If your vacation is winding down and you still have a couple of days left, Koh Si Chang offers a perfect beach escape.

It's one of the closest and least crowded destinations to Bangkok, making it an ideal alternative to the faraway islands in southern Thailand.

Why visit Koh Si Chang?

Located just a two-hour drive from Bangkok and a short ferry ride from Sri Racha, Koh Si Chang remains a quiet, lesser-known destination, often overlooked by Western travelers. While the island's beaches may not rival those of major tourist hubs, its serene, authentic atmosphere makes it an ideal getaway for those seeking relaxation rather than parties.

Offering fresh seafood, cultural sites like temples, and a historic royal palace, Koh Si Chang provides a peaceful escape, particularly for those traveling from Bangkok or Pattaya.

When to visit Koh Si Chang

Koh Si Chang's rainy season lasts from June to October, with August and September seeing the most rainfall. December and January offer pleasant weather for beach trips, though it can get chilly at night. While the island is never overly crowded, avoiding weekends and public holidays will ensure a quieter experience. The Chinese New Year brings large crowds to the local temple, but most visitors are just day-trippers, leaving the beaches tranquil.

Where to Stay on Koh Si Chang

Koh Si Chang offers limited budget accommodation, with a few options for those on a tight budget, starting around THB800. For a more comfortable stay, you can find much nicer rooms that will enhance your visit, with quality generally better than other Thai islands. Most guesthouses are located along the main road, but to reach the beaches, you’ll need to walk about 20 minutes or take a tuk-tuk.

The only affordable resort near Tham Phang Beach provides a pleasant stay, while more secluded areas offer a few luxurious options for those seeking a higher-end experience.

Where to Eat in Koh Si Chang

Though Koh Si Chang lacks a wide variety of street food, it’s a seafood lover’s paradise. The island boasts several restaurants serving the freshest squids and prawns. While the decor might not be fancy, the food quality is excellent. You’ll also find some Western options in a few guesthouses and restaurants.

How to Get Around Koh Si Chang

The main road, Atsadang Road, runs from north to south and is easily walkable, especially near the pier where shops and restaurants are concentrated. If you want to reach the beaches on the island’s western side, it takes about 30 minutes on foot or a tuk-tuk ride for THB80 each way. Although the price is a bit steep for the short distance, tuk-tuks are available for the whole stay if you want a private service.

How to Get to and From Koh Si Chang

Ferries to Koh Si Chang depart from Koh Loi Pier in Sri Racha. In the high season, ferries run hourly, and during the low season, they depart every two hours. The 40-minute journey costs THB50, and the views of large ships cruising by are scenic. At high tide, ferries may dock at Ta Bon Pier, a little further from the common Ta Laang Pier, so keep an eye out.

Is Koh Si Chang a Safe Place to Visit?

Koh Si Chang is a safe island for swimming and snorkeling, with minimal boat traffic near the beaches. However, if you're staying off the main road, bring a flashlight for nighttime walks, as the island’s lighting is limited. Be cautious of sharp oyster shells near the rocks on Tham Saai Beach.