While Pattaya is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and bustling cityscape, few are aware of the breathtaking beauty that awaits just beyond its shores. With a multitude of pristine islands scattered across its local waters, Pattaya is a phenominal destination for one day and multi-day charters, promising unforgettable experiences for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and natural magnificence in the Gulf of Thailand.
For those seeking a taste of island paradise, Koh Phai with its pristine beaches and lush tropical landscapes is only 16 Nautical Miles North-West of Ocean Marina Jomtien. Stretching 3.5 km in length and 1.4 km in width, this hidden haven, stands devoid of permanent structures, preserving its natural allure. Under the watchful care of the Navy, Koh Phai’s neat white sand beaches remain impeccably maintained, beckoning visitors with their allure. Venture to the Eastern shores, where an underwater paradise awaits eager snorkelers. Beneath the surface of crystal-clear waters, a vibrant tapestry unfolds, showcasing coral reefs teeming with exotic marine life, including the occasional elusive seahorse. Larger pelagic marine life can be seen by Advanced Open water scuba divers on the nearby magnificent warship wreck.
Koh Rin, a spectacular beach as well as a snorkeling paradise! This island boasts a singular beach of sheer magnificence, where 800 meters of luxurious white sands meet the crystal-clear embrace of the ocean. Surrounded by tropical fish. The beach remains a spectacle to behold, offering exceptional beauty at every moment. High tide, in particular, invites you to immerse yourself in the refreshing waters, whether for a leisurely swim or an enchanting snorkeling adventure.
Enter the realm of Koh Khram, a pristine paradise nestled within the Pattaya Archipelago. Stretching 5 km in length and 4 km in width, it reigns as the largest jewel among Pattaya’s shimmering archipelago. Protected by the Thai Royal Navy, this sanctuary offers secluded sandy beaches and enchanting coves, awaiting exploration by Asia Poseidon. Embark on a cruise around the island, where powdery-white sands and limestone cliffs create a mesmerizing landscape. Beneath the crystalline waters lie vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, perfect for snorkeling and fishing enthusiasts.
Nearby Monkey Island offers a playful encounter with its resident primates, lying south of Pattaya between Koh Khram and the mainland fishing village of Bang Saray. Although officially named Koh Ped, it’s renowned for its abundant monkey population, numbering in the hundreds, nestled within its low-lying vegetation. These primates, primarily found along the island’s southern and eastern shores, eagerly await visitors with offerings of tasty treats. Additionally, a Buddhist shrine guarded by a stone mermaid provides captivating photo opportunities. Interacting with these monkeys offers a unique experience; they have a penchant for bananas, watermelon, and nuts, and will energetically leap around to claim their share. Witnessing their acrobatic skills both on land and in water is truly remarkable.
Koh Larn, also known as Coral Island is the popular inhabited island and the nearest island to Pattaya City itself. This scenic island between 10 am and 4 pm can however be quite crowded by day trippers especially during tourist peak season. Koh Larn is home to two charming villages – Ban Koh Larn and Ban Krok Makhan, retains its local charm with a friendly population of around 1,000, swelling to 3000 during peak tourist seasons. Tawaen Beach stands as Koh Larn’s most frequented stretch of shoreline, adorned with quaint souvenir shops and delectable seafood eateries along its length. Yet, Koh Larn’s allure extends far beyond Tawaen, boasting a plethora of sandy, pristine beaches awaiting exploration. Hiring a scooter for a brief morning or afternoon ride around the island is a challenging and interesting experience due to the stunning views, twisty quaint roads with huge variances in elevation.
Nestled just off the coast of Pattaya, Koh Sak emerges as a tranquil oasis, encircled by vibrant coral reefs and sheltered by a bay that graciously shields it from the elements. Here, amidst the gentle rustle of palm fronds, visitors can unwind upon the pristine beach or delve into the crystalline waters for a refreshing swim or snorkeling adventure. Dive enthusiasts will find themselves enchanted by the myriad underwater wonders that Koh Sak has to offer. From soft corals to hydroids adorning the sandy seabed, the island’s dive sites teem with life, harboring colonies of seahorses, pipefish, and dragonfish. As the dive sites gently slope downwards, vibrant coral gardens come into view, showcasing stony corals, staghorn formations, and boulder bommies. Snorkelers, too, will revel in the spectacle, encountering forests of soft whip corals, sea fans, and barrel sponges amidst rocky outcrops and mushroom corals.
However, much like its counterpart, Koh Larn, Koh Sak’s proximity to mainland Pattaya can result in bustling crowds, particularly during the tourist high season. Despite this, the island’s natural splendor remains undeniable.
Further afield northwards yet still within a 2 hour hour cruise from Pattaya you have the historic inhabited island of Koh Si Chang. The tranquil island of Koh Si Chang is home to approximately 5,000 permanent residents and boasts a captivating history. While Koh Si Chang may not feature the pristine white sandy beaches, exploring its rocky terrain and its enchanting temples may well be of interest to some. The remnants of a Royal Palace abandoned in 1893 during a conflict with France over control of neighboring Laos is definitely an interesting site to visit.
Cruising South of Ocean Marina Jomtien you will find the magnificent archipelago of islands at Samaesan. These Incredibly stunning deserted islands offer yet more incredible anchorages, stunning discreet coves where Asia Poseidon will likely be the only yacht anchored there, white sandy beaches, fabulous crystal clear waters and an incredible dive wreck warship for Scuba enthusiasts.
Cruising yet further, 55 Nautical Miles South of Pattaya, one of Thailands Top 10 islands called Koh Samet beckons with its tranquil charm, offering a sanctuary of sun, sand, and sea. Koh Samet boasts a unique micro-climate, rendering it the driest spot in all of Thailand. Stretching languidly across a mere 13 square km, this elongated island is a haven adorned with pristine white sand beaches, crystalline waters, and lush tropical jungles. Amidst this natural splendor lie a plethora of exquisite hotels, restaurants and a vibrant beach party nightlife area. For some Terra firma downtime exploring the island via mountain bikes, ATVs, or scooters with knobby tires which are all available for rent from various vendors is highly recommended.