Koh Larn day trip guide: ferries, beaches and tips

How to visit Koh Larn from Pattaya: ferry and speedboat prices from Bali Hai Pier, the best beaches, getting around the island and tips for a great day.

Updated 7 November 2026 · 3 min read · Silvertone Hotel, South Pattaya

Speedboats on the sea beside the green hills of Koh Larn

Koh Larn, also called Coral Island, is Pattaya's favourite escape: clear water, soft sand and seafood lunches, less than an hour by ferry. It is the easiest day trip from the city, and from South Pattaya the pier is only a short walk away.

Getting there

All boats leave from Bali Hai Pier, at the southern end of Walking Street.

Option	Price (approx.)	Time
Public ferry	30 baht each way	about 45 minutes
Shared speedboat	150–300 baht per person	15–20 minutes
Private speedboat	1,500–2,500 baht per boat	15–20 minutes

Public ferry: buy tickets at the official booths on the pier, not from touts on the street. Most ferries go to Na Ban Pier, the island's village; some sail direct to Tawaen Beach.
Speedboats: faster and can drop you nearer some beaches. In rough weather, especially May to October, speedboats can be suspended.
Private charter: good value for a group, and you choose the schedule.

The best beaches

Tawaen: the busiest and most developed beach, with water sports, seafood restaurants and sunbeds. Easiest if you take a direct ferry.
Samae: a wide sandy beach on the west side, known for sunset views.
Tien: quieter, with pretty scenery and a wooden walkway.
Nual (Monkey Beach): in the south, popular for swimming and snorkelling. You may see monkeys; keep food out of sight.

Getting around the island

Songthaews wait at Na Ban Pier and run to the main beaches for a small fare.
Motorbike taxis are quick for one or two people.
Scooter rental is available near the pier, but the roads are narrow and steep. Only ride if you are experienced, licensed and wearing a helmet.

Tips for a great day

Go early. Catch a morning ferry for calmer water and quieter beaches.
Bring cash. ATMs are limited and many places are cash only.
Sunbeds cost about 100 to 200 baht, though some restaurants waive the fee if you eat there.
Sun protection: shade is limited on the beaches. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and water.
Check the return times when you arrive, and don't leave it to the last ferry.
Keep valuables dry in a waterproof pouch.

A simple plan

9:30 am: walk to Bali Hai Pier and catch the ferry.
10:30 am: songthaew to Samae or Tien for a swim.
1 pm: seafood lunch at Tawaen.
3:30 pm: ferry back to Pattaya.
5 pm: pool time back at the hotel before the evening.

Close to the pier: Silvertone Hotel is in South Pattaya, a short walk or quick ride from Bali Hai Pier, so you can catch an early ferry and be back by the pool in the afternoon. Check rates.

Frequently asked questions

How much is the ferry to Koh Larn?

The public ferry from Bali Hai Pier costs about 30 baht each way and takes around 45 minutes. Shared speedboats cost about 150 to 300 baht per person and take 15 to 20 minutes.

Where does the Koh Larn ferry leave from?

Bali Hai Pier, at the southern end of Walking Street. Most ferries go to Na Ban Pier, and some sail direct to Tawaen Beach.

What is the best beach on Koh Larn?

Tawaen is the busiest and best for facilities. Samae is wide and great at sunset, Tien is quieter, and Nual (Monkey Beach) is good for swimming.

What time is the last ferry back from Koh Larn?

The last public ferries return in the early evening. Times change with the season and weather, so check at the pier when you arrive and don't leave it to the last boat.