Top 10 Things to Do in Koh Larn Near Pattaya (2025 Edition)
Just 7 km off the coast of Pattaya (about a 30–40 minute ferry ride), Koh Larn (Coral Island) is a tropical paradise packed with more than just white-sand beaches. This small 4 km by 2 km island offers a diverse mix of experiences—from adrenaline-pumping adventures and hidden coves to local food and cultural spots—that make it a rewarding day trip or weekend escape. Below is an updated 2025 guide to the top activities and attractions in Koh Larn, ensuring you discover the island’s best-kept secrets along with its famous sights.
1. Paraglide Over the Island with Fly Koh Larn Skypark
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, head to Fly Koh Larn Skypark for a tandem paragliding experience. You’ll soar high above Koh Larn’s hills and beaches, taking in breathtaking aerial views of the island and even Pattaya’s skyline across the water. Even if you’ve never paraglided before, you can join a tandem flight where a professional pilot handles the controls while you enjoy the ride. Flights typically last around 10–20 minutes, and many packages include GoPro video footage so you can relive the thrill later. This is easily one of the most unique things to do on Koh Larn beyond just lounging on the sand.
Tip: Book your paragliding slot in advance—especially for weekends—and wear comfortable clothes with secure footwear that won’t fall off in the air.
2. Test Your Aim at the Koh Larn Shooting Range
Looking for something completely different? Try the Koh Larn Shooting Range, located along the road toward Ta Yai Beach. It’s a small but well-equipped range where visitors can safely try shooting various firearms under close supervision. No prior experience is needed; the instructors will guide you through handling the guns properly, making it a safe and exciting activity. It’s a quirky, memorable break from the usual beach routine and a great story to tell afterward. You’ll even get to keep your target sheet as a souvenir of your sharp (or not-so-sharp) shooting skills.
Tip: Always double-check that safety gear (ear and eye protection) is provided and listen carefully to the instructor’s safety briefing before you start blasting away.
3. Relax at Tranquil Tien Beach
Among Koh Larn’s six main beaches, Tien Beach stands out for its tranquil, photogenic setting. Accessed by a charming wooden boardwalk that winds along the rocks, this beach feels tucked away and peaceful compared to the busier Tawaen Beach. You’ll find soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water perfect for swimming. The backdrop of cliffs and swaying palm trees makes every angle camera-ready for postcard-worthy photos. There are also a few casual eateries and sunbed rentals, but Tien still maintains a more laid-back vibe than the main tourist beaches.
Tip: Visit in the morning or on a weekday to enjoy the quietest atmosphere. By midday, especially on weekends, it can get busier with day-trippers, so early birds get the best spot in the sand.
4. Snorkel Among Colorful Coral Reefs
Don’t forget your snorkel gear, because Koh Larn’s waters are teeming with marine life! Snorkeling is one of the top things to do here for nature lovers. Beaches like Thonglang, Ta Yai, and the rocky ends of Nual Beach (a.k.a. Monkey Beach) have vibrant coral reefs and schools of tropical fish just offshore. You can often rent a mask and snorkel from beach vendors for a few hundred baht if you didn’t bring your own. Paddle out a short distance and you might spot clownfish, parrotfish, and other bright creatures flitting around the corals. If you’re not a strong swimmer, consider renting a clear-bottom kayak to peer down at the reef without getting fully submerged.
Tip: Wear reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching or standing on the corals to help protect Koh Larn’s delicate marine ecosystem. Also, stick to snorkeling in designated areas away from boat traffic for safety.
5. Capture the Views from the Windmill Viewpoint
Ride or hire a taxi up the steep hill to the Windmill Viewpoint, the highest accessible point on Koh Larn. You’ll know you’re there when you see the giant wind turbine rotating in the breeze. From this perch, you get sweeping 360° views of the island’s lush green interior, the ribbon of beaches along the coast, and the glittering Pattaya city skyline across the bay. It’s an incredible spot for panoramic photos—sunsets here are especially spectacular as the sky lights up over the Gulf of Thailand. The viewpoint truly makes you appreciate how gorgeous Koh Larn is from above.
Tip: If you’re renting a scooter to get here, take it slow and careful – the road is steep and winding. Alternatively, hire a local motorbike taxi from Na Baan village to drive you up. And hold onto your hat; it can be pretty windy at the top (no surprise there)!
6. Meet the Locals in Na Baan Village
Koh Larn isn’t just scenic—it’s also home to a small community. When you step off the ferry at Na Baan Pier, take some time to explore Na Baan Village, the island’s main hub of local life. Stroll the narrow streets to find friendly locals, a Buddhist temple near the pier, modest schools and houses, and a handful of shops selling everything from snacks to souvenirs. There’s a daily market where you can grab fresh fruit, and plenty of street food stalls cooking up tasty bites. This is your chance to experience the local culture and see a side of Koh Larn that many day-trippers overlook. It’s a laid-back scene that gives you a feel for how the islanders live beyond the tourist spots.
Tip: Try a Thai iced coffee (café yen) or a skewer of grilled pork from a street vendor for just a few baht – delicious, ultra-affordable, and a genuine taste of local flavor. If you happen to stay into the evening, check out the small night market that sometimes pops up near the pier, where you can sample even more local snacks.
7. Feast on Fresh Seafood by the Sea
Seafood lovers will be in heaven on Koh Larn. The island’s surrounding waters mean that fresh seafood is abundant and often caught the very same day. Head to the beachside food stalls on Samae Beach or Nual Beach for grilled prawns, squid, and scallops served with spicy Thai seafood dipping sauce – a simple but mouthwatering treat after a swim. If you stick around for dinner, make your way to the cluster of open-air restaurants near Na Baan Pier. Many of these eateries sit on stilts over the water, offering lovely views of the bay as you dine on everything from steamed fish to tom yum soup packed with shrimp. The combination of the sea breeze, sunset colors, and flavorful food makes for an unforgettable meal.
Tip: Ask about the catch of the day or look for whatever the locals are ordering – it’s likely to be the freshest (and often the cheapest) option on the menu. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a fresh coconut or a cold Thai beer for the full experience.
8. Explore the Island by Scooter or Songthaew
The best way to see all of Koh Larn’s nooks and crannies is by doing as the locals do and hopping on a scooter. Rentals are available near the pier for around 200–300 THB per day, giving you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. With a scooter, you can easily beach-hop from Tawaen to Tien to Samae, venture up to the viewpoints, or discover hidden spots like the quaint Matata Bay Cafe on a quiet shore. The island’s roads are paved but narrow, so drive cautiously and enjoy the journey as much as the destinations. If you’re not comfortable driving a scooter, no worries – just hail a songthaew, the shared pickup truck taxis. For a small fare (usually 30–50 THB), they shuttle visitors between the main pier and popular beaches. It’s cheap, convenient, and you get to ride in the back and feel the wind in your hair!
Tip: If renting a scooter, always wear a helmet and take photos of the bike before you set off (to avoid any disputes about pre-existing scratches when you return it). Remember that traffic drives on the left in Thailand. If you’d rather not drive, negotiate a day rate with a songthaew driver to be your personal island chauffeur.
9. Seek Seclusion at Ta Yai Beach
For a taste of the “secret beach” vibe, head to Ta Yai Beach, a small and peaceful cove at the north end of Koh Larn. This little beach is far less visited than the likes of Tawaen or Samae, so you might find only a handful of other people there, especially on a weekday. The water is calm, clear, and shallow near the shore – great for a relaxing dip. On the sides of the bay, you’ll find interesting rock formations and maybe even a few colorful fish if you snorkel around the rocks. Ta Yai’s simplicity is its charm: there are just one or two stalls selling cold drinks or snacks, and a few beach chairs, but very little development. It really feels like a hidden gem where you can disconnect and soak up the natural beauty.
Tip: Pack your essentials (water, snacks, and sunblock) and maybe an umbrella for shade, as facilities here are minimal. To get to Ta Yai Beach, you can rent a scooter or take a songthaew towards the north of the island – it’s a bit off the main path, which is exactly why it’s so tranquil.
10. Visit the Big Buddha and Kuan Yin Shrine
Balance out your adventure with a touch of culture by visiting Koh Larn’s hilltop Big Buddha and the adjacent Guan Yin Shrine (dedicated to the Chinese goddess of mercy). A short drive from Tawaen Beach up into the hills leads you to this peaceful spiritual site. The golden Buddha statue sits serenely overlooking the island and the sea, offering a quiet spot for reflection and a stunning view down to the coastline. Nearby, you’ll see a statue of Guan Yin and a small shrine where locals sometimes come to pray for luck and safe journeys. It’s a humble reminder that Koh Larn isn’t just about beaches and water sports – it has a spiritual heartbeat as well. Plus, the location on the hill provides yet another beautiful panorama for your trip photos.
Tip: Dress modestly out of respect (cover your shoulders and knees) if you plan to walk up to the statues or into the shrine area. Early morning is a lovely time to visit when it’s cooler and you might hear birdsong in the trees around the temple. Don’t forget to remove your shoes if you step onto the prayer platform.
Koh Larn may be small, but it’s packed with memorable experiences for all types of travelers. From soaring in the sky and shooting targets, to snorkeling coral reefs and lazing on quiet beaches, this Coral Island offers something for everyone beyond the typical Pattaya itinerary. The mix of adrenaline activities, natural beauty, delicious food, and local culture means you can tailor your trip to be as relaxing or as exciting as you want. Whether you’re an adventure junkie, a beach bum, or a culture enthusiast, Koh Larn promises a fun-filled escape that will leave you with awesome stories and a newfound appreciation for this little island gem. So next time you’re in Pattaya, hop on that ferry – Koh Larn’s wonders are waiting just across the bay!
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