Ko Lanta: Everything to Know Before You Go

Nestled in the azure waters of the Andaman Sea, Ko Lanta (or Koh Lanta) is a tropical paradise in Thailand's Krabi Province. This enchanting island district comprises 52 islands, with Ko Lanta Yai and Ko Lanta Noi as its crowning jewels.
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Many islands are small and uninhabited, while others are somewhat secluded and offer very limited accommodations and attractions. Most of the activities and attractions for tourists can be found on Ko Lanta Yai, while Ko Lanta Noi features deserted beaches, local Muslim villages, and plantations.
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Ko Lanta enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. During the dry season, the area experiences warm and sunny weather, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. This is the best time to visit the island, as the skies are clear, and the sea is calm, perfect for beach activities, diving, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
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On the other hand, the wet season brings frequent rain showers and higher humidity, with temperatures staying around 24°C to 30°C. The monsoon rains can be heavy, but they often occur in short bursts, leaving plenty of time for outdoor activities in between. The lush vegetation and fewer tourists make this season appealing for those who don’t mind a bit of rain.

Ko Lanta is easily accessible from multiple points and you can get to islands from:
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Krabi Town
Krabi Airport
Koh Phi Phi
Phuket
Bangkok
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Most of these places are connected to Ko Lanta by bus, ferry, or speedboat, but you can also often catch a taxi to take you to your desired location.
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When you get there, the two most common modes of transport you’ll see are motorbikes and Tuk Tuks. Motorbikes can easily be rented and you can even take them out for a few days. However, make sure you practice your driving beforehand and that you always wear a helmet.
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If you’re not comfortable driving a motorbike, you can use a Tuk Tuk to get around. Even though this option is a bit more expensive compared to motorbikes, you might be able to negotiate a better price (as is customary in Thai culture).
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Expert Tip: When driving, make sure to watch out for potholes in the north part of the island, as they’re not often very visible, especially at night. The road conditions in the south are much better, but you should be careful of dogs or monkeys that might be blocking the road.

Whether you’re staying in a resort nearby or just planning a day trip to Ko Lanta, here’s some practical information to help ensure you have a better stay.
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The first thing to know is that Ko Lanta is generally a safe place. Even though the island sees some heavy showers during the rainy season, there are signs for evacuation routes throughout the island in case there is a tsunami alert.
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Also, as we mentioned, the road conditions aren’t ideal, especially if you’re on a motorbike. That’s why you should always wear a helmet, keep to the left, and be careful of your surroundings.
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It’s also important to note that Ko Lanta is home to many monkeys, and you’ll probably encounter a few during your stay. However, while they might look cute, remember that they’re still wild animals. Don’t feed them, hide your food and drinks, and don’t approach to take photos. Monkeys can be aggressive and if you were to get bit, you’d need a rabies shot.
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The language spoken in Ko Lanta is Thai, but many street signs include an English translation. Many people, especially those working in hospitality, speak English, but you should consider picking up a few key phrases in Thai.
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The Thai currency is baht (THB) and not many places on the island take card payments. That’s why it’s better to withdraw cash from one of the many ATMs located on the island and always have it on you in case you want to shop or dine somewhere.

Ko Lanta is a haven for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Beneath its shimmering surface, vibrant coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life, making it a world-class destination for snorkelling and diving. The island’s diverse ecosystem extends to its mangrove forests and tropical rainforests, where hiking trails lead to hidden waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints.
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Here’s how to ensure you see and experience the most during your stay at Ko Lanta.

Ban Si Raya, better known as Lanta Old Town, is the island’s historic port and commercial centre on the east side. The main tourist street, lined with centuries-old timber buildings, runs parallel to the seafront, offering a charming glimpse into the past.
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Lanta Old Town is the best-preserved town on the island, maintaining its historical charm. Today, this quaint area is filled with various restaurants, cafés, and small souvenir shops. You can spend hours wandering the streets, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the harbour.

With kilometres of soft sand and warm, azure waters, Ko Lanta is a beach lover’s dream and a haven for those seeking sun and serenity. The best sandy stretches are found along the west coast, each offering its own unique charm.
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Starting up north, Klong Dao Beach is a wide, inviting expanse near Ban Saladan Pier and village, the gateway for many visitors arriving on the island. Its shallow, rock-free waters make it a favourite for families with little ones, perfect for splashing and playing safely.
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Heading further south, you'll encounter Phra Ae Beach, fondly known as Long Beach. At 4 kilometres, it’s the longest beach on the island, where even on busier days, you can find a quiet spot under the shade of the pine trees. It’s also a magical place for a sunset stroll, with the sky painted in hues of pink and orange.
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Just 4 kilometres south of Long Beach lies Klong Khong Beach, a vibrant area buzzing with solo travellers and backpackers. The laid-back beach bars here make it a lively spot to meet new friends and unwind. While there are a few rocky patches, high tide turns it into a great place for a dip.
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Finally, Klong Nin Beach, situated on the central west coast, offers some of the best swimming on the island. This charming beach is ideal for a refreshing swim followed by a picturesque sunset, perhaps with a drink in hand from one of the cozy beachside spots.

Ko Lanta’s nightlife scene is laid-back and pleasantly mellow. While it doesn’t offer the all-night revelry found on other Thai islands, there are still plenty of spots to enjoy drinks and party after the sun sets. The West Coast is home to some of the best Jamaica-style and hippie bars, creating a relaxed vibe perfect for unwinding.

The coral reefs of Koh Haa and Koh Rok, two tiny islets near Ko Lanta, boast some of the best snorkelling spots. You can also snorkel directly from Klong Dao Beach and Long Beach. For a truly unforgettable adventure, book a scuba diving trip and encounter majestic manta rays, leopard sharks, and even whale sharks.
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If you’re looking for something different, you can paddle through the mangrove forests on the east coast by kayak or hike through the island’s centre to explore the intriguing Khao Mai Kaew Cave.

Located at the southern tip of the island, Mu Koh Lanta National Park offers a serene escape with a beautiful, quiet beach and a short jungle hike where you can spot various bird species and small wildlife.
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Mu Koh Lanta National Park includes the marine park and several smaller islands under the Ko Lanta jurisdiction. The park features a hilly jungle area with a challenging two-kilometre horseshoe-shaped hiking trail. The trail is steep and rugged, equipped with guide ropes and steps, so be sure to wear trainers or shoes with good grip. As you hike, you’ll traverse dense jungle terrain before reaching a clearing that reveals a stunning sandy beach and turquoise waters below.

If you’re travelling with a group, consider hiring a private longtail boat to explore the islands at your own pace. With a captain ready to take you to any paradise island you desire, a longtail boat rental for the day costs around 6,000 THB and can accommodate up to 8 people.
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Among the stunning islands to visit are Koh Rok, Koh Ngai, and Koh Pee. For a true castaway experience, you might even want to spend the night on one of these idyllic islands.

If you're up for a short hike, make sure to check out Khlong Chak Waterfall. While the waterfall itself isn’t very large, it offers a refreshing spot to cool off in the cold water.
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Along the way, you can also visit the Bat Cave, aptly named for the countless bats that hang from its ceiling as they sleep. This hike provides a nice blend of natural beauty and a bit of adventure, making it a memorable outing.

Kantiang Bay on Koh Lanta is undoubtedly one of the island’s most stunning holiday destinations, with its dreamlike Ba Kantiang Beach being one of the most remarkable beaches in Ko Lanta. This bay has been repeatedly voted one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, and it's easy to see why.
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Visitors can immerse themselves in a breathtaking setting, with beach views straight out of a postcard. The sea is wonderfully warm and clear, shimmering in the most beautiful shades of blue. Despite its natural splendour, this gem remains uncrowded, maintaining a truly relaxed atmosphere.

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