From Bangkok : Pattaya Island Trip with Drone Photos by Speedboat

Exploring the Pattaya Island Trip with Drone Photos from Bangkok: A Practical Review

If you’re planning a day escape from the bustling streets of Bangkok, the Pattaya Island trip with drone photos offers a chance to unwind on a quieter side of Thai island life. For $69.27 per person, this tour promises a blend of relaxing beach time, water sports, and memorable photo moments—all wrapped into a roughly 10-hour experience. While it’s not a perfect adventure for everyone, it does appeal especially to travelers wanting a laid-back, scenic day with a touch of photography fun.

One thing we particularly like about this tour is the inclusion of free drone photos and videos. Having a professional drone capture your moments on the beach gives you a genuinely unique souvenir—something many other trips leave out. On the downside, the overall rating is just 2.5 out of 5 based on two reviews, hinting at some inconsistencies or areas that could be better. Still, for travelers looking to relax in a less crowded environment with manageable group sizes and safe staff, this trip could be worth considering.

This experience suits those who want a low-key day near Bangkok, enjoy water-based activities, and appreciate having a professional photographer document their adventure. It’s also ideal for travelers with a sense of adventure who like the idea of exploring a quieter beach on Pattaya Island, away from the touristy crowds.

Key Points

• Relaxed Environment: Visit Haadtien Beach, known for its lush, tree-lined surroundings and absence of towering buildings.
• Water Activities Included: Enjoy unlimited use of clear kayaks and SUP boards, perfect for water lovers.
• Photo Memories: Free drone photos and videos are part of the package, capturing your beach moments from an elevated perspective.
• Comfort & Safety: Small group sizes are managed by fully vaccinated staff, ensuring a safer experience.
• Cultural Interaction: Meet island geese and learn about their habitat, adding a quirky, natural element.
• Meal & Rest: A seaside restaurant offers a midday chicken steak lunch, providing a tasty break.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The day kicks off early, with a pickup from your Bangkok hotel around 6:30 am. After a roughly 2.5-hour comfortable bus ride, you’ll arrive in Pattaya City. The ride itself is described as “very pleasant” by one reviewer, though be prepared for the heat and crowds once you reach the city. Once in Pattaya, the group boards a speedboat, offering a scenic and speedy transfer across the water to the island.

The Speedboat Ride

The boat ride provides a lively start, with some reviewers mentioning it as the most enjoyable part of the journey. It’s quick, fun, and offers views of the coastline, setting the tone for a day of seaside leisure. The speedboat is the main mode of transfer, and your arrival marks the beginning of your relaxing beach experience.

Hardtien Beach: The Quiet Escape

Upon arrival, you’ll head straight to Haadtien Beach, a hidden gem compared to the busy main Pattaya beaches. Here, the atmosphere is tranquil, with no towering buildings—just lush green trees and pristine sands. You can relax, swim, or take advantage of the unlimited kayak and SUP board use. The clear waters are perfect for a leisurely float or a quick paddle.

Water Sports & Beach Fun

Water activities are at the core of this trip. We loved the idea of free use of clear kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, which allows you to explore the calm waters at your own pace. One reviewer appreciated how the water sports are included, making it a good value for those eager to try kayaking or paddleboarding without extra charges. Expect to spend a good chunk of your day enjoying these pursuits—just be mindful of the weather, as activities are weather-dependent and sometimes canceled if conditions aren’t ideal.

The Drone Photos & Video Session

A standout feature of this tour is the professional drone photo shoot. A guide will organize a session using drone photography and full-frame cameras—giving you high-quality visuals of your beach day. One reviewer noted, “You can capture your beach memories with free drone photos and send them back to your hotel,” which is a big plus if you want lasting souvenirs without extra costs.

Lunch & Local Encounters

Midday, you’ll break for a seaside restaurant lunch featuring chicken steak, providing a tasty and relaxed meal with ocean views. During lunch, you might also enjoy some downtime feeding the island’s native geese—a quirky and charming experience that adds a touch of nature to your day. The guide explains about their habitat, giving a bit of educational flavor to the trip.

Return and Transfer

After a relaxed afternoon, you’ll board the speedboat back to Pattaya, then head back via the bus to Bangkok, arriving in the evening. The tour ends with a transfer back to Terminal 21 Asok, making it convenient for city travelers.

The Value of the Experience

At $69.27 per person, this tour offers a lot of included features—transportation, water sports, a hearty seaside lunch, professional photo/video, and safety measures—all bundled into a manageable day trip. The inclusion of insurance and licensed guides adds an extra layer of confidence, especially important when participating in water activities.

However, it’s worth noting that the overall rating suggests some travelers might have encountered downsides. The review from Strauss_C mentions a “very pleasant” bus ride, but also highlights how hot and crowded Pattaya City can be, which might detract from the otherwise peaceful beach experience. Some travelers may find the experience less exciting if they are expecting more adventurous activities or extensive sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is often booked about two weeks ahead, so plan early, especially in peak seasons.
• Bring sun protection: The Thai sun can be intense, so hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must.
• Prepare for water activities: Comfortable swimwear and waterproof cases will enhance your experience.
• Confirm your hotel pickup: Remember to provide your address early to ensure smooth transfer.
• Weather considerations: The activity is weather-dependent; if conditions are poor, expect a possible reschedule or full refund.
• Group size: The small group setup ensures personalized attention, but keep expectations realistic if you’re seeking a lively party scene.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Pattaya Island trip is best suited for travelers craving a relaxed day away from crowded beaches, with a focus on water activities and photography. The inclusive nature makes it a good value, especially if you appreciate the idea of having drone photos taken of your beach outing. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a longer morning bus ride and are looking for a gentle, scenic experience rather than adrenaline-pumping adventures.

However, if you prefer more lively excursions, extensive sightseeing, or a more structured activity lineup, this might feel a bit tame. The limited reviews suggest variability in the overall experience, so managing expectations about the level of activity and crowds is wise. The emphasis on quiet beaches, good food, and memorable photos could make this a highlight for the right traveler.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from your Bangkok hotel is included. Just make sure to provide your address in advance.

How long is the travel time from Bangkok to Pattaya?
The bus ride takes approximately 2.5 hours, making the entire trip roughly a 10-hour day including activities.

What water activities are available?
You can enjoy unlimited use of clear kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, perfect for exploring the calm waters of Haadtien Beach.

Are meals included?
Yes, a seaside restaurant lunch featuring chicken steak is part of the package.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions prevent activities, the tour provider may offer a different date or a full refund.

Are the drone photos really free?
Yes, drone photos and videos are included at no extra cost, and you’ll be sent the images after your day out.

Who is this tour not suitable for?
People with epilepsy, mobility impairments, high blood pressure, pregnant women, or back problems are advised against participating for safety reasons.

This Pattaya Island trip balances relaxation, scenic beauty, and memorable photo opportunities. It’s a thoughtful choice for those seeking a quieter, scenic beach day with a laid-back vibe—perfect for capturing the moments that make Thailand special.