Travelling from Pattaya to Koh Chang is simple, with daily shared minivans and private taxis running directly to the ferry piers in Laem Ngop. The journey normally takes 4–5 hours of driving, or around 6–7 hours total when using shared minivans due to pick-ups and transfers. Below is the fully updated 2026 information with verified operators, prices, travel times and practical notes.
Fastest: Private taxi direct to Ao Thammachat Pier (3.5–4.5 hours)
Cheapest: Shared minivan with ferry ticket included (600–1,200 THB)
Easiest: Door-to-door minivan service (hotel pick-up → ferry → island drop-off)
Shared Minibus from Pattaya to Koh Chang
There is no government public bus from Pattaya to Koh Chang. Travellers use private shared minivans, which run daily and include hotel pick-up in Pattaya, the ferry crossing, and hotel drop-off on Koh Chang. Common pick-up areas include Naklua, Central Pattaya and Jomtien.
Major operators include Suwarnphum Burapha, 35 Group Pattaya and Boonsiri.
| Operator / Service | Price | Journey Time | Includes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suwarnphum Burapha | 600–1,000 THB | 6–7 hours | Hotel pick-up, minivan to pier, ferry ticket, island hotel drop-off | Reliable operator; waits to fill seats |
| 35 Group Pattaya | 600–900 THB | 5.5–7 hours | Hotel pick-up, ferry ticket, island drop-off | Multiple stops; common choice |
| Boonsiri (Minivan + Ferry + Island Van) | 700–1,200 THB | 6–7 hours | Hotel pick-up, ferry ticket, island drop-off | Uses Boonsiri Office if hotel pick-up unavailable |
TTH Tip: Although the drive is only 4–5 hours, shared minivans typically take 6–7 hours due to multiple pick-ups and drop-offs. Always leave early during weekends and peak season.
Private Taxi from Pattaya to Koh Chang
A private taxi is the fastest and most convenient way to travel. Drivers collect you directly from your Pattaya hotel and take you to Ao Thammachat Pier, the main ferry terminal for Koh Chang.
| Vehicle Type | Price | Travel Time | Passengers | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Car | 3,000–3,800 THB | 3.5–4.5 hours | 1–3 | Direct to pier, quick and efficient |
| SUV / MPV | 4,000–4,500 THB | 3.5–4.5 hours | 1–4 | Extra luggage space |
| Minivan | 4,500–6,000 THB | 3.5–4.5 hours | Up to 8 | Ideal for families and groups |
TTH Tip: For groups of three or more, private transfers often cost less per person than shared minivan tickets.
Self-Drive (Car Hire)
Driving from Pattaya to Koh Chang is straightforward using good highways (36 → 344 → 3 → Laem Ngop). This option gives flexibility and is popular with families and long-stay travellers.
| Route | Travel Time | Car Ferry Price | Passenger Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pattaya → Ao Thammachat Pier | 4–5 hours | 120 THB per vehicle | 80 THB per person | Ferries 06:30–18:30 daily |
TTH Tip: Aim to arrive before 16:00. Ferry queues build quickly on weekends, holidays and during high season.
Ferry to Koh Chang (Ao Thammachat → Ao Sapparot)
Ao Thammachat is the main ferry terminal serving Koh Chang. Boats run throughout the day with frequent departures and a short 25–30 minute crossing time.
| Route | Crossing Time | Frequency | First / Last Ferry | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ao Thammachat → Ao Sapparot | 25–30 minutes | Every 30–60 minutes | 06:30 / 18:30 | 80 THB per person |
TTH Tip: Tickets are purchased at the pier and must be paid in cash. Online ferry booking is rarely available.
Arriving on Koh Chang
All ferries arrive at Ao Sapparot Pier, where shared pick-up trucks (songthaews) take passengers to the island’s main beach areas.
| Destination | Travel Time | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|
| White Sand Beach | 15–20 minutes | 60–80 THB |
| Klong Prao / Kai Bae | 25–35 minutes | 80–120 THB |
| Lonely Beach | 35–45 minutes | 120–150 THB |
| Bang Bao | 45–55 minutes | 150–200 THB |
TTH Tip: Prices are fixed and per person. Confirm your hotel name with the driver before departing.
Practical Notes
Private taxis are the fastest and most reliable option.
Shared minivans are affordable but usually take 6–7 hours in total.
Expect heavier traffic and longer queues on weekends and holidays.
Carry cash for ferry tickets and island transport.
Leaving Pattaya early in the morning avoids late-afternoon ferry congestion.
Pattaya to Koh Chang FAQs
How long does it take to travel from Pattaya to Koh Chang?
The driving time is around 4–5 hours, plus a 25–30 minute ferry. Shared minivans normally take 6–7 hours due to multiple pick-ups and drop-offs.
Is there a public bus from Pattaya to Koh Chang?
No. There is no government public bus operating this route. Travellers use private shared minivans or private taxis.
Do shared minivans include the ferry ticket?
Yes. Most operators (including Suwarnphum Burapha, 35 Group Pattaya and Boonsiri) include the ferry ticket and island drop-off.
Where do minivans pick up from in Pattaya?
Minivans collect passengers from hotels in Naklua, Central Pattaya and Jomtien. Some operators may also use a fixed office as a meeting point.
What is the best way to travel with luggage or family?
A private taxi or private minivan is the easiest option. It avoids long pick-up routes and gives a smoother journey to the ferry.
Can I drive from Pattaya to Koh Chang?
Yes. The route is straightforward via Highway 36 → 344 → 3 → Laem Ngop. Cars can board the ferry for around 120 THB per vehicle.
How often do ferries run to Koh Chang?
Ferries from Ao Thammachat to Koh Chang operate every 30–60 minutes from 06:30 until around 18:30 daily.
Do I need to book the ferry in advance?
No. Ferry tickets are bought at the pier and paid in cash. Online ferry booking is rarely available.
Where do I arrive on Koh Chang?
Ferries land at Ao Sapparot Pier. From there, shared pick-up trucks run to White Sand Beach, Klong Prao, Kai Bae, Lonely Beach and Bang Bao.