Mercure Koh Chang Hideaway – SHA Extra Plus: Your Ultimate Guide to a Serene Thai Island Escape

Introduction

Nestled along the quiet, palm-fringed shores of Bailan Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand’s second-largest island, Mercure Koh Chang Hideaway – SHA Extra Plus delivers a relaxed, family-friendly beach escape that balances modern comfort with tropical seclusion. Certified with Thailand’s strict SHA Extra Plus health and safety accreditation, this resort caters to couples seeking romance, families craving adventure, and digital nomads looking for a quiet base to explore the island’s natural beauty.

Hotel Overview

Located at 111/1 Moo 1, Koh Chang Tai, Koh Chang, Bailan Bay, 23170, the resort stretches across a private stretch of white sand, with thoughtful facilities to suit every type of traveler. All rooms come with air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, flat-screen TVs, and minibars; upgraded suites add separate living areas with sofas and work desks, and all private bathrooms include free toiletries, bathrobes, and a choice of bathtub or walk-in shower.

On-site highlights include a year-round outdoor infinity pool with a poolside bar, sun loungers, and shaded cabanas, plus a full-service spa offering everything from full-body massages to hot tubs and steam rooms (bookable for an extra fee). Guests enjoy complimentary perks including free WiFi across the property, free on-site private parking, and a free airport transfer from Trat Airport, plus a well-rated daily breakfast with both Thai and Western options. Active guests can take advantage of organized fishing trips, snorkeling, and off-site diving, while families love the children’s club, indoor play area, and available babysitting (extra charge). The 24-hour front desk offers concierge and tour booking services, with staff fluent in both English and Thai. Accessible rooms with grab bars and ground-level access are also available for guests with mobility needs.

Local Attractions

Just a short drive from the resort, three unmissable Koh Chang attractions make for easy day trips:

• Klong Plu Waterfall: A 15-minute drive north, this popular tiered waterfall cascades into a cool, swimming-friendly natural pool surrounded by dense rainforest. A short, easy 10-minute hike from the parking lot makes it accessible for all fitness levels, and local vendors sell fresh coconut water and grilled mango sticky rice at the entrance.
• Bailan Bay Beach: Steps from the resort’s private beach area, this public stretch of shoreline is known for its calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding, with laid-back beach bars serving cold Singha and fresh seafood at sunset.
• Mu Ko Chang National Park: Covering most of the island, this protected marine park offers guided jungle hikes to hidden viewpoints, kayak trips through mangrove forests, and snorkeling excursions to nearby coral islands teeming with tropical fish.

Travel Tips

Book your stay during the dry season (November to April) for the most reliable sunshine and calm seas for beach days. If you plan to explore the island independently, rent a scooter from the front desk for around 200 THB per day—roads are well-paved, and parking is free at most attractions. For dietary restrictions, notify the resort in advance; they offer custom dietary menus for an extra small fee. Don’t skip the resort’s weekly happy hour on the beach, where you can enjoy discounted cocktails while watching the sun dip over the Gulf of Thailand.