Koh Chang from Bangkok is an easy overland trip to an island of sea, jungle and waterfalls, with no flight needed. Here is the journey step by step, prices checked in 2026, the west coast beaches and the best time to go.
Getting from Bangkok to Koh Chang
Koh Chang lies about 300 km east of Bangkok, in Trat province, near the Cambodian border. First you reach the mainland near Laem Ngop, then you cross by ferry. Plan on a full day door to door.
By bus from Ekkamai
The Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) is the classic starting point. Buses to Trat leave from 5am, for about 315 THB and 5 to 6 hours on the road. Even handier: a government bus (the “999”) usually leaves around 7.45am and runs straight to Ao Thammachat pier, for about 330 THB. You arrive in the early afternoon. Check times the day before.
If you end up at Trat bus station, a shared songthaew takes you to the pier for about 60 THB per person.
By minivan, ferry included
Minivans leave from Khao San, Suvarnabhumi Airport and other points in Bangkok and drop you at your hotel on the island. The ferry is included. Expect about 700 to 900 THB and 6 to 8 hours depending on stops. Easy with luggage, but not very comfortable.
By plane to Trat
Bangkok Airways links Suvarnabhumi to Trat in about an hour, with a few flights a day. The airport is around 20 km from the pier, and shuttles with the ferry included take you to your hotel.
The ferry from Laem Ngop: Ao Thammachat or Centrepoint?
Two companies used to share the crossing. Today it is mainly the Ao Thammachat ferry that runs: it sails to Ao Sapparot, in the north-west of the island, in 30 to 40 minutes. Departures are frequent, roughly every 45 minutes, from 7am to 7pm. A foot passenger ticket costs about 80 to 90 THB one way, paid in cash at the booth.
The Centrepoint ferry, a little further along the same road, has been closed in recent years. Ask locally. On arrival, white songthaews wait at the pier. Rough prices per person: about 50 THB to White Sand Beach, 100 THB to Lonely Beach and 150 THB to Bang Bao.
The west coast beaches
Beach life is concentrated on the west coast, along a single road between sea and hills.
- White Sand Beach: the longest and liveliest, with restaurants, shops and hotels for every budget. The northern end is quieter.
- Klong Prao: a wide, calmer sandy beach with pleasant resorts and a lagoon. Ideal for families.
- Kai Bae: a small sheltered bay with shallow water and views of the islets offshore. A good base for snorkelling.
- Lonely Beach: the backpacker hub, with simple bungalows and a young crowd in the evening. The sunsets are superb.
- Bang Bao: a fishing village on stilts at the southern tip. Go for the seafood restaurants and the boat trips that leave from here.
Koh Chang’s waterfalls
Around 70% of the island is covered in forest, protected by Mu Ko Chang National Park. The best-known waterfall is Klong Plu, about a kilometre inland from Klong Prao beach. A 600-metre trail gets you there in 15 to 20 minutes. Park entry costs about 200 THB per adult, and the same ticket covers Than Mayom on the east coast on the same day.
The small Kai Bae waterfall can be reached on foot from the beach. The smaller falls often run dry from February.
When to go: end of the monsoon and high season
High season runs from November to April. From November to February the sea is calm, the sky is clear and underwater visibility is excellent. March and April are hotter but still dry. From May to October, the south-west monsoon hits this coast hard: heavy showers, rough seas and some hotels closed.
My favourite time is the end of the monsoon, from late October to December. The forest is green, the waterfalls are full and prices stay reasonable before the Christmas peak. If you are still torn between several islands, compare the options before you book.
Mr Schaka’s practical tips
- Leave Bangkok early: the last ferry leaves the mainland around 7pm, and the road can be busy at weekends.
- Carry cash: the ferry, songthaews and park entry are all paid in baht.
- On the island, the road between beaches is steep and winding. Avoid scooters unless you are an experienced rider.
- Book your accommodation ahead for Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year.
- Agree the songthaew fare before you get in, especially at night when prices go up.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get from Bangkok to Koh Chang?
Allow 6 to 8 hours by bus or minivan, ferry included. Flying to Trat is quicker, but you need to add the transfer to the pier and the crossing.
How much is the ferry to Koh Chang?
About 80 to 90 THB per foot passenger one way on the Ao Thammachat ferry (prices checked in 2026). You pay in cash at the pier ticket booth.
Which beach should I choose on Koh Chang?
White Sand Beach for a lively atmosphere, Klong Prao or Kai Bae for families, Lonely Beach for the backpacker vibe. Bang Bao is mostly worth a visit for its stilt village.
To go further
Mr Schaka’s guidebook, Secret Thailand – Where Nobody Goes – The Practical Guide, covers the essentials: transport, neighbourhoods, addresses, food, etiquette and safety, updated for 2026–2027.
