If you’re looking for a place to party, this is most definitely not the island for you. But if you’re after a peaceful paradise, Thailand‘s Koh Lanta is the ideal spot for an idyllic getaway.
Lying in the western gulf, Koh Lanta is not as well known as other Thai islands like Phi Phi or Samui. It actually consists of several islands, the two biggest being Koh Lanta Noi and Ko Lanta Yai – the latter being where all the action is.
This long, thin island remains relatively untouched, with sandy white beaches, lush forest and amazingly warm ocean waters. Located on its west coast, the beaches are well placed to watch the sun set every evening.
The main town of Saladan near the pier is where most of the shops are concentrated. Head further south from the Old Town area and you’ll start to discover the hidden charms of Koh Lanta.
The northern beaches like Klong Dao and Phra Ae are the most traditionally beautiful and best suited to swimming. This area is more developed, with a range of resorts, restaurants and shops, compared to the less built-up southern areas. Moving further south to the likes of Klong Tob or Klong Jak, the beaches become more rugged and facilities further between.
Getting to Koh Lanta from the mainland involves a car or passenger ferry trip. Minivans can easily be booked in Krabi (which also has an airport) and the trip takes a couple of hours. There are boat services to several destinations from Koh Lanta including Phuket and Phi Phi. Once on the island, you’re best to hire a motorbike or even a tuktuk to ride around on.
Lastly, you might see or hear about a ‘four islands’ tour while you’re on the island. It’s well worth it! As the name suggests, over the course of a day you’ll take a boat ride around four different islands, hopping off to swim and snorkel in secluded coves and beaches. I’ve never done anything quite like it.
How to Get to Koh Lanta
- From Krabi Airport, catch a taxi to the pier in Krabi town centre and hop aboard a passenger ferry to Koh Lantana
- You’ll also find ferries to Koh Lantana departing from Ao Nang, Ko Jum, Phuket and Phi Phi.
Featured image by Robert Mehlan
