Ko Lan

Situated just off the coast of Pattaya, Ko Lan — also known as Coral Island — is a small island offering a noticeable contrast to the mainland's urban energy. The island is home to several beaches, coral reefs, and jungle interior where monkeys can be spotted, making it a popular choice for a day trip or short overnight stay. The beaches vary in character, with smaller, quieter spots like Thong Lang Beach offering a more relaxed alternative to the busier shores. Getting there is straightforward and affordable. Ferries depart from Pattaya and cost around 30 to 35 baht one way, with a journey time of roughly 45 minutes. Speedboats are also available for approximately 150 baht and cut the crossing to around 15 minutes. Once on the island, renting a motorbike is widely recommended by visitors as the most practical and inexpensive way to explore the different beaches and restaurants spread across the island. Ko Lan draws consistent crowds, and weekends in particular can see the beaches become quite busy. Visitors looking for a quieter experience are better served by coming on a weekday and arriving early. December and the cooler months are popular travel times, though even off-peak weekdays can attract a reasonable number of tourists, so early planning is worthwhile for those seeking more space on the beach.