10 best islands near Bangkok: Crystal Clear Water & Easy Trips

After working hard, it’s important to take time to relax and restore balance in life. You don’t always need a long holiday—sometimes a simple weekend getaway is enough to recharge your energy. That’s why this trip introduces 10 beautiful islands near Bangkok that are easy to reach and perfect for a quick escape from the city.

These destinations are known as some of the best islands near Bangkok, offering stunning scenery, white sandy beaches, and clear turquoise water. Whether you want to relax on the beach, snorkel, or enjoy water activities, these islands provide the perfect setting for a refreshing getaway.

Let’s explore the best islands near Bangkok you should add to your travel list.

1. Koh Kham, Chonburi

The first destination on our list of islands near Bangkok is Koh Kham in Chonburi Province. Located in Sattahip, this island is famous for its crystal-clear blue water, soft white sand, and rocky landscapes surrounded by lush greenery.

Koh Kham is known for its pristine natural environment because it is part of a conservation area. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling to see colorful coral reefs and various marine species. Another interesting activity is riding a glass-bottom boat to admire the underwater scenery without getting wet.

The highlights of Koh Kham include a stunning wooden bridge perfect for photos and the well-preserved and beautiful underwater world.

To get to Koh Kham, first purchase a boat ticket. Then, a shared taxi (songthaew) will take you to Khao Hma Jor Pier to cross over to the island.

Koh Kham is located in Sattahip Subdistrict, Sattahip District, Chonburi Province, and is open to visitors daily.

2. Koh Larn, Chonburi

When talking about islands near Bangkok, Koh Larn is often the first place that comes to mind. Located near Pattaya, the island is famous for its beautiful beaches, clear blue sea, and lush natural scenery.

There are many attractions on Koh Larn, including Ta Waen Beach, Nual Beach, Sangwan Beach, the Windmill Viewpoint, and several temples and viewpoints.

Visitors can also enjoy various water activities such as SUP boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and even night squid fishing. With so many attractions and activities, Koh Larn is definitely one of the best islands near Bangkok for a quick vacation.

The highlight here is the sheer number of photo opportunities; you'll never get bored no matter how many times you visit. Alternatively, a one-day trip to Koh Larn by speedboat is also a great option.

To get there, drive to Laem Bali Hai, Pattaya, and you can purchase tickets for the double-decker ferry. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes and costs 30 baht per person.

Koh Larn is located in Na Kluea Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, and operates daily.

3. Koh Samae San, Chonburi

Another beautiful destination among the best islands near Bangkok is Koh Samae San, a conservation island located in Chonburi. The island is famous for its crystal-clear water and unspoiled natural beauty.

Snorkeling is the highlight activity here, allowing visitors to explore vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life such as clownfish. Nature trails are also available for those who enjoy scenic walks along the coastline.

With only about two hours of travel from Bangkok, Koh Samae San is one of the most convenient islands near Bangkok for a short getaway.

Snorkeling is a highlight here. Anyone visiting this island shouldn't miss booking a snorkeling tour to Koh Samae San, picked up from Pattaya. It offers a close-up experience into the underwater world, allowing you to see a variety of marine life, including colorful clownfish, and swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters that will make you forget this is the sea of ​​Chonburi.

Getting there is easy by car from Bangkok; it only takes 2 hours to reach the pier. You can park your car in the area before the pier.

Koh Samae San is located in Samae San Subdistrict, Sattahip District, Chonburi Province. It is open daily.

4. Koh Khram, Chonburi

Koh Kram Yai and Koh Kram Noi, located in Sattahip District, Chonburi Province, are protected islands under the care of the Royal Thai Navy. They boast abundant natural beauty, fine white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters, making them ideal for snorkeling and coral viewing. Most people prefer to rent yachts from Pattaya for snorkeling around the islands, but landing on the main island is prohibited as it's a sea turtle conservation area. The islands are very peaceful and private, perfect for groups or large family trips, ideal for day trips or staying in nearby accommodations.

Koh Kram Noi occasionally features a sandbar. A highlight is a luxurious catamaran yacht cruise from Pattaya, offering a full range of activities including snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, a giant waterslide (as tall as a two-story building), and exhilarating fun in an inflatable swimming pool.

The trip also includes stops at Koh Rin for snorkeling to see schools of colorful fish and coral, and a visit to Monkey Island where you can feed the playful monkeys waiting for delicious treats. Enjoy a wild party on board with a DJ, signature drinks, five-star cuisine, and over 10 sun loungers for relaxation. Guaranteed to be an amazing trip!

To get there, driving from Bangkok to the pier takes about 2 hours. From there, most people book snorkeling trips by joining a speedboat tour or chartering a yacht from Ocean Marina Pier or Bang Saray Beach, which takes about 1-1.5 hours.

Koh Kram is located in Sattahip Subdistrict, Sattahip District, Chonburi Province, in the Gulf of Thailand. Snorkeling and coral viewing are available daily.

5. Koh Sichang, Chonburi

Koh Sichang is one of the largest islands near Bangkok and is also the smallest district in Thailand. It is a popular destination for one-day trips thanks to its historical sites and scenic viewpoints.

Tourist attractions include the former royal summer palace Phra Chuthathut Palace, the sacred Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine, the famous Asdang Bridge (also known as the “Bridge of Love”), Chong Khao Khat viewpoint, and Tham Phang Beach.

Highlights of this area include Tham Pang Beach, a beach near Bangkok perfect for swimming with fine sand and clear water, and offering food and drinks. There's also Chong Khao Khad, considered the most beautiful sunset viewing spot on the island, and Asdang Bridge, also known as the "Bridge of Love," another must-see photo opportunity.

To get there, drive from Bangkok to Koh Loi Pier, which takes about 1.5 hours. Ferries to Koh Si Chang depart hourly and take approximately 45 minutes, costing around 60 baht per person.

Koh Si Chang is located in Tha Tewawong Subdistrict, Koh Si Chang District, Chonburi Province, in the Gulf of Thailand. It's accessible daily.

6. Koh Mun Nork, Rayong

If you want a peaceful escape, Koh Mun Nork is one of the best islands near Bangkok for relaxation. Located in Rayong, this private island offers tranquility, stunning scenery, and a relaxing atmosphere.

The island features white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and lush tropical vegetation. There is only one resort on the island—Koh Munnork Private Island Resort—making it ideal for those who prefer privacy.

As a private island, the highlight of Koh Man Nok is its private and tranquil atmosphere, offering a unique sense of peace and seclusion.

To get there, you can take a boat from Laem Tal Pier, then transfer to a smaller boat or barge at the beach. This is necessary to preserve the coral reefs in the area, as the larger boats are located close to the mainland.

Koh Man Nok is located in Tambon Kram, Amphoe Klaeng, Rayong Province, and is open for visits daily.

7. Koh Talu, Rayong

Another hidden gem among islands near Bangkok is Koh Talu, located within the Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park area. Although the island is small, it offers beautiful white sand beaches and clear water.

The highlight is the natural archway, an impressive "unseen" natural wonder. Another highlight is the stunning underwater scenery; diving is another equally appealing activity. Therefore, don't miss the 6-island Rayong diving trip, which will take you to see schools of fish, vibrant coral reefs, and a variety of other marine life.

This island is ideal for a day trip to the sea, as there is no accommodation on the island. The boat ride is short, making it a perfect place to relax and recharge.

To get there, take a bus or train to Bang Saphan Noi station, then take a motorbike taxi to Laem Son Pier/Haad Son Pier, the main departure point for boats to Koh Thalu.

Koh Thalu is located in Chak Phong Subdistrict, Klaeng District, Rayong Province and is open for visits daily.

8. Koh Samet, Rayong

Koh Samet is one of the most famous islands near Bangkok, known for its powdery white sand and clear water. Popular beaches include Sai Kaew Beach and Ao Prao.

Located about 6.5 kilometers from Ban Phe Pier, the island is part of Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park and offers activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and beach relaxation.

Highlights of Koh Samet include Saikaew Beach, the longest and most bustling beach on the island; Ao Prao, the most beautiful sunset viewing spot on the island; and the Mermaid and Phra Aphai Mani statues, important landmarks on Saikaew Beach that everyone must photograph.

To get there, you can take a bus to Ban Phe Pier, the main departure point, and then take a boat to Koh Samet. There are several boat options available, including slow boats, speedboats, and ferries, with fares ranging from 60-200 baht per trip (depending on the type of boat). Alternatively, you can drive your own car, which takes approximately 3 hours. Parking is available at various piers for 100 baht per night.

Koh Samet is located in Tambon Phe, Mueang District, Rayong Province, in the Gulf of Thailand, and is open to tourists daily.

9. Koh Chang, Trat

If you have more time, Koh Chang is another excellent choice among the best islands near Bangkok. It is the second-largest island in Thailand and offers mountains, waterfalls, and beautiful beaches. Popular beaches include White Sand Beach, Klong Prao Beach, and Kai Bae Beach.

Highlights offer a variety of activities, including a full-day 5-island snorkeling tour around Koh Chang. This trip takes you to explore the underwater world around Koh Chang at 5 popular islands: Koh Yak Lek, Koh Yak Yai, Koh Mapring, Koh Rang, and beaches within the national park. Enjoy crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral reefs in the comfort of a large boat, eliminating worries about seasickness – a truly fun-filled experience!

Other activities include fishing, kayaking, a mangrove forest boat tour at Ban Salak Khok, a visit to Klong Plu Waterfall, or simply relaxing and enjoying the stunning sea views.

Getting there from Bangkok takes approximately 5 hours by car followed by a ferry. Alternatively, to avoid the drive, you can book a bus and ferry package directly from Bangkok to Koh Chang.

Koh Chang is located in Koh Chang District, Trat Province, in the eastern part of Thailand. It is open daily.

10. Koh Kood, Trat

Although it takes longer to reach, Koh Kood remains one of the best islands near Bangkok thanks to its pristine beaches and incredibly clear water.

The island features many attractions such as Bang Bao Beach, Ao Noi, Khlong Chao Beach, and Khlong Chao Waterfall. Surrounded by coconut groves and lush greenery, Koh Kood is perfect for a peaceful tropical getaway.

The highlight is undoubtedly the breathtaking beauty of the sea, reminiscent of the Andaman Sea, combined with stunning natural scenery, making it the perfect place for relaxation. In addition, exciting snorkeling and squid fishing trips around Koh Kood by wooden boat are waiting for everyone.

Getting there by private car from Bangkok takes approximately 5 hours. Head to Laem Sok Pier, where parking is available, then take a ferry to Koh Kood. Ferry tickets from Laem Sok to Koh Kood can be booked in advance. Alternatively, if you prefer not to drive, there are bus and ferry combination services available from Bangkok to Koh Kood.

Koh Kood is located in Koh Kood Subdistrict, Koh Kood District, Trat Province.

Explore the Best Islands Near Bangkok for Your Next Getaway

These 10 islands near Bangkok offer the perfect escape from city life, whether you prefer a quick day trip or a longer island vacation. With beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, and exciting activities, they are among the best islands near Bangkok for relaxation and adventure.

If you are planning your next weekend getaway, choose one of these stunning islands and experience the beauty of Thailand’s nearby tropical destinations. And don't forget to book your trip tickets at amazing prices with us at Ticket2attraction.