PATTAYA, Thailand – Koh Larn saw a surge of visitors during the Labor Day long weekend, as both Thai and international tourists flocked to the island for beach activities and relaxation, creating heavy congestion around Bali Hai Pier.
On May 1, large crowds gathered at the pier in South Pattaya from early morning, arriving by vans, taxis, and private cars to catch passenger ferries and speedboats heading to the island. The extended holiday period from May 1–4 drew significant numbers of travelers eager to enjoy the sea.
The influx led to severe traffic congestion in the surrounding area, with long delays reported near the pier and along Sukhumvit Road in South Pattaya, where vehicles moved slowly throughout the day.
Officials from the Marine Department were deployed to manage safety and operations, ensuring smooth boarding procedures and closely monitoring the situation. Authorities also reminded all passengers to wear life jackets at all times during boat journeys to reinforce safety standards and maintain confidence in Pattaya’s tourism image.
