Koh Phangan to Koh Chang: Your Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Hidden Gem

Fancy swapping the party vibes of Koh Phangan for the tranquil shores of Koh Chang? This journey takes you from one Thai island paradise to another, with Koh Chang offering a quieter, nature-packed escape. Whether you’re plotting your travel route or daydreaming about what awaits, this guide dives into everything you need to know about getting from Koh Phangan to Koh Chang and making the most of this stunning destination.

How to Travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Chang

Travelling from Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand to Koh Chang in the Andaman Sea is an adventure that involves a mix of ferries, buses, and perhaps a dash of patience. The roughly 600-kilometre journey crosses southern Thailand, but don’t worry - it’s well-trodden and manageable.

Ferry to Mainland: Start with a ferry from Thong Sala Pier in Koh Phangan to Donsak Pier near Surat Thani. Options like Raja Ferry (250 THB, 2.5 hours) or the faster Lomprayah speedboat (500 THB, 1.5 hours) run multiple times daily. Book ahead during peak season.

Bus to Trat: From Surat Thani, hop on a bus to Trat, the gateway to Koh Chang. Combined bus-ferry tickets from Koh Phangan to Bangkok (via Surat Thani) cost around 1,000 THB to 1,200 THB, but you’ll need to switch in Bangkok for a Trat-bound bus (300 THB to 400 THB, 5-6 hours). Total travel time from Surat Thani to Trat is about 12-14 hours.

Ferry to Koh Chang: From Trat, take a songthaew (shared taxi, 50 THB) to Laem Ngop’s piers—either Ao Thammachat or Centrepoint. Ferries to Koh Chang (80 THB per person, 30-45 minutes) depart hourly from 6 AM to 7 PM, landing at Ao Sapporot or Dan Kao piers.

The whole trip takes 18-22 hours, depending on connections. For speed, consider a private taxi from Surat Thani to Trat (around 6,000 THB), cutting it to 12-14 hours. It’s a trek, but Koh Chang’s serenity makes it worth the effort.

Weather and Seasons of Koh Chang All Year Round

Koh Chang’s tropical climate keeps things warm, but the seasons dictate the vibe:

High Season (November to February): The best time to visit, with temps between 25°C and 30°C, clear skies, and calm seas. Perfect for beach days and exploring, though it’s the busiest period.

Hot Season (March to May): Things heat up to 32°C-35°C, with dry weather but rising humidity. Fewer crowds make it a solid pick if you can handle the warmth.

Rainy Season (June to October): Monsoon time brings heavy rain and rough seas, with temps around 27°C-30°C. Some spots close, but you’ll snag bargains and enjoy a quieter island.

November to February is the sweet spot for ideal weather, while March offers a balance of sun and solitude.

Things to Do in Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a haven for nature lovers and laid-back travellers. Here’s what to get stuck into:

**Beach Bumming: Lounge on White Sand Beach or unwind at the quieter Klong Prao Beach - perfect for a lazy day with a coconut.

Snorkelling and Diving: Explore coral reefs and marine life around Koh Rang or Koh Wai on a day trip.

Jungle Trekking: Hike through lush forests to waterfalls or viewpoints - bring sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure.

Kayaking: Paddle along the coast or through mangroves for a peaceful escape with epic views.

Motorbike Rides: Rent a bike (200 THB/day) and cruise the island’s winding roads to hidden gems.

From chilling to thrilling, Koh Chang has it all.

Attractions in Koh Chang

Koh Chang’s natural beauty shines through its top spots. Don’t miss these:

**Klong Plu Waterfall: A short hike leads to this refreshing cascade - great for a swim or picnic.

White Sand Beach: The island’s liveliest stretch, with soft sand and buzzing nightlife.

Koh Chang National Park: Covering much of the island, it’s a jungle paradise with trails and wildlife.

Bang Bao Fishing Village: A charming spot on stilts, perfect for seafood and a glimpse of local life.

Kai Bae Viewpoint: Stunning vistas of the coast - ideal for sunset snaps.

Each attraction highlights Koh Chang’s mix of relaxation and raw beauty.

Where to Stay in Koh Chang

Koh Chang’s accommodation suits all budgets, dotted along its beaches:

Budget: Guesthouses like PJ Guesthouse on White Sand Beach start at 400 THB per night - basic but central.

Mid-Range: Bungalows at Klong Prao Resort (1,500 THB to 2,500 THB) offer comfort and beach access without breaking the bank.

Luxury: Resorts like The Dewa Koh Chang on Klong Prao Beach start at 4,000 THB, with pools and seafront vibes.

White Sand Beach is lively, Klong Prao is chilled, and Lonely Beach suits backpackers. Book early in high season to nab your spot.

How to Save Money on Travel in Koh Chang

Keeping costs down in Koh Chang is a cinch with these tips:

Travel Off-Peak: June to October slashes accommodation prices by 30-50%, though pack a brolly.

Eat Local: Street stalls serve up pad Thai or grilled fish for 50 THB - way cheaper than tourist joints (200 THB).

Share Transport: Split songthaew rides (50 THB) or group snorkelling trips (500 THB per person) with mates.

Stay Budget: Opt for guesthouses over resorts to save hundreds per night.

DIY Exploring: Rent a motorbike (200 THB/day) instead of pricey tours.

Smart choices keep Koh Chang affordable and fun.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Koh Chang?

Your stay depends on your pace:

2-3 Days: Covers the main beaches, a waterfall, and a boat trip - ideal for a quick taste.

4-5 Days: Adds diving, kayaking, and village visits for a fuller experience without rushing.

1 Week: Perfect for slow travellers wanting to explore every nook and cranny.

Most reckon 4 days hits the sweet spot - enough to relax and roam.

Where to Eat in Koh Chang

Koh Chang’s food scene is a treat, from street eats to seaside dining:

White Sand Beach Stalls: Grab chicken skewers (50 THB) or mango sticky rice (70 THB) on the cheap.

Saffron on the Sea: Tasty Thai dishes like green curry (150 THB) with a beach view.

Bang Bao Seafood: Fresh catches like grilled prawns (300 THB) in a stilted village setting.

Buddha View Restaurant: Affordable seafood and curries (120 THB) with a laid-back vibe.

Oodie’s Place: A mix of Thai and Western grub (100 THB-200 THB) plus live music.

You’ll eat like a king without emptying your wallet.

Koh Chang is a slice of Thai paradise that’s easy to reach from Koh Phangan with a bit of planning. Its beaches, jungles, and chilled-out charm make it a standout destination. Ready to go? Use this guide, pack your bags, and let Koh Chang steal your heart!

Cheapest ticket from Koh Phangan - Koh Chang

Station and Locations