Tawaen beach
Tawaen Beach, nestled in a quaint bay on the southeast side of Ko Lan Island - often referred to as Coral Island - boasts a serene coastline embraced by picturesque hills adorned with lush tropical flora. Perched atop these hills, the iconic golden statue of the sitting Buddha, accompanied by a charming Buddhist temple and an observation deck, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the azure sea and the island's vibrant landscape. This idyllic setting promises a perfect escape for those seeking a tranquil beach vacation in Thailand.
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Beach description
Welcome to the pristine Tawaen Beach on Ko Lan, Thailand, a tropical paradise stretching 700 meters in length and varying from 50 to 150 meters in width. This idyllic haven is adorned with fine, grainy white sand, offering a picturesque setting for your beach vacation.
Families with young children are particularly drawn to Tawaen Beach, thanks to its gentle descent and smooth shoreline. The water here is not only clean and warm but also tranquil, making it perfect for a leisurely swim. While the sea bottom is sandy, we recommend wearing slippers for protection, as sea urchins are known to inhabit these waters. Additionally, exercise caution when swimming beyond the buoys, as jet skis, boats, and other watercraft often zip by at high speeds.
Despite the beach's popularity, it remains exceptionally clean and well-maintained. However, due to the large number of visitors, it's not uncommon for trash to accumulate by evening. Rest assured, these are promptly addressed, ensuring the beach's beauty is restored by morning.
The allure of Tawaen Beach is undeniable, making it a magnet for tourists, especially during holidays celebrated across Southeast Asia. Its vibrant atmosphere is a testament to its status as a must-visit destination.
- Best Time to Visit: To fully enjoy Tawaen Beach's serene beauty, consider visiting during the weekdays or outside of peak holiday seasons in Southeast Asia. This timing allows for a more relaxed experience, away from the bustling crowds.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Ko Lan for a beach vacation is undoubtedly during the dry season, which spans from November to April. This period offers the most conducive weather conditions for enjoying the island's stunning beaches and outdoor activities.
- November to February: These months are ideal for visitors seeking comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. The weather is typically sunny with a cool breeze, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
- March to April: This is the hottest time of the year, which might be preferable for those who love the heat. However, it's important to stay hydrated and protect oneself from the strong sun.
While the dry season is the best time for a beach vacation, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting at the start or end of the dry season when the island is less crowded. Regardless of when you visit, Ko Lan's crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beaches await to provide a memorable tropical getaway.
Video: Beach Tawaen
Infrastructure
Where to Stay
Ko Lan Island offers a variety of accommodations, from quaint guesthouses to 2-star and 3-star hotels providing essential amenities. Guests can choose from rooms equipped with air conditioning or fans, en-suite toilets and showers, barbecue sets, and sometimes complimentary Wi-Fi. However, most visitors opt to stay in Pattaya, which boasts a wider selection of comfortable and economical lodging options.
Activities and Attractions
Upon arrival, the ferry docks at a distance from the beach, but a shaded overpass provides a pleasant walkway to the sands of Tawaen Beach. Beyond basking in the sun, you can explore the island's sights and quieter beaches, which offer a more serene and pristine environment away from the crowds. For a unique island tour, consider hiring a rickshaw, a local taxi-like mode of transportation.
The beachfront is lined with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent at 100 Thai baht each, which can occupy much of the space. Behind this area, a promenade is dotted with an array of small eateries, snack bars, and stalls selling food, drinks, beach gear, and souvenirs. Unlike Pattaya, no chain stores are present, and prices tend to be higher, so it's advisable to bring any essentials with you. Bargaining is not a common practice among Thai vendors. For your convenience, paid showers and toilets are available for 40 and 10 Thai baht, respectively, situated behind the dining venues.
While European cuisine is absent, the local culinary scene thrives, with some restaurants offering cooking demonstrations for guests. Additionally, numerous Asian fast food vendors and drink sellers are stationed along the beach.
For the adventurous, a variety of water sports equipment is available for hire, including jet skis at 1000 Thai baht for 10 minutes, boats, and rubber rings. The beach also hosts a rescue station, shooting range, first aid post, and tour agencies to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
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How to get there
You can get to Ko Lan Island via ferry (costs 30 Thai baht) or via speedboat (costs 300 Thai baht). The only ferry pier on the island is located right at Tawaen Beach. Ferries come to the island from Bali Hai pier in Pattaya. It's recommended to come here during early mornings, when it's not yet hot and there aren't many people. A ferry ride takes about 40 minutes. Usually visitors spend all day here. It's advised to leave before 18:00, when the last ferry departs. Right after its departure getting to the mainland is considerably more expensive, and the prices gradually rise with time.