Accommodation

The Best Airbnb Rental Villas, Condos and Bungalows on Koh Chang

Best Airbnbs on Koh Chang

Koh Chang Vacation Rentals

At the time of writing, Airbnb has 300+ holiday homes, bungalows and villas for rent on Koh Chang.  (That’s probably increased by the time you read this.) On islands such as Samui and Phuket there are literally thousands of homes for rent.  But Koh Chang is different.  

Most of Koh Chang is National Park, including the hills.  So you don’t have dozens of developments of luxury homes on the hillsides.  There never will be the same number of vacation rentals here as there are on other islands or beach resorts in Thailand.  

I’ve picked a few that show the various types of rental property that is available for visitors to the island and the locations of the developments where many beach villas and condos are situated.

Until a few years ago I hardly got any inquiries from people looking for holiday rentals on Koh Chang.  But since then more and more people seem to be opting to rent a villa or house rather than a hotel room.  And for good reason.  Especially in light of the recent coronavirus pandemic.  Now even more visitors are preferring to have their own private space, rather than be surrounded by strangers. 

With tourist numbers down dramatically, why not give at least some of your holiday money help small business owners or local families who rent out their properties privately, rather than a large resort. Plus, a house has far more space than a hotel room ever does.  And the only screaming kids you will complain about will be your own.   

Airbnbs in Developments on Koh Chang

There are just three housing developments on Koh Chang.  And all have properties available for daily, weekly or monthly rent.  These three locations are where a large proportion of visitors renting through Airbnb will stay. 

Siam Royal View

(Also known as Blue Haven Bay) is is the largest luxury development on the island.  It occupies two thirds of the scenic Klong Son bay in the north-west of the island.   Villas are mostly built to very similar plans and layout and squashed together just 4 metres apart.  So it isn’t somewhere to stay if you want a unique Airbnb property or seclusion.

However, you will get holiday home built to Western standards and it is the only place on the island where you can rent a house with sunset view and walk out of your garden onto a deserted kilometre long beach.

Facilities at Siam Royal View include a marina; Par 3 pitch and putt golf course; two beachfront pools; beach bar and various restaurants.  The main downside would be that getting to other beaches can be a hassle as you’ll need to call a pick up truck taxi or walk 1Km to the main road to catch one.

Four Bedroom Beach Villa

Sunset Emily House, Koh Chang Airbnb

Just a few steps from Klong Son Beach, Sunset Emily House is a contemporary Thai-styled villa with spacious terrace and beach access at the bottom of the garden. The house can sleep up to 8 people in 4 bedrooms. 

If guests don’t require the entire house only the ground floor, with two bedrooms, living area and kitchen can be rented. Guests can enjoy great sunsets from the terrace and have access to all facilities on the development.  The large beachfront pool is just a couple of minutes walk away.  Nightly rates from just 4,500 Baht

Guest review: Amazing location, the best (private) beach on Koh Chang. Super clean house with good amenities, right on the beach. Nice terrace and garden. We liked the huge swimming pool and happy hour, watching at the sunset. Crystal clear water this week, with east winds and blue sky. Definitely worth a stay.

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5260862

Managed Beachfront Villa 

Managed beach villa, Blue Haven Bay

Coral Cove is a 5 bedroom managed villa.  Guests get the privacy of a beachfront home but with the additional services of the adjacent Peninsula Beach Resort. Coral Cove Beachfront Villa features personal check-in, in-room dining, and massage services as well as hotel-quality housekeeping and concierge service.  The villa also has a private beachfront garden and it’s own sauna and spa area.

Accommodation in the villa comprises: A stunning Sea View Junior Suite with jacuzzi and en suite bathroom; Ensuite bedroom with Queen size bed; A family room with two separate bedrooms
Nightly rates from 4,500 Baht. 

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/41036036

Budget Family Villa

Budget family villa

If the above two homes were out of your price range, you’ll be pleased to know that you can stay on the second row at Siam Royal View far cheaper.  Sure, you don’t get the uninterrupted sea views but it’s just a 50 metre walk to the beach.  This is a modern, 120 sqm, 3 bedroom villa with a pleasant garden and also roof terrace to chill out or sunbathe in.  And with rental rates from under 2,000 Baht/night, the price is around the same as one room in a resort. 

Guest review: This property is good value for money and close to the beach. It’s a 4 minute walk to the club house and the pool. It’s very good for families. Be aware that the two rooms upstairs are split via a lovely outdoor area so you might want to put older children up there or an adult in with a younger child. The house is kept spotless by excellent cleaners and there is a well resourced kitchen to use.

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5260862

Baan Talay Thai – Idyllic East Coast Living

Baan Talay Thai is small development located just 5 minutes drive south of Centrepoint ferry pier on the east coast of the island.  A great spot to get away from it all.  You can rent a spacious villa by a 400 metre long, red sand beach.  It’s is an ideal location to escape from noise, pollution and people for a while.

But you’ll definitely need your own transport if you want to get out and about.   Although there are a couple of local restaurants that will deliver food.   Several villas have their own pools or plunge pools to cool off in.  And there is also a communal pool for all owners and guests to use.

Stylish, Open Plan Living

Designer beach house, Airbnb

The Beach House is a stunning designer beach front villa.  It’s a perfect ‘get away from it all’ holiday home.  It’s stylish, open plan design is ideal for guests who love being outdoors.  

The house sleeps up to six people in three ensuite bedrooms.The house looks out onto the ocean and the beach is at the bottom of the garden. If you need some exercise take a swim in the pool or workout in the private gym. Rental rates from 5,200 Baht/night.

Guest review: Absolutely stunning place. Private pool, jacuzzi, free kayaking. If you look for a quiet place on Koh Chang, than this is it.

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1858816

Spacious Gardens and Beachfront Pool

Spacious Pool villa on Koh Chang

The perfect home for a group of friends or large family.  With five bedrooms there’s loads of room for up to 12 guests. This beachfront villa also boats one of the largest private pools on the island and is set in a huge tropical garden with plenty of space to sunbathe or for kids to play.  

This home from home boasts a fully appointed chef’s kitchen with Electrolux appliances and a lengthy dining island for large groups who wish to gather around one table.  Bedrooms  come with Sealy Posturpedic beds. On the ground floor, large picture windows offer stunning views of the sea and gardens. Your host can also arrange a private chef, professional in-home masseuse, rental cars, boat trips etc.  

Guest review: Foster and his family were such wonderful hosts. Their beautiful villa is situated in an incredible, unspoilt part of Koh Chang. The house and garden are stunning and the pool is the perfect temperature . I would highly recommend staying here.

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/11554656

Having a Family Reunion?

West Wind villa , Koh Chang

This 200 sq meter 4 bedroom, 4 bath villa with swimming pool and sea view roof terrace is perfect for large groups, families or a few couples. Set between the mountains and the beach, West Wind Villa is two houses with 4 bedrooms surrounding a central swimming pool. 

This provides an intimate setting  but with ample privacy and personal space for couples or individual families. The quiet, walled gardens are a perfect place for children to play and for guests to enjoy nature.  Prices from just over 5,000 Baht/night.

Guest review:  Loved the western kitchen with appliances, made cooking at home easy and simple. Lovely home would accommodate multiple families, each bedroom has an en suite and is large and comfortable. Linens were changed as needed. Living room and dining room were perfect for lounging, reading, working, playing and eating. Glorious to have a pool all to ourselves. Beautiful views from the rooftop deck. Very spacious and extremely well appointed. I would absolutely return with one or two more families.

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/33910052

Tranquility Bay Residence

This large condominium development on the south coast of Koh Chang has some of the best views on the island.  It’s located 15 minutes walk from Bangbao fishing village.   The condos nearly all have uninterrupted views and look out over the bay towards the islands south of Koh Chang.  You’ll have a beautifully furnished apartment with a vista to die for.

There aren’t as many facilities here as at Siam Royal View but there is a very nice beachfront pool.  The beach is a bit stony underfoot, socare is needed if you want to swim in the sea at low tide. So, if you want to spend a day on the beach, it’s far better to walk 5 minutes to the nearby Klong Kloi beach, where you’ll find a pleasant, sheltered beach with a good range of beach restaurants and small bars.

Two Bedroom Condominium

two bed condo on Airbnb, Ko Chang

This 104 sqm luxury apartment is a great retreat for families or couples. Featuring two ensuite bedrooms, one with sea views, and a huge balcony that has views across Bangbao Bay towards the islands south of Koh Chang.  The stylish condo has a fully equipped kitchen and all the comforts of home including Netflix and a Playstation. Prices are from just 2,000 Baht/night, making this a great value stay with one of the island’s top rated Airbnb hosts.

Guest review: An excellent two bedroom apartment, which in fact feels more like a villa. Modern amenities, very tastefully decorated, and a superb sea view from the large balcony. There’s also access to a huge swimming pool and beach. The perfect place for a family holiday!

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/10755942

Great Value One Bed Condo With Stunning Views

one bed condo for rent, Koh Chang

Located nearby the picturesque Bang Bao pier fishing village, this condo is a perfect place for relaxed holidays.  The bright and airy 60sqm corner unit is fully furnished and located on the hillside overlooking the bay.  This provides amazing unobstructed views and a very quiet location.  This is an ideal spot to get away from it all either for a holiday or as a place to work remotely.  Nightly rates from 1,100 Baht/night (Yes, that even includes electricity and water.  No additional charges.) 

Guest review:  I stayed for one month and had a great time at Jc’s place. She was very easy and available in our communication and even got me a blender when I asked for it. The place is very nice, a quiet and beautiful area of Koh Chang. Her place has a beautiful view and swimming pool. The complex was quiet even though it’s big. I recommend to rent a scooter or a car so you can go around easily.

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/21559657

Discount for Airbnb on Koh Chang

Why Stay in an Airbnb?

Here are three good reasons . . . 

A More Local Experience

Many people travel half way around the world but then never leave their resort.  Or if they do, it;s just to visit touristy sights and restaurants which cater to tourists.  There’s an ever increasing number of people who have done this in the past, but now want to experience some of the local flavor a destination has to offer.  

This is where the Airbnb host comes in.  They usually have a great deal of local knowledge and will recommend places to go, activities and restaurants or bars which are popular with the people who live there.  The Airbnb app allows for quick chats between the host and guest.  So if you need a recommendation for a great seafood dinner but without the tourist pricing – ping your host. 

The best hosts will also provide up to date travel information for guests, so that they will know how to get to the property and also get around the area easily and without over paying. 

Price

A major factor for many Airbnb users is the fact that they often provide far better value for money than a hotel does.  Regardless of your budget you can find good value rentals, whether you’re looking for a basic apartment for a couple of weeks or a huge villa for a weekend of luxury. 

And remember, if you haven’t tried Airbnb before, you can get up to 1,650 Baht discount off your first stay.  

Safety

The coronavirus pandemic brought home the health risks of mingling with strangers.  Whilst the risk of infection is relatively low for tourists, it might be better to be cautious for the next year or two until the virus is defeated and countries are given the all clear.

Some Airbnb users are also worried about their personal safety, when it comes to staying in a condo or villa rather than a hotel.  However, Airbnb wants every guest to stay some place secure. Hosts are required to have good locks on all doors.  Which they will as it’s their home, and they will want to be safe and secure when they are using it.

In addition, condominiums and housing development anywhere in Thailand, all have security guards on duty around the clock. Plus CCTV in public areas.  So you’re probably safer here than at home. :-)

Hosts will also provide emergency contact numbers and Airbnb themselves has a 24/7 hotline for guest emergencies.

Unique Airbnbs on Koh Chang

If a house in a  development or a luxury condominium aren’t what you are looking for, then you’ll need to check out some of the stand alone private homes that are available for rent on the island.

You’ll get far more character but not the facilities or community that the larger developments offer.  However, some are far better located, being close the the main beaches but also providing seclusion.  

Sea Front on Stilts in Kai Bae

kai bae stilt house

Enjoy a simple Thai lifestyle in one of the last original homes in the Kai Bae beach area. This 3 bedroom house is a renovated fisherman’s home.  It is located on a small inlet where locals still more their boats.  Guests have free use of the swimming pool at the adjacent Cabana restaurant. 

This property can be booked from around 3,000 Baht/night – making it ideal for families on a budget. It’s just 200 metres walk to the beach at Kai Bae Hut or to the shops and restaurants in the village. ( Note that there is some construction work on a new resort nearby, but that will be completed by late 2020.)

Guest review: Spent five days here with my family, 3 adults and three kids from 9 years old to 15 years old. Had a great time, nice pool for use very close and easy walking to many restaurants and places to eat. Pictures on listing are accurate. Will come again.

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/22380028

Two Bedroom Fisherman’s Villa with Sea Views

baan moon fishing villa, koh chang

Baan Moon is originally a fisherman’s house. Located right on a beautiful lagoon, 100 metres from Klong Prao beach, it was renovated into a full-fledged wooden villa.

There are two air-conditioned bedrooms and a spacious open sided living area which gives guests panoramic views along the quiet estuary.  Each bedroom also has a sofa bed, making it ideal either for a couple, a group of friends or a family.  No TV, but there is high speed wifi via a fiber optic connection.  So outages are very rare.

There’s also a canoe at the house which guests can use to paddle up river into the mangroves or down to the beach. 

A good choice if you want to experience riverside life away from the large resorts but still within easy reach of all the west coast beaches, shops and restaurants. This villa can be rented from around 2,500 Baht/night on Airbnb.  And if you rent it I will be your host. 

Guest review: You cannot do better than Ian’s house if you want a quiet place on the river, a short paddle to the beach, and with the most hospitable owner. Everything you need is provided and you will enjoy chilling on the river.

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/2102544

Turn on. Tune in. Drop Out . . . in Bangbao

indie beach house, bangbao

If you are looking for a relaxed holiday where your morning swim is just outside the door, this is the place for you!

This is a very basic, two bedroom holiday home built right on the small ‘Hat Sai Noi’ beach near Bangbao on the south coast of the island.   Open your door and step out onto the sand.  No frills or luxuries.  (There’s no air-conditioning in the house, it;s cooled by the sea breeze.)

Just ideal for a family or friends who enjoy a laid back beach life and are looking for a place to chill out. You can rent kayaks and SUP boards at neighbouring restaurants. Rates from 3,000 Baht/night. 

Guest review: Amazing place. We loved the location on the cozy little beach and staying in this funky bungalow felt like visiting Thailand in the 80’s or 90’s. Right on the beach. Friendly staff. Great food at the restaurant. Be aware that stairs up to second floor are steep and have big gaps – I would not recommend top floor for kids. “Kitchen” is not much more than a sink, a fridge and a water boiler but why would anyone want to cook while here anyway… I’d go back in a heartbeat!

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/6833111

Pearl Beach Pool Villa

The pearl luxury pool villas

Whilst there are many pool villas for rent on the island the majority are in the Siam Royal View and Baan Talay Thai developments which I mentioned at the top of the page.  The main drawback with those is that they aren’t within easy reach of the main west coast beaches.  The Pearl Luxury Pool Villas on pearl beach solve that.  These four villas are just 5 minutes by scooter or pick up truck taxi to either White Sand or Klong Prao beaches.

Each can sleep up to six people.  There are two bedrooms, each with a King size bed and spacious balcony plus a sofa bed in the living room.  There’s a small swimming pool and walled garden for guests to relax in private. Rates from 5,000 Baht/night.

Guest review: It’s a very good villa. The room is very clean. The furniture and bedding are IKEA’s. There is a free car to white beach at 10 o’clock every morning. The courtyard design is very unique, and the swimming pool is clean, which is very suitable for vacation.

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/32676805

Klong Prao – Myristica Glass House 

myristica glass house, klong prao

A wonderful hideaway in a tropical paradise located on hillside opposite the beach. Equipped with a queen size bed, living area and private balcony. A full American breakfast with great coffee in also provided for guests.

You will be surrounded by nature at this simple glass walled house.  The views are of nothing but blue seas and the green jungle.  Note that access is on foot and via a steep path and stairs from the main road.  So not ideal for older visitors or anyone too out of shape. Rent this unique property from 2,500 Baht/night. 

Guest review: Myristica is a place you will want to stay when you come to Koh Chang. For my wife and I, staying at this place was the highlight of our trip to Koh Chang. The hike is no joke though, first time will be extremely tough but the view is worth it. Jui was our caretaker and is the most sweet and attentive guy. He will leave you towel art on your bed everyday. You will also be greeted by two cute dogs on site that will accompany you during your breakfast. Beats any other resort I have ever stayed at and I can’t recommend it enough.

More information, reviews and current prices: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/22682308

 

5 Comments

  • Hi Greg,

    My friend has lived in Koh Chang but is leaving in Jan. His place is a georgious house in Klong prow. At the back of the house which is large balcony Connects to the river which is 300m to the beach. Great neighbors which is a Small restaurant next door. I can give you more details just let me know sitaveetanachotparn @ gmail

  • Hi Greg. It’ll be hard to find anything long-term with a sea view. Virtually all longstay accommodation is away from the beach & there’s not many places on the hillsides ( As most of those lie with the National Park)

    Plus January is peak season, so the good value accommodation will be full.

    But have a look at the listings on deeoneproperty.com, they have a lot of rentals listed & might be able to help.

  • I presently am a American that moved to Chiang Mai, Thailand about 7 months ago. If everything goes as planned, me and my new Thai wife are leaving Chiang Mai on the first week of January. I have researched a lot of areas in Thailand, and love what I have read about Koh Chang. We plan on living there for at least 3 years, depending on the school systems there, maybe longer. Since we will be having a little girl in late November. We don’t want nothing super fancy. I love the ocean, spent 10 years in the Navy, and a ocean view would be one of my top priorities. Any suggestions on where to start looking.
    Thank You So Very Much.
    Greg Adkins

  • Check on booking.com for places in your price range on the beach you prefer & with good reviews. That should narrow down your search a lot.

  • Hello, do you know where I have more chance to get a special price for a basic bungalow front beach if possible on the sand ? Do I really have to check everywhere ? Thank you.

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Koh Chang Island Guide For Independent Travellers