How to Get to Koh Chang from Pattaya: Rent a Car
Koh Chang is one of Thailand's most beautiful islands and makes a great road trip destination from Pattaya. In this guide, we cover all the transport options for getting there, how to take the ferry, and the best ways to get around once you arrive.
Getting from Pattaya to Koh Chang — Your Options
Minibus
Several minibus companies offer services between Pattaya and Koh Chang. The journey takes around four hours and costs roughly 500–900 baht depending on the operator. It's the budget-friendly option, though buses can be cramped and departure times aren't always reliable. Check in advance with your chosen operator for the latest schedules and prices.
Big Bus
Phetprasert Bus Company runs services from Pattaya to Trat (near the Koh Chang ferry pier), departing from their station on Sukhumvit Road at 03:20 and 05:00. Tickets are 268 baht. The service is reliable but very early, and the buses frequently run late — this option is really only for those on a tight budget who don't mind an uncertain wait.
Taxi
Hiring a private taxi from Pattaya takes around three hours and is comfortable and convenient. Agree on a price before departing — taxis can carry up to four passengers, which makes it reasonable if you're splitting the cost as a group.
Motorbike
Riding to Koh Chang on a hired motorbike is an adventurous option that allows you to stop off at beaches and villages along the way. Be aware that standard 125cc scooters are not designed for long-distance travel — you'll need at least a 155cc bike. At Pattaya Rent a Bike, we've seen many smaller engines seize up on this journey, so take this warning seriously.
Private Car
Renting a car from Pattaya and driving to Koh Chang is easily the most comfortable and flexible option. The drive takes about three hours. Getting there is simple: take Highway 36 towards Trat province, follow the signs to Koh Chang, and take the ferry. Having a car on the island is also a real advantage — more on that below.
Taking the Ferry to Koh Chang
There are two ferry services from Laem Ngop on the mainland to Koh Chang: Ferry Koh Chang (Ao Thammachart pier) and Centrepoint Ferry. Both accept vehicles and foot passengers.
Ferry Koh Chang departs approximately every 45 minutes, 06:30–19:00 daily. Crossing time is 30 minutes. Prices: adults 80 baht, children 30 baht, cars 120 baht.
Centrepoint Ferry departs every hour on the hour, 06:00–19:30 daily. Crossing time is approximately 60 minutes. Prices: adults 80 baht, children under 9 free, cars 100 baht.
Centrepoint Ferry is slightly further from the mainland pier but faster across the water, and is better positioned if you're heading towards White Sands Beach. If you don't have your own transport, songthaew taxis wait at the ferry pier to take passengers to their destination for 50–200 baht.
Getting Around Koh Chang
Motorbike rental is by far the most popular way to explore the island. Rentals start from around 200 baht per day and give you full freedom to discover Koh Chang's hidden beaches and coves.
Taxis are plentiful and most short journeys cost between 50–100 baht. Always agree a price before you set off.
Songthaews (shared pickups, similar to Pattaya's baht buses) are cheap at 20–50 baht per journey, though they can get crowded.
Bicycle rental is available from most hotels and rental shops on the island for around 100 baht per day — great for a relaxed explore at your own pace.
Car Rental on Koh Chang
There are no proper car rental companies on Koh Chang itself, which is why many visitors choose to drive from Pattaya and bring their rental car on the ferry. This is by far the most convenient option and gives you maximum flexibility throughout your stay.
At Pattaya Rent a Car, we're happy to arrange monthly rentals for those spending extended time on the island. We also have good contacts on White Sands Beach who can assist if any issues arise during your rental period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get long-term car rental deals on Koh Chang? There are no serious car rental companies on the island, but Pattaya-based companies like us are happy to provide monthly rentals knowing you'll be spending time on Koh Chang. We can also arrange local support if needed.
Do I need a 4x4 for Koh Chang's hills? No — a standard car is fine. The island is hilly but the roads are good. Just make sure your tyres are in good condition, especially if visiting during the rainy season. Cars have been known to slip on the steepest sections when wet.
Can you drive all the way around the island? Almost. You can drive around most of Koh Chang in just over an hour — the roads are good and traffic is light. However, the road ends at Bang Bao in the south due to an incomplete section, so you'll need to turn around and return the same way.