Ditch the City: Explore these 5 Islands in Pattaya

This guide explores the islands accessible from Pattaya, catering to every type of traveller. It covers popular islands like Koh Samet and Koh Larn, which are ideal for water sports and nightlife, alongside unique destinations like the monkey-filled Koh Klet Kaew. For those desiring tranquillity, the blog highlights the offbeat Koh Kudee and the majestic, jungle-clad Koh Chang. With essential travel tips on transport, entry fees, and the best times to visit, this guide helps plan the ultimate island-hopping experience!

From energetic nightlife to bustling street markets, Pattaya has everything to offer. For those who crave the rhythmic sounds of the waves or getting sand in their slippers, the real adventure begins offshore. Exploring the surrounding archipelagos is a vital part of Pattaya sightseeing, offering a refreshing contrast to the mainland's urban pace. If you need a relaxing getaway from the main city or enjoy water sports, embark on island trips from Pattaya.

 

Best Islands in Pattaya

Escape the tall skyscrapers and visit these five islands near Pattaya: -

• Koh Samet
• Koh Larn
• Koh Klet Kaew
• Koh Kudee
• Koh Chang

Koh Samet

Distance from Pattaya: 74km
Best time to visit: November to February.
Total journey: 2 to 2.5 hours
Avoid: Overpriced tours on the beach. Book a national park-certified day trip tour from the main pier instead.
Entry Fee: 200 Thai Baht

Known for its clear blue waters, white sand, and colourful coral reefs, Koh Samet is the best island near Pattaya. You can hop onto a ferry or a boat at Nuan Thip Pier in Ban Phe to reach Koh Samet. And to reach the pier, tourists can get on a bus from the city.

Kho Samet comes alive at night through rave parties, fire juggling shows, and beachside barbecue. Most loud parties take place on Hat Sai Kaew. If you go down south, the beach becomes quieter. It’s home to several resorts catering to couples and families who want a relaxing beach stay.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Koh Samet

• Most of the island is covered by dense forest and rocky terrain.
• Avoid visiting Koh Samet between March and June, as the temperature is hot, and travelling becomes uncomfortable.
• The island is crowded most of the year, especially on weekends. Visitors are advised to book their accommodation and ferry tickets in advance.
• Boats and ferries can be availed at Nuan Thip Pier in Ban Phe to reach Koh Samet.
• Thrill seekers can enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving at Koh Samet. These activities can be booked in advance.
• To get around the island, you can rent out small golf carts and motorcycles. But there are no paved roads in some parts of the island, so you will have to traverse on foot.

 

Koh Larn

Distance from Pattaya: 7km west of Bali Hai Pier of Pattaya.
Total journey: 30 to 60 minutes
Best time to visit: November to February
Avoid: Swimming during the busiest parts of the day, especially if you’re a weak swimmer. Boat traffic and shallow hard corals may lead to injuries.
Entry Fee: Free; you pay for the transport

Koh Larn is a gorgeous island close to Pattaya. Also called the coral island, it comprises mountainous terrain with lush green vegetation on the ground. Tourists can enjoy water sports like jet skiing and parasailing and end their day with delicious seafood.

Some Pattaya tour packages will include a visit to the Koh Larn Buddha Temple. You’ll have to climb a long flight of stairs to reach the temple. From the top, you’ll be mesmerised by the view of the beach and lush green vegetation.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Koh Larn

• People can enjoy activities like parasailing, banana boating, underwater sea walking, and jet skiing. Prices range from 300 to 1,200 Thai Baht, depending on the duration and the activity.
• You can reach the island through a speedboat along the Bali Hai pier, which takes 15 to 20 minutes. Charges for the speedboat will depend on the number of travellers. Operating time is 9 am to 4:30 pm.
• The Larn ferry takes 40 to 45 minutes to reach the island. It halts at Na Ban pier and Tawaen pier during the trip. The fee is THB 30 per person and operates from 7 am to 7:30 pm.
• You can rent a motorbike taxi or a baht bus to travel across Coral Island. It’s advised to conduct a thorough inspection before renting a motorbike.
• Carry your IDs with you if you’re planning to rent a motorbike at Koh Larn.
• Pack extra towels and carry swimsuits, flip flops, and sunglasses in your waterproof bag.

 

Koh Klet Kaew

Distance from Pattaya: 30km
Total journey: 8+ hours (Flight and boat distance combined)
Best time to visit: November to February
Avoid: Do not enter forbidden areas near rocky or restricted area beaches. They may be privately owned.
Entry Fee: No entry fee, you pay for the transport

Home to monkeys, Koh Khelt Kaew is one of the most visited islands in Pattaya. It goes by many names, including Koh Ling (Thai for “Monkey Island”), Koh Ped (“Duck Island”) and the official name: Koh Klet Kaew. Monkeys living on this island have become accustomed to human contact due to their daily visits.

In addition to the monkeys, the island offers clear waters and a great spot for hiking. It’s less crowded than the other islands in Pattaya. This island covers 24 hectares, and is shaped like a slender “crystal shard”. It’s best for short sightseeing, family-friendly wildlife watching, and a quick photo session.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Koh Klet Kaew

• Don’t carry open plastic bags or loose food; monkeys can snatch them.
• Avoid making direct eye contact or making sudden movements. Do not feed them junk food.
• Carry cash in Thai baht for shopping and food.
• The island is small, and the visits last 1 to 2 hours.
• Koh Klet Kaew lies just off the Sattahip/Bang Saray coast and can be reached by a speedboat from Pattaya, Jomtien, or nearby piers in 15 to 30 minutes.
• Private speedboats are expensive but give you flexibility in terms of route and time.

 

Koh Kudee

Distance from Pattaya: 80km
Total journey: 6 to 7 hours
Best time to visit: November to February
Avoid: Unlicensed boat tours promising free seats or discounted prices. Book only from registered operators from the main pier.
Entry Fee: Free; you only pay for the transport.

For a peaceful and offbeat option, tourists can make a trip to Koh Kudee. It is a small island with no large resorts or busy crowds, making it one of the best islands in Pattaya.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Koh Kudee

• Koh Kudee is the best island near Pattaya for a nature-focused vibe.
• It’s far from central Pattaya; it lies near the Rayong Province. Due to the travel time, most tourists spend the entire day on the island.
• Snorkelling at Koh Kudee is beginner-friendly. Tourists can unwind by swimming and getting some beach time away from the crowds.
• As compared to other islands near Pattaya, Koh Kudee is less developed. It’s relatively peaceful with no big resorts and nightlife.
• Pack for a full-day boat trip. It can take 7 to 8 hours to reach Koh Kudee, so pack your essentials accordingly.
• Facilities are limited on the island. Picture it as an ultra-chill nature trip rather than resort comfort.

 

Koh Chang

Distance from Pattaya: 260 to 270km by bus and ferry
Total journey: 4 to 7 hours
Best time to visit: November to March
Avoid: Renting motorbikes if you’re a weak rider; the island has steep hills, narrow roads, and fast traffic.
Entry Fee: Free

Koh Chang is one of the best islands in Pattaya, thanks to its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and jungles, ideal if you’re into hiking. Also known as the Elephant island, Koh Chang is home to many wildlife animals, including snakes, elephants, birds, and deer.

Besides its quiet beaches, Koh Chang has a wild nightlife. There are several cafes and pubs on the island; Casamarina is the best for live music and sports screenings. Lonely Beach is known for its full moon and half moon parties that go on till dawn. One of the things to do in Pattaya beach is shopping for handicrafts like paintings, antiques, and scarves.

Since Koh Chang is slightly far from Pattaya, stay overnight on the island. Relax in the morning and dance to music at the bar.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Koh Chang

• Don’t assume the whole island is pristine; some beaches get crowded, so pick quieter spots if you want cleaner nature.
• Skip cheap‑looking bars or clubs that offer “too‑good‑to‑be‑true” deals on drinks or tours; these can be scams or overpriced experiences.
• The main tourism strip runs along White Sand Beach (Hat Sai Khao), which has the most bars, restaurants, and mid‑range resorts.
• Carry enough cash with you. ATMs are present, but they’re clustered on the main roads. Smaller resorts may not accept cards.
• Drink bottled water and carry medicines with you in case you fall sick.
• Stick to licensed bars and follow local rules on fire and drones.

By planning your island trips from Pattaya with the right transport and timing, you can ensure a seamless transition from city life to coastal bliss. So, pack your waterproof bag, don your sunglasses, and discover why these islands remain the sparkling jewels of the Gulf.

 

FAQs

Q1. How many islands are present near Pattaya?

There isn’t an official count. But there are several small to medium islands clustered within easy boat-trip distance of the city. The immediate group just off Pattaya includes Ko Lan (Coral Island), Ko Sak, Ko Krok, Ko Phai (Bamboo Island), Ko Rin, and Ko Khram, plus a few smaller rocky islets.

 

Q2. Which are the most popular islands near Pattaya?

There are many great options for island trips from Pattaya, each offering a different vibe. Popular choices include Ko Lan, Koh Kudee, Ko Krok, Ko Phai, Ko Rin, Ko Khram, and Koh Samet. All these islands are easily accessible by boat and are perfect for activities like snorkelling, sunbathing, and enjoying sea-view dining.

 

Q3. Do I need to book island tours in advance?

Yes, it’s advisable to book day tours and ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season (November to March). During off-season, you can book island tours on the spot. But pre-booking helps in securing better packages and speedboat time slots.

 

Q4. Which island is close to Pattaya?

The closest island to Pattaya is Koh Larn (also known as Coral Island), located about 7 km offshore from Pattaya Beach. It takes 15 to 20 minutes by speedboat ride and 20 to 40 minutes by a public ferry. It’s ideal if you want to spend time on an island without leaving Pattaya for the whole day.

 

Q5. Can families and solo travellers visit islands near Pattaya?

Yes, most beaches are completely safe for families and solo travellers during the day. These beaches have calm waters, and lifeguards patrol the area. Families and solo travellers can enjoy water sports and do island hopping without leaving Pattaya.