Koh Chang (Bang Bao Pier) Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Most travelers reach Koh Chang via the mainland ferry piers at Ao Thammachat or Centerpoint, which connect to different parts of the island. From Bangkok, the journey takes approximately 5-6 hours by car or bus to these mainland piers, followed by a 30-minute ferry crossing. Trat Airport, served by Bangkok Airways, offers flights from the capital with minivan transfers to the ferry terminals. Upon arriving on Koh Chang, songthaews (shared taxis) and motorcycle taxis provide transportation to Bang Bao Pier on the island's southwestern tip. If driving, several secure parking facilities are available at the mainland ferry terminals, eliminating the need to bring vehicles onto the island.

Nestled in the eastern Gulf of Thailand, Koh Chang captivates visitors with its lush rainforest interior and pristine beaches that frame its mountainous silhouette. As Thailand's second-largest island, it offers a perfect balance of natural beauty and developed amenities while maintaining a more relaxed atmosphere than its western counterparts. The Bang Bao Pier serves as a vital maritime gateway to this tropical haven, welcoming travelers to an island where emerald jungles meet crystal waters.

November through February marks Koh Chang's peak season, offering sunny days, gentle breezes, and ideal conditions for swimming and boating with temperatures hovering around 25-30°C. March to May brings warmer temperatures but fewer crowds, perfect for those seeking more tranquil beach experiences. The rainy season from June to October transforms the island into a lush green paradise, though occasional heavy downpours may interrupt outdoor activities. Ferry services operate year-round but run more frequently during the dry season. For budget travelers, the shoulder months of October and May offer excellent value with good weather and reduced accommodation rates.

Bang Bao Pier serves as the launching point for exploring Koh Chang's stunning archipelago neighbors. Koh Mak, reachable in about 1 hour by speedboat, offers a peaceful retreat with powdery white beaches and family-run resorts. The remote Koh Kood (also spelled Koh Kut) lies approximately 1.5 hours away, rewarding visitors with untouched beaches, pristine waterfalls, and a genuine escape from modern life. The Koh Rang National Marine Park, accessible in just 30-45 minutes, provides some of Thailand's best snorkeling opportunities with vibrant coral gardens and abundant marine life. Island-hopping day trips from Bang Bao allow visitors to experience multiple islands in a single excursion, showcasing the diverse beauty of this marine region.

Bang Bao itself, a charming fishing village built entirely on stilts over the water, offers a fascinating glimpse into local maritime life with its seafood restaurants serving the day's fresh catch. Nature enthusiasts should trek to the cascading Klong Plu Waterfall, where emerald pools provide a refreshing swim after a jungle hike. The vibrant coral reefs surrounding Koh Chang make for exceptional snorkeling and diving, with numerous tour operators at Bang Bao Pier offering daily excursions. Sunset seekers will find paradise at Kai Bae or Lonely Beach, where beachfront bars serve Thai-inspired cocktails alongside spectacular evening skies. Don't miss sampling the island's specialties – fresh seafood prepared with aromatic Thai herbs and spices, particularly the pungent but delicious shrimp paste (kapi) that defines local cuisine.

Despite its growing popularity, Koh Chang remains 70% covered by protected rainforest, earning it the nickname 'The Green Island' among locals. The island's name translates to 'Elephant Island' – not for hosting wild elephants, but because its silhouette resembles an elephant's head when viewed from certain angles. Bang Bao Pier was once a thriving pirate haven before becoming a peaceful fishing community, with some buildings dating back over 100 years. The waters surrounding Koh Chang were also the site of a naval battle during the Franco-Thai War in 1941, with several shipwrecks now serving as artificial reefs for divers to explore.