Are there currency exchange offices on Koh Larn, or is it better to exchange money in advance?

No, there are no currency exchange offices on Koh Larn island. This is worth knowing in advance: you won't be able to come to the beach and exchange rubles, dollars, or euros for Thai baht here. The nearest exchange offices are only on the "mainland" – in Pattaya or at Bangkok airport.

It's better to have money on the island in cash baht, because cards are accepted far from everywhere. Of course, there are ATMs on Koh Larn – they are located in the fishing village of Na Baan, next to the main pier where ferries from Pattaya dock. But withdrawing money from a card here is extremely unprofitable: the commission for one transaction can be around 220 baht.

Cashless payment on Koh Larn works only in some places: for example, in chain stores 7-Eleven cards are accepted for purchases from 200 baht, in large hotels and certain restaurants. But in ordinary shops, for renting a motorbike, sun loungers, toilet, and beach entertainment, they accept exclusively cash. There is also an acquiring commission – 3–5% on top, so cash is still more profitable.

If you are planning a trip to Koh Larn, exchange money in advance: in Pattaya this is easy to do at street exchange offices or in shopping malls. And if you arrive at Suvarnabhumi airport and go straight to the island, then it's better to exchange dollars or euros right there – on the lower floor near the ARL airport metro station, the rate is usually more favorable than in the city.

Also remember that withdrawing cash from a Russian card at Thai ATMs is a double commission: both your bank and the Thai bank charge their own fee. If the trip is only for one day, calculate your approximate expenses in advance: ferry, food, sun lounger, transport around the island. That way you'll take exactly as many baht as you need and won't get into an unpleasant situation without money far from the village.

More useful information about Koh Larn – about transport, beaches, prices, and hotels – you will find in our complete and honest guide: Koh Larn Island in Pattaya: a complete guide for independent travelers. We recommend reading it before your trip so you don't miss anything!

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