Koh Lanta is a stunning island located in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of Thailand’s Krabi province. Known for its serene beaches, lush jungles, and laid-back vibe, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re a beach lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a culture seeker, Koh Lanta has something to offer everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the top things to do, food to try, and the best ways to reach this tropical paradise.
Things to do in Koh Lanta:
1. Relax on the Beautiful Beaches
One of the main draws of Koh Lanta is its pristine, less crowded beaches. The island is home to several beaches, each offering a unique experience.
- Klong Dao Beach: Ideal for families and those looking for calm waters, Klong Dao Beach is one of the most popular on the island. The long stretch of sand is perfect for a morning walk, while the shallow waters are great for swimming and kayaking.
- Long Beach: As the name suggests, Long Beach is a wide expanse of sand that stretches for over 3 kilometres. It offers spectacular views, clear waters, and numerous beach bars where you can relax with a drink in hand as you watch the sunset.
- Kantiang Bay: For a more secluded experience, head to Kantiang Bay. This stunning beach, surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters, is less touristy and perfect for those looking for peace and quiet.
2. Explore the National Parks
Koh Lanta is home to some beautiful natural reserves, and a trip to one of its national parks is a must for any nature lover.
- Mu Ko Lanta National Park: Located at the southern tip of the island, this park is known for its pristine beaches, rugged coastline, and lush forests. Hiking trails are available for those who want to explore the park’s wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Don’t miss the Lanta Old Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea.
- Koh Lanta Marine National Park: This park is a fantastic spot for snorkelling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. You can take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands, such as Koh Rok and Koh Haa, which are known for their crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
3. Visit the Lanta Animal Welfare Center
Koh Lanta is home to the Lanta Animal Welfare Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating stray animals on the island.
It’s a great place to visit if you’re an animal lover, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet the friendly dogs, cats, and other animals they’ve helped.
Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the center’s work, and those interested can even volunteer to help take care of the animals.
4. Discover the Local Culture at Lanta Old Town
For those wanting to experience a taste of local culture, Lanta Old Town is a must-see. This charming, historic village offers a glimpse into the island’s past, with wooden stilt houses and narrow streets lined with traditional shops and seafood restaurants.
The town was once a trading port and is now a hub for local artisans and food vendors. Walking through the town, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to buy handmade crafts, local products, and souvenirs.
5. Enjoy Water Sports and Activities
Koh Lanta offers a range of water-based activities for adventure seekers. You can go snorkelling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs or kayak in the calm waters along the coastline.
For a more adrenaline-filled experience, take a stand-up paddleboard out on the water, or go on a jet ski ride.
If you’re into kite surfing, the strong winds make Koh Lanta a great spot for this exciting sport, with several schools offering lessons for beginners and advanced surfers.
Must-Try Foods in Koh Lanta
No visit to Koh Lanta is complete without indulging in the local Thai cuisine. Here are three must-try dishes that will give you a true taste of the island’s flavors:
1. Khao Gai (Chicken Rice)
Khao Gai is a simple yet delicious dish, commonly enjoyed across Thailand. It features tender chicken served with a side of fragrant jasmine rice, accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce made from soy sauce, chilli, and garlic.
The chicken is often poached, making it tender and flavorful. A perfect dish to try when you’re looking for a quick meal or a light lunch.
2. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
Tom Yum Goong is one of Thailand’s most iconic dishes, and it’s a must-try when you’re in Koh Lanta.
The soup is bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of fresh shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili.
It’s a perfect balance of sour, spicy, and savory, and it’s often served as a starter or a main dish with steamed rice.
3. Pad Thai (Fried Noodles)
Pad Thai is a beloved street food dish in Thailand, and Koh Lanta is no exception. The dish consists of stir-fried rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, peanuts, and lime.
It’s typically served with a side of chili flakes for those who enjoy an extra kick. You’ll find Pad Thai served at local street food stalls and restaurants all over the island.d.
How to Reach Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is located about 70 kilometres from Krabi, and there are several ways to reach the island depending on your starting point. Here are the most common options:
1. By Air
The nearest airport to Koh Lanta is Krabi International Airport (KBV). From there, take a taxi or shuttle bus to Krabi Town’s ferry terminal, about 30 minutes away.
Then, board a ferry for a 1.5 to 2-hour ride to Koh Lanta. Alternatively, fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT), about 2 hours by car, and take a ferry from there.
2. By Bus and Ferry
If you’re travelling from other parts of Thailand, you can take a bus to Krabi or Ao Nang, and then transfer to a ferry to Koh Lanta.
The bus ride usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, and the ferry ride lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
3. By Car and Ferry
Those travelling by car can drive to the ferry pier at Saladan, located at Koh Lanta’s northern tip. From there, take a car ferry to the island.
The ferry ride lasts around 20 minutes. Once you arrive, you can drive around Koh Lanta at your own pace.
Conclusion
Koh Lanta is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Immerse yourself in nature, culture, and adventure. Relax on beautiful beaches or explore national parks and local villages.
The delicious Thai food and laid-back atmosphere make Koh Lanta unforgettable. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or culture, Koh Lanta has it all.
