🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Plenty of people come to Pattaya and end up disappointed by the water along the main beach, but the pretty sea is over at Koh Larn, just a 7-kilometre boat ride out. The island has around 6 main beaches, each with its own feel. Some are loaded with water sports, others are quiet enough to just lie around. This plan picks 3 beaches you can comfortably cover in a single day, with the timing worked out so you make the return boat.
Check before you go
The sea on this side can turn rough with the wind. During the monsoon (roughly May to October) the wind and waves pick up and some boat runs get cancelled. Check the forecast the night before you travel. If there's heavy rain or a big swell, push your trip to another day rather than forcing it. A rocking boat and cloudy water take all the fun out of it.
Where to catch the boat, and what it costs
Boats to Koh Larn leave from Bali Hai Pier, at the far end of Walking Street. It's the one main pier, with 2 kinds of boats to choose from: the big ferry (a standard passenger boat) costs 30 THB per person per trip and takes about 40–45 minutes, or a speedboat that's faster, getting there in roughly 15 minutes, but costs a lot more at around 150–300 THB per person, or 1,000–1,500 THB to charter the whole boat and get dropped right at the beach you want.
- Ferry, 30 THB/trip — pay at the pier, no advance booking, sit back and enjoy the view on the way over. Best value for a relaxed trip.
- Speedboat, 150–300 THB/person — fast, drops you at the beach. Worth it if you're a group splitting a charter, or you're short on time.
- Fares are per trip — you pay each way, so budget around 60 THB/person round trip on the ferry.
- Two destination piers — Na Baan Pier is the island's main pier, and Tawaen Beach Pier drops you right at the beach. Pick based on where you want to start.
On seasonal pricing
Boat fares and rental rates can creep up with fuel costs and long holiday weekends. The numbers here are rough prices for early 2026. On long weekends it gets crowded, boats fill fast, so budget extra time to queue.
Book the activities in your Pattaya trip ahead
Booking online ahead on Klook or GetYourGuide is usually cheaper than the gate and skips the queue. Pick only the experiences you actually want — prices and availability are shown live on each site.
Ferry schedule (time it well before you plan)
The ferry runs several times from morning to evening, but the return runs are limited. The one thing you can't miss is the last ferry back. Miss it and you'll have to charter a speedboat back at your own expense, which is pricey. Get to the pier around 20–30 minutes before departure to be safe, especially on holidays.
- Na Baan Pier — outbound roughly 07:00 / 10:00 / 12:00 / 14:00 / 15:30 / 17:00 / 18:30
- Na Baan Pier — return roughly 06:30 / 07:30 / 09:30 / 12:00 / 14:00 / 15:30 / 17:00 / 18:00
- Tawaen Beach Pier — outbound roughly 08:00 / 09:00 / 11:00 / 13:00
- Tawaen Beach Pier — return roughly 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00 / 16:00 / 17:00
- Heads up — the schedule can shift with the season and weather. Double-check with staff at the pier, especially the last return run.
Getting around the island
Koh Larn isn't big, but the beaches are spread across different sides, too far to walk, so you'll need some transport. There are 3 main options. Pick based on how many of you there are and how confident you are behind the handlebars.
Songthaew (shared pickup)
Runs between Na Baan Pier and the main beaches, around 20–40 THB/person depending on distance. Na Baan to Tawaen is about 30 THB. You share the ride with others, so it's the cheapest option, but you may wait a while for one to fill.
Motorbike taxi
Faster, and it reaches the smaller beaches songthaews don't go to. Around 30–50 THB/person depending on distance. Good when you don't feel like waiting.
Rent a motorbike
Most freedom, around 200 THB/day (some spots charge 100 THB/hour). But the island roads climb some steep hills, so if you're not used to it, don't push your luck. Wear a helmet every time.
If you're riding yourself, be careful
The island roads have several steep climbs and tight bends. If you're not used to riding a motorbike, it's easy to lose control. If you're not confident, a songthaew or motorbike taxi is safer. And check the brakes and fuel before you head out, every time.
The one-day plan — 3 beaches and back in time for the boat
This plan is built around going out in the morning and coming back in the evening, using the ferry as the main ride. Start at the liveliest beach, then work your way to the quieter ones, and finish by getting back to the pier in time. If you'd rather change the order of the beaches, go ahead and adjust it to suit you.
Catch the boat + Tawaen Beach
Lunch + Samae Beach
Nual Beach + back to the mainland
Which beach to pick if you're short on time
Tawaen Beach
The most popular beach, with clear water, fine white sand, a full lineup of water sports, restaurants, umbrellas, and chairs. The downside is the crowds and the bustle on weekends. If it's your first time, start here.
Samae Beach
A beach about 300 metres long, quieter than Tawaen, with clear water and clean sand. There are beachfront resorts, and it's good for lounging and snorkelling without the chaos. A solid middle-ground pick.
Nual Beach
On the south side of the island, with few people and a peaceful feel, good for anyone wanting to escape the crowds. It photographs well, but there are fewer shops and amenities, so bring water and snacks just in case.
Tien Beach
A beach on the southwest side, about 700 metres long, with coral much like Tawaen and a pretty wooden walkway in places. Good for snorkelling without the heavy crowds.
Sangwan Beach
A small beach with clear water and not many people, close to Na Baan Pier and easy to walk to. Good for a quick stop before or after your boat.
What to prep + what to pack
- Water-resistant sunscreen + hat + sunglasses — the sea sun is strong, especially around midday.
- Cash — many shops on the island don't take cards, and boat and songthaew fares are cash only.
- Snorkel mask — bringing your own is cheaper than renting, if you're set on seeing the coral.
- Waterproof pouch for your phone and documents — for the spray on the boat and time in the water.
- Drinking water + snacks — the smaller beaches have few shops, so it's reassuring to bring your own.
Enjoy Pattaya, but keep your wits about you
Pattaya has nightlife districts like Walking Street, which sits right next to Bali Hai Pier. If you're heading out at night, keep your wits about you, drink in moderation, and look after your valuables. Don't leave your wallet or phone out of reach. Always agree on the price for any service before you use it, so there are no problems later.
Rough budget per person
Boat fare round trip around 60 THB + getting around the island around 100–150 THB + meals around 200–400 THB + water sports (if you do them) another few hundred. All in, expect to spend around 500–1,000 THB/person today, depending on how many activities you do.
Want a well-placed Pattaya hotel near the beach and the pier?
See the Top 10 Pattaya Hotels →