Tucked away in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, Koh Lanta is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Unlike its more commercial neighbors like Phuket or Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta offers a laid-back, authentic island experience that’s perfect for travelers seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural richness. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a longer stay, this ultimate guide covers everything you need to know about where to stay, eat, and explore on this serene island.
Where to Stay: From Budget Bungalows to Luxury Villas
Koh Lanta is divided mainly between two islands—Koh Lanta Yai (the larger one where most tourists stay) and Koh Lanta Noi (more rural and less developed). The western coast of Koh Lanta Yai is where you’ll find most accommodation options, each beach offering a different vibe.
1. Klong Dao Beach – Best for Families
Located just a few minutes from the Saladan Pier, Klong Dao is one of the most developed beaches and is perfect for families and first-time visitors. The beach is long, flat, and safe for kids to swim in.
- Where to stay: Twin Lotus Resort & Spa (Adults Only) for a peaceful upscale stay or Lanta Sand Resort for family-friendly facilities right on the beach.
2. Long Beach (Phra Ae) – Best All-Rounder
If you’re unsure where to stay, Long Beach is a safe bet. It has a great selection of mid-range resorts, restaurants, beach bars, and yoga spots.
- Where to stay: Layana Resort & Spa offers 5-star luxury for couples, while Lanta Castaway Beach Resort is popular with backpackers and digital nomads.
3. Kantiang Bay – Best for Romance & Tranquility
Down south, Kantiang Bay is more secluded and known for its scenic cliffs and fewer crowds. Great for couples and honeymooners.
- Where to stay: Pimalai Resort & Spa, a world-class resort nestled into the hillside with jaw-dropping views.
4. Old Town – Best for Culture & Local Vibes
Located on the eastern side of the island, Koh Lanta Old Town is a charming fishing village with wooden stilt houses, quiet cafes, and a more local, cultural atmosphere.
- Where to stay: Mango House Seafront Suites offers cozy accommodation right above the water.
Where to Eat: From Thai Street Food to World Cuisine
Koh Lanta has an impressive and diverse food scene, thanks to its mix of Thai, Muslim, and expat communities. Whether you’re craving spicy papaya salad, fresh seafood, or vegan bowls, Koh Lanta delivers.
1. Cheap & Authentic: Pad Thai and Curry by the Beach
Don’t skip the roadside stalls and beach shacks for the real Thai experience.
- Where: Pad Thai Rock ‘n’ Roll in Kantiang Bay is a local institution, serving hearty Thai meals at unbeatable prices.
- What to try: Massaman curry, mango sticky rice, and grilled fish with chili-lime sauce.
2. Mid-Range Favorites: Great Taste, Good Vibes
Koh Lanta’s mid-range restaurants offer great quality food in relaxing settings.
- Where: Red Snapper near Long Beach serves up Mediterranean tapas and fresh seafood with a romantic ambiance. Yang Garden is another great option with its creative Thai-European fusion menu.
3. Vegan & Healthy Eats
Health-conscious travelers will feel at home here.
- Where: Fruit Tree Lodge & Coffee Shop is a breakfast hotspot for smoothie bowls and organic coffee. Kunda Anti-Pop Cafe near Phra Ae is quirky, artsy, and fully vegetarian.
4. Luxury Dining: Romantic Sunsets & Seafood Platters
Enjoy fine dining without the Bangkok prices.
- Where: The Seven Seas Restaurant at Pimalai Resort offers a high-end dining experience with ocean views. Perfect for a sunset dinner date.
What to Explore: Nature, Culture, and Island-Hopping
Despite its calm vibe, Koh Lanta is full of adventure and beauty. From national parks to underwater worlds, here’s what not to miss.
1. Mu Koh Lanta National Park
At the southern tip of the island lies this lush, protected park filled with jungle trails, rugged cliffs, and a scenic lighthouse. It’s a great spot for hiking and picnicking, with a good chance of spotting monkeys along the way. Bring bug spray and proper shoes.
2. Lanta Animal Welfare
This non-profit organization is one of the island’s most heartwarming attractions. You can take a tour, volunteer, or walk the dogs on the beach. It’s family-friendly and helps a good cause.
3. Island Hopping & Snorkeling Tours
Koh Lanta is the perfect base for day trips to nearby islands.
- 4 Islands Tour: Visit Koh Mook’s Emerald Cave, Koh Ngai, Koh Kradan, and Koh Chuak for snorkeling and sightseeing.
- Koh Rok Tour: For pristine reefs and turquoise waters, Koh Rok offers some of the best snorkeling in the region.
4. Scuba Diving Adventures
Koh Lanta is a diver’s paradise. Dive shops in Saladan and Long Beach offer trips to world-class sites like Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, known for manta rays and vibrant coral walls. Go Dive Lanta and Lanta Diver are reputable options for beginners and experienced divers alike.
5. Koh Lanta Old Town
Spend a few hours walking the wooden streets, exploring temples, and sipping coffee at a pier café. The pace is slower here, and the vibe feels like stepping back in time. The pier is also a good spot to catch local boat tours.
Insider Tips for a Smooth Stay
- Transportation: Rent a scooter for maximum freedom (around 200–250 THB per day). Roads are quiet compared to the Thai mainland.
- Wi-Fi & Digital Nomads: Internet is decent on most parts of the island, and many cafes cater to remote workers. Long Beach and Klong Khong are popular digital nomad hubs.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April is dry season, offering the best beach weather and calm seas. Avoid the rainy season (May–October) if you plan to dive or island-hop.
- Cultural Respect: While beachwear is fine by the shore, remember that Koh Lanta has a large Muslim population. Dress modestly when visiting local villages or temples.
Final Thoughts
Koh Lanta has a special kind of magic that keeps travelers coming back. It’s not just about the sunsets, the pad Thai, or the picture-perfect beaches—it’s about the feeling of ease that washes over you the moment you arrive. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a solo journey, or a family holiday, Koh Lanta’s warm hospitality, natural beauty, and peaceful charm make it a place worth exploring deeply.
Pack your sandals, rent a scooter, and let this island move at its own pace—you’ll be glad you did.