When you are in Pattaya, you have easy access to several large beaches such as Pattaya Beach and Jomtien Beach. The downside is that the water at these mainland beaches is often rumored to be polluted, and it still feels like the big city. If you want a genuine island vibe close to Pattaya, Koh Larn is the perfect solution. It lies just 5–6 kilometers offshore, offering much cleaner water and a more relaxed atmosphere than what you find on the mainland.
Koh Larn might not be as idyllic as islands like Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lipe, but it’s still a lovely getaway. You can visit on a day trip or even spend a few nights at one of the island’s hotels. The biggest advantage is how quick and simple it is to get there and back.
How to get from Pattaya city to Koh Larn?
There are two main ways to reach Koh Larn from Pattaya’s Bali Hai Pier:
- Ferry: A charming, older wooden ferry costs around 30 Baht per person each way. The trip takes roughly 45 minutes. It’s not only budget-friendly, but it also offers a more laid-back and authentic experience.
- Speedboat: Several companies run speedboats from the same pier, and tickets typically range from 150–300 Baht per person each way. They leave more frequently but can be bumpy, especially in a smaller boat, and you might still face waiting times while they fill up the boat.
Many touts will approach you at Bali Hai Pier to sell speedboat tickets. If you plan on taking the ferry, simply ignore them and follow the signs or the main flow of people heading to the ferry. If you do prefer a speedboat, bargain a bit for a good price, and try to get a larger boat for a more comfortable ride.
Be aware of ferry times
The ferries have fixed departure schedules. If you miss one, you might have to wait a while for the next. Typical departures to Naban Port or Tawaen Beach Pier start in the early morning and continue throughout the day, but exact times can vary. Expect some ferries to run until late afternoon. The last ferry back to Pattaya can depart as early as 5 PM or 6 PM depending on the season, so it’s wise to check the current timetable. Arriving early is also a good idea because if the ferry is filled up ahead of schedule, it may leave before the listed time.
Naban Port vs. Tawaen Beach Pier
The ferry will drop you off at either:
- Tawaen Beach Pier: Best for a classic beach day. Tawaen Beach is one of the most popular spots and even has a 7-Eleven, several restaurants, and other convenience stores right on or near the beachfront.
- Naban Port: Closer to local village life. Staying in this area lets you see more of the island’s day-to-day pace, but you can still get to the beaches easily by taxi, songthaew, or scooter.
A note about beach chairs
On Koh Larn, there is one day each week (often Wednesday) when it’s not allowed to rent out beach chairs. This local rule helps reduce litter and gives the environment a small break. On that day, you’ll simply lay your towel on the sand and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
Exploring the island
Once on Koh Larn, you can rent a scooter to get around. Prices usually start around 250–300 Baht per day, and it’s a great way to explore different beaches and viewpoints. There are also taxis and local songthaews that can take you from one spot to another at a reasonable cost. If you love the beach life, you’ll find plenty of water activities like snorkeling, banana boat rides, and jet skiing.
For those who want to stay overnight, the island has several hotels and guesthouses. By morning, you can stroll down to a local café for breakfast, then hop on a scooter or taxi to spend the day at a less crowded beach. Restaurants and small bars are scattered around the island, especially near Tawaen Beach, making it easy to find food and drinks throughout the day.
Practical tips for the journey
- Bring motion sickness tablets: The ferry or speedboat can get bumpy, and if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s better to be prepared.
- Check the last ferry time: Ferries often stop running by late afternoon or early evening. If you miss it, you might have to pay for a more expensive speedboat or stay the night.
- Be early: Arriving at Bali Hai Pier in good time helps you avoid queues, and the ferry sometimes leaves earlier if it’s full.
- Bargain for the speedboat: If you choose a speedboat, asking around for a fair price is common practice.
Koh Larn may not have the remote island charm of some southern Thai destinations, but it’s an easy and refreshing escape from Pattaya’s busy streets. The short ferry ride, clean water, and laid-back island atmosphere can be exactly what you need for a day trip—or even a few extra days of relaxation.