Island Hopping Near Bangkok: 5 Must-Visit Tropical Paradises
What are the Most Beautiful Islands to Visit Near Bangkok?
Bangkok is surrounded by islands that make for quick tropical escapes, all within a few hours’ drive and a short boat ride away. They’re close enough for an easy break when you just want to get away from it all but still want to be within touching distance of the big city.
While Thailand is famous for its white sandy beaches and tropical paradises, most of the more famous islands are further down south, and the only way to get there is by flying or spending a full day on the road. Even so, with this handpicked selection of the best islands near Bangkok, you’re never too far from picture-postcard sands, turquoise water, and even one or two unusual surprises.
1. Koh Samet
Where the locals go to party
Good for: Budget, Couples, Nightlife
Koh Samet is a popular weekend escape for young Thais, especially students, due to its proximity to Bangkok and lively atmosphere. The island boasts plenty of white-sanded beaches, though not as stunning as those in Southern Thailand. As Koh Samet is just a few hours from Bangkok and is the driest island in the country, with a unique microclimate, it’s a popular destination and you can expect crowds at hotels, bars, and clubs on weekends.
To get there, take a bus from Bangkok to Ban Phe Pier (3.5 hours), then a speedboat (20 minutes) or ferry (1 hour) to the island. Accommodations range from 2-star bungalows to 5-star resorts.
Koh Samet
2. Koh Larn
White sandy beaches are just a ferry ride away
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Families
Koh Larn, or Coral Island, is a popular getaway known for its white beaches, seafood, and watersports. It’s perfect for a day trip if you start early. Seafood restaurants hug the picturesque coastline on the eastern side, and you can grab a songthaew taxi to the quieter western coast for a respite from the crowds.
To reach Koh Larn, take a bus from Ekkamai or Victory Monument to Pattaya, then a 50-minute ferry from Bali Hai Pier. Despite being small, Koh Larn offers quality accommodations like Xanadu Beach Resort and Lareena Resort By The Sea.
Koh Larn
3. Koh Si Chang
A laid-back escape filled with temples, trails, and seafood
Good for: Adventure, Budget
Koh Si Chang, the closest island to Bangkok, attracts day-trippers from Bangkok and Pattaya. While its beaches aren’t the best, the island offers a charming fishing-village vibe, temples, jungle paths, a lively port, and snorkeling.
Eating options here are cheap and delicious, with the choice dish, of course, being barbequed fish or squid. Reach Koh Si Chang with a 2-hour bus from Bangkok’s Ekkamai to Sri Racha, then a 40-minute ferry. Alternatively, take a day trip from Pattaya. Accommodations are basic, so many visitors stay in Pattaya’s luxurious hotels.
Koh Si Chang
4. Koh Kret
Best for history lovers who prefer indigenous Mon culture to beach waves
Good for: History, Photo
The small islet of Koh Kret sits in the Chao Phraya River. Measuring 2 km by 1 km, it’s famous for the Mon Tribes who have inhabited this island since it was created in the 18th century during the construction of a canal.
Although lacking beaches, it’s a charming day trip to escape the capital, just 20 km from the city center. Discover greenery, pathways, and wooden houses reminiscent of old Bangkok. Take a taxi to Koh Kret Pier and get a boat across. Another way of exploring this hidden island is with a bike tour, where you‘re picked up from your hotel and guided around the island on two wheels.
Koh Kret
5. Koh Khram Yai
Castaway vibes
Good for: Adventure, Photo
Koh Khram Yai may be only a few km off the Pattaya coastline, but arriving on this almost-deserted island feels like being washed up from a shipwreck. No hotels, no restaurants, and no bars; this really is about as secluded as it gets. The geography of the place has prevented any development, as most of the island is covered in sharp rocks and cliffs.
Enjoy the small, clean beaches, but bring your own supplies. Note that access is limited during certain times due to an ongoing turtle breeding program. Reach Sattahip (Chon Buri) from Bangkok’s Ekkamai Bus Terminal, then join a local tour to the island. Unless you’re Robinson Crusoe, stay at the resorts or guesthouses on the mainland.
Koh Khram Yai
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