Koh Larn Coral Island
A tropical island paradise near Pattaya, Koh Larn offers pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a plethora of water sports.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Koh Larn Coral Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tropical island paradise near Pattaya, Koh Larn offers pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a plethora of water sports.
"Stunning beaches, easy food, and many activities make Koh Larn a must-visit island near Pattaya!"
🚢 Ferry vs. Speedboat
Ferry is cheap & scenic, speedboat is fast but pricier. Choose based on budget & time!
🛵 Scooter Rental
Rent a scooter for easy island exploration! 200 Baht/day. Drive carefully!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Samae Beach
Western coast
A popular, well-developed beach with soft sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Tawaen Beach
Northern coast
The busiest beach, offering a wide range of water sports, restaurants, and shops right on the sand.
Nuan Beach
Southern coast
A quieter, more secluded beach known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful coral formations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Island Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry vs. Speedboat
Ferry is cheap & scenic, speedboat is fast but pricier. Choose based on budget & time!
🛵 Scooter Rental
Rent a scooter for easy island exploration! 200 Baht/day. Drive carefully!
💰 Bring Cash
Many vendors & food stalls are cash-only. ATMs are available but can be unreliable.
☀️ Sun Protection
High SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential. The sun is intense!
Coral Island Thailand
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry vs. Speedboat
Ferry is cheap & scenic, speedboat is fast but pricier. Choose based on budget & time!
🛵 Scooter Rental
Rent a scooter for easy island exploration! 200 Baht/day. Drive carefully!
💰 Bring Cash
Many vendors & food stalls are cash-only. ATMs are available but can be unreliable.
☀️ Sun Protection
High SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential. The sun is intense!
🌊 Water Activities Galore
Try parasailing, jet skiing, or snorkeling for an adrenaline rush!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Koh Larn's stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and soft, silky sand, making it a paradise near Pattaya. The abundance of water activities and accessible beachfront dining options are major draws. While some find it can get crowded, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many eager to return.
"Stunning beach, easy food. Many activities you can do. Water is warm, clean and silky sand. Get the boat no later than 4pm.
Definitely will come back again!"
C K
"I returned to Pattaya after ten years, and I must say, it feels like time has stood still in the best way possible. My first visit was back in 2015 with my parents, and at that time, I was just a student, too young to truly appreciate what a beach getaway really meant.
Now, coming back as an adult after a few years of working, the experience hits differently. Pattaya still has that laid-back charm I remember, and Koh Larn (Coral Island) remains just as stunning as ever. The turquoise waters, the white sandy beaches, the breeze, it all makes for an incredibly relaxing escape.
Sipping champagne while cruising on a speedboat under the blue sky, I finally understand the joy of slowing down and savoring the moment. What surprised me most is how little has changed. The atmosphere is still vibrant, and the energy of the place is just as warm and inviting.
There are still plenty of Western tourists around, and people seem genuinely friendly. If you're traveling solo like I was, you'll likely meet some interesting people along the way, it’s easy to strike up conversations and make connections here.
Pattaya might not have transformed much over the past decade, but that's part of its charm. It’s still a place where you can forget the noise of daily life and just... breathe."
YUUKI SUGIYAMA
"One of the most Beautiful island near Pattaya.
You can do all types of water activities here and enjoy the beach.
We took a package for 2500 baht which included 4 rides - Paragliding, Under Sea Walk, Banana Boat Ride and Jet Ski Ride.
It was all a great experience.
You must experience all these activities once."
Sparsh Goyal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Koh Larn Island from Pattaya by taking a ferry from Bali Hai Pier or by hiring a speedboat. The ferry is the most economical option, taking about 30-45 minutes, while speedboats are faster but more expensive. Many visitors opt for the ferry for its affordability and scenic journey.
Ferries to Koh Larn typically run from early morning until late afternoon. While schedules can vary, they generally depart every hour or so from Bali Hai Pier. It's advisable to check the latest schedule upon arrival at the pier, as timings can change.
The ferry to Koh Larn from Pattaya is very affordable, usually costing around 30 Thai Baht per person for a one-way trip. This makes it an extremely budget-friendly way to access the island.
Yes, Koh Larn is easily accessible from Bangkok. You can travel to Pattaya first (by bus or taxi, approximately 2 hours) and then take a ferry or speedboat to Koh Larn.
The ferry is a larger, slower, and much cheaper option, ideal for budget travelers. Speedboats are significantly faster, offering a quicker journey to the island, but come at a higher cost.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the ferry to Koh Larn are typically purchased at the pier on the day of travel. For speedboats or organized tours, booking in advance might be recommended, especially during peak season.
Generally, there are no specific entrance fees for the main beaches on Koh Larn. You pay for transportation to the island and then for any activities or food you consume.
Koh Larn is accessible throughout the day. Ferries operate from early morning until late afternoon. While there are accommodations on the island, most visitors treat it as a day trip destination.
Yes, various Koh Larn island tour packages are available, often including speedboat transfers and a selection of water activities. These can be booked through tour operators in Pattaya.
Renting a scooter is a popular and convenient way to explore Koh Larn at your own pace. Alternatively, you can use songthaews (shared taxis) or hire a motorbike taxi.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Samae Beach is known for its beauty and amenities, Tawaen Beach is the most popular with lots of activities, and Nuan Beach offers a more tranquil experience.
Koh Larn offers a wide array of water activities including snorkeling, parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and sea walking.
Yes, snorkeling in Koh Larn can be good, especially around the coral reefs. Some areas offer clearer visibility and more marine life than others.
Absolutely! Koh Larn has numerous restaurants and food stalls, especially along the beaches, offering fresh seafood and local Thai dishes.
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, cash, and a waterproof bag for your electronics.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of Thai dishes, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood. Grilled squid, prawns, and fish are popular choices, often available at beachfront restaurants.
Yes, besides the beachfront restaurants, there are local food stalls and a night market near the pier offering more budget-friendly meals.
While seafood is prevalent, most Thai restaurants can prepare vegetarian versions of dishes like Pad Thai or green curry upon request. It's best to communicate your dietary needs clearly.
Prices can vary, with beachfront restaurants being more expensive than local eateries or market stalls. Expect to pay reasonable prices for a day trip destination.
Absolutely! The seafood is a highlight for many visitors, offering fresh catches prepared in delicious Thai styles.
📸 📸 Photography
The beaches themselves, especially during sunrise or sunset, offer stunning backdrops. Look for viewpoints along the coast and colorful longtail boats.
Yes, the clear turquoise waters, white sand, and lush greenery provide ample opportunities for beautiful photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday can be harsh for photography.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in Thailand. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone on Koh Larn.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing beach landscapes, while a waterproof camera or phone case is useful for water activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
day-trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Koh Larn's Beaches
For a more serene experience, Nuan Beach (also known as Monkey Beach) offers a quieter escape. While it might have fewer amenities, its natural beauty and calmer waters are perfect for unwinding. Be aware that you might encounter some of the island's resident monkeys here, so keep your belongings secure.
Adventures on the Water
Other exciting options include banana boat rides, where you can hold on tight as you're pulled across the water, and sea walking, an underwater adventure that allows you to walk on the seabed and get up close with marine creatures.
Getting Around the Island
Alternatively, songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) operate on fixed routes, offering a more communal and budget-friendly way to travel between the main beaches and piers. You can also hire motorbike taxis for shorter distances or if you prefer not to drive yourself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit