Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is the Andaman coast's most laid-back island destination, beloved by families, couples, and anyone seeking beautiful beaches without the party scene. The island is actually two islands (Koh Lanta Noi and Koh Lanta Yai) connected by a bridge, with all tourist development on the larger Lanta Yai. Its long west coast features a string of gorgeous beaches, each quieter as you head south, culminating in the wild beauty of Mu Ko Lanta National Park. The charming Old Town on the east coast preserves the island's multicultural heritage.
Beaches on Koh Lanta
Long Beach (Phra Ae)
The most popular beach on Koh Lanta with a wide strip of golden sand stretching for 4 kilometers. Well-developed with a good range of restaurants, beach bars, and accommodation, yet never feeling overcrowded. Great swimming and spectacular sunsets.
Klong Dao Beach
The northernmost tourist beach, closest to the pier, with calm shallow water that's perfect for families with young children. The sand is soft and wide, and the sea is shallow enough to wade far out safely.
Kantiang Bay
A stunning horseshoe-shaped bay in the south of the island, home to the luxury Pimalai Resort. The beach is beautifully framed by jungle-covered hills and offers excellent snorkeling at the rocky ends. One of Lanta's most photogenic spots.
Bamboo Bay (Ao Mai Pai)
A remote, less-visited beach near the national park at the southern tip of the island. Backed by dense jungle with just a handful of rustic bungalow operations. The kind of untouched beach that is increasingly rare in Thailand.
Klong Khong Beach
A bohemian-flavored beach popular with long-stay travelers and digital nomads. The rocky shore at low tide reveals interesting tide pools but makes swimming better at high tide. Known for reggae bars and a creative, alternative atmosphere.
Things to Do on Koh Lanta
Mu Ko Lanta National Park
$At the southern tip of the island, this national park features pristine beaches, a lighthouse with panoramic views, nature trails through old-growth forest, and a white sandy beach. Entry fee ΰΈΏ200 for foreigners. Watch for monkeys near the entrance.
Four Islands Snorkeling Tour
$$Full-day longtail or speedboat trip to Koh Ngai, Koh Chuek, Koh Muk (including the famous Emerald Cave/Tham Morakot), and Koh Kradan. The Emerald Cave requires swimming through a dark tunnel to reach a hidden beach inside a limestone cavern.
Lanta Old Town
FreeA charming waterfront community on the east coast showcasing Koh Lanta's heritage as a trading port. Wooden stilt houses line the main street, now housing cafes, art galleries, and souvenir shops. The mix of Thai, Chinese, and Sea Gypsy (Chao Leh) cultures is unique.
Kayaking through Mangroves
$-$$Guided kayak tours through the mangrove forests on the east coast of Lanta, exploring the intricate root systems and spotting wildlife including monitor lizards, crabs, and various bird species. Half-day tours include instruction for beginners.
Thai Cooking Class
$$Several operators offer cooking classes that begin with a visit to a local market to select fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on preparation of 4-5 Thai dishes. Time For Lime and Lanta Thai Cookery are highly rated options.
How to Get to Koh Lanta
Flight to Krabi + Minivan/Ferry
3-4 hoursFly to Krabi airport (1.5 hours), then take a minivan and car ferry to Koh Lanta (1.5-2 hours). The most convenient option. During high season, direct minivans meet all arriving flights.
Flight to Phuket + Ferry/Minivan
5-6 hoursFly to Phuket, then take a ferry (seasonal, high season only) or minivan via Krabi to Koh Lanta. More flights but longer overland transfer than from Krabi.
Bus + Minivan + Ferry
14-16 hoursOvernight bus from Bangkok to Krabi, then minivan and car ferry to Koh Lanta. Budget-friendly with combined tickets available. The car ferries connect Lanta Noi to the mainland and Lanta Noi to Lanta Yai.
Book Transport to Koh Lanta
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Where to Stay on Koh Lanta
Klong Dao
$$-$$$Best for families with the calmest swimming beach and closest to the pier. Good range of family-friendly resorts and guesthouses. Most restaurants and shops are within walking distance.
Long Beach (Phra Ae)
$-$$$The best all-round area with the widest selection of accommodation, dining, and activities. Great for first-time visitors. A good mix of budget and mid-range options.
Kantiang Bay
$$$-$$$$The southern gem, home to the renowned Pimalai Resort & Spa. Quieter and more exclusive, ideal for romantic getaways. Limited dining outside the resorts.
Klong Khong
$-$$The bohemian area popular with long-stay travelers and backpackers. Cheapest accommodation on the island with a relaxed reggae vibe. Rocky at low tide but atmospheric.