A Hassle-Free Day Trip to Koh Larn: Full Itinerary & Tips
If you’re in Pattaya and looking for an easy, fun-packed day, a visit to Koh Larn (Coral Island) is the perfect escape! Known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, Koh Larn offers something for everyone, from snorkeling to parasailing.
But before we dive into the details of our Koh Larn adventure, let’s talk about how we got to Pattaya.
Getting to Pattaya from Bangkok
We opted to take a Roong Reuang bus from Bangkok to Pattaya, which we pre-booked through Bus Online Ticket. The bus departed from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai) and dropped us off in Pattaya in just
1 hour and 45 minutes.
At only ฿141 (less than $6 CAD) one way, it was an incredibly affordable option. The coach was comfortable, equipped with air conditioning, and made the ride an easy and stress-free experience.
💡 Pro Tip: You don’t necessarily need to pre-book your tickets, but if you’re traveling on a weekend, it’s better to secure them in advance. Tickets can sell out quickly, especially for the return trip from Pattaya to Bangkok, as there are fewer options available.
Now that we’ve arrived in Pattaya, let’s get into the details of our day trip to Koh Larn!
What Makes Koh Larn Special?
Just 7.5 kilometers (4.6 miles) off Pattaya Beach, Koh Larn—often called Coral Island—is a small slice of paradise. While the name suggests vibrant coral reefs, over-tourism has sadly affected the marine life here. The water is still beautiful for swimming, but don’t expect much snorkeling or coral viewing.
That said, the beaches are stunning, and the island offers plenty of activities like water sports, parasailing, and exploring local eateries. Whether you choose to join a tour or go on your own, a day at Koh Larn is bound to be memorable.
How We Got to Koh Larn
We opted for a full-day tour (CAD $52 per person) to keep things simple. The package included:
- Round-trip hotel transfer
- Speedboat rides to and from the island
- Lunch and drinking water
- Access to a snorkeling playground
- A beach chair (unavailable on Wednesdays)
- Parasailing as an optional add-on for $26 CAD per person
💡 Why Choose a Tour? If you’re short on time or want an all-in-one package, a guided tour like this is great. Everything from logistics to meals is taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying your day.
Alternative: Visit Koh Larn on Your Own
For independent travelers, you can take a ferry from Bali Hai Pier for just $1.20 CAD (30 THB) one way
- Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes
- Cost: $1.20 CAD (ferry) vs. $52 CAD (tour)
- Experience: You’ll need to arrange your transportation to Bali Hai Pier and explore the island on your own. Motorbikes are available for rent on the island for about 200 THB ($8 CAD) per day.
Our Full-Day Koh Larn Itinerary
- Morning Pickup & Pier Departure
We were picked up from our hotel at 8:40 AM and arrived at Bali Hai Pier by 9:30 AM. After meeting the rest of the group, we boarded a small speedboat for a quick 15-minute ride to our first activity.
💡 Tip: If you’re taking the speedboat, try to board early to avoid sitting at the front where you’ll likely get splashed! - Snorkeling and Water Playground
The first stop was a large boat anchored near Koh Larn, where we had access to snorkeling gear and an inflatable water playground. While the water was refreshing, the snorkeling was underwhelming. The visibility wasn’t great, and marine life was sparse.
💡 Reality Check: Koh Larn’s snorkeling experience might not live up to expectations. If you’re looking for vibrant reefs and colorful fish, you may want to explore other islands. - Arrival at Koh Larn & Free Time
Once we reached Koh Larn, we were greeted by its stunning emerald waters and busy beaches. Our group was led to a reserved restaurant where we had some free time before lunch.- Activities during free time:
- Walk along the beach
- Grab a cold drink or snack at 7-Eleven
- Rent a motorbike (200 THB/$8 CAD) to explore the island
- Lunch at the Beach
Lunch was included in the tour and consisted of shrimp stir fry with an egg, veggies, a cup of noodles, and bottled water. It was a simple yet satisfying meal. - Beach Time
After lunch, we hit the beach for a swim. The waters near the shore were shallow, making it a safe spot for families, while further out, the deeper waters were perfect for more adventurous swimmers. - Parasailing: Was It Worth It?
For an extra $26 CAD, we added parasailing to our package, but in hindsight, it wasn’t worth it. The entire ride lasted just 3 minutes, and the operation felt rushed and impersonal.
The gear wasn’t adjusted properly, which made the experience uncomfortable and stressful. If you’re considering parasailing, I’d recommend finding a private operator for a more personalized and enjoyable experience.
💡 Verdict: Skip the parasailing add-on. - Heading Back to Pattaya
After parasailing, we boarded the speedboat back to Bali Hai Pier and were dropped off at our hotel around 4:30 PM, marking the end of our fun-filled day.
Key Takeaways
- Tour Pros: Convenient, stress-free, and includes everything from transfers to meals.
- Tour Cons: Snorkeling and parasailing didn’t live up to expectations.
- Independent Travel: Cheaper but requires more planning.
Whether you’re craving a hassle-free day of sun and sand or looking to explore at your own pace, Koh Larn offers a little something for everyone. From the island’s stunning emerald waters to its range of activities, this day trip was a refreshing escape from the bustle of Pattaya. While the snorkeling and parasailing left us wanting more, the island’s charm and natural beauty made up for it.
If convenience is your priority, a guided tour ensures a stress-free experience with everything included. On the other hand, independent travelers can enjoy a more budget-friendly and flexible adventure by taking the ferry and exploring Koh Larn’s quieter beaches.
No matter how you choose to visit, Koh Larn is a destination that promises a day filled with memories, relaxation, and a taste of Thailand’s tropical charm. Have you been to Koh Larn? Let us know your favorite spots and tips in the comments below!
Don’t forget to check out our YouTube vlog for a closer look at our trip—it’s packed with visuals, tips, and the highlights of our Koh Larn adventure! 🌴😊
Watch the Full Experience on YouTube! 🎥 ➡️ Watch the Video Now
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