Koh Lanta: How to Have The Best Stay Possible

Down the Andaman Sea in south Thailand is where one of the country’s loveliest Islands is located: Koh Lanta. Not only do you have access to beautiful, white beaches, but you will probably also fall in love with the familiar vibe and people. Koh Lanta is an Island of charm, that’s one thing for sure. 

Here’s 9 things you should do in Koh Lanta to have the best stay possible:

1. The Beaches 

Among the numerous beaches on the island, Bakantiang Beach and Nui Bay stand out as two of the best. 

Bakantiang is a long and stunning beach that offers a peaceful escape from the busier and more touristy beaches on the island. What sets Bakantiang apart is its almost abandoned and tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for those who prefer to relax and soak up the sun. The beach is also home to a charming restaurant situated on the sand, offering visitors an idyllic setting for a refreshing drink or a sumptuous meal while taking in the stunning sea views. 

Beach view from a restarant in Koh lanta

Powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and an idyllic setting are what make Nui Bay one of our favorite spots on the island. The beach is surrounded by lush jungle, giving it a serene and peaceful atmosphere. There’s one cave in the northern part of the beach and one in the south, ready to be explored. Because it’s a bay, the location is also a great spot for snorkeling and swimming. Nui Bay is a must-visit destination when you’re in Koh Lanta. 

2. Lanta Cinema

If you’re down for a movie night under the stars with some popcorn in your hand, Lanta Cinema is the place to go. Its location within the jungle enhances the overall atmosphere, providing a truly unique and unforgettable experience. A big plus is that the cinema is up-to-date with new movies and if you have a specific request you can always just ask the friendly staff. If you’re in Lanta, go there! 

Psst: It’s only 100 Baht for an entrance card that’s valid throughout the whole season, December – April. 

3. Walk Over to Ko Lek 

Something that not many people know about is the small island of Ko Lek on the southeast side of Koh Lanta. When it’s low tide, you can walk over rocks to get out to the secluded gem surrounded by blue water. It’s the perfect place to take photos or simply appreciate the surroundings. Bring a picnic blanket and some snacks and spend an afternoon all alone on a small island. Just be careful of high tide, keep an eye on the time, and walk back to the mainland before it’s too late.

4. Night Market in Saladan

When night falls, don’t miss the vibrant food stalls that light up the square in Saladan. From juicy chicken skewers to ice cream of your own choice, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Take a seat and enjoy the lively atmosphere, with music drifting over from the nearby bars. Our top picks from the market include the crispy vegetarian spring rolls, the Mango Sticky Rice, and the refreshing watermelon shake. Trust us, this is an experience not to be missed!

Speaking about night markets: If you’re in Phuket, don’t miss the big Sunday Night Market in Old Town. It’s totally worth a visit!

5. Food

Overall, the food at Koh Lanta is exceptional. It’s homemade, flavorful cuisine infused with spices that is a delight for your taste buds. There is an endless variation of restaurants and cafes, each with its signature dishes and specialties. During our visit to Koh Lanta, our favorites included:

      • Khao Soi from Moomsabai

        • Red Curry Soup from Coco Tango

          • Smashed Burger from Kin Burger

            • Brunch from Livingroom

              • Cookies and pastries from Auntie May

            Red curry soup, steamed rice with the brach and ocean in the background

            6. Koh Lanta Noi

            Located just a bridge away lies the lesser-known and less-developed part of Koh Lanta, Koh Lanta Noi. With limited accessibility for tourists, it’s the perfect getaway for trekking or exploring new places off the beaten path. There’s an almost entirely undiscovered beach with stunning views of the boats floating outside Saladans Pier.

            This hidden gem offers a refreshing change of pace from the bustling crowds and touristy spots, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene and natural beauty of Koh Lanta. 

            Sky picture of Koh Lanta forrest

            7. Snorkeling

            The islands nearby Koh Lanta has an incredible underwater world that is just waiting to be explored. No wonder why snorkeling is a popular activity on the island.

            The 4-Island Tour, where you will visit Koh Chuek, Koh Mook, Koh Kradan, and Koh Ngai is one of the best ways to experience snorkeling. These islands are known for their colorful marine life. Other popular snorkeling destinations are Koh Rok and Koh Haa, which can be reached by speedboat.

            For a more personalized snorkeling experience, you can also hire a private longtail boat and explore the waters on your own. Don’t forget to bring your waterproof camera and capture the magic of Koh Lanta’s underwater world.

            8. National Park

            Riding a motorbike is the way to go when visiting Koh Lanta’s National Park because it’s an experience in itself. The road to the park has stunning views and a lot of viewpoints you can’t reach by car. Along the way, you may even spot playful monkeys crossing the road.

            Although there is a small entrance fee to the park, it’s worth a visit. The park is a nature lover’s paradise, with green forests and a variety of wildlife. Several hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the Andaman Sea. So, rent a motorbike and make your way to Koh Lanta’s National Park for an unforgettable experience.

            Sky picture of national park in Koh Lanta

            9. Sunsets and Sunrise 

            Koh Lanta has unbelievably good sunsets and sunrises that paint the sky with vibrant colors. There are many places on the island where you can witness these magical moments.

            One of the best places to enjoy a sunset is at Long Beach. As the sun sets over the Andaman Sea, the sky turns into a canvas of red, orange, and pink hues. Grab a cold beer and a snack from one of the nearby beach bars and relax on the soft sand while watching the sunset.

            For those who prefer an early start to the day, the sunrise on Koh Lanta is also mesmerizing. Head to Lanta Old Town to catch the first rays of the day. As the sun rises above the horizon, the sky turns into a palette of pastel colors, creating a peaceful and calming atmosphere.

            There’s also the option of the Sunrise Gondola Tour where you experience the pure morning sounds, light, and serenity of the unspoiled mangrove jungle.

            Are you traveling to Bali? Check out our Complete Guide to The Best Accommodations in Sanur, Bali

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