Koh Larn Day Trip in Pattaya
Part of the Pattaya travel guide — see every topic in All Pattaya Guides.
Koh Larn is a small island about 7.5 km off the coast of Pattaya. It is the easiest way to swap the city for clear water and quieter sand. The island is about 4 km long and 2 km wide, with green hills and several beaches. Most people go for the day by public ferry or speedboat. It can be very busy on weekends and holidays, so a weekday trip is calmer.
Ferries from Bali Hai pier
Public ferries leave from Bali Hai pier, at the south end of Pattaya Beach Road. The trip takes about 45 minutes. Ferries go to two places on the island. Some go to Na Ban pier, in the main village on the east side. Others go straight to Tawaen beach. Boats run from early morning until early evening, about every hour or two. Times change with the season and the weather, so check the board at the pier. The last ferry back is in the late afternoon or early evening. Do not miss it, or you will need a more costly speedboat or a room on the island.
Speedboats and tours
Speedboats are faster than the ferry, often about 15 to 20 minutes. You can hire a private speedboat at Bali Hai pier or join a shared boat. Many tour companies also sell Koh Larn trips with hotel pickup, lunch and sea sports. Some tours stop at small islands nearby for snorkelling. Agree the price, the time and the return time before you go. Ask what is included. The public ferry is much cheaper and is fine for most people. Speedboats are useful if you have little time or are travelling with a group.
The beaches
Tawaen is the biggest and busiest beach, with many chairs, umbrellas, shops and places to eat. It is the easiest beach to reach. Samae beach, on the south-west side, has soft sand and clearer water and feels more relaxed. Nual beach, also called Monkey Beach, is small and lively. Ta Yai and Tien beaches are smaller and quieter, and are good for a slow day. Most beaches are on the west side of the island. The water is clearer than in Pattaya, but it is not as clear as on islands further south.
Getting around the island
From the pier, you can reach the beaches by songthaew pickup or motorbike taxi. Prices are usually fixed and shown on a board. Many visitors rent a scooter for the day. The roads are steep and have sharp turns, so only ride if you are confident. Wear a helmet. Some roads lead to viewpoints on the hills with good views over the sea and the island. You can also walk between some beaches, but it is hot and hilly. Bring cash, because not all places take cards.
Tips for a good day
Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and the midday heat. Weekdays are much quieter than weekends and Thai holidays. Bring sun cream, a hat, water and a towel. Rent a chair and umbrella on the beach if you want shade. The island has a problem with too much rubbish, so take your rubbish back with you. Use bins and avoid single-use plastic where you can. The sea is calmest in the dry months. In the rainy season, waves can be bigger and some boats may stop.
Koh Larn Day Trip at a glance
| Getting there | Public ferry from Bali Hai pier, about 45 minutes; speedboats about 15 to 20 minutes |
|---|---|
| Hours | Ferries from early morning to early evening; check the last boat back |
| Cost | Public ferry is cheap; speedboats and tours cost much more |
| Best time | About November to April, on a weekday morning |
| Beaches | Tawaen, Samae, Nual, Ta Yai and Tien |