Koh Phai, Chonburi Province may not be as well-known as Koh Larn or Koh Sichang, but for travelers seeking tranquility, crystal-clear waters, and thriving coral reefs, this island is truly a paradise for sea lovers. Located in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, Koh Phai is only about 30 minutes away from Pattaya by speedboat.

 

Unlike other popular islands, Koh Phai remains peaceful, natural, and largely untouched by commercial development. This makes it one of the rare places where visitors can still experience the authentic charm of the Thai sea.

 

History and Background of Koh Phai Koh Phai is the largest island in a group of five, which includes Koh Phai, Koh Lek, Koh Luam, Koh Kluay, and Koh Manwichai. All of these islands are currently under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy, which is responsible for maintaining the environment and ensuring safety. As a result, overnight stays are prohibited, and there are no shops on the island. Visitors must bring their own food and drinks. While this may sound inconvenient, it actually helps preserve the pristine condition of the island.

 

On the hilltop of Koh Phai, you will find a lighthouse — one of the island’s key landmarks. Besides serving as a navigational beacon, it is also a scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding sea and islands.

 

Attractions and Activities on the Island The first impression most visitors have of Koh Phai is its clean, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters that reveal the seabed below. Compared to nearby islands, Koh Phai is more tranquil, making it ideal for true relaxation.

 

The island is particularly famous for snorkeling and scuba diving. Its coral reefs are still rich and vibrant, with colorful schools of fish swimming around. Beginners can enjoy snorkeling close to the shore, while experienced divers can venture deeper to explore more diverse marine life.

 

Other activities include deep-sea fishing, kayaking, banana boat rides, and stand-up paddleboarding. For those who prefer relaxation, simply lounging on the beach, soaking up the sea breeze, and capturing the peaceful atmosphere in photos is just as rewarding.

 

How to Get to Koh Phai Traveling to Koh Phai is convenient. From Bangkok, take the Bang Na–Trat Highway toward Chonburi, then continue to South Pattaya. The main departure point is Bali Hai Pier, a large pier offering speedboats and tour boats to various islands, including Koh Phai.

 

From Bali Hai Pier, it takes about 30 minutes by speedboat. Prices vary depending on tour packages and group size. For example, chartering a speedboat for 1–6 people costs around 6,000 THB. Shared boats are cheaper, while private yacht charters are available for those seeking luxury, with rates exceeding tens of thousands of baht per day.

 

Estimated Costs Visitors must pay an entrance fee: about 50 THB for Thai nationals and 150 THB for foreigners. Most costs come from one-day tour packages, which usually include round-trip boat transfers, snorkeling gear, some activities, and sometimes lunch and drinks. These packages typically start from 1,500–3,000 THB per person, with higher rates for premium services.

 

Not included in most packages are hotel transfers, additional food or drinks, and optional expenses such as renting underwater cameras.

 

Best Time to Visit Koh Phai can be visited almost year-round, but the best times are during the summer season (April–May) and the end of the year, when the sea is clearest and waves are calm. Still, travelers should check weather conditions in advance, as heavy rain or rough seas can disrupt boat services and pose safety risks.

 

For those who prefer solitude, weekdays are the best option, as weekends and public holidays are often busier.

 

What to Prepare Before Visiting Since there are no shops and overnight stays are not allowed, you should bring enough food and drinking water. Essentials include sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, towels, and beach sandals. If you plan to snorkel or dive, confirm with your tour provider whether gear is included. For underwater photography, bring waterproof cameras or accessories.

 

Koh Phai vs Other Islands Compared to Koh Larn or Koh Sichang, Koh Phai stands out with its quiet atmosphere and unspoiled nature. With no commercial infrastructure and strict rules against overnight stays, it offers a genuinely natural experience. It is also a renowned diving spot due to its thriving coral reefs.

 

While some travelers may find the lack of amenities inconvenient, for those seeking an authentic Thai island experience, Koh Phai is the perfect destination.