The most social beach on Koh Chang, with a quieter side if you know where to look. Here is our neighbourhood, honestly described.
Lonely Beach, known in Thai as Hat Tha Nam, sits on the south-west coast of Koh Chang. The name always gets a laugh, because after dark it is anything but lonely. It is the island's most social corner, where backpackers, families and long-stayers all end up, with a sandy bay, a strip of restaurants and bars, and sunsets that stop conversations.
This is the guide the team gives guests on the deck: what is great, what to watch out for, and where to find the quiet.
The beach
The main beach is a curve of soft sand facing west, backed by palms. In the dry season, roughly November to April, the sea is usually calm and lovely for swimming. From around June to October the waves pick up and currents can be strong, so swim where others are swimming, respect any warnings and never swim after a few drinks.
Where Paradise Cottage fits in
We are honest about this, because you deserve to know before you book. Paradise Cottage sits on the water just south of the main beach, and the shoreline directly in front of us is rocky. That makes it quiet and perfect for sunsets, not for paddling. The sandy stretch is a 10 to 15 minute walk, and our pool on the deck above the sea is always there for a swim.
The nightlife is close by too, but not right next door. You can walk to the bars and walk home, and the sound you fall asleep to is the sea.
Where to eat
The main road through Lonely Beach is lined with Thai kitchens, street food, cafes and international restaurants, so you can eat well every night without repeating yourself. Our own restaurant serves breakfast, fresh coffee and Thai and international dishes, with bread baked in house and cocktails as the sun goes down. Lonely Beach classics worth ordering anywhere: green curry, pad thai, a fresh fruit shake and mango sticky rice.
Sunset spots
Every bar on the water faces the sunset, so you will not have to try hard. Our favourite seat is, of course, a sala on the Paradise deck with a cocktail and the rocks glowing below. For something different, walk the sand at golden hour and watch the sky reflected in the wet beach.
After dark
Lonely Beach is the island's party beach. Expect reggae and live music bars, beach bars with cushions on the sand and, on busy nights, music until late. The mood is friendly and easy-going, and it is busiest in the high season from November to March. Dance as late as you like; the walk home along the road is short.
Bailan Bay, next door
Just south of Lonely Beach, Bailan Bay is the calm neighbour: a rocky bay with a slower, wellness-minded vibe, cafes and yoga. It is a short ride away and the perfect counterpoint to a night out. Our slow living guide has more ideas for the quiet side of the island.
Getting around
Shared songthaew taxis run along the main road: flag one down and agree the price before you get in. Motorbikes are easy to rent, but the hills between Lonely Beach and Kai Bae are steep with tight bends, so only ride if you are experienced, always wear a helmet and make sure your licence and insurance cover you. The resort can arrange motorbike hire, taxis and tours.
Essentials
- Money. Carry some cash for songthaews, street food and boat fees.
- Sun. The sun is strong all year. Hat, water, and shade in the middle of the day.
- Mosquitoes. Use repellent at dusk, especially in the green season.
- Respect. Cover up when you leave the beach, and smile. It goes a long way here.
Quick answers
Is Lonely Beach good for swimming?
Yes, especially in the dry season from about November to April, when the sea is usually calm. From around June to October waves and currents can be strong, so swim where others swim and stay out of rough water.
Is Lonely Beach a party beach?
Lonely Beach is the most social beach on Koh Chang, with bars and live music at night, busiest from November to March. Quieter stays are easy to find nearby, and Bailan Bay next door is calm and wellness-minded.
How far is Paradise Cottage from the sandy part of Lonely Beach?
About a 10 to 15 minute walk. The shoreline directly in front of the resort is rocky, and the resort has a pool on its deck above the sea.
Do I need a motorbike at Lonely Beach?
No. Restaurants, bars and the beach are walkable, and shared songthaew taxis run along the main road. Rent a motorbike only if you are experienced, as the surrounding hills are steep.
