Koh Sichang — A Perfect One-Day Island Escape

Koh Sichang : A small island with a big sense of history and calm.

If you think island trips always mean long journeys or overnight stays, Koh Sichang will pleasantly surprise you.
This small island, Thailand’s smallest district, sits just 12 kilometres off the coast of Sri Racha, making it one of the easiest island escapes from Bangkok.

Compact in size, rich in stories, Koh Sichang is ideal for a slow, meaningful one-day trip.

Morning: Mainland Pause Before the Sea

Passenger ferry from Sri Racha to Koh Sichang : A simple sea crossing that marks the start of a slower island rhythm

Your journey begins at Koh Loy, the ferry pier connecting the mainland to Koh Sichang. Ferries run every hour from morning until evening, so there’s no pressure or rush.

Wat Asadang : A serene temple blending spirituality with coastal views.

Arrive early? Take a short walk up to Wat Koh Loy, a hilltop temple blending Thai and Chinese architecture. Inside, a revered Guanyin shrine draws locals who come to pray for protection and good fortune, an unexpectedly calm start to the day.

Late Morning: Crossing Thailand’s Working Sea

Cargo ships in the Gulf of Thailand : A reminder that this is Thailand’s working sea, quietly connected to the world.

The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes, and this isn’t a typical turquoise-water fantasy. Along the way, you’ll notice the sea dotted with massive cargo ships, quietly loading and unloading goods bound for destinations around the world.

Western coast cliffs of Koh Sichang : Rugged, dramatic, and untouched—showing a different face of the island.

Just before reaching the island, look to the right; you’ll pass Koh Kham Noi and Koh Kham Yai, two small islands known among local fishermen for their abundant waters, especially barracuda. It’s a subtle reminder that Koh Sichang has always been connected to real livelihoods, not just leisure.

Arrival: Local Life at the Pier

Koh Sichang pier lighthouse : The island’s first greeting, guiding travellers safely ashore.

Step off the ferry, and you’ll feel it immediately: the island moves at a gentler pace. Motorcycle taxis and local tricycles wait by the pier, ready to take visitors around the island.

A glimpse of accommodation on Koh Sichang : Simple, unpretentious stays that suit the island’s relaxed pace.

For a one-day visit, though, walking works beautifully. Wander past local markets, modest home-style eateries, and a few thoughtfully designed cafés. After roughly one kilometre, you’ll reach the island’s cultural heart.

Afternoon: Royal History by the Seaside

Phongsri House : One of the historic royal residences, reflecting life by the sea in a different era.

The square pagoda (Chedi Liam) : A distinctive architectural landmark quietly watching over the island.

Set along the shoreline is Chudhadhuj Palace, a former seaside retreat of three Thai kings—Rama IV, Rama V, and Rama VI. It is also the birthplace of Prince Chudhadhuj Dharadilok, son of King Rama V.

Sandy beach within Chudhadhuj Palace grounds : A rare combination of royal heritage and natural shoreline.

The palace grounds are spacious and breezy, with wooden seaside residences, rocky outcrops, and small sandy stretches.

Asdang Bridge : The island’s most iconic structure, stretching gracefully into the sea.

Highlights include historic wooden houses, royal pavilions, and the unmistakable Asdang Bridge, extending elegantly into the sea, one of the island’s most iconic views.

Rocky coastline within Chudhadhuj Palace : Where waves, rocks, and history meet in quiet harmony.

This is not a rushed sightseeing stop. It’s a place to stroll, read, sit, and let the sound of the waves do the rest.

Note: Palace buildings are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, though the outdoor grounds remain open for walking and photos.

Late Afternoon: Easy Return, No Rush

Local train from Hua Lamphong to Chonburi : A nostalgic journey shared with students and local vendors—travel as locals do.

As the day winds down, head back toward the pier, enjoy a simple local meal or coffee, and catch an afternoon ferry back to Sri Racha, still with daylight left, still feeling unhurried.

Why Koh Sichang Works So Well in One Day

Only 12 km from the mainland
Hourly ferries, flexible timing
A rare mix of royal heritage + island life
Walkable, calm, and deeply local

And if you’d rather travel without worrying about connections, timing, or logistics

Go the easy way with Pacific Leisure.
We curate seamless one-day journeys to Koh Sichang, handling transport and flow so you can simply enjoy the island’s stories, scenery, and slower rhythm.
One day. One island. Done beautifully.

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Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya