Koh Sichang

Real Thailand still exists, and it’s much closer than you think. It’s on Koh Sichang Island, just 30 km away from Pattaya. Sichang is a uniquely rocky island surrounded by turquoise seas and stunning landscapes. The island resembles a typical Thai provincial town with its laid-back lifestyle. It’s not well-known to the average tourist. Walking through Sichang’s picturesque streets feels like diving into history, where the roots go far back into the past. Here, you can swim in clean waters, breathe fresh air, sunbathe in a truly quiet bay, and indulge in excellent seafood.

For many centuries, Koh Sichang has been considered the main maritime gateway to the Kingdom of Thailand. Even today, large cargo ships anchor between the island and the mainland, visibly active with work underway.

Stepping onto the shores of the main Tha Lang Pier, the first things that catch your eye are the three-wheeled taxis – ‘skylabs,’ meaning ‘heavenly laboratory’ in Thai. Skylabs were invented by the local islanders, and it’s rare to find this kind of transportation elsewhere in Thailand. Hiring a skylab driver will cost around 250 baht for 3-4 hours of touring the island.

What to See on Koh Sichang?

• Chao Pho Khao Yai Chinese shrine
• Phra Chuthathut Palace
• Wat Assadangnit Pagoda
• Kao Noi Viewpoint
• Asdang Bridge
• Vishiravut Bridge
• Tham Saowapha and Tham Chaprakong caves

On Koh Sichang, the tourist infrastructure is modest, yet the cultural program is guaranteed for a full day, or perhaps even longer. The most popular excursion spot is the Chao Pho Khao Yai Chinese shrine.

Another equally popular place is the Phra Chuthathut Palace (Sichang Palace), the king’s summer residence. The Phra Chuthathut Palace was built in 1892 in the name of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), born on the island during the Franco-Siamese War. The palace grounds consisted of four mansions, fourteen halls, and a magnificent pavilion surrounded by decorative gardens, ponds, pathways, and a private beach. The main building within the royal residence (Phratinang Manthatratanarot) was an octagonal three-story mansion made of teakwood. In the park area, you can still see the outline of the foundation on the ground where a huge wooden house once stood.

When conflict arose between France and Siam in the Gulf of Siam, French troops invaded and occupied the island, forcing the construction of the palace to halt. After the dispute was settled, the construction of the palace resumed. Years later, the old palace was demolished, and a new one named Vimanmek was built, but in 1899, it was dismantled and relocated to Bangkok’s Dusit Palace.

The buildings of the royal residence are located within a garden among fragrant frangipani trees (plumeria). Each building is beautifully situated in descending order: the Green Building, Wattana, and Aphirom. Charge your camera or video gear; these are the most beautiful spots on the island for capturing memories.

Strolling through the park, exploring the labyrinth of footpaths, delving into the distant history of the remains of the 19th-century palace, ponds, caves, and hidden bays, brings immense pleasure.

There’s a small museum at the Phra Chuthathut Palace, a marine biological research center.

Another attraction of the park is the Wat Assadangnit Pagoda located on Chula Chomkla Hill. It’s a white building of circular shape. The upper part of the building combines Western and Eastern styles.

Further up the mountain is the Kao Noi Viewpoint, offering panoramic views.

Perhaps the most romantic spot is the Asdang Bridge. It was built by the king to celebrate the recovery of his son, Asdang, who was receiving treatment on the island. When viewing the bridge from afar, it appears as an endless walkway leading to the majestic blue sea.

Chong Khao Khad hosts a viewpoint and the magnificent Vishiravut Bridge, providing incredible views of the sea.

The island has several caves, with the most popular being the Tham Saowapha, about 100 meters long. Another, Tham Chaprakong, is a paradise for lovers of picturesque views. To reach the first cave, you need to head directly across the island from east to west.

Koh Sichang Beaches

Koh Sichang has several beaches. The most famous and largest is Haad Tham Phang (Fallen Cave Beach), located in the southwest part of the island. It offers all the amenities for a comfortable beach stay, including cafes, a shop, loungers under umbrellas, shower rooms, and even the option to rent hillside cottages just 30 meters from the sea, starting at 500 baht per night.

Snorkeling and diving equipment rentals are available, as well as kayak rentals. Nearby, Tham Yaai Prik Hill provides stunning views of the sea.

At Tham Saai (Sandy Cave) Beach, the tide completely submerges the beach, making it suitable for swimming but further away from sharp coral reefs. Beneath the cliffs of this beach, you’ll find water-eroded caves. The beach is located a few meters from the Buddhist community of Wat Tham Yai Prik.

Lastly, the most secluded beach on Sichang Island is Haad Saai Kaew. Crystal-clear water and a serene atmosphere await, with abundant coral reefs and colorful fish in the sea. Situated approximately 500 meters south of the Royal Residence, this beach is accessed by a dry grass-covered staircase leading down from the cliffs.

Nearby Islands

For those fond of underwater swimming, fishing, or just seeking a peaceful tropical getaway, plan a day trip by boat to Ko Khangkhao Island, located south of Sichang. Boat rentals cost 600 baht. The island boasts a beautiful beach and the best underwater swimming in the archipelago.

On the southwest side of Sichang lies the small island of Ko Thai Taa Muen. Here, you can observe sea anemones and large marine fish.

There are very few shops on Koh Sichang, and they close early. Near the pier, there’s only one 7-Eleven convenience store and an ATM. Cafes are mostly situated along the coast from the pier. Hotels offer limited breakfast options. Accommodations on the island mainly consist of single-story bungalows, starting at 500 baht per day, with some two-story options available. Vehicles are scarce and mostly very old.

If you’re looking for peace and tranquility, Koh Sichang is your best choice.

How to Get to Koh Sichang

First Option: From Pattaya, take the white songthaew numbered 1631, which runs from the Naklua Market to Si Racha. It will drop you off at the Clock Tower, about 2 km from the pier. From here, transfer to a tuk-tuk to reach the pier at Ko Loi. Board the ferry for a 40-minute journey. The ferry departs every 2 hours on weekdays and hourly on weekends and holidays from 8 am to 6 pm.

Second Option: Take a minivan from the intersection of Naklua and Sukhumvit. The ride lasts for about 40 minutes. Notify the driver in advance that you need to disembark in Si Racha City. Along the way, keep an eye out for a sign indicating the Pier Ko Loi. Get off and hail a tuk-tuk to reach the Ko Loi pier. It’s advisable to arrive early before the ferry departure time, as there are things to see on the island. The tuk-tuk ride to the pier costs around 40-50 baht.