Last updated on March 18th, 2025 at 03:29 pm
Koh Lanta is our all-time favorite destination in Thailand, and at the time of writing, we will have been living in this paradise haven for 4 months!
Koh Lanta is everything you imagine when you think of a perfect paradise island. Known for its laid-back relaxed atmosphere, Koh Lanta has pristine white sand paradise beaches with perfectly warm waters to relax in while watching some of the best sunsets in Thailand.
No time to read the full article? These full-day private tours of Koh Lanta showcase the best of what this paradise island has to offer.
Best of all, and our favorite thing in Koh Lanta is that it is much less crowded than the more popular Thai islands like Phuket or Koh Samui, yet it still has all the beachfront bars, local restaurants, and resorts that cater to every budget. We’re confident that after your trip, you too will feel that Koh Lanta is the ultimate island to visit in Thailand for relaxation!
In this article, we will convince you why Koh Lanta is worth visiting, especially if you’re looking for an affordable, yet perfect island in Thailand to unwind and relax. Furthermore, we’ll also provide information on how to get to this paradise destination, all the best things to do in Koh Lanta, our recommendations on where to stay and for how long, as well as the best times to visit Koh Lanta.
So let’s dive into everything you need to know about beautiful Koh Lanta, beginning with its location.
If you are visiting Thailand for the first time then read – The best advice and everything you need to know for your Thailand Holiday.
Where is Koh Lanta?
In the Thai language, the names of islands commonly start with “Koh,” meaning “island.” The official name of Koh Lanta is Koh Lanta Yai but most people drop the last part.
Koh Lanta is one of many Thai islands located in the popular southwestern region of Thailand, situated in the stunning Andaman Sea, which is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse marine life.
How Do I Get to Koh Lanta?
Koh Lanta does not have an airport, but there’s no need to worry, traveling there doesn’t require you to be a backpacker in Thailand because getting to Koh Lanta is quite easy and straightforward.
While Koh Lanta is indeed an island, its proximity to the mainland of Thailand makes it easily accessible by car or minibus as you can drive from mainland Thailand and take a short ferry ride that accommodates vehicles to reach Koh Lanta.
Alternatively, you can travel by speedboat or slow boat to Koh Lanta from popular destinations in Thailand, such as Phuket, Ao Nang, and the Phi Phi islands.
For both bus and boat trips such as Phuket to Koh Lanta and Krabi to Koh Lanta, we recommend booking your tickets online via 12go.Asia as it is the easiest and cheapest option for traveling in Asia.
When visiting Koh Lanta, you will more than likely have flown into Phuket Airport or Krabi Airport for your Thailand holiday, so we will discuss briefly the different travel options for getting to Koh Lanta from Phuket as well as Krabi.
Phuket to Koh Lanta
To travel from Phuket to Koh Lanta, you have a few transportation options:
Ferry: The most common option is a ferry from Phuket to Koh Lanta. The ferry ride can range from 1.5 hours to 4 hours depending on the type of boat you choose.
Ferries depart from various piers in Phuket, such as Rassada Pier or Ao Po Pier, and arrive at Saladan Pier in Koh Lanta, from where you will take a tuk-tuk, taxi, or hotel transport to your accommodation in Koh Lanta.
Minivan/ferry: Some companies provide a combined bus and ferry ticket for travel from Phuket to Koh Lanta. This option includes hotel pickup, transportation to the ferry heading to Koh Lanta, and then a drop-off at your accommodation upon arrival on the island.
Minivan: The most budget-friendly way to travel to Koh Lanta from Phuket is by minibus, but this is also the longest duration. We have taken this option on MANY occasions. The journey from Phuket to Koh Lanta will take 6 hours and will cost $15 per person. There will be a food/toilet break along the way. Just sit back and enjoy the stunning landscape through Krabi province.
Private Taxi: The last travel option from Phuket to Koh Lanta is a private transfer, either by car or minivan. This option offers flexibility regarding departure time and can be more comfortable, especially if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.
Thailand Travel Tip – Regardless of which option you choose, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel season in Thailand (November – February) to ensure availability and secure the best prices.
Krabi to Koh Lanta
The nearest airport to Koh Lanta is Krabi Airport, depending on what destination you are coming from it can be a bit more expensive to arrive at Krabi Airport when compared to Phuket Airport.
The Krabi region in Thailand is known for its famous paradise beaches surrounded by sky-high limestone cliffs, hotels for all budgets, and great nightlife. Find out the 15 Awesome Things to Do in Krabi, and learn why this tropical destination should be included on your Thailand itinerary.”
After visiting Krabi and Ao Lang, continue your Thailand trip to Koh Lanta. The best and cheapest option for a single traveler to get to Koh Lanta from Krabi is by booking a seat on a minibus. You get picked up at your hotel and dropped off at the doorstep of your next stay. This journey will take 2 hours and prices start at $10 per person.
Whether you are traveling to Koh Lanta from Krabi airport, Krabi bus terminal, Krabi Town, or the popular beach town of Ao Nang, as with Phuket, 12go.Asia is your easiest and cheapest option!
The Best Things To Do in Koh Lanta
Now we know how to get there, let’s find out about the best things to do in Koh Lanta.
Beach Hopping: Koh Lanta is a paradise island in Thailand, and perhaps the main reason you are visiting is because of the pristine beaches of Koh Lanta, each with its own unique charm. What we love about Koh Lanta is its rugged, natural beauty that remains largely untouched by the negative aspects of mass tourism.
We will go into more detail about the best Beaches in Koh Lanta below.
Rent a paddleboard: Don’t expect to find jet skis, parasailing, or banana boats in Koh Lanta, remember this is a chill island! Instead, a fun thing to do in Koh Lanta is to rent a paddleboard and cruise out onto the calm waters.
Many beach bars offer very affordable hourly rates at 200 baht. As you paddle out, immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, with majestic mountains rising dramatically in the background, especially at sunset!
Padel Tennis: No, you are not reading the same thing again! Something that has taken off all over the world and now a very popular thing to do in Koh Lanta is padel tennis.
Padel tennis is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. The Highlands Padel Court organizes tournaments and competitions for all levels. It is also possible to rent a court on an hourly rate if you just want to play with your friends or family.
Kayak through mangroves and caves: One of the most adventurous things to do in Koh Lanta is kayaking through off-the-beaten-track mangrove forests and into hidden sea caves.
You can opt for a half-day tour focused solely on the mangroves or a full-day adventure that includes exploring stunning stalactites and stalagmites in secret sea caves. Both tours include pick-up from your hotel, a guide, as well as lunch.
To book your tour click on the following links.
- Full Day Kayak Adventure: Ko Lanta: Mangrove Kayaking, Ko Talabeng, & Skull Island.
- Half-Day Mangrove Kayaking Tour with Lunch.
Koh Lanta Snorkeling Adventure: Another adventurous thing to do in Koh Lanta is a snorkeling adventure. Discover the underwater world surrounding Koh Lanta with a full-day snorkeling tour to Koh Rok and Koh Haa. Enjoy pristine beaches, colorful coral reefs, and turquoise waters teeming with exotic marine life. Pick-up from your hotel and lunch are included with the price.
Four Islands Tour: An exciting option for a day trip from Koh Lanta is the Four Islands Tour. You’ll have the opportunity to explore four of the most stunning islands in the Andaman Sea with tranquil beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the vibrant marine life that make this region of Thailand worth visiting.
Besides the stunning natural landscapes and fascinating wildlife, we were also fed like royalty throughout the day and The Four Islands Tour was without a doubt our favorite thing to do in Koh Lanta!
After reading all of that, you might assume that all of the best things to do in Koh Lanta are solely water-related. However, there are plenty of incredible attractions to explore on the island that don’t involve the Andaman Sea!
Rent a Scooter: One of the most popular things to do in Koh Lanta is to rent a scooter for a day and go on a road trip around the island. Most hotels will rent out a bike for around 200 Baht for 24 hours.
You can drive a lap of the entire island in just a few hours, but be sure you know how to drive a scooter and ALWAYS wear a helmet. Every time we visit Thailand, we always see many people bandaged up, don’t become one of them!
Visit National Parks: You don’t necessarily need to rent a scooter to explore the island, there are many tuk-tuk drivers available to take you around. One of the most amazing things to do in Koh Lanta is discovering the natural beauty of Thailand by visiting Mu Ko Lanta National Park.
There are several short hikes that take you through lush jungle trails with amazing views along the way, and you may come across some monkeys and monitor lizards as well. Afterward, take a swim, have a picnic on the beach, or visit the lighthouse at Laem Tanod and take in more stunning panoramic views of Koh Lanta.
Visit Lanta Old Town: If you’re looking to purchase authentic Thai souvenirs at affordable prices, a visit to Lanta Old Town is a great way to spend a few hours. Situated on the east side of the island, the old town is filled with plenty of shopping opportunities along its main street, lined with historic buildings that showcase traditional architecture and offer a glimpse into the history of Koh Lanta.
You’ll also find great photo opportunities of interesting monuments and a capsized boat in the Old Town. After you are finished shopping, go to one of the many restaurants on stilts that offer stunning views.
Thailand Travel Tip – A visit to Lanta Old Town is one of the best things to do in Koh Lanta, however we wouldn’t recommend staying there as the best beaches are on the west side of the island.
Sunset Watching: In our opinion, the best free thing to do in Koh Lanta is to watch some the best sunset views in all of Thailand. Seriously, every sunset was just as amazing and something we never got sick of looking at.
We invite you to judge for yourself and let us know if you find any sunsets better than in Koh Lanta. Grab a drink from a beachfront bar or go for a dip in the warm sea and watch the sun dip below the horizon in a blaze of silver and golden colors.
Once the sun has gone down the sea will be lit up by bright green lights of the local squid fishing boats offering more fantastic views!
Eat delicious Thai food: One of the best things in Thailand is its vibrant night markets and delicious street food. After sunset, Koh Lanta comes alive with numerous night markets, each offering a variety of Thai dishes such as pad thai, mango sticky rice, and many tempting desserts, all at very reasonable prices. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also sample some unique snacks like bags of crickets or mealworms!
The most popular night markets in Koh Lanta are: Saladan Night Market and the Lanta Old Town Market. If you want to learn about Thai cuisine then take an evening cooking class at the Thai Cookery School in Koh Lanta.
Where to stay on Koh Lanta
With a wide selection of excellent hotels and beaches, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide where to stay in Koh Lanta. That’s why we’ve outlined the best areas to consider for your stay on the island.
Without a doubt, the best places to stay in Koh Lanta are located on the island’s western side, where you’ll find the finest beaches. In contrast, the eastern side is characterized by its mangrove landscapes.
We will start at the top of the island and work our way down towards Mu Ko Lanta National Park.
Saladan Village
Saladan Village is one of the main places to stay in Koh Lanta. Renowned for its beautiful beach, many bars, and the lively Walking Street night market. It serves as the main transport hub for Koh Lanta, with Saladan Pier being the arrival point for all ferries. Saladan tends to be busier than other areas of the island and is best for backpackers and single travelers.
The top accommodation we recommend in Saladan is the excellent value-for-money Golden Bay Cottage, featuring breathtaking sea-front views and a beautiful pool by the water.
Long Beach
Long Beach, also known as Phra Ae Beach is one of the most popular destinations to stay in Koh Lanta for tourists with a 3-kilometre stretch of golden sand that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and sunsets. Long Beach offers a mix of budget to upscale accommodations, beachfront dining, and a relaxed vibe.
While not as wild as some of the nightlife hotspots on nearby islands like Phuket or Koh Phi Phi, Long Beach still offers a lively nightlife scene compared to other Koh Lanta beaches.
Despite its popularity, it remains spacious and peaceful and is just a short drive from Saladan Village and the pier. We recommend Long Beach if you are backpacking Thailand, a single traveler, or a couple looking for a late night out.
For a budget-friendly stay with a beachfront pool, Nakara Long Beach Hotel is a great choice. If you’re looking for a five-star resort at an affordable price, Layana Resort & Spa is the perfect option.
Klong Nin Beach
Our favorite beach in Koh Lanta and what we called home for over 4 months! Klong Nin Beach is a beautiful, laid-back beach with a mix of mid-range and boutique resorts.
Klong Nin is less crowded than Long Beach and Saladan, but still has many great dining options and beach bars. Klong Nin is perfect for couples of all ages and families looking for a chilled time.
We’ve been staying in a deluxe bungalow at the Lanta Klong Nin Beach Resort for nearly 4 months. at the time of writing. Just 30 meters from the beach, it boasts one of the largest swimming pools in Koh Lanta. Additionally, in our opinion, the on-site restaurant serves some of the tastiest local food on the island.
The natural beauty, chilled atmosphere, affordable living, and friendly people here are unparalleled anywhere we’ve been. Hence we are still here 4 months on, and Klong Nin Beach remains our favourite of all the Koh Lanta beaches!
Kantiang Bay
Kantiang Bay is one of the most scenic spots on Koh Lanta and is home to the five star Pimalai Resort which features a stunning infinity pool.
This tranquil part of Koh Lanta boasts a beautiful, quiet beach and an exclusive atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for relaxation. If you’re seeking a lively party scene, this isn’t the place, but for couples on a honeymoon in Thailand, Kantiang Bay offers the perfect romantic escape.
Given Koh Lanta’s small size, all these beaches are within 30 to 40 minutes of reach from each other.
We think that experiencing the ultimate luxury of resorts in Thailand, which are still at a fraction of the cost they would be anywhere else in the world, is a box that must be ticked while in Thailand.
Enjoy The Best Island in Thailand!
Honestly, Koh Lanta is a slice of paradise without the crowds, offering some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Thailand and easily accessible from all the popular destinations nearby such as Phuket, Ao Nang, and Krabi.
If this sounds like the kind of holiday you would love, then we can guarantee that Koh Lanta is the best island in Thailand for you.
Enjoy our favorite destination in Thailand, and make sure to respect the environment and local culture in all the areas you visit. Let’s leave this gem unspoiled for as long as possible.
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Amazingly detailed and Informative blog x
Thank you!!