Novotel Marina Sriracha & Koh Si Chang - Family & Business trip hotel - Where to stay in Koh Si Chang for the Si Chang Scenic Trail 2026

The Si Chang Scenic Trail 2026 is a nature trail run set on the beautiful island of Koh Si Chang. The route takes runners along coastal paths, gentle hills, and sea viewpoints, making it ideal for those who enjoy running in natural surroundings. The event takes place on Sunday, May 31, 2026, and highlights why Koh Si Chang is a great location for outdoor and adventure sports.

Novotel Koh Si Chang offers a convenient place to stay for the event. Its central location and sea views make it a comfortable choice for resting before the run and recovering after the race.

What is the Si Chang Scenic Trail?

The Si Chang Scenic Trail is a trail running event set in the natural landscape of Koh Si Chang. The course takes runners across hills, coastal cliffs, forest paths, and seaside viewpoints, offering a running experience shaped by the island’s terrain rather than speed alone.

This event is designed for runners who enjoy outdoor challenges and running in nature. Instead of city roads, the route passes through quiet forests, hidden beaches, and elevated paths with open sea views, creating a strong connection between sport and scenery.

• Trail running across the island hills and coastal paths
• Routes that focus on nature, views, and varied terrain
• Suitable for runners who enjoy outdoor and coastal challenges

The event is organised by Road Runner Thailand, a well-known name in Thailand’s running community, and attracts runners looking for a unique island trail experience in Chonburi province.

Why Koh Si Chang is ideal for trail running

Koh Si Chang is well-suited for trail running thanks to its small size and varied natural landscape. The island covers just 18 square kilometres, yet offers many different routes and surfaces within a short distance from the mainland.

• Compact island with varied terrain
  Runners can experience different landscapes in one run, without long transfers or travel time.
• A mix of coastal paths, hills, and forest areas
  Routes pass along rocky beaches, climb short but steep hills to sea viewpoints, and wind through shaded forest trails. Natural elevation changes add challenge and variety.
• Fresh sea air and open views
  Cool sea breezes and constant ocean views make runs feel lighter and more refreshing, even on tougher sections.
• Less crowded than the mainland races
  Compared to running events in Bangkok or Pattaya, Koh Si Chang feels calm and relaxed. Paths are quieter, allowing runners to focus on the trail and enjoy the surroundings.

Together, these features make Koh Si Chang a rewarding location for runners who enjoy nature, scenery, and a peaceful island running experience.

Si Chang Scenic Trail practical details

The Si Chang Scenic Trail takes place on Sunday, May 31, 2026, on Koh Si Chang in Chonburi province. Main event activities are held around Phra Chuthathut Palace, one of the island’s key landmarks.

Event schedule

• Packet pickup: Saturday, May 30, from 10.00am to 6.00pm
  Location: Phra Chuthathut Royal Residence, Koh Si Chang
• Opening ceremony: Sunday, May 31 at 5.45am
• Race start times:
  • 7-kilometre race: 6.20am
  • 12-kilometre race: 6.10am
  • 20-kilometre race: 6.00am
• Awards ceremony: 8.30am

Distances and entry fees

• 7 kilometres: 600 Thai baht
• 12 kilometres: 900 Thai baht
• 20 kilometres: 1,500 Thai baht

Travel and registration

Koh Si Chang can be reached by ferry from Sriracha pier. The journey takes around 30 to 45 minutes, with regular departures throughout the day.

For registration and full event details, visit the official organiser, Road Runner Thailand, through the event page on their website.

Purpose of the event

The Si Chang Scenic Trail encourages runners to spend more time outdoors and reconnect with nature. The event turns running into a relaxed and enjoyable experience, using Koh Si Chang’s natural landscape as the main highlight.

• Encourage people to connect with nature through island trails
• Promote healthy outdoor activity in a fresh, open setting
• Showcase Koh Si Chang’s hills, forests, and coastal views through sport
• Create a shared experience for runners, locals, and visitors

By running through different parts of the island, participants experience Koh Si Chang’s natural beauty while staying active and present in the moment.

Who should join the Si Chang Scenic Trail?

This event suits a wide range of runners and outdoor lovers, from experienced trail runners to casual weekend runners.

• Trail running enthusiasts who enjoy natural terrain and elevation
• Recreational runners looking for scenic and enjoyable routes
• Active travellers and nature lovers visiting the island
• Weekend runners from Bangkok and Chonburi seeking a short escape

With distance options such as 7 kilometres, 12 kilometres and 20 kilometres, the event is accessible while still offering a rewarding island running experience.

Suggested stay for participants

Novotel Koh Si Chang is a practical place to stay for runners joining the Si Chang Scenic Trail, thanks to its island location and easy access to key event areas.

• Convenient for early race starts
  The hotel is close to important sites such as Phra Chuthathut Palace, making early starts easier, including the 4.30am opening ceremony and morning race times. Travel around the island is short and straightforward.
• Comfortable for rest before and after the run
  Sea-view rooms and shared facilities offer a calm space to rest, stretch, and recover before and after the race. This is also helpful for runners arriving a day early for packet pickup on May 30.
• Suitable for runners, couples, and families
  The hotel suits different types of travellers, whether visiting alone, with a partner, or as a family. Its relaxed setting allows everyone to enjoy the island while supporting race plans.

Staying on the island helps participants move at an easy pace and focus on the running experience without rushing travel on race day.

The Si Chang Scenic Trail is a great way to experience Koh Si Chang through sport. The run brings together fitness, nature, and the island’s calm pace, with routes that pass coastal paths, forest trails, and scenic viewpoints. The event takes place on Sunday, May 31, 2026, making it ideal for a short weekend trip. Planning an island stay allows runners to rest, enjoy the scenery, and move at an easy pace. Staying at the Novotel Koh Si Chang offers a comfortable place to relax before and after the run.