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Island Hopping Adventures: Discovering Nearby Retreats

Explore stunning islands near Pattaya, including Koh Larn, Koh Sak, Koh Phai, and Koh Si Chang. Each island offers unique activities and breathtaking scenery for a perfect day trip.

Island Hopping Adventures: Discovering Nearby Retreats

Last updated: February 2026

Easy island escapes from Pattaya with clear water, beach time, and simple transport options.

Beach on Koh Larn Island
Koh Larn beach — Photo by Uwe Aranas on Wikimedia Commons.

This day trip focuses on nearby islands that feel like a reset button. Most visitors choose Koh Larn, but you can also add quick boat trips to smaller islets or spend the day snorkeling.

Route at a Glance

Morning

  • Ferry or speedboat to Koh Larn
  • Start at Tawaen or Samae Beach

Midday

  • Beach lunch + snorkeling
  • Optional beach hop by scooter

Afternoon

  • Visit Tien or Nual Beach
  • Sunset viewpoint photos

Return

  • Last ferry around 6:30 PM
  • Back in Pattaya for dinner
View of Koh Larn coastline
Koh Larn coastline — Photo by Jakub Korbel on Wikimedia Commons.

Island Options

Koh Larn (Coral Island)

The main day-trip island with ferries, beaches, and lots of services.

Koh Sak / Koh Krok

Smaller islets sometimes visited on snorkeling or private boat tours.

Beach hopping on Koh Larn

Tawaen, Samae, Tien, and Nual each feel different — try 2-3 in one day.

Snorkeling add-on

Short boat rides take you to clearer water and coral zones.

Getting There

Public ferry

  • Departs from Bali Hai Pier.
  • ~45 minutes travel time.
  • Very low cost.

Speedboat

  • 15-20 minutes travel time.
  • Shared or private options.
  • Flexible timing.

Tip: Buy a return ticket or ask for the last ferry time when you arrive.

Costs & Tips

Typical costs

  • Ferry: around ฿30 each way.
  • Speedboat: ~฿150-200 per person (shared).
  • Beach chair: ~฿50-100.

Quick tips

  • Bring cash for beach vendors.
  • Weekdays are less crowded.
  • Book snorkeling on arrival if you want it.

Questions?

Ask our community for updated ferry times, snorkeling tips, and best beaches.

Ask on the Forums →

Photo credits
  • • Koh Larn beach — Uwe Aranas (Wikimedia Commons)
  • • Koh Larn coastline — Jakub Korbel (Wikimedia Commons)

Highlights

  • Snorkeling at Koh Larn's Nual Beach
  • Tranquil beaches of Koh Sak
  • Pristine waters of Koh Phai
  • Historical sites at Koh Si Chang
  • Fresh seafood dining options
  • Water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides
  • Breathtaking sunset views
  • Exploring secluded spots on each island

Trip Info

From Pattaya
View on Google Maps

How to Get There

Ferries and speedboats depart from Bali Hai Pier for Koh Larn, while Koh Sak and Koh Phai require speedboat charters. Koh Si Chang can be reached by ferry from Sri Racha.

Best Time to Visit

November to February

Pro Tips

Bring sunscreen, snacks, and water, especially for remote islands. Start early to avoid crowds and maximize your beach time.