Koh Si Chang is a small picturesque island in the Gulf of Thailand. With its relaxed atmosphere and slow pace of life, the island is a haven of tranquility not far from the hustle and bustle of Pattaya and Bangkok.
Among its draws are the beaches with clear waters, beautiful sunsets and outdoor activities as snorkeling, biking and kayaking. The island’s restaurants always have a steady supply of fresh seafood like crab, squid and prawn.
Koh Si Chang’s only town on the North East tip of the island is lined with narrow lanes and small colorful houses. As private cars are not allowed on the island, traffic is very light.
The island can be reached by ferry from Si Racha in about 45 minutes.
Do & See on Koh Si Chang
Although a small island, Koh Si Chiang features a number of historical sites, temples, beaches and lots of natural beauty. Distances are small and there is hardly any traffic making exploring the island a relaxed undertaking.
Beaches
Koh Si Chang houses several beaches with usually clear waters.
A sandy beach with some rocks, Tham Phang beach on the West coast is the island’s biggest beach. Deck chairs shaded by parasols are for rent, as well as kayaks. Several restaurants serve simple Thai dishes and drinks. Usually the beach is quiet, except on weekends and Thai public holidays.
Around the island are several smaller, even quieter beaches with very little or no facilities.
Sandy beach with clear waters
Wat Tham Yai Prik & Yellow Buddha
In the interior of the island between Tham Phang beach and the old town is Wat Tham Yai Prik Buddhist temple and meditation center.
A stairway flanked by the mythological Naga serpent leads up to the ornate temple building. From here you will have great views of Koh Si Chang island, the surrounding islands and the Gulf of Thailand.
A little higher up the hill is a very large golden colored image of the Buddha. The seated image overlooks the small town and the sea.
Chinese temple
Just North of town and Tha Lang pier where the ferry arrives is a Chinese temple known as the Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine, or “Shrine of the Father Spirit of the Great Mountain”. The shrine dedicated to the spirit is housed in one of the many caves.
Going back many centuries, the shrine is believed to have been founded by Chinese traders passing the island by boat. During Chinese New Year the shrine is visited by thousands of pilgrims from across Asia.
Buddha footprint
Near the Chinese temple, a little higher up the hill is a replica of a Buddha footprint housed in a Sala, a Thai style open pavilion. Next to it, on top of a rock stands a small golden pagoda. Thai people come here to pay homage to the Buddha footprint.
Although the fairly steep climb of more than 500 steps requires quite a bit of effort, the views of the old town, the port and the Gulf of Thailand are great.
The stairs to the Sala start behind the Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine.
Tham Phang beach from viewpoint