“The primary gateway to Koh Phayam and Koh Chang, featuring local fishing vibes, diverse boat services, secure parking, and authentic souvenir shops in one convenient location.”
Koh Phayam Pier, also known as Pak Nam Municipal Pier in Ranong Province, is the main pier for travel to Koh Phayam, one of the important tourist islands in the northern Andaman Sea. It's located approximately 30-35 kilometers from Ranong town, with a journey time of about 1-2 hours depending on traffic and pick-up/drop-off points. This pier is considered the most important maritime transportation hub in Ranong Province, offering ferry services to Koh Phayam year-round, including both speedboats and traditional wooden ferries.
Actual travel times vary; speedboats from Pak Nam Ranong Pier to Koh Phayam take an average of 35-45 minutes, while traditional wooden ferries take about 1.5-2 hours. The route passes through mangrove forests and abundant marine natural areas of Ranong Province before reaching the open sea to Koh Phayam. Koh Phayam is a tranquil island with no cars; motorcycles are the primary means of transportation.
The pier area is bustling throughout the day, especially during the peak tourist season from November to May, when the Andaman Sea is calmer, ideal for travel. Tourists can purchase tickets from several service providers, such as local speedboats and private ferries, which offer multiple departures daily, from around 8:30 AM through the afternoon and evening, depending on the season and weather.
The pier area also serves as a hub for the local fishing community, featuring a market selling dried seafood, shrimp paste, dried shrimp, and local souvenirs from Ranong province. There is also ample daily and overnight parking for tourists arriving by private vehicle. Additionally, there are shared taxis (songthaew) from Ranong town that provide direct access to the pier, making transportation convenient and easily accessible.
Upon arrival at Koh Phayam, the pier is located on the eastern side of the island, serving as the main link to resorts and communities on the island. Tourists will experience unspoiled natural beauty, including beaches, mangrove forests, and the simple lifestyle of the islanders, a stark contrast to more developed tourist destinations.
Overall, Koh Phayam pier is a crucial starting point for journeys to one of the most tranquil and natural islands in the Andaman Sea, ideal for tourists seeking escape from the hustle and bustle and to experience a simple yet uniquely charming seaside environment.
How to Get There
- From Ranong town, you can take the iconic blue wooden songthaew (Pak Nam route) directly to the pier entrance. Motorbike taxis and private cars are also common. For those with private vehicles, several private parking lots are available near the pier offering daily and overnight rates.
Travel Tips
- Arrive at the pier at least 30–60 minutes before departure
- Always check the ferry schedule as it may change due to weather
- Best travel season is November to May
- Speedboat is ideal for a faster and more convenient trip
Admission Fees:
- Free admission.
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM (Subject to boat departure schedules)