What to do in Koh Lan

The attractive resort of Jomtien Beach curves around a tree-shaded bay on the shores of the Bay of Bangkok. Relax on golden sand and admire dramatic sunsets. Try watersports and enjoy family-friendly fun at a waterpark. Dine in waterfront restaurants and watch a fascinating Thai cultural performance. Jomtien Beach is a 3.7-mile (6-kilometer) long stretch of beach that offers a quieter alternative to the bustling Pattaya Beach.

Rows of jet skis, water scooters and windsurfers line the tideline as music from restaurants, bars and clubs drifts down to the beach, promising a fun-filled night ahead. On the sand, visitors from all over the world soak up the sun as enterprising locals energetically ply their wares and services. It’s this good-natured atmosphere that has made Pattaya Beach one of Asia’s most popular beaches.

Take a seat in a street-side restaurant and watch the passing parade as visitors from all over the world wander Walking Street, dazzled by the neon lights, constant thump of music, and the scantily clad bar girls who attempt to entice them into their clubs. Enjoy a seafood meal, or sample the wares from one of the many street carts, which offer everything from traditional pad thai to more unusual specialties such as fried grasshopper and silkworm. As the evening lights up, take your pick from the kaleidoscope of entertainment on offer. Cheer along ringside at a Thai boxing match or dance into the early hours in one of the many nightclubs. If you like your entertainment a little more risqué then a number of cabaret and go-go shows will be sure to please.

Samae Beach is one of Koh Lan’s liveliest and most popular beaches. It sits on the island’s west coast overlooking the glorious and glistening water of the Bay of Bangkok. Samae Beach offers an ideal combination of relaxation, recreation, adventure and traditional Thai cuisine. The beach itself is an eye-catching sweep of soft white sand framed by forest-clad hills. Find numerous opportunities to rent sun lounges and umbrellas along the beach.

Nual Beach is a laid-back and charming beach that is far removed from the busy crowd of Pattaya. Relax on soft powdery sand, cool off in enticing water and enjoy uninterrupted views of the Bay of Bangkok. Nual Beach curves around a pretty bay located toward the southernmost tip of Koh Lan. It’s often called Monkey Beach because of the playful monkeys that inhabit the encompassing hills.

Koh Lan is famous for its beaches and Ta-Yai Beach is one of its most attractive and serene. Set on the island’s east coast, it’s a lesser-visited beach with minimal facilities. Visitors come to Ta-Yai Beach to enjoy the tranquility of its glorious stretch of sand and enticing seawater. Find a quiet spot and throw down a towel or rent one of the several sun lounges situated along the waterfront.