Na Baan Pier – Complete Guide for Travelers

Na Baan Pier is the core gateway to Koh Larn-the small island located just off the side of the coast of Pattaya, Thailand. For the various visitors, this is where the trip to this tropical paradise begins and ends. It is the main pier for the ferries and boats traveling between Pattaya and Koh Larn.

Unlike modern tourist harbors, Na Baan Pier retains a simple local charm. Wooden walkways, fishing boats, small shops, and the relaxed atmosphere immediately remind travelers that they are entering an island community rather than a crowded resort. This pier is not merely about transportation-it also provides local vendors, eateries, motorcycle rentals, a glimpse into something of island life.

In this guide, everything that you need to know about Na Baan Pier will be explored, from ferry details on how to get there to what one can find there, nearby where to eat, and advice in making that trip smooth as possible.

History and Importance of Na Baan Pier

Na Baan Pier is what kept Koh Larn alive for many decades. In the time before tourism became a thing, this pier would generally serve as transport for local fishermen or residents commuting to Pattaya Island. With the fame of Koh Larn came its decidedly clear waters and fine beaches, and soon the pier became built into the total experience of the visitor.

Even now, Na Baan Pier achieves more than providing transit; it is the heartbeat of Koh Larn otherwise linking the local islanders with Sikuku for supplies, work, or trade. Many islanders visit every day for commuting purposes. For tourists, it is the first trip in the line that provides them the opportunity to explore renowned beaches such as Samae Beach, Tien Beach, and Tawaen Beach on Koh Larn.

Location of Na Baan Pier

Koh Larn's eastern coastline has Na Baan Pier, which stands directly opposite Pattaya Bay. It is about 7 kilometers from Pattaya's Bali Hai Pier, which is the main departure point for boats traveling to the island.

Nearby Landmarks:

• Bali Hai Pier, Pattaya - the initiating point of the ferry services to Na-Baan.
• Koh Larn Village - a few minutes' walk from the Pier.
• Local shops, motorbike rentals- right outside the pier.
• Restaurants-thai seafood and local snacks.

Because of its center location, the pier provides easy access to the rest of the island. For the beaches or even within the village, Na-Baan Pier is the entry point that will take you there as conveniently as possible.

How to Reach Na Baan Pier

1. From Pattaya to Na Baan Pier

Ferry:

• Departure: Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya.
• Travel time: About 40 minutes.
• Ticket price: about 30 THB per person (one way).

The ferry services are quite frequent, every 1 to 2 hours in the morning and the late afternoon.

Speedboat:

• From Bali Hai Pier.
• It takes about 15-20 minutes.
• Fare: 150-300 baht per person, depending on number and negotiation. 
• The best option for any party that does not want to wait for the scheduled ferry. 

2. Arrival at Na Baan Pier

After disembarking from the ferry, there are motorbike taxis, tuk-tuks, and rental shops—these being the main means of transportation on Koh Larn since cars are but very few. 

• Bike taxis: Convenient and cheap (30-50 THB to beaches).
• Bikes for rent: About 200-300 THB for a day.
• Songthaew (shared pickup truck): For groups heading to the popular beaches.

Facilities at Na Baan Pier

Slightly more rustic than the other piers, Na Baan offers all the facilities needed by any traveler:

• Ticket counters-for return ferry tickets
• Shops & stalls-have drinks, some snacks, and other basic items
• Restaurants & seafood stalls – all the small eateries around
• Toilet & Waiting Areas – basic but functional ones
• Transport services – motorbike taxis, rentals, and tuk-tuks
• The pier area is always bustling with the arrival and departure of ferries – snack time before heading off to the beaches.

Best Time to Visit Na Baan Pier

The pier operates throughout the year, although your experience may differ across seasons. 

• Peak Season (November through February) is the best time for weather, with calm seas and clear skies being the icing on the cake. The ferry ride is smooth now since there are more tourists around.
• Hot season is the period between March and May; during this time, the temperature gets warm. Travelling is still permissible, but bring along some sunscreen and a water bottle. 
• Rainy Season: From June to October, there are fewer tourists, but it is often an annoying wait as ferries are bound to be delayed on account of rough seas.
• The best time to travel is in the morning since the sea is usually calming down by then, and the ferry is less crowded.

Things to Do Around Na Baan Pier

All the same, Na Baan Pier has its attractions and activities for which most visitors come to Koh Larn.

1. Local Village Exploration

You can walk around the pier for a little while, where you'll find a small village of shops, guesthouses, and local food stalls. This is where you can experience island life.

2. Try The Local Seafood

There are a few small restaurants adjacent to the pier where one can get affordable fresh seafood. Grilled fish, prawns, and spicy Thai curries are some of the popular choices.

3. Coastal Strolls

Nice paths and sceneries around Na Baan pier, where you can enjoy long peaceful walks and listen to fishing boats.

4. Rent A Motorbike To Explore The Island

Na Baan Pier is the gateway to viewing the beaches of Koh Larn. To rent motorbikes is probably easiest here to pave way for easier access to places like Samae Beach, Tien Beach, and Nual Beach.

Travel Tips for Na Baan Pier

• Carry Cash: There aren’t many ATMs around the island, and most of the small shops do not take card payments.
• Check Ferry Timings: The last ferry back to Pattaya usually leaves around 5–6 PM. Don't miss it unless you're staying overnight.
• Pack Light: The pier tends to get a bit crowded. Just carry with you whatever you need for that one day.
• Stay Overnight if You Can: Koh Larn has guesthouses and hotels. This way, you can get to enjoy the calm evenings after the day-trippers are gone.
• Respect Local Culture: The Na Baan Pier is shared by tourists and locals alike. Do respect the community around you.

Conclusion

While Na Baan Pier may not be the fanciest part of your expedition, it is a place vital in linking the traveller with Koh Larn. The ferry services, local shops, and gorgeous atmosphere all foster an initial impression of island life. Whatever your plans – be it for a day or overnight – staying true to the operational ways of Na Baan Pier will end up taking you smoothly on your journey.

So, whenever you next plan a trip to Koh Larn, keep in mind that your trip actually begins at Na Baan Pier, that simple but beautiful entryway to one of Thailand's most breathtaking islands.