Monkey Island (Koh Ped / Koh Ling)

Monkey Island, officially known as Koh Ped and locally referred to as Koh Ling — meaning “Monkey Island” in Thai — is a small but unforgettable stop located south of Pattaya, between Koh Khram and Bang Saray. This charming island is home to thousands of wild monkeys who inhabit the lush low-lying vegetation and rocky shoreline.

Located approximately 6 nautical miles from Ocean Marina, Koh Ped is one of the closest and most popular stops for shorter charters. At a cruising speed of around 10 knots, the journey takes approximately 36 minutes each way (about 1 hour 12 minutes return), making it ideal for 4-hour trips.

Most of the monkeys gather along the southern and eastern shores, where they eagerly await visiting boats and their favorite treats. The experience of stepping ashore is both entertaining and unique, as these lively primates quickly reveal their remarkable agility — leaping, climbing, swimming, and even diving with impressive skill. Their natural diet consists largely of crabs, and their long tails and strong swimming ability make them particularly fascinating to observe in the water.

Feeding the monkeys is an unforgettable experience. Their preferred snacks include bananas, watermelon, and nuts, and their enthusiasm for food is matched only by their playful curiosity. Visitors are often amazed by how effortlessly they move through the trees and across the rocks, turning each encounter into a memorable moment.

Adding to the island’s charm is a small Buddhist shrine, guarded by a stone mermaid, which provides a unique and atmospheric backdrop for photographs.

In recent years, increased tourism has led to a growing monkey population, which in turn creates food shortages during the low season. The Royal Thai Navy actively supports and protects the monkeys during these periods, ensuring the long-term health of the colony and the island’s delicate ecosystem.

By including Monkey Island in our itineraries, Pattaya Yacht Charters helps promote responsible tourism while offering guests the opportunity to experience one of the region’s most delightful and authentic wildlife encounters.