Ban Chang

Ban Chang (บ้านฉาง) is a town in Ban Chang District of Rayong Province, eastern Thailand. Established as a municipality in 1962, it is home to about 31,000 people (2019). The town sits along Sukhumvit Road (Hwy 3), roughly midway between Pattaya and Rayong city, making it a convenient stop for travellers along the Eastern Gulf Coast.

Ban Chang has grown around the nearby U-Tapao–Rayong–Pattaya International Airport and is close to several beaches and national parks. Its name translates to "rice barn village," reflecting its agricultural roots, though today it serves as a residential and service hub for the surrounding industrial and tourism zones.

By Plane

U-Tapao–Rayong–Pattaya International Airport (UTP IATA) is located just 10 km south of Ban Chang — the closest town to the airport. A taxi from the airport to Ban Chang takes about 10 minutes and costs around 200–300 baht.

By Car / Road

Ban Chang is on Hwy 3 (Sukhumvit Rd), 25 km west of Rayong city and 30 km east of Pattaya. Buses between Bangkok's Ekamai Bus Terminal and Rayong pass through Ban Chang — ask the driver to stop at the town. By car from Bangkok, take Hwy 7 to the Hwy 36 interchange, then head south on Hwy 3 (about 1.5 hours).

Ban Chang is a linear town along Sukhumvit Road and can be navigated on foot in the centre. Songthaews and motorcycle taxis are the main local transport. For beaches or national parks, you will need your own vehicle or a hired taxi.

• U-Tapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield — The shared military-civilian airport with a small museum of aircraft outside the main gate.

• Hat Nam Sai — A quiet beach about 8 km south of Ban Chang, less crowded than Pattaya beaches.

• Phala Beach (หาดภาลา) — A sandy beach with pine trees, popular with locals for picnicking and swimming, about 10 km south.

• Khao Laem Ya Viewpoint — Scenic viewpoint over the Gulf of Thailand, part of the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park, 15 km south.

• Beach day at Phala or Nam Sai — Relax on uncrowded beaches with calm water, ideal for families.

• Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park visit — Hike the coastal trail and enjoy panoramic views.

• Golf — Ban Chang is close to several golf courses, including St. Andrews 2000 and Emerald Golf Club.

• Airport spotting — Watch planes at U-Tapao Airport from designated viewing areas near the perimeter.

The town has a mix of Thai restaurants and street food stalls catering to both locals and travellers passing through.

• Local market food stalls — Noodle soup, grilled meats, and som tam from 30–60 baht.
• Seafood restaurants along Sukhumvit Road — Grilled prawns, fish, and crab at reasonable prices (100–300 baht).
• Khao man kai (chicken rice) stalls — A popular Thai-Chinese dish available from street vendors for 40–60 baht.

Small cafés and coffee shops are scattered along the main road. Fresh fruit shakes are available at market stalls. Nightlife is minimal — most visitors head to Pattaya for evening entertainment.

• Budget: Ban Chang Guesthouse — Basic rooms near the main road, from 400 baht/night.
• Mid-range: U-Tapao Resort — Comfortable rooms with pool, near the airport, around 800–1,200 baht/night.
• Upscale: Novotel Rayong Star Convention Centre — Full-service hotel with pool and dining, about 10 km east in Rayong, from 1,800 baht/night.

Ban Chang has a local market selling fresh produce, seafood, and household goods. Several convenience stores and minimarts line Sukhumvit Road. For serious shopping, Pattaya (30 km west) offers large malls and markets.

• Pattaya (30 km west) — Major beach resort city with nightlife, shopping, and attractions.
• Rayong city (25 km east) — Provincial capital with fruit orchards, temples, and parks.
• Ban Phe (40 km east) — Ferry port for Ko Samet.
• Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park (60 km northeast) — Waterfalls, caves, and hiking.
• Sattahip (15 km south) — Naval base town with clean beaches and seafood.