I’d heard stories about Koh Chang – a wild, jungle-covered island less touristy than Phuket or Samui. Last week, we packed the car, hit the road, and decided to see it for ourselves.

The Drive & The Ferry

We left Bangkok early, the trunk full of snacks and a playlist ready for the five-hour drive to Trat. The scenery shifted from city highways to winding rural roads, with glimpses of rice fields and fishing villages along the way.

By midday, we reached Ao Thammachat Pier in Trat and drove the car onto the ferry. The 30-minute crossing was pure anticipation – the sea breeze, the sound of gulls, and the jungle-covered island slowly coming into view. When the ramp lowered and we rolled onto Koh Chang, it felt like stepping into another world.

Beaches & Wild Monkeys

We had our first run-in with Koh Chang’s wild macaques. A troop of monkeys sat right along the roadside, eyeing every car and scooter. One daring little thief snatched a bag of fruit from a passing motorbike basket and vanished into the trees. Lesson learned: hide your snacks!

Seafood & Sunsets

Our last day was all about food and soaking up the view. We drove to a fishing village where wooden restaurants sat on stilts over the water. Plates of spicy seafood soup, fresh crab, and grilled squid sealed the deal – Koh Chang has some of the best coastal food in Thailand.

Travel Info: Taking the Ferry to Koh Chang

Car-Friendly: You can drive your car or motorbike onto the ferry.
Cost: Approx. 120 THB per person + 500–600 THB per car (round trip).
Schedule: Ferries run roughly every 30–45 minutes from early morning (6:30 AM) to early evening (7 PM).

Tips

🚙 Arrive early during weekends/holidays; queues can be long.
🍹 Grab snacks/drinks before boarding; limited options on the ferry.
🐒 Keep windows closed near the pier—wild monkeys sometimes lurk around!