Ko Lan

Ko Lan is about four kilometres long and two wide, some five and a half square kilometres of hill and beach 7.5 kilometres off Pattaya, and its function is straightforward: Pattaya's own water is poor, and Ko Lan is where people go for clear sea and white sand. Eight beaches ring the island, most on its west side, of which Tawaen is the biggest and busiest with parasailing, banana boats and jet skis, while Samae, Thian and Nual are progressively quieter. Ferries from Bali Hai pier take about forty-five minutes and speedboats considerably less. The day-trip pattern dominates - boats arrive from mid-morning, the beaches fill, and by late afternoon the island empties, so staying overnight gives a different place entirely. A Buddhist shrine stands on the highest point, about 180 metres up. Coral around Ko Lan has been damaged by anchoring and heavy visitor pressure and is much depleted.

The landscape

• The eight beaches - busy Tawaen through to quieter Nual and Thian.
• The clear water - the reason Pattaya visitors make the crossing.
• The day-trip rhythm - full from mid-morning, empty by evening.
• The hill interior - viewpoints and a road network across the island.

When to go

November to April. Weekdays are far quieter than weekends. Staying overnight gives the island outside the day-trip hours, which is a different experience entirely.

Practical notes

Very crowded midday. Coral is much depleted. Beach vendors are persistent.

Nearby

Pattaya is across the water; Ko Sak and Ko Krok are small neighbouring islands.

Key facts