Known For : Scuba diving in Koh Samet Wat Ko Kaew Pitsadan Sai Kaew Beach
With pristine blue waters, colorful corals, and more than 16 white sand beaches, Koh Samet is a gorgeous T-shaped island near Pattaya. It has become one of the most popular islands in Thailand, with countless tourists and backpackers visiting.
Distance from Pattaya: About 2-3 hours by land and boat transfer.
Activities: Koh Samet offers a more tranquil experience compared to Pattaya. Enjoy pristine beaches, hiking trails, water activities, and a laid-back atmosphere. Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Nuan, and Ao Prao are popular beaches.
Ferries: Take a ferry from Ban Phe to Koh Samet.
Best Time: November to February
Coral Island, or Koh Larn, is a gorgeous island situated at a distance of around 7 Km off the coast of Pattaya Beach. With the Bay of Bangkok present on the northeastern end and the Gulf of Siam on the western side, Koh Larn is a must–visit place during your trip to Pattaya.
Activities: Ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and water sports like parasailing and jet skiing. You can relax on the sandy beaches, such as Tawaen Beach and Samae Beach.
Ferries: Regular speedboats and ferries are available from Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya to Koh Larn.
Bamboo Island is one the six islands in the Phi Phi Island group. It is named after the dense bamboo growth in the middle of the island flaked by clean white beaches. Take a day trip here with family or friends to experience a bit of both the jungle and the beach on a hot day.
Known For : Elephant Trekking Waterfalls in Koh Chang
Koh Chang is one of the most beautiful islands near Pattaya, with pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, great for snorkeling and diving. There are also some breathtaking mountains and jungles where hiking is very popular.
Distance from Pattaya: Approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the coast.
Activities: Koh Si Chang offers historical sites, lush landscapes, and panoramic views. Visit places like Phra Chudadhuj Palace, Thamachat Chedi, and Asdang Bridge. The island is less touristy, making it a peaceful retreat.
Ferries: Ferries are available from Koh Loi Pier in Si Racha.
Best Time: November to March
Koh Khram is a beautiful, huge island located to the southwest of Pattaya. Apart from having unbelievably beautiful coves, beaches, and inlets, this island has nothing on it and is completely uninhabited, which makes it even more beautiful and calmer.
Distance from Pattaya: Located to the west of Pattaya and closer to Koh Lan.
Activities: Koh Kram offers quiet beaches and a tranquil atmosphere. It's accessible by boat and is ideal for a peaceful day trip.
Koh Klet Kaew is popularly known as Monkey Island. If you think that there are monkeys on this island, then yes, you’re right. The population of monkeys on this island is more than that of human beings. The human-friendly monkeys on this island are fun to interact with, and often pose for pictures in return for some fruits, seeds, nuts and water. On this tropical sanctuary, one will also find a swarm of hundreds of crab-eating macaques on the shores, trees and on the boats as well.
Koh Krok is filled with white sand and bright, colorful corals and is a great place to visit for a one-day trip from Pattaya. This island is a popular spot among tourists for diving and snorkeling, as the coral leaves are studded with thousands of sea anemones that look like bright, colorful sea flowers. Even though the island is not thoroughly developed, there are a couple of bars and restaurants but no resorts or lodges for accommodation.
Activities: Koh Krok is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. It's a quieter alternative to Koh Larn.
Don't just restrict your trip to only Pattaya, visit these islands for experiencing Thailand and Pattaya completely, to immerse yourself in cultures and traditions of people of different tribes and more.