Koh Lanta Lost & Found

Getting there…

Krabi Airport is the main gateway for most visitors. From there, it’s about a 45-minute drive to the coast, followed by a ferry or boat crossing—either public or private, depending on where you are staying. Koh Lanta is quite long, stretching 27 km, so you may have another 30-minute journey once you’re on the island. However, it’s not the only way to arrive—speedboats and ferries connect to many nearby islands, and you can even travel from the southern tip of Phuket via Phi Phi.

When to visit…

This is somewhat subjective—not because there isn’t a clear ‘best’ time weather-wise, but because there’s a trade-off in terms of cost. November to April is the high season, with dry weather, hot days and cool evenings until mid-March. But that’s also when everyone goes, and the prices reflect it. There are shoulder seasons of about 15 days either side, and the northern hemisphere summer is the low season.

So who would go in the low season? Well, me! Sure, there’s a chance of rain, but it’s usually a heavy downpour or a spectacular storm that dries up quickly. You can be unlucky, but prices drop by half or more, and the sun still shines. Evenings are very warm, so you’ll want air conditioning, but that’s easy to plan for. The island rarely feels busy, but visiting in the low period makes it feel like a hidden hideaway.

 Overview & where to stay…

Koh Lanta district consists of various islands. Most visitors head to the main island, Koh Lanta Yai, distinguishing it from the smaller Koh Lanta Noi. The first thing you’ll notice is the peace and tranquility. There are no bustling streets lined with nightclubs—in fact, there aren’t many streets at all. But if you enjoy quiet bars and restaurants, Koh Lanta should definitely be on your wish list.

There’s a wide range of accommodation for all budgets and tastes. Pimalai, Layana and Avani Plus are luxury options; Casa Blanca, Sand Resort and Twin Lotus cater to mid-range travellers; while other beachfront properties can be as affordable as $15 per night. The stunning beaches and small, laid-back communities where many of these accommodations are located only add to the island’s charm—offering a tropical paradise far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Koh Lanta may be tranquil but it has so much to offer in terms of activities, most of which are inexpensive and some are even free…

Koh Lanta Old Town…

Koh Lanta is more than just a beach destination. Lanta Old Town, located halfway down the east coast, might not offer stunning sunsets, but it’s much more than just a port for island excursions. This charming town has a distinctive mix of Chinese and Thai influences. It’s quiet, with a working village vibe, but still offers plenty of dining options and a few bars for those wanting to soak up the local atmosphere. The main street is lined with beautiful old wooden buildings, many of which extend on piers over the sea. Originally built for loading goods, these structures now house restaurants, offering a unique, historic atmosphere.

If you want to fully embrace Lanta’s charm, and experience the island’s different vibes, consider splitting your stay between one of the beach resorts and the Old Town. Tonmai Suites are basic but comfortable, and are just a short stroll away from the town.

Snorkelling & Diving

The islets around Koh Haa and Koh Rok offer plenty for snorkellers to explore in warm, clear waters. For divers, Koh Lanta boasts some truly world-class dive sites for even the most experienced. Koh Haa isn’t just for snorkellers, there’s great diving there too, while Hin Daeng and Hin Muang are two of the most renowned dive spots in Thailand.

Boat Trips

For those less eager to dive into the sea but still wanting a taste of Koh Lanta’s nautical charm, a boat trip to Talabeng is a must. Imagine a smaller version of Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay—towering, vegetation-covered rocks rising dramatically from the sea, offering endless photo opportunities as you cruise from one breathtaking spot to the next.

Mangrove Explorations

If you prefer calmer waters, take a boat trip through the mangroves from Tung Yee Peng Village, on the east coast. The villages historically used to produce charcoal from the mangroves, however they are now recognised as a vital part of the island’s ecosystem, to be both protected and showcased. For a truly special experience, take a gondola ride at dawn. As the sun rises, drift through the tranquil waters, spotting macaques, birds and fish, while villagers share stories about their lives and the environment. It’s a peaceful and simple activity—yet one of the most evocative experiences Koh Lanta has to offer. In short, don’t miss it—you won’t regret it.

Elephants

This can be controversial, depending on how the elephants are cared for and their interactions with humans. Everyone must decide for themselves what practices to support or avoid. The Following Giants rescue centre on Koh Lanta stands out because it prohibits any direct interaction. There’s no touching, feeding, performances or riding. Instead, visitors follow the elephants, observing them in a natural setting. While it’s not the wild, it still offers a less invasive way to appreciate these magnificent animals. Ethical tourism is subjective, so do your own research. Personally, I found the experience to be well worth the visit.

Koh Lanta National Park:

This is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, offering lush rainforests, scenic hiking trails and stunning beaches. With panoramic views from its iconic lighthouse and opportunities to spot monkeys and tropical birds, the park is perfect for those seeking tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty. It’s an ideal destination for peaceful beach strolls and exploring Thailand’s diverse ecosystems.

Conclusion…

Am I biased? Absolutely! I love Lanta; it’s a throwback to a quieter time while still offering a variety of experiences for every visitor. Whether you want to stay busy, relax on the beach or by the pool, savour delicious seafood (it’s a paradise for seafood lovers), or simply watch the incredible sunsets on the west coast, Lanta is a destination that should be enjoyed on every level. Go there—you’ll adore it!

For more information about Koh Lanta…