A gorgeous tropical island near the coast of the mainland of Thailand, Ko Chang normally begins to experience its hottest part of the year from the beginning of March. This period lasts all the way to July and has temperatures potentially soaring up to 40°C. In March, the average temperature is about 27°C, which makes it the second hottest month of the year just after April. May, June and July will see similar temperatures. The afternoon high temperature averages 31°C, while the mercury normally drops to 22°C at night, which is definitely a warm temperature to sleep in.
The island receives 9 hours of sunshine per day, the beating of the sun making it extremely hot during this time of year. The average sea temperature is about 29°C this montht doesn't vary much at all throughout the year, though. Because of the relatively calm weather conditions, the sea water is superbly clear and this amazing visibility makes water-based activities such as swimming, snorkelling and diving especially popular. The fact that it's so hot back on shore also drives people into the water!
Even though there is plenty of sunshine, there are the occasional days when there is plenty of rain as well, as the month has a total rainfall amount of 96mm, exactly the same as in November. December, January and February are drier. Compared to the amount of rainfall in the wet season, 96mm is minimal. This is also spread out over 12 days of rainfall, which indicates that rainfall occurs in short, relatively calm rain showers or thunderstorms. Thunderstorms are, in fact, by far the most common type of precipitation this time of yearhey are observed on 70% of those days with rainfall. Light and moderate rain may be seen as well. The likelihood that rainfall occurs rises significantly in the course of March, from 24% to 40%.
Cloud cover doesn't vary all that much throughout this month. It averages 52% and ranges between 50% and 53%.
Anyone looking to visit Ko Chang in the near future is encouraged to check out our detailed weather forecast for this extraordinary beach destination.
Choose quality, affordable accommodation near the Than Mayom pier, such as the Kooncharaburi Resort & Spa. This superb resort overlooks the lush green forests of Ko Chang, and features a Jacuzzi, spa, high speed internet, comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and much more. It is located on its own private beach and backed by lush vegetation.
More affordableut still excellentccommodation can be found at the Aana Resort and Spa. This amazing resort aims to offer its guests a perfect combination of luxury and nature. Focusing on environment-friendly tourism, the resort was built with exceptional care toward the local, sometimes vulnerable, vegetation. Its eco-friendly policies include not using chemicals, using natural products, using non-disposable dishes, and using locally grown organic produce.
Yet another suggested place to stay in March is the Awa Resort Koh Chang. Situated in the heart of Kai Bae, near a plethora of shops, bars and restaurants, this well-rated resort is less touristy than those located around White Sand Beachhich only adds to its appeal. Amenities are plentiful and include a spa, a large swimming pool, a private beach, a kids' club, Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and wedding services.
There are many places in Ko Chang where you can soak up the sun and swim in water that's about 29°C warm this time of year. One of the greatest beaches, however, is Klong Prao Beach on the west coastt is the longest beach on the island. Boasting a long stretch of beautiful sand, intersected in two places by rivers (so-called klongs), this fabulous beach offers all kinds of activities, from sunbathing to hiking, canoeing and sea kayaking. You can easily pedal over to other nearby islands such as Ko Pli and Ko Yuak for some superb snorkelling.
Situated at the far southern end of White Sand Beach, Ciao is an Italian restaurant, café and patisserie. If you're after excellent Italian this is a strongly recommended place to visit. Its menu also features an extensive wine lists; cocktails and coffee are served as well.
People who want to enjoy great views while having lunch or dinner should consider going to Thor's Palace, a welcoming beachside restaurant on White Sand Beach. This popular eating venue has been around since the earliest days of tourism in Ko Changhe 1990s.
Nong Bua is a hugely popular restaurant, also situated on White Sand Beach, serving great Thai food and delicious seafood. Loved by both locals and tourists, this is one of those places that any visitor to Ko Chang is advised to check out.
One of the main events that take place during this time of year is the Trat Independence Day held on the 23rd of March. It is an event that commemorates the day when the province regained their independence after the decades-long French colonial rule. Visitors can join the locals in the celebration of this rather important event held at the Provincial town hall each year. The event features historic plays, shows and exhibitions, all showcasing the rich history of the Trat Province. Parades and contests are organised as well. In short, this is a lively event that shouldn't be missed.
March, as the last full month of the dry season, is a good time to take advantage of the sunny and dry weather while it lasts. A visit to a tropical island like this wouldn't be complete without going on a boat trip, would it? Natcha Tour offer island camping tours setting off from Bang Bao. Ko Chang is the most well-known island, but it is actually an archipelago made up of no fewer than 50 islands. A number of boating companies organise boat trips around this sun-soaked island paradise. People who don't want to go on an extensive boat trip can also take ferries to other islands in the archipelago for a day of secluded sunbathing.
