Koh Khangkhao

Koh Khangkhao (Bat Island) is a small island located to the south of Koh Sichang in Chonburi Province. Covering an area of around 500–600 rai, the island may be small, but it offers pristine natural beauty. With crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rich shallow coral reefs, it’s a perfect getaway for travelers seeking peace and closeness to nature.

 

There are three main beaches on the island. West Beach is considered the most beautiful with soft white sand and clear water, making it ideal for swimming. East Beach is sandy mixed with rocks, making it difficult to walk and not suitable for swimming. There is also a small hidden beach that is very quiet and secluded, perfect for private relaxation but more difficult to access. The different beach atmospheres make Koh Khangkhao unique and appealing to a variety of visitors.

 

The waters around Koh Khangkhao are home to more than 85 species of shallow-water corals, including brain coral (Porites lutea), staghorn coral, and plate coral. Colorful fish can also be seen swimming among the reefs, creating a vibrant underwater world that makes snorkeling a popular activity without needing to dive deep.

 

To get to Koh Khangkhao, take a boat from Tha Thewawong Pier on Koh Sichang. The ride takes about 30 minutes. Round-trip boat rental costs around 800 THB, which can be shared among a group for better value and convenience. Travelers coming from Bangkok can easily plan a day trip, or they can stay overnight to enjoy the peaceful nighttime atmosphere of the island.

 

Although the island is not heavily developed, there are a few small resorts and homestays available. The limited number of accommodations helps preserve the island’s serenity. Staying overnight allows visitors to witness romantic sunsets by the sea and gaze at a sky full of stars without city lights interfering, offering a rare and magical experience.

 

Popular activities on Koh Khangkhao include snorkeling, swimming in the clear sea, relaxing on the sandy beaches, and watching breathtaking sunsets. During certain seasons, visitors can also enjoy squid fishing, which adds a unique local experience to the trip.

 

The best time to visit Koh Khangkhao is from November to May, when the water is clear and the sea is calm, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. From June to October, it’s still possible to travel, but some days may have strong waves, so checking the weather forecast beforehand is recommended.

 

Visitors are encouraged to practice eco-friendly tourism when visiting Koh Khangkhao. This includes taking trash back, avoiding stepping on or touching corals, and using reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem. Supporting the local community by respecting their way of life and using local services helps ensure sustainable tourism and benefits the local economy.

 

Koh Khangkhao is also a great addition to a trip to Koh Sichang. While Koh Sichang offers temples, shrines, and important historical sites, Koh Khangkhao provides a peaceful, natural escape. Travelers can spend the morning exploring cultural attractions on Koh Sichang and then head to Koh Khangkhao in the afternoon to enjoy the pristine natural surroundings, creating a perfect balance of cultural and nature-based tourism.