Thailand is known for many things. Culture, food, temples, nightlife and stunning beaches. The tropical weather and vibes are what most people are drawn to. Now, most tourists and travelers tend to fly directly to the southern part of Thailand, abundant in some of the most beautiful islands and beaches. But what about people coming only to the capital? It’s quite difficult to travel all the way down South for the popular islands because it either costs an airfare or a whole day on the road. So we’re sharing with you 5 gorgeous, must-visit islands near Bangkok that are under a 5 hour trip.

Koh Si Chang

Koh Si Chang

Photo cr: @golf_chakrapol

Distance from Bangkok: ~130 km to Koh Loy pier, Sriracha and then a short ferry ride (2 hour journey).

Known for

Well we can tell you that it is not known for parties and late nights. This is a very local island with villages and a slow, peaceful life. Thais and travelers like to go here for its authenticity and since it is the nearest island to Bangkok, it serves as a well-deserved easy getaway from the chaos of Bangkok.

Here you’ll find temples, local massage places, scenic viewpoints and places to enjoy some delicious seafood. The island is only 8 sq km so it is perfect for a day worth of exploring. Many visit the island as a day trip and return back to their home in Chonburi mainland or back to Bangkok.

Accomodation

Koh Si Chang

If you’re looking for traditional living and stepping away from the luxe life found on Koh Samui, Phuket or Bangkok, then Koh Si Chang is the place for you. You’ll find all sorts of bungalows, huts and home-stay style lodgings on this island.

Koh Larn

Koh Larn

Photo credit: www.orientalescape.com

Distance from Bangkok: ~150 km to Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya and another short ride by ferry (3 hour journey).

Known forKoh Larn beaches

Koh Larn or otherwise known as Coral Island is an idylic escape from the busy streets of Bangkok and even Pattaya city. Although also quite crowded with day trippers heading out there for snorkeling or some fun in the sea, it is no doubt a beautiful island. Surrounded by crystal clear water, it is mostly made up of a mountainous terrain with heavy vegetation. Locals and tourists alike love to go here since it is near and they get to experience some scenic views.

You can spend an entire day here exploring 6 different beaches, go parasailing, swimming, fishing and even bicycling around the island.

Short of time or don’t want to partake in physical activities? Getting around with a tour costs around 400 THB (~11) or you could rent a motorbike for 200 THB (~5) but be vary, the roads are steep.

Accommodation

Koh Larn

Many people don’t know but you can actually stay over at this island. While the island might be touristy, crowded and happening during the day, at night it is a charming place. The vibe becomes very local and quaint at night, which is a startling contrast from the hustle and bustle of Pattaya city.

There are no massive resorts here but rather local boutique hotels, budget and some luxury resorts. You can also find some guesthouses here.

You can find some accommodations through Booking.com or KohLarn.com. We haven’t stayed overnight yet but plan to very soon.

Koh Kham

Koh Kham Sattahip

Distance from Bangkok: ~185 km to Sattahip naval base pier and then a short ride by ferry (3.5 hour journey).

Known for

Kham island is a little-known island for its white sandy beaches, corals, marine life and crystal clear azure water. Since Koh Kham is under the patronage of the Thai navy, there is not much to do there. According to the Royal Thai Navy officers, this island is one of the country’s three islands under the “Pilot Project” promotional campaign for preserving the coral.

It is only open during the weekends and the Royal Navy only allows 400 tourists on Koh Kham per day. Mostly locals and Thais go here to spend the day taking pictures, swimming, kayaking or snorkeling. There are no restaurants or accommodation on this island, which is why it maintains its beauty. You can however find 2 or 3 shacks selling local food and snacks.

Koh Kham Sattahip

Koh Kham Sattahip

Accommodation

Although you cannot stay on this island, you can easily find lodging in Sattahip district. Accommodation are spread across town, some even 30-40 km away from the pier.

We stayed at the Sea Hill Boutique Hotel but accommodation can be found nearer to the pier. Try Prapakarn resort or Rimpu Hill Resort.

Koh Samet

koh samet

Photo cr: thelimopattaya.com

Distance from Bangkok: ~200km to Nuan Thip Pier in Ban Phe and another short ride by ferry (4.5 hour journey).

Known for

Samet (Samed) island is a very popular destination for Thais and tourists alike because it is near enough from Bangkok and has a lot to offer. There is something for everyone here from late night partying to exploring hidden coves to even laid back vibes on the beach. Here you can also enjoy water sports, snorkeling, swimming or just chilling on one of several beaches.

Although the island has become very commercial over the years with ATMs, convenient stores, cafes and even massage shops at every corner, it is still an ideal getaway for Bangkokians.

This was actually the first island Shayan and I went to together ever (back when we were dating).

Accommodation

You can find everything between backpacker and budget friendly lodgings to a bit more pricey and luxury stays. Check out booking.com or hotels.com.

Koh Talu

Koh Talu

Photo cr: Koh Talu Island Resort

Distance from Bangkok: ~375 km south to Bang Saphan and then a private boat ride

Known for

Ok, this one will take you a little longer 5 hours to get to but we just couldn’t not mention it.

Koh Talu is one of those lesser known islands, which we only came to find out about my vigorously looking at Google map when we planned our Prachuap Khiri Khan trip. We are so glad that we did because it truly a slice of paradise. It is a small but private island in the Gulf of Thailand and it is known for white sandy beaches, calm azure waters and a relaxed atmosphere. Locals and tourists literally go here to unwind and get away from it all.

There are no convenient stores or ATMs or anything commercial here. You’ see only one bar, a restaurant and lots of activities such as trekking, fishing, snorkeling, diving and kayaking to keep you busy during the day. At night laze around your resort or get a nice massage by the beach.

There are no public ferries to this island since it is a private. You can only get here through the resort booking or affiliated tour operators.

Koh Talu

Accomodation

There are only one or two resorts on this island. The main one being Koh Talu island resort. You cannot step onto this island unless you are staying there. It’s either that or you pay a premium fee that includes snorkeling in the area, lunch at the resort and some time for exploring. I remember paying about 1500 THB per person from one of the local operator, which unfortunately I don’t remember the name of but you can get in touch with the island resort and find out. Or you could just stay there for the night, which we later wish we did!


What did you think of these beautiful islands near Bangkok? Now you have every reason to escape the city for some well-deserved getaway within just a few hours.