If you are looking for a breathtaking beach destination, Koh Larn in Thailand should be high on your list. This is a popular day trip from Pattaya and Bangkok, and the Koh Larn beaches here are among the most picturesque in the country.
The is tiny, and you can explore all the beaches on Koh Larn in only 1 day driving a scooter, from Samae Beach to the massive Tawaen Beach. Are you after a beautiful and relaxing beach to relax on during your trip to Koh Larn?
If so, these stunning beaches offer stunning views, gentle waves, and plenty of space to spread out and soak up the sun. Let’s jump right into it!
Where is Koh Larn?
Koh Larn is an island that sits off the coast of Pattaya and is roughly 7.5km from the shoreline. The island is a perfect spot for either making it a day trip for relaxing or spending many days at a stretch to visit.
How to Get to Koh Larn?
Starting from Bangkok, you can take the bus from Ekamai bus station to Pattaya at any time, costing as little as 120 baht per person and leaving every 30 minutes from 6.00 am onwards. The journey from Bangkok to Pattaya only takes about 2 hours by bus.
Alternatively, you can fly from any part of Thailand to Pattaya U- Tapao International Airport, and then make way to Bali Hai Pier. This pier is the starting point for most of the ships in Pattaya.
Once you arrive at the Bali Hai Pier, there are 2 ways to get to Koh Larn – by ferry or by speed boat.
By Ferry:
The ferry is the cheapest way to reach Koh Larn. It is only 30 baht per person and goes every 30 minutes or so. The trip takes approximately 1 hour.
By Speed Boat:
The speed boat costs 150 baht per person and you will get there in 30 minutes. Just like the ferry, the boat to Pattaya is often full and will leave only after it is just about or ask set to leave, which happens every 30 minutes or so.
Do note that there is no fixed schedule for both ways and no counter to buy tickets in Bali Hai Pier. Get inside the pier, and you will find vendors selling tickets for the speed boat.
For the ferry, continue to the last corner of the pier, pay the staff, and get on the ferry.
With a Tour from Bangkok or Pattaya
The last option is to take a tour from Bangkok or Pattaya.
If you’re taking a tour from Bangkok, you’ll take a bus to Pattaya’s Bali Hai pier, and then a ferry to Koh Larn. The journey takes about two hours.
If you’re taking a tour from Pattaya, you will take a speedboat from Bali Hai Pier, which takes about 30 minutes. Once you’re on the island, you can enjoy the beaches of Koh Larn, go snorkeling, and explore around the island.
How to Get Around in Koh Larn?
The easiest way to way to hop around Koh Larn is by renting a motorbike. Renting one for a day will cost you around 250 baht. There are no cars on the island, so get that automotive nostalgia off your mind and pick up a fun ride like a motorbike!
Alternatives include taking part in a day trip around Koh Larn. A tour guide will take you everywhere around the island, which is the most convenient option.
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Top Beaches in Koh Larn
If you’re after a chill, exciting day ahead on the island, then exploring all the best Koh Larn beaches is a must. These beaches are some of the most stunning in all of Thailand, and they offer plenty of activities to keep you busy, including swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Let’s get started and go through all the beaches in Koh Larn, the facilities, and the activities to keep you busy during the day.
Samae Beach (Pattaya Beach)
Samae Beach, also referred to as Pattaya Beach, is among the best beaches on the island with amazing sand and clear waters, giving us an impression like in movies.
Besides, it is fairly priced and offers a variety of food & drinks and even lounge chairs that you can rent all with care for 100 baht a day!
You’ll also have access to gear like snorkeling equipment available if needed, and several seafood restaurants to enjoy – the perfect way to make your trip even more enjoyable.
Facilities at Samae Beach
- Cafes
- Restaurants
- Toilet – 10 baht
- Shower – 30 baht
- Parking Lot – Free
- Xanadu Beach Resort
- Beach sellers offering manicures and massage
- Lounge Chairs with Umbrella – 100 baht per person
Activities at Samae Beach
- Jet Ski
- Snorkeling
- Sunbathing
- Banana Boat – 450 baht
READ MORE: Samae Beach Travel Guide
Tawaen Beach
During my visit to Koh Larn, I used to visit Tawaen Beach several times to get some sun and chill. The biggest and most lively beach I know of that has bars, trendy spots, and surfing!
Several fun activities in the water are available, such as kayaking, which allows you to take in some natural scenery while paddling along for a day while swimming.
While sitting at the beach, just take a walk or sit back and get ready for when you are hungry to enjoy a meal. You can also get a snack at 7-Eleven, which is located right on Tawaen Beach.
Facilities at Tawaen Beach
- Cafes
- 7-Eleven
- Restaurants
- Toilet – 10 baht
- Shower – 50 baht
- Parking Lot – Free
- Lounge Chairs with Umbrella – 100 baht per person
Activities at Tawaen Beach
- Jet Ski
- Snorkeling
- Sunbathing
- Parasailing
- Paragliding
- Banana Boat
READ MORE: Tawaen Beach Complete Guide
Sangwan Beach
If you’re looking to have a peaceful small beach on Koh Larn, stop over here, Sang Wan is the best option for you.
Sangwan Beach: The small and calm white sand beach with a gentle slope. There is good water quality, and the beach is less crowded as compared to Samae Beach, which means more relaxation.
They offer only two food items here – the cafes give you a good option or you head upstairs to the tree house itself.
I recommend taking a swim ring in a cool shape (like a unicorn or a donut) for only 100 baht, you will love the unique float; it’ll make your day much more fun.
My suggestion is to stick around until sunset. Enjoy this tranquil moment where you get to click amazing shots without people; it’s a good time to be alive, isn’t it?
Facilities at Sangwan Beach
- Bar
- Toilet
- Swim Rings
- Changing Rooms
- Parking Lot – Free
- Lounge Chairs with Umbrella
Activities at Sangwan Beach
- Snorkeling
- Sunbathing
- Eating Fresh Seafood
READ MORE: Sangwan Beach Complete Guide
Tien Beach
It is one of the prettiest beaches and is located in the far south of the island, offering a crystal-clear ocean that can’t be found as often as here. Have trouble describing how soft the sand is on the feet after walking back and forth all day?
If you feel hungry when walking from the parking to the beach, you will see a lady who is selling some fresh fruit; take some watermelon or a dragon fruit for 20 baht only!
Facilities at Tien Beach
- Cafes
- Restaurants
- Tiennara Hotel
- Parking Lot – Free
- Toilet – 10 baht
- Shower – 30 baht
- Towel Rental – 50 baht
- Lounge Chairs with Umbrella – 100 baht per person
Activities at Tien Beach
- Jet Ski
- Snorkeling
- Sunbathing
- Banana Boat
- Play with the Geese (so many of them!)
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Ta Yai Beach
Koh Larn pier is just a few minutes away from Ta Yai Beach. Hence, it’s a small beach with only a few people. You’ll see a big parking place to park your scooter and also Matata Bay Café at few hundred meters for having coffee and delicious cake.
Well, in a word, come to Ta Yai in the morning, you can bathe in the sun and the sea, and don’t forget to take photos on one of the best beaches in Koh Larn.
Facilities at Ta Yai Beach
- Cafes
- Restaurants
- Toilet – 20 baht
- Shower – 50 baht
- Parking Lot – Free
- Lounge Chairs with Umbrella – 100 baht per person
Activities at Ta Yai Beach
- Snorkeling
- Sunbathing
READ MORE: Ta Yai Beach Complete Guide
Tong Lang Beach
Located on the northeastern tip of the Western coast of Koh Larn after Tawarn Beach, Tonglang Beach is a relatively small but very beautiful beach.
Here, you can go on banana boat, take a drink at the café or do Parasailing. I liked Tong Lang Beach but it was pretty crowded at sunset. My personal recommendation is to come here during the day but have your sunset at other beaches, like Tawaen Beach or Samae Beach.
Facilities at Tong Lang Beach
- Cafes
- Restaurants
- Toilet – 10 baht
- Shower – 30 baht
- Xanadu Beach Resort
- Beach sellers offering manicures and massage
- Lounge Chairs with Umbrella – 100 baht per person
Facilities at Tong Lang Beach
- Jet Ski
- Snorkeling
- Parasailing
- Sunbathing
- Banana Boat
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Koh Larn Beaches – FAQ
Lastly for this guide is a section about Koh Larn as a whole, which could be helpful if that’s your first time visiting, so make sure to give it a read.
Is Koh Larn Worth Visiting?
Yes, Koh Larn is 100% worth it. It is a stunning island escape that is accessible by ferry within a short distance of Pattaya.
Despite being a well-known tourist destination, Koh Larn still feels like a hidden gem. You can go on nature walks at secluded coves, snorkel at nearby coral reefs, or enjoy the views before relaxing in a hammock with a good book.
There’s also plenty of delicious seafood to enjoy, as well as fresh, affordable coconuts. You can explore Koh Larn with great expectation, as you definitely won’t be disappointed.
Is Koh Larn Expensive?
Koh Larn is less expensive than most of the islands. I found guesthouses for as little as 500 Baht nightly, whole meals cost less than 100 baht.
So, if you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy some beautiful beaches, Koh Larn is a fantastic option.
Where to Stay in Koh Larn?
It’s a good idea to book a hotel or a guest house near Na Baan Pier; you will arrive from the Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya. Most visitors stay here and you can easily find scooter rentals to explore around the island.
How Long to Stay in Koh Larn?
You can enjoy Koh Larn in 3 days. You’re going to want to spend at least 3 days checking out the best beaches in Koh Larn, viewpoints and restaurants.
More Thailand Travel Guides
- Koh Larn Complete Travel Guide
- Best Day Trips from Bangkok
- Best Tours to Ayutthaya from Bangkok
- Awesome Day Trips from Chiang Mai
- 15 Incredible Things to Do in Krabi
- Thailand Itinerary for 1 Week to 1 Month
- 11 Incredible Things to Do in Chiang Mai
- How to Get to Doi Suthep from Chiang Mai
Conclusion – Beaches in Koh Larn
As one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, and I couldn’t recommend a relaxing day to Koh Larn enough!
The beaches on Koh Larn are crystal clear, offering pristine water and sandy shores that rival anything found in the Bahamas. I explored all these different beaches and my experience was so good that I want to go back again soon. And you?
