KC Grande Resort & Spa

The KC Grande makes a fairly attractive first impression, with a spacious lobby and polished appearance that holds throughout much of the property. The resort is divided into two sections -- hillside and seaside -- and is split by a busy main road, which won't make all guests happy. That aside, the grounds are beautifully lush and green, with lots of tropical plants, palm trees, and water features like a serene lotus pond. The outdoor spaces are chic and smart, with a relaxed vibe. The pools are a highlight, and there's a touch of romance in the rooftop infinity pool with ocean views. The beach is also popular for dining or watching the sun fade. There are various dining and drinking options on-site and this, along with the romantic vibe, make the resort popular with vacationing couples. Even so, it has something for everyone. The large swimming pools and children's play area also mean that families pass through as well

Located on White Sand Beach, the KC Grande Resort & Spa is situated in a quiet part of the island and set away from the hustle and bustle of the larger resort areas to the south. There are a couple of good restaurants just a few minutes’ walk along the beach, and the resort is just a 15-drive from the popular Klong Chao Lueam waterfall. Visitors interested in wilder nightlife can reach Lonely Beach in around 30 minutes by car or cab. From Bangkok's airports, there are daily flights to Trat Airport -- taking around one hour -- and from there, travelers can get a pickup truck taxi to the ferry terminal for Koh Chang. Driving from Bangkok to the ferry terminal will take nearly four hours. The hotel offers airport transfers (for a fee). 

The KC Grande's 208 units have mountain, sea, or pool views and come in a mixture of villas, suites, and traditional rooms. Keep in mind that those in the hillside complex are across a busy road from the majority of the resort's facilities. Larger units have separate seating areas, and some feature private outdoor whirlpool tubs and panoramic ocean views. Standard features in all units include air-conditioning, electronic safes, minibars, free Wi-Fi, tea- and coffee-making facilities, desks, and some type of seating. All also include private balconies or terraces. Decor takes cues from modern Thai design, though is mostly restrained, with details like polished hardwood floors, neutral walls, platform beds in some units, and just a splash of color in the artwork, throws, and cushions. Villas are housed in standalone units. Bathrooms are mostly spacious and chic. The Garden View Deluxe suite that we viewed had a rather mismatched tiling, but the majority are muted and natural, with lots of marble, granite, and sandstone. They include either shower/tub combos or separate tubs and showers with rainfall showerheads. Counter space is limited in some, though all include hairdryers, toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers. 

The KC Grande packs in tons of great features, including a wonderful rooftop infinity pool, a sea cave pool with water slide, and beachfront pool with turtle-sculpture water fountains. The beach sits next to the property, making access to the warm waters of the sea quite easy. Drinking options include the Sea Cave, Sea Turtle, and Horizon poolside bars, a coffee shop -- with computer terminals for guest use -- and a serene lobby bar. Three restaurants offer a range of Thai and international cuisines, as well as a buffet, and guests can choose to eat inside or outdoors. Beach meals can also be arranged. A free buffet breakfast is included in the rates, but reservations are required for lunches and evening meals. Occasional entertainment accompanies select themed nights. The resort has a full-service spa, though it was looking a bit tired when we visited in 2015, as well as a small fitness center with cardio machines and free weights. Visitors can go kayaking or canoeing, and the hotel can assist with tickets and tours. There's also a kids' club with basic toys for the young ones. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the resort. Parking is available.