Ko Phai, Pattaya | Things to Do, How To Reach, Best Time

Ko Phai, Pattaya, Pattaya Overview

Tucked away in the eastern corner of the map of Thailand, some 21 kilometers from Pattaya city- Ko Phai is a cluster of islands celebrated for its unreal beauty and pristine beaches. Ko Klung Badan, Ko Luam Ko Manwichai, and Ko Rin are some of the few islands among the group of Ko Phai. The phenomenal archipelago is a retreat for sunbathers and beach lovers. You can visit Ko Phai during the daytime but have to leave the shores before sunset.

The archipelago is uninhabited. However, frequent tours are conducted to Ko Phai for tourists visiting Pattaya from around the world. Also known as Bamboo Island, the pristine site is recognized by a lighthouse located at the topmost ground of the island. It is also very crucial to know that Ko Phai falls under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy, so your actions and activities on the island is being constantly watched.

Things to Do at Ko Phai Island

Ko Phai is just a surreal place to soak in the sea and sun, lounge around, swim or simply unwind with a book; Ko Phai is paradise like.

1. Diving: Right off the coast is a dive site that is famous to have engulfed an HTMS Khram- a shipwrecked in time and can be explored in the supervision of a guided dive session.

2. Snorkelling and Fishing: From snorkelling to fishing and lounging on the beach everything is wonderful on this island as it is virgin and does not feature any permanent human settlement. Kept intact in its natural habitat, Ko Phai is unhindered and therefore is a sight that holds your gaze for hours.

Best Time to Visit

As you can only stay on the Ko Phai island for a couple of hours during the daylight, make sure you plan to leave in the morning, spend your day and push off before sunset. It can be visited throughout the year.

Tips

1. Kindly follow the instructions given by your tour guide as the island is constantly observed and supervised by the Royal Thai Navy.
2. The Ko Phai islands are untouched and you wouldn’t find any eateries, clubs or a single restaurant, therefore, take you snacks and water bottles with you.
3. Afternoon can be spent on the island but you have to leave the island before the evening light wears off.
4. You will also not find any hotel or fancy beach resort on this island so book your return trip as well and in advance.
5. The island is preserved in its natural form, kindly make sure you do not litter or commit any activity that violates its beauty.

How To Reach Ko Phai

Ko Phai is located almost 20 kilometers off the west coast of Pattaya city and can be reached on a boat. At least two hours is needed to explore the island, boats are easily found if you approach any of the chartering companies along the beaches in Pattaya. You can also purchase a ticket to ride on a speed boat at Bali Hai Pier.