Beaches

Koh Lanta is famous for its long, sandy beaches, each offering a different vibe.

1. Klong Dao Beach:
   A 3-km-long beach, perfect for families. It’s located near the main town of Saladan, with calm waters and numerous restaurants and bars along the shore.

2. Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach):
   True to its name, this is one of the longest beaches on the island. It’s a great spot for a relaxed day, and sunsets here are unforgettable. You’ll find a mix of budget-friendly and high-end resorts.

3. Kantiang Bay:
   Tucked away at the southern end of the island, this quieter beach is a favourite among couples and honeymooners. The clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

4. Bamboo Bay (Ao Mai Phai):
   A serene and undeveloped beach perfect for those seeking solitude. The scenery is breathtaking with its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings.

Accomodation

Koh Lanta offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget backpacker hostels to luxury beachfront resorts.

• Budget: You can find dormitory-style accommodation from £5-£10 per night, particularly around Klong Dao Beach.
• Mid-range: For £30-£60 per night, you’ll find comfortable resorts and bungalows along Long Beach and Kantiang Bay.
• Luxury: High-end resorts with private beach access and pools start from £100-£200 per night, such as the luxurious Pimalai Resort.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Koh Lanta is between November and April, when the weather is dry and sunny. The rainy season (May-October) sees fewer tourists and cheaper prices, but many businesses close during this period.

Koh Lanta is a perfect destination for travellers looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture, all at a reasonable cost. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Long Beach, exploring the caves, or diving in the crystal-clear waters, Koh Lanta promises an unforgettable experience.

Cost of Living and Travel

Koh Lanta is reasonably affordable, though prices increase slightly during the high tourist season.

• Meals: A local Thai meal costs around £2-£5, while Western-style meals are typically £5-£10.
• Transport: Motorbike rentals cost around £5-£8 per day, while tuk-tuks or taxis cost £2-£5 for short distances.

What to See

• Koh Lanta Lighthouse:
  Located in the national park, the lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea.

• Koh Lanta Noi:
  Take a day to explore this quieter side of the island, with fewer tourists and a more authentic Thai atmosphere.

• Khao Mai Kaew Caves:
  An adventurous experience, these caves require a bit of climbing but offer impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and even a small lagoon.

• Sea Gypsy Villages (Sang-ga-u Village):
  Learn about the culture and traditional way of life of the Urak Lawoi people, who have lived on Koh Lanta for generations.

Restaurants and Dining

• Koh Lanta has a vibrant food scene, ranging from local Thai dishes to international cuisine.

  1. Time for Lime:
     A well-known restaurant offering delicious Thai fusion cuisine, particularly seafood. Prices for a meal range from £7-£15. They also run a cooking school.

  2. Drunken Sailors:
     A laid-back spot in Kantiang Bay, known for its smoothies, sandwiches, and coffee. Ideal for brunch with prices around £3-£8.

  3. Red Snapper:
     A fusion of Mediterranean and Thai food, this upscale restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner. Meals typically cost £10-£20.

  4. Majestic Bar and Restaurant:
     Located on Long Beach, this beach bar offers stunning sunset views and delicious seafood. Prices are budget-friendly, ranging from £5-£10 for a main course.

  5. Shanti Shanti:
     A French-owned café and bakery in Klong Nin offering fresh croissants, pastries, and coffee. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack with prices around £2-£5

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Region and Getting There

Koh Lanta is situated in Southern Thailand, about 70 km from Krabi Town and a little further from Phuket. The island is accessible by ferry, which departs from Krabi or Phuket during the high season (November to April), and by road using car ferries year-round.

Travel from London and Rome

There are no direct flights to Koh Lanta, but it’s easily accessible with a combination of flights and local transport.

• From London:
  A return flight from London to Krabi will likely cost between £550-£750 depending on the season. Major airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Thai Airways offer flights with a layover in Bangkok, Doha, or Dubai. From Krabi, you can take a taxi to the ferry pier (about 1 hour), and then a ferry to Koh Lanta (1-2 hours).

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• From Rome:
  Flights from Rome to Krabi range from £400-£650, with similar connections through Middle Eastern or Asian hubs. Once in Krabi, you can take a ferry or road transport to reach the island.

What to Do

• Snorkelling and Diving:
  Koh Lanta is near some of Thailand’s best dive sites, such as Koh Rok and the Bida Islands. You can arrange day trips to these spots for around £40-£60, including equipment and lunch.

• Explore Mu Ko Lanta National Park:
  Located at the southern tip of the island, this national park offers hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and the chance to see native wildlife such as monkeys. Entry is £3-£4.

• Cooking Classes:
  Take a Thai cooking class and learn how to make local favourites like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Som Tum. Prices are around £25-£40 for a half-day course.

• Island Hopping:
  You can take day trips to nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Rok, and Koh Ngai. Tours typically cost £30-£50 depending on the destination.

• Lanta Old Town:
  Visit this charming fishing village with its old wooden houses and quiet atmosphere. It’s a great place to buy handmade souvenirs, try seafood, and learn about the island’s history.