One Day in Koh Larn – The Perfect Island Escape from Pattaya
Just a short ferry ride from Pattaya lies Koh Larn (Coral Island) – a tropical gem known for its clear blue waters, fine white-sand beaches, and laid-back island vibe . In one day, you can snorkel vibrant reefs, zoom around on a motorbike, relax on pristine beaches, savor Thai seafood at a seaside café, and still be back in Pattaya by sunset. Below is a complete 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM itinerary with ferry info, beach-hopping plans, water sports, scenic viewpoints, and cafe stops to make your Koh Larn day trip truly unforgettable.
Why Visit Koh Larn (Coral Island)?
Koh Larn is a tropical paradise off the coast of Pattaya, often called Coral Island for its rich marine life. Despite being just 7 km from the city, it feels a world away from Pattaya’s buzz . Travelers love Koh Larn for its turquoise seas and soft sands, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling among colorful coral and fish . More adventurous visitors can enjoy thrilling water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides . Yet, the island remains peaceful and relaxing, with a cleaner, quieter atmosphere than the mainland . You’ll find cheap seafood stalls and cafes on the beach, friendly locals, and plenty of Instagram-worthy views. In short, Koh Larn offers the idyllic Thai island experience – clear waters, water sports, fresh seafood, and serene sunsets – all conveniently reachable as a day trip .
Getting to Koh Larn from Pattaya (By 8:00 AM)
Start your day early to catch the first ferry and maximize your island time. Head to Bali Hai Pier (at the south end of Walking Street in Pattaya) by 6:40–6:45 AM. At the pier, buy a ฿30 ticket for the public ferry to Koh Larn – no advance booking needed, just pay on the spot. The first ferry departs at 7:00 AM and takes about 40–45 minutes to reach the island . Ferries run hourly or so until late afternoon (usually from ~7:00 AM to ~6:00 PM) , but the 7:00 AM boat ensures you’ll arrive by around 7:45–8:00 AM at Koh Larn, ready for a full day of fun. (Tip: Get to Bali Hai Pier at least 15 minutes early, especially on weekends, to snag a good seat!)
Most ferries land at either Na Baan Pier (the main village) or Tawaen Beach Pier. 🛥️ For this itinerary, try to arrive at Tawaen Pier by 8:00 AM, as it puts you right on a beach to start the day. Either way, enjoy the scenic ride over the Gulf of Thailand as the Pattaya skyline recedes and Koh Larn’s green hills come into view.
Getting Around Koh Larn
Koh Larn is a small island (about 4 km long), making it easy to explore in a day. Once you arrive, you have two fun options to get around:
🏍️ Rent a Motorbike: The most flexible way to explore. Right near the pier, you’ll find locals renting scooters for about ฿200–฿300 per day (fuel sometimes included or a small extra cost). Driving is fairly easy – there’s one main road looping the island. This allows you to beach-hop at your own pace. (Helmet up and drive carefully on the hilly roads!)
🚐 Hop on a Songthaew (Baht Bus): If you prefer not to drive, look for the blue pickup-truck taxis waiting at the pier. These shared songthaews have fixed routes to the main beaches and cost around ฿20–฿40 per persondepending on the distance . Just tell the driver which beach you’re headed to (they often wait until a few people are on board). It’s a cheap and sociable way to get around.
Both options are readily available as soon as you step off the ferry. By 8:15 AM, you should be on a bike or bus, ready to hit the beaches!
One-Day Koh Larn Itinerary Overview
To help plan your day, here’s a quick-glance schedule of the itinerary:
7:00 AM | Ferry from Pattaya (Bali Hai Pier) to Koh Larn (30 THB, ~45 min) . |
8:00 AM | Arrive Koh Larn (Tawaen Pier). Grab a coffee, rent a motorbike (or hop on songthaew) . |
8:30 AM | Tien Beach – Morning swim & snorkeling on a quiet, beautiful beach . |
10:30 AM | Big Buddha Viewpoint – Ride up for panoramic island views and photos . |
12:00 PM | Lunch at Sea Space Café – Seaside lunch with stunning ocean views (Instagrammable spot!) . |
1:30 PM | Tawaen Beach – Afternoon on the island’s liveliest beach: water sports, swimming, relaxing on beach chairs . |
3:30 PM | Coffee or Snack (Optional) – If time permits, quick stop at a cute café (e.g. Maharak Cafe) for a last treat . |
5:00 PM | Ferry back to Pattaya – Depart Koh Larn (Tawaen Pier) to Bali Hai Pier (arrive ~5:45–6:00 PM) . |
8:00 AM – Arrive at Koh Larn (Tawaen Pier) & Island Kick-Off
Stepping off the ferry around 8:00 AM, you’ll be greeted by crystal-clear water and a soft sandy shore right at Tawaen Beach, Koh Larn’s largest and most popular beach. The island air is fresh, and the vibe is immediately relaxing. Before rushing off, take a moment to soak in the view of palm trees and turquoise water – you’ve officially escaped the city!
At the pier, you’ll find a few stalls where locals sell Thai iced coffee, fresh coconut juice, and snacks – a quick pick-me-up if you need it . Many day-trippers pause here for a cold drink while arranging transport.
Next, pick up your motorbike rental from one of the vendors by the pier (look for signs advertising bike rental). Negotiate ~฿200 for the day , don a helmet, and you’re ready to ride. If scooters aren’t your thing, hop on a waiting songthaewheading toward Tien Beach (tell the driver “Hat Tien”). The ride should only take about 10–15 minutes over the hill.
Why Tien Beach first? In the morning, Tawaen Beach is still quiet, but it will get busier later. We’ll come back here in the afternoon when you’re ready for lunch or water sports. For now, it’s best to head to one of the quieter beaches to enjoy a peaceful morning swim.
8:30 AM – Morning Snorkeling at Tien Beach
Tien Beach (Hat Tien) is a pristine crescent of powdery white sand on Koh Larn’s western coast – an ideal first stop. This beach is known for its clear turquoise waters and serene vibe, generally less crowded than Tawaen . Arriving around 8:30 AM, you might have Tien almost to yourself except for a few other early birds. Grab a beach chair or a spot on the sandunder the shade of a palm or umbrella (chair rentals ~฿50–฿100).
Slip on your snorkel gear and swim out a few meters – you’ll find colorful fish darting around corals near the rocky edges of the bay. Tien’s calm, crystal-clear water makes for easy snorkeling and great GoPro footage. (If you didn’t bring gear, some small shacks rent masks and snorkels, or simply enjoy a refreshing swim.) The beach is flanked by lush greenery and has a rustic, undeveloped charm; no large resorts here, just a few local eateries and shacks opening up for the day.
By 9:30–10:00 AM, reward yourself with a late breakfast snack. There are usually a couple of food stalls or simple restaurants at the back of Tien Beach selling grilled chicken, papaya salad, or even banana pancakes. It’s never too early for a fresh coconut either – sip straight from the shell while looking at that postcard-perfect sea.
Traveler’s Tip: Tien Beach has fewer facilities than the main beaches (that’s part of its appeal). Restrooms and showers are available for a small fee, and there are a handful of eateries, but plan to bring cash and any essentials you need for the morning. Also, watch your step near the rocks when snorkeling – there can be sea urchins further out .
If you’re feeling energized, you can walk south along the shore to a short rocky trail that connects to the next tiny cove, Sangwan Beach, or simply relax at Tien until it’s time to move on. We’ll aim to depart Tien around 10:30 AM to get a glimpse of Koh Larn’s highest viewpoint before lunch.
10:30 AM – Scenic Lookout at Big Buddha Viewpoint
Time to give the beaches a short break and see Koh Larn from above! Hop back on your motorbike (or flag a songthaew) and head toward the island’s interior hills for the Big Buddha Viewpoint. The ride from Tien takes about 15 minutes, winding uphill – you’ll know you’re close when you see a golden Buddha statue peeking above the trees. Park at the base of the viewpoint area.
Big Buddha Viewpoint is one of the highest points on Koh Larn, offering a panoramic view of the entire island and the shimmering sea beyond . A large golden monk statue sits atop the hill, next to a small temple and a shrine to Guan Yin (the Goddess of Mercy). Climb the staircase (around 250 steps) up to the statue for the best vantage point. From here, you can gaze out over Koh Larn’s lush green hills, the curve of Tawaen Beach below, and even the Pattaya city skyline in the distance on a clear day.
This spot is not only about the views – it’s also a peaceful spiritual site. You might hear the tinkling of chimes or see locals lighting incense at the shrine. It’s a great opportunity to slow down and soak in the tranquility after the salty swim earlier. Snap some photos with the Buddha statue and the sweeping ocean backdrop. (Remember to be respectful: shirts on, and speak softly at the temple area.)
After enjoying the lookout (10:30–11:00 AM), you’ll feel like you’ve seen all of Koh Larn at once. Now a well-earned lunch awaits down by the sea!
12:00 PM – Lunch at
Sea Space
Café (Seaside Chill & Bites)
By noon, head back down toward the coast for a lunch break at Sea Space Café, one of Koh Larn’s most beloved beachfront cafes. Located near Samae Beach on the island’s west side, Sea Space is a chic seaside restaurant and coffee bar where you can dine literally a few steps from the water . The decor is stylish – think gray tones, wooden accents, and lots of airy open space – and there’s both an indoor glass-enclosed area (air-conditioned) and open-air seating right by the sand .
Take a seat with a panoramic ocean view (you can even spot Pattaya’s skyline across the gulf while you eat) . The menu here offers a mix of Thai seafood and Western favorites . You might try a plate of fried rice with fresh shrimp or a classic Pad Thai, or if you’re craving Western comfort, they do mean burgers and wood-fired pizzas as well . Pair your meal with a tropical fruit smoothie or a coconut shake – perfect for a hot day.
What makes Sea Space extra special is its relaxed, Instagrammable vibe: colorful drinks, beautifully plated desserts (their chocolate lava cake is a hit), and that turquoise sea backdrop in every photo. Enjoy your lunch to the sound of gentle waves. After eating, feel free to wander onto Samae Beach (which is just next to the café) – it’s a long, serene stretch of sand known for its clear water and peaceful atmosphere . Dip your toes or take a short walk along the shoreline to digest your meal.
Café Alternative: If Sea Space is crowded or if you’re in the mood for a different scene, Maharak Café is another fantastic choice. This Japanese-styled cafe has minimalist white-and-wood decor and sits right by the sea as well . It’s famous for its gorgeous second-floor views and live music at sunset (though you’ll be leaving before the music starts) . Even at midday, Maharak is a lovely spot to sip an iced coffee and enjoy homemade cake while looking over the water. The vibe is super chill – the name “Maharak” even means “Come find love,” and indeed it’s hard not to fall in love with Koh Larn when you’re relaxing here!
After lunch and a bit of cafe-hopping, you’ll likely feel refreshed and ready for more beach time. The afternoon is a great time to experience Koh Larn’s most popular beach when it’s lively – so we’re off to Tawaen Beach again, this time to play!
1:30 PM – Afternoon at Tawaen Beach (Water Sports & Relaxation)
By about 1:30 PM, make your way to Tawaen Beach, the buzzing hub of Koh Larn. If you lunched at Sea Space/Samae side, it’s a short ride back east. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see a long expanse of white sand lined with bright beach chairs, umbrellas, and food stalls. Tawaen is the largest and busiest beach on the island – a total contrast to the morning’s quiet shores, but a must-see for its energetic ambiance .
Find a spot to set down your things (you can rent a beach chair here too, or just spread a towel). The afternoon is yours to enjoy:
Dive into water sports: Tawaen is the activity center of Koh Larn. Adrenaline seekers can go parasailing, jet-skiing, banana boating, or even snorkeling off a boat tour . Prices are generally posted at booths along the beach (e.g. ~฿500–฿800 for a short jet ski session, ~฿600 for a banana boat ride split among a group). Take a parasail ride to get a thrilling aerial view of the island, or bounce along the waves on a banana boat with other travelers – pure fun and laughter guaranteed as you splash into the water!
Swim and sunbathe: If you’re feeling more laid-back, swim in the gentle bay – the water here is typically calm and warm, ideal for floating around. Lifeguards are usually on duty, and roped-off areas keep swimmers safe from boat traffic. Afterwards, relax on a sunbed under an umbrella. Tawaen’s sand is powdery and the people-watching is great: you’ll see a mix of local families, tourists snapping selfies, and maybe even a beach soccer game going on.
Snack and shop: Tawaen’s beachfront is lined with stalls and little restaurants. Treat yourself to a fresh mango smoothie or a coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell. Vendors also sell grilled seafood skewers, chicken satay, som tam (papaya salad) and other Thai street food right on the sand – perfect for an afternoon snack. If you need souvenirs, there are stands with colorful sarongs, hats, and trinkets (though prices can be a bit higher here).
Keep in mind Tawaen’s pros and cons: it has the most amenities and activities on Koh Larn – you’ll never be bored here – but naturally it draws crowds, especially after late morning . Embrace the lively atmosphere; it’s part of the Koh Larn experience to see this beautiful beach buzzing with life.
Around 3:30 PM, as the sun starts to ease (and perhaps the day-tripper crowds begin thinning), take one last stroll down Tawaen. The afternoon light often makes the water sparkle a deeper shade of blue – a final mental snapshot of paradise.
Optional 4:00 PM caffeine fix: If you’re a real cafe-hopper or want one more Instagram shot, you could quickly ride back to Na Baan village (5 minutes away) to visit Plubpla or Baan Rinrak Café, known for their cute decor and desserts, or return to Maharak Cafe for a pre-departure coffee. But if you’re perfectly beach-bummed out, no worries – chill on Tawaen until it’s time to go. Just don’t lose track of the ferry schedule!
5:00 PM – Ferry Back to Pattaya
As your one-day island adventure winds down, head back to the pier at Tawaen Beach by 4:45 PM to catch the 5:00 PM ferry back to Pattaya. This is typically the last public ferry of the day , and you wouldn’t want to miss it (getting stuck overnight is only fun if you’ve booked a room!). Line up early to ensure a spot on the boat – you’ll be tired and sun-kissed, but immensely satisfied.
The ferry ride back is the perfect time to relax and reflect. Watch Koh Larn’s silhouette fade into the distance and maybe scroll through the day’s photos of clear waters, smiling faces, and that epic panorama from the viewpoint. The return ferry takes about 45 minutes, so you’ll be back at Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya by around 5:45–6:00 PM. If the sky is clear, you might even catch a gorgeous sunset painting the horizon as you arrive – a fitting end to your day.
Congratulations! In one day, you’ve experienced the best of Koh Larn – from tranquil snorkeling at Tien Beach to the high-energy fun of Tawaen, with a panoramic viewpoint and delicious island food in between. Koh Larn truly packs a lot into a small package: adventure, relaxation, scenic beauty, and tasty bites all within a few square kilometers . As you step off the ferry in Pattaya, sandy and happy, you’ll understand why this little island is such a beloved escape.