Tawaen Beach Pier (Tha Na Ban Pier)
“This pier perfectly captures the Thai island vibe, blending breathtaking coastal scenery with the resourceful energy of local vendors.”
Description
This is the island’s busiest terminal, welcoming hundreds of day-trippers from the mainland every day. The architecture is straightforward and strictly functional: a long, covered walkway provides essential shade from the scorching sun while you wait for your return boat, and the pier offers easy, stable access to the water. Port staff are generally efficient, helping passengers dock and disembark safely.
Stepping off the boat puts you directly on Tawaen Beach. The infrastructure here is robust; you’ll find a 7-Eleven just steps away, and the shoreline is packed with food stalls and cafes offering prices that rival those on Jomtien Beach. It can get incredibly crowded, especially when the afternoon rush heads back to Bali Hai, but the sweeping views of the turquoise ocean and lush green hills make the chaos well worth it.
Why visit
Insider tips
💡 Stay Alert: Be wary of opportunistic beach vendors who might lie about the 15:00 boat being canceled to pressure you into renting a sunbed for another hour. Ignore them; the boats run on schedule.
💡 Manage Your Time: While tickets often claim a 30-40 minute transit, leave a 50-minute buffer—the ferries move at a leisurely pace.
💡 Shade Strategy: The pier’s roof provides shade, but seating is limited during peak hours. Get to the boarding area early if you need to sit.
💡 Keep it Tidy: Occasionally, you may spot some litter near the shoreline—sadly, it’s mostly left behind by careless tourists.
