If you’re looking for a Thai island that feels a bit less polished and a bit more real, the kind of place that has all of the infrastructure you need, but where the jungle meets the beach, where scooters kick up clouds of red dust, and where you can still find a quiet stretch of sand to call your own, then Koh Lanta is for you.

For me, Koh Lanta has always had a bit of magic about it. It’s a laid-back island where the days are lazy (in the best possible way) and the sunsets are ridiculous. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find long-time expats who came for a week and never left, backpackers fresh off the night boat, and families who’ve discovered that their kids are just as happy digging in the sand as they are fighting over iPads.

Koh Lanta is actually made up of two main islands: Koh Lanta Yai (where you’ll find most of the beaches and accommodation) and Koh Lanta Noi (which is quieter, more rural, and perfect for a scooter adventure).

Best Time to Visit Koh Lanta

The best time to visit Koh Lanta is between November and April when the weather is dry, the seas are calm, and the skies are clear. This is peak tourist season, so expect slightly higher prices and busier beaches, but it’s worth it for the picture-perfect weather. If you’re on a tighter budget or prefer a quieter vibe, the shoulder seasons (October and May) can be a great time to visit, though you’ll want to keep an eye on the forecast.

How to Get to Koh Lanta

Most people reach Koh Lanta by flying into Krabi Airport (KBV) and then taking a minivan or ferry to the island. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the transfer. You can also reach Koh Lanta by ferry from Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, or even Koh Lipe if you’re hopping between islands.

Things to Do on Koh Lanta

Hit the Beaches

Koh Lanta is known for its stunning, uncrowded beaches, each with its own vibe. Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach) is one of the most popular beaches on the island, with a long stretch of golden sand, beachfront bars, and stunning sunsets. Nui Beach is a smaller, more secluded spot that’s great for snorkelling. Khlong Dao Beach is a family-friendly beach, with calm waters and plenty of beachfront restaurants. Kantiang Bay is a stunning crescent of white sand surrounded by jungle-covered hills and perfect for a quieter, more romantic vibe. (Beach picnic anyone?) Or if you want something different, hop on a boat and head over to Koh Jum—it’s technically a separate island, but close enough to make the list. It’s super chill, with quiet beaches and a real “lost in time” feel.

Explore Mu Koh Lanta National Park

This national park is at the southern tip of the island and is a must-see for anyone visiting Koh Lanta. It’s a mix of dense jungle, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches, with a resident monkey population that has a reputation for being a bit cheeky. Be sure to check out the iconic lighthouse while you’re there. Full write-up here: Mu Koh Lanta Marine Park.

Go on a Private Long-Tail Boat Fishing Trip

For a more relaxed day, book a private long-tail boat and head out for a fishing trip. You’ll spend the day cruising the clear waters around Koh Lanta, learning traditional fishing techniques from a local expert and (hopefully) reeling in the likes of king mackerel and barracuda. It’s a great way to see the island from a different perspective, with plenty of time to kick back, enjoy the views, and snack on fresh fruit between casts.

Wander Through Lanta Old Town

This historic fishing village on the east coast of Koh Lanta has a completely different vibe to the beachside resorts. Think colourful wooden houses on stilts, quirky shops, and seafood restaurants with stunning views over the Andaman Sea.

Visit the Sabai Sabai Viewpoint (and Lounge)

For one of the best views on the island, head to the Sabai Sabai Viewpoint. It’s a bit of a climb, but you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the coastline and the surrounding islands. Plus, the cocktails are top-notch.

Take a Half-Day Mangrove Kayaking Tour

For a bit of adventure, consider a mangrove kayaking tour. It’s a great way to get up close to the local wildlife, see monkeys and mangroves, and explore the quieter, less touristy side of the island. Tour options here.

Hike to Khlong Chak Waterfall

If you’re feeling a bit more active (or just need to walk off all those beachside cocktails), the hike to Khlong Chak Waterfall is a great way to stretch your legs and get a taste of Koh Lanta’s wilder side. The trail itself winds through tangled tree roots and you’ll cross a few small streams and might even spot some wildlife if you’re lucky. The path can be a bit muddy after rain, so sensible shoes are a good idea, even if you’re tempted to go full jungle explorer in flip-flops.

Visit Lanta Animal Welfare

If you’re an animal lover, don’t miss a visit to Lanta Animal Welfare, a fantastic organisation that rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes stray cats and dogs. You can take a guided tour, volunteer for a few hours, or even take one of the dogs for a beach walk. Full write-up here: https://amymorgan.co/koh-lanta-animal-welfare-centre/

Take a Sea Tour to Koh Rok and Koh Haa

These tiny, uninhabited islands are known for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Perfect for snorkelling or diving, and a great way to escape the busier beaches for a day. Tour options here.

Take a Thai Cooking Class

Learn to cook your favourite Thai dishes and impress your friends back home. There are a few good cooking schools on the island, most of which include a trip to the local market as part of the experience. I didn’t do one in Koh Lanta (I did mine in Chiang Mai) but there are numerous options available to choose from!

Watch the Sunset

Simple, but effective. The sunsets on Koh Lanta are some of the best I’ve ever seen, all fiery oranges and deep purples, with the Andaman Sea shimmering below. Just grab a watermelon smoothie, find a quiet stretch of sand, and soak it all in.

Head over to Koh Lanta Noi

Koh Lanta Noi is one of my favourite places I’ve visited. You can see my full write up here https://amymorgan.co/koh-lanta-noi/ but as a TLDR it’s a quieter, more rustic side of koh lanta. It has high quality roads which have begun to be reclaimed by the grass verges, no hotels, a handful of restaurants and people just living their day to day life. It’s a non-tourist destination, and it’s gorgeous. (Update: you can now take an ATV tour around the island!)

And if you’ve done all that…
Jump on a boat and head over to Koh Lipe for an entirely different island experience!