Things To Do
in Ban Chang
Ban Chang is a small coastal town in Rayong Province, Thailand, just east of Pattaya. It offers a laid-back vibe with seafood markets, palm-fringed beaches, and a growing cluster of cafes and restaurants. The town sits along the Gulf of Thailand, serving as a gateway to nearby islands such as Koh Samet.
It blends rural Thai life with industrial areas nearby, making for a unique, accessible base for travelers seeking a quieter coastal escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arriving in Ban Chang, you'll be greeted by the warm Thai sun and the inviting aroma of local street food. Settle into your accommodations and take some time to rest before embarking on your first adventure. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach to stretch your legs and soak in the beautiful coastal scenery.
Visit the Ban Chang town market where you can experience the local culture firsthand. Indulge in authentic Thai dishes from various food stalls and pick up some handcrafted souvenirs. Engage with locals and learn about their way of life while tasting exotic fruits native to the region.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby seafood restaurant for a feast of freshly caught fish and shrimp. Enjoy dining al fresco while listening to the calming waves lapping against the shore. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll along the beach under a star-filled sky.
Set off early to explore the nearby province of Rayong, famous for its beautiful beaches and local markets. Visit the rayong aquarium to learn about the marine life in the Gulf of Thailand. Spend some time at the quiet, pristine Laem Mae Phim Beach, where you can relax and take in the sun.
Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at a beachfront restaurant where you can sample local seafood dishes. After lunch, explore the vibrant Rayong Night Market, known for its bustling atmosphere and variety of local crafts. Try your hand at bargaining with the vendors while picking up unique gifts.
Return to Ban Chang and kick back with a refreshing cocktail at a beach bar. Gaze at the sweeping sunset views as you unwind from the day's activities. End the night listening to live music while enjoying the beachfront ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive local restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍛Two-person dinner at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛵Scooter rental (per day) | $8-15 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs from local markets | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm coastal towns with seafood-rich cuisine
- Proximity to Koh Samet and national parks for day trips
- Affordability and local culture
- Gentle pace and less crowd than major tourist hubs
- Limited nightlife and well-developed tourist infrastructure
- Farther from Bangkok compared with main hubs
- Seasonal weather can affect outdoor plans
- Health services are more basic locally; may need to travel to Rayong or Pattaya for larger hospitals
- "Sawasdee khrub/ka" - Hello
- "Khob khun khrub/ka" - Thank you
- "Khor thot" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Nii tao rai?" - How much is this?
- "Khun pood paasang anggrit dai mai?" - Do you speak English?
- "Yuu tii nai?" - Where is it?
Places to Visit in Ban Chang
Visit one of these nice places.
Long wooden pier with boats and a golden Gulf of Thailand backdrop.
Ornate temple architecture with gold accents and dragon motifs.
Elevated boardwalk through mangrove forest with birdlife and water reflections.
Flat plains and water reflections offering serene landscape shots.
Food in Ban Chang
Ban Chang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy-sour shrimp soup, widely available at markets and seaside stalls.
Must-Try!
Salt-crusted grilled fish, often served with sticky rice and chili sauce.
Green papaya salad with chilies, lime, and peanuts.
Coconut soup with chicken, lemongrass, and galangal.
Sweet mango with coconut-infused sticky rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh seafood, produce, and ready-to-eat dishes.
Seafood stalls along the coast where you select the catch of the day.
Vibrant street food hub with snacks, desserts, and drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes where required.
Public displays of disrespect toward the monarchy are avoided; show basic courtesy at all times.
Speak softly, avoid pointing feet, and do not touch sacred objects without permission.
Consent is appreciated; some individuals may decline.
Maintain a calm demeanor and avoid loud or disruptive behavior in religious sites or residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Ban Chang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist areas; rounding up the bill or leaving small tips for service is common practice.
Cash Baht is widely used; many shops accept debit/credit cards in town centers, but markets and street stalls often prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with peak temperatures from March to May; stay hydrated, seek shade, and shoot at dawn or late afternoon for best light.
June to October brings heavy rains and potential floods; carry rain gear and plan for shorter outdoor windows.
November to February offers cooler, dry conditions; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Ban Chang at Night
Hiking in Ban Chang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with humidity and shade; features several waterfalls and viewpoints.
Coastal mangrove trails and birdwatching along the eastern Rayong coast.
Airports
How to reach Ban Chang by plane.
Serves Pattaya and Rayong; about 30–60 minutes by car from Ban Chang; convenient for regional flights.
Major international gateway; about 2.5–3.5 hours by road/train from Ban Chang depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Thai with rural and industrial communities nearby.
A small but growing community attracted by affordable coastal living and a relaxed pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national sport; gyms and intermittent matches are common in the region.
Popular at community fields and on beaches; casual pickup games occur in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ban Chang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be vegetarian; look for jay-friendly options or ask for no fish sauce and no shrimp paste. If in doubt, request vegetable stock and clearly specify dietary needs.