the variety of atmospheres available across its coastline.

White Sand Beach

The island’s most well-known stretch of sand, offering a lively yet laid-back blend of restaurants, sunset bars, boutique hotels, and family-friendly activities. It remains the social heart of the island.

Klong Prao Beach

A long, wide beach with calm waters, ideal for couples and families seeking peace without sacrificing convenience. Resorts, cafés, and soft adventure activities are easily accessible.

Lonely Beach

Famous for its bohemian energy, backpacker culture, music venues, and youthful vibe. It represents the island’s more alternative side and still attracts travellers looking for a fun, community-like atmosphere.

Quiet Bays & Hidden Spots

Koh Chang also rewards explorers. Small coves, viewpoints, and secluded beaches can be found throughout the island — often with just a handful of visitors or none at all.

🌿 Nature That Feels Untouched

Beyond the beaches, Koh Chang offers some of Thailand’s best nature experiences.

Waterfalls

Klong Plu, Kai Bae, Than Mayom and other waterfalls provide refreshing retreats, especially during the greener months.

Mangrove Forests

Along the eastern side of the island, mangrove walks and eco-friendly kayaking routes offer a peaceful break from the busier western coast.

Jungle Adventures

Half of Koh Chang is national parkland. Hikers can take guided treks into the interior mountains for panoramic views, endemic wildlife sightings, and an immersion in one of Thailand’s last remaining untouched island forests.

This harmony between easy access and preserved environment is one of the key qualities that earned Koh Chang top placement for 2025.

🏝️ Lifestyle Appeal: Comfort Without Chaos

Koh Chang delivers what many modern travellers are seeking — slower living with the option of convenience.

There are high-quality beach resorts, wellness retreats, oceanfront dining, and a growing number of boutique cafés. At the same time, the island has intentionally avoided the hyper-commercial pace seen in larger destinations. You can find spas, yoga studios, beach bars, and local seafood restaurants, all without the pressure of crowds and traffic.

This balance makes the island especially attractive to:

• Long-stay visitors

• Digital nomads

• Retirees

• Families looking for a gentle island environment

• Travellers wanting a second-home feeling

And while Koh Chang remains primarily a tourism destination, more visitors are beginning to explore multi-month stays or recurring seasonal visits — a trend that aligns with Thailand’s growing appeal to lifestyle-driven residents.

🧭 Exploring the Island: Top Recommendations

For travellers planning to visit in 2025, here are some highlights that consistently earn praise:

• Scenic scooter routes along the west coast

• Quiet sunrise viewpoints on the east side

• Island-hopping to Koh Mak or Koh Kood

• Snorkelling trips to coral areas south of Koh Chang

• Kayaking through mangrove tunnels

• Sunset cruises along the coastline

• Visiting local fishing communities for fresh seafood

Koh Chang offers a sense of discovery that bigger, more commercial islands sometimes lack.

🏡 A Subtle Shift Toward Lifestyle Living

Even though Koh Chang is not yet a major real estate hub, the island’s new award will undoubtedly spark increased interest from people who want a more permanent connection to Thailand. Some long-stay visitors stay for several months each year; others look for boutique villas or small developments that blend with nature.

Compared to Phuket or Samui, property prices remain far lower and more modest, offering potential lifestyle opportunities for those who value a quieter, greener environment.

As Thailand’s coastal cities like Pattaya continue expanding, many lifestyle-seekers may start exploring alternative Thai islands — and Koh Chang stands out as one of the most compelling choices.

🚀 What This Means for 2025 and Beyond

Winning the title of Asia’s Best Island 2025 is more than just a trophy — it’s a sign of growing global awareness. With increased international attention, the island is expected to see:

• Improved transport links

• More eco-friendly development

• Better services and wellness offerings

• Renewed interest in long-stay accommodation

• Continual recognition as a nature-first destination

For travellers and lifestyle-seekers alike, Koh Chang represents a rare opportunity: an island that feels both undiscovered and comfortably developed.