Koh Lanta, a laid-back island off the Krabi coast, is one of Thailand’s most relaxed and inviting destinations. With palm-fringed beaches, clear waters and a slower pace of life, it’s the kind of place where days stretch long and worries melt away. Beyond the beaches, you’ll find a main road that loops around the island, passing through small villages, local markets and pockets of authentic Thai life that give Koh Lanta its genuine charm.
What Makes Koh Lanta So Special?
Koh Lanta is made up of Koh Lanta Yai, the main hub with beaches and resorts and Koh Lanta Noi, which remains largely untouched. Together, they offer the best of both worlds: the comfort of tourist facilities and the authenticity of a traditional Thai island. Unlike Phuket or Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta has a calmer vibe, where long stretches of sand meet working villages and fishing communities. Staying here doesn’t need to break the bank either while beachfront properties can cost around $160 NZD a night, we found a quiet family-run homestay just five minutes from the beach for only $36 NZD, complete with a pool and daily breakfast.
A Closer Look
Beyond the beaches, Koh Lanta is a gateway to some of Thailand’s best diving and snorkelling, with coral reefs and vibrant marine life. Inland, Mu Koh Lanta National Park offers jungle treks, mangroves and dramatic viewpoints. But what truly lingers is the island’s rhythm: scooter rides along the ring road where one turn might lead to a tourist café and the next to a roadside stall selling congee for 30 baht; afternoons spent under umbrellas on wide, quiet beaches; and evenings watching sunsets stretch across the horizon. It’s this blend of natural beauty and everyday Thai culture that makes Koh Lanta feel both welcoming and real.
Table of Contents
🌟 Top 10 Things to Do in Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta isn’t just about lazing on the sand — it’s an island where nature, culture and slow living come together. From golden beaches and mangrove forests to cooking classes and Muay Thai fights, there’s something for every kind of traveller. Here are the top 10 experiences that capture the spirit of Koh Lanta.
- Relax on Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach)
- This is Koh Lanta’s most popular stretch of sand — and for good reason. Soft white sands, calm blue waters and epic sunsets make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing or enjoying a drink at one of the chilled-out beach bars. Like most beaches surrounding Koh Lanta, it’s lined with restaurants and bars and the highlight of the day is simply chilling out while watching one of the most epic sunsets in Thailand.
- Dive or Snorkel at Koh Haa and Koh Rok
- These offshore islands are famous for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant reefs. Spot colourful fish, turtles and even reef sharks while diving or snorkelling. For many travellers, it’s the highlight of their Koh Lanta trip.
- Explore Mu Koh Lanta National Park
- At the island’s southern tip lies a paradise of secluded beaches, dense jungle trails and a scenic lighthouse perched above dramatic cliffs. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys and monitor lizards as you explore.
- Kayak Through the Mangroves
- Paddle into the serene mangrove forests of Tung Yee Peng, where quiet waterways wind through rich ecosystems. It’s a peaceful way to experience Koh Lanta’s wilder side, with chances to spot birds and monkeys along the way.
- Wander Through Lanta Old Town
- Step back in time in this quaint fishing village, known for its wooden stilt houses and small family-run shops. Enjoy a seafood meal overlooking the water or browse for handmade crafts while soaking up the island’s cultural heritage.
- Hop on a Four-Island Tour
- A classic day trip that takes you to Koh Ngai, Koh Mook, Koh Kradan and Koh Cheuk. Swim through the Emerald Cave, snorkel colourful reefs and relax on picture-perfect beaches. It’s a busy day but one of the most popular excursions for good reason.
- Take a Thai Cooking Class
- Discover the secrets of Thai cuisine by cooking with fresh local ingredients. Learn to make classics like green curry or pad Thai, then enjoy your creations. It’s a delicious way to bring a piece of Thailand home.
- Hike to Khlong Chak Waterfall
- A jungle trail leads you to this refreshing hidden waterfall. The walk itself is part of the adventure with towering trees and glimpses of wildlife along the way. Pack good shoes and plenty of water for the hike.
- Catch a Muay Thai Match
- Experience the thrill of Thailand’s national sport at one of the local stadiums. The atmosphere is electric, with cheering crowds, live music and high-energy fights that showcase both skill and tradition.
- Join a Yoga or Wellness Retreat
- Koh Lanta has become a hub for those seeking balance and calm. Whether it’s a beachfront yoga class, a meditation session, or a multi-day wellness retreat, it’s the perfect way to reset your body and mind.
🛏 Best Places to Stay on Koh Lanta
From cliffside luxury resorts to family-run homestays, Koh Lanta has accommodation for every budget. Here are some top picks across three price ranges including the little gem where we stayed. We booked our accommodation on Booking.com and Trip.com
🌺 Luxury (5-Star Indulgence)
- Pimalai Resort & Spa (Kantiang Bay)
- A hillside sanctuary overlooking a pristine bay. Think infinity pools, private balconies, yoga sessions and some of the island’s best dining. Pure indulgence.
- Rawi Warin Resort & Spa (Klong Toab)
- Blending luxury with family-friendly touches, Rawi Warin offers a huge pool, kids’ activities and direct beach access.
- Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort (Khlong Dao)
- Perched on a scenic cliff with sweeping sea views, Avani+ combines modern comfort with a private beach and laid-back luxury.
🌴 Mid-Range (Comfort & Character)
- Layana Resort & Spa (Long Beach)
- An adults-only escape with serene gardens, a beautiful pool and beachfront dining — perfect for couples seeking peace without full luxury pricing.
- Lanta Il Mare Beach Resort (Klong Nin)
- A relaxed beachside stay with spacious rooms, a pool and easy access to restaurants and bars.
- Anda Lanta Resort (Khlong Chak)
- Nestled near the national park, this resort offers a tranquil setting, kayak rentals and a lovely beachfront.
🌿 Budget (Affordable & Authentic)
- Lanta Dareen Home Garden (Klong Nin area)
- Where we stayed — a family-run homestay with air-conditioned rooms, a pool and daily breakfast, all for about $36 NZD per night. The hosts, treated us like family. The atmosphere was simple, quiet and absolutely perfect. Like most accommodation on Koh Lanta, they were happy to help with taxis, tours, and scooter rentals, making everything easy and stress-free.
- Klong Jark Bungalows (Southern beaches)
- Rustic beachfront bungalows with unbeatable prices, offering a true toes-in-the-sand experience.
- Leaf House Bungalows (Long Beach)
- Quirky bamboo bungalows in a garden setting with a friendly vibe and just a short walk to the beach.
🍴 Savour the Flavours of Koh Lanta
Food on Koh Lanta is all about fresh, authentic Thai flavours with plenty of variety to suit every traveller. From beachside restaurants to hidden local gems, you’ll never go hungry here.
- Lanta Dareen Home Garden Kitchen
- The family who ran our homestay also cooked some of the most authentic meals we had on the island. Their curries were outstanding but the standout dish was the best Chicken Khao Soi we’ve ever tasted. It was so good we only managed to eat elsewhere once.
- Beachfront Dining
- Many of the main beaches are lined with restaurants and bars, perfect for watching the sunset with a cold drink in hand. The vibe is laid-back with fresh seafood and classic Thai dishes dominating the menus.
- Local Snack Stalls
- Wander into the villages or along the main road and you’ll find stalls opening in the afternoons with everything from sticky rice and coconut treats to deep-fried sesame balls and taro snacks. These cheap eats, often just a few baht, are not only delicious but a great way to experience everyday island life.
🚐 How to Get to Koh Lanta
Most travellers first make their way to Krabi, either by flying into Krabi International Airport or taking a bus from nearby provinces. From there, you have a few options to reach Koh Lanta:
- Ferry or Speedboat
- Ferries usually depart from Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi and take around 2 hours. Speedboats are faster and more direct, perfect if you want to save time.
- Minivan + Ferry Combo
- A popular choice for convenience. Minivan services pick you up from Krabi Town or the airport, include the short vehicle ferry crossing and drop you straight at your accommodation on Koh Lanta.
- From Phuket
- During the high season (November–April), you can take a direct ferry from Phuket to Koh Lanta, making it easy to include both islands in one trip.
👉 Local Tip: Travel times vary depending on weather and season, so allow some flexibility in your plans. Minivans and ferries can run a little late but they usually get you there with minimal hassle. Booking via 12GoAsia made life very easy.
💡 5 Tips for Visiting Koh Lanta
- Rent a Scooter
- The easiest and most affordable way to explore Koh Lanta is on two wheels. The main ring road loops around the whole island, and it’s far quieter than roads on other Thai islands. Scooters give you the freedom to beach-hop, stop at local stalls, and discover hidden corners at your own pace.
- Book Accommodation in Advance
- From November to April (high season), Koh Lanta fills up quickly. Booking ahead means you’ll get the best choices, whether that’s a beachfront villa, a mid-range resort or a family-run homestay like the one we stayed in.
- Stay Hydrated and Protected
- The tropical heat and humidity can be intense, especially on the beaches. Always carry water, reapply sunscreen and use insect repellent. Luckily, there’s no shortage of places to grab a cold drink or refill along the way.
- Respect Local Culture
- Koh Lanta is home to both Buddhist and Muslim communities. Dress modestly when visiting temples or villages and always be mindful of local customs. A smile and a little respect go a long way.
- Check the Tides
- Activities like snorkelling, swimming or even lounging on certain beaches are best timed with high tide. Low tide can reveal rocky stretches, so keep an eye on tide charts to plan your perfect beach days.
🌟 5 Fun Facts About Koh Lanta
- Two Islands, One Name
- Koh Lanta is actually made up of two main islands: Koh Lanta Yai (the larger, developed one where most travellers stay) and Koh Lanta Noi (smaller and largely untouched).
- A Cultural Mix
- The island is home to a blend of Buddhist, Muslim and Chao Leh (sea gypsy) communities, giving Koh Lanta a unique cultural flavour you’ll notice in its food, festivals and traditions.
- A Sunset Paradise
- The west coast of Koh Lanta is famous for its uninterrupted sunsets. Every evening, locals and travellers gather on the beaches to watch the sky explode with colour.
- Protected Nature
- Around 50 small islands are included in Mu Koh Lanta National Park, making it one of the best places in Thailand for diving, snorkelling and exploring unspoiled nature.
- Hollywood Came Calling
- Parts of the 2000 film “The Beach”, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, were shot around neighbouring islands near Koh Lanta, helping put this region of Thailand on the map.
🌍 Travel Planning Resources
These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.
- ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
- 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
- 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
- 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
- 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
- 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
- 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
- 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
- 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
- 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
- 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.
🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.
“Travel isn’t always about seeing more — sometimes it’s about slowing down and letting a place see you.”