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Where to Stay in Koh Lanta: The Best Hotels, Beaches & Areas

Where to Stay in Koh Lanta: The Best Hotels, Beaches & Areas

Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Koh Lanta from budget to luxury
Alexander & VictoriaHi! We're Alex & Victoria - a digital nomad couple from Copenhagen escaping 9-5 to chase adventures in our beautiful world. Learn more about us here.
Your laid-back island getaway

Koh Lanta is a beautiful island in Thailand, and we were lucky enough to spend a whole month exploring it.

With brilliant sunshine, plenty of stunning beaches, exciting things to do and see, and, of course, delicious Thai food, we had a wonderful time in Koh Lanta.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Koh Lanta, you’ve come to the right guide!

Although the island is quite large with many different beaches and areas to choose from, it’s still small enough to drive from one end to the other in under an hour.

This makes it perfect for exploring, whether you’re visiting for a few days or settling in for a longer stay, like we did.

Like many places in Thailand, Koh Lanta has fast wifi in most hotels and cafés, which made it easy for us to get some work done along the way. We stayed in several hotels across the island, giving us the chance to experience different areas and beaches firsthand.

In this guide to where to stay in Koh Lanta, we’ll share the best hotels and areas to help you find the perfect place – whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat, a beachfront resort or a lively spot with plenty of restaurants and activities.

Our favourites: Where to stay in Koh Lanta?

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Koh Lanta here.

Koh Lanta, Thailand
It’s almost impossible not to fall in love with Thailand.
Scooter in Koh Lanta
We explored the island by scooter, visiting all the beaches. Hopefully, our experiences will help you find a great place to stay in Koh Lanta.

Where is Koh Lanta?

Before deciding where to stay in Koh Lanta, it’s helpful to understand the island’s geography.

In short, there are only two towns: Saladan in the north and Old Town in the southeast.

The main road runs along much of the west coast, connecting all the popular beaches. This is where the majority of tourists stay (and where we would also recommend staying in Koh Lanta).

Your choice of accommodation in Koh Lanta will significantly influence your holiday experience.

Whether you’re after a romantic escape, a family-friendly resort or a budget-friendly hostel, having a good overview of the island can make it easier to choose the right place.

In this guide, we’ll go over the pros and cons of the various beaches and share our recommendations for the best hotels in Koh Lanta.

See the map below for orientation.

Click on the icon in the top left corner of the map to find the beaches, activities, best restaurants, etc.

Klong Nin in Koh Lanta
Each area and beach in Koh Lanta has its own charm – from the (relatively) bustling town of Saladan to the nearly deserted beaches in the south.

How many days to spend in Koh Lanta

As we mentioned, we spent a month in Koh Lanta, working along the way and enjoying slow travel with quiet days in between our adventures.

However, for a “normal holiday”, we wouldn’t stay that long.

Koh Lanta pairs perfectly with other experiences or islands in Thailand (such as nearby Koh Lipe).

If you do that, you can make the most of Koh Lanta in as little as 3-5 days.

That said, we’d recommend spending a week to truly experience the stunning beaches and visit the best sights at a relaxed pace with time to fully unwind.

Two weeks can easily be spent lounging on the beach and indulging in all the delicious food.

If you’re travelling as a family with small children or simply prefer a more leisurely pace, you could easily spend your entire holiday in Koh Lanta.

Ultimately, it all comes down to your travel preferences!

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When to book a hotel in Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta offers accommodation options for all types of travellers and budgets, and you can usually find available hotels and rooms – even at short notice.

However, many of the best hotels and bungalows tend to be fully booked months in advance, especially during the high season (December, January and February), when the weather is at its best.

If you’re travelling during this period, be sure to book your accommodation as far in advance as possible.

Sunset from Long Beach
Once you’ve experienced how beautiful the sunsets are, you’ll just want to stay in Koh Lanta.

The best areas and beaches to stay at in Koh Lanta

Our best advice for where to stay in Koh Lanta is to pick a place by one of the beaches.

If you ever need to pick something up or crave a bit more activity on certain days, the towns are easily accessible.

The beaches along the west coast are quite similar – all peaceful, with soft sand and perfect for walks and sunset drinks.

Which beach is best to stay at will depend on your personal preferences and needs.

Below, we provide an overview of the northern, central and southern beaches to help you choose the perfect spot.

Where to stay in Koh Lanta? The best beaches:

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  • North: Khlong Dao – The longest and most popular beach on Koh Lanta. It’s very child-friendly, with plenty of restaurants and facilities nearby.
  • North: Long Beach – Even more picturesque than Khlong Dao, this beach is also long, family-friendly and offers a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Central: Klong Khong – A beach with more rocky areas, an alternative vibe, and affordable resorts and pools. Perfect for those seeking a quieter stay.
  • Central: Klong Nin – Our favourite beach to stay at in Koh Lanta. Quiet, great for swimming and still offering a good selection of places to eat and enjoy.
  • South: Bamboo Bay – Arguably the most beautiful beach on the island, located right at the southern tip of Koh Lanta with serene surroundings.

You can also search for the cheapest and best hotels in Koh Lanta here.

Koh Lantas northern beaches (Khlong Dao and Long Beach)

The northern beaches, Khlong Dao and Long Beach, are excellent choices for both couples and families with children.

Both beaches are very safe for swimming, and there are resorts, hotels and bungalows available in all price ranges.

As Koh Lanta’s longest beaches, Khlong Dao and Long Beach also offer the widest selection of restaurants.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels on Khlong Dao or Long Beach (adlinks).

Khlong Dao in Koh Lanta
Khlong Dao (adlink) is Koh Lanta’s longest and most popular beach, with the northern end in particular offering stunning views and a beautiful setting.
Long Beach sunset
We were delighted to stay at the beautiful Long Beach (adlink) and thoroughly enjoyed watching the sunset every evening.

Koh Lanta’s central beaches (Klong Khong and Klong Nin)

The central beaches of Koh Lanta are called Klong Khong and Klong Nin.

Klong Khong is not the best for swimming, but it offers more affordable resorts with pools compared to other parts of the island.

Klong Nin, on the other hand, is a great choice for a relaxing, swimming-friendly beach, offering the perfect balance of amenities and tranquility. We loved Klong Nin more than Klong Khong.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Klong Khong or Klong Nin (adlinks).

Klong Khong at sunset
There are quite a few rocks along the water’s edge at Klong Khong (adlink), and the area has a slightly alternative vibe in some of the bars. However, accommodation here is generally more affordable compared to other parts of the island.
Soft sand, gentle waves and nice atmosphere at Klong Nin
Klong Nin (adlink) offers soft sand, gentle waves and a lovely atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Koh Lanta’s southern beaches (Kantiang Bay, Khlong Jark Beach and Bamboo Bay)

The southern beaches of Koh Lanta are relatively small and include Kantiang Bay (the most developed), Khlong Jark Beach (quite deserted) and Bamboo Bay (the prettiest and most remote).

These beaches are best suited to independent travellers who prefer fewer options and a more peaceful experience.

In the south, restaurants are more spread out, but the trade-off is that the beaches are quiet, almost deserted and picture-perfect.

If you associate a holiday in Thailand with staying in a budget-friendly bungalow by the beach away from the crowds, the southern part of Koh Lanta is where you should head. Having your own scooter here is definitely an advantage.

Alternatively, if you opt for one of the stunning luxury resorts (which actually won’t break the bank), you may find that you never need to leave the resort at all.

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  • Kantiang Bay – The most developed area in Koh Lanta’s southwest.
  • Khlong Jark Beach – Fairly deserted beach with a handful of hotels.
  • Bamboo Bay – Koh Lanta’s most beautiful beach, located at the southern tip of the island.
Lovely Bamboo Bay
The picturesque Bamboo Bay (adlink) at the far south is arguably Koh Lanta’s most beautiful beach.

The best hotels in Koh Lanta (sorted by area)

You can generally save quite a bit on accommodation in Koh Lanta if you visit during the low season.

As mentioned earlier, it’s wise to book your accommodation well in advance if you’re travelling during the high season (December, January and February), as many of the best hotels and resorts tend to sell out months ahead.

Tip: Rooms with air conditioning typically cost more than those with a fan, but during the high season, air conditioning is highly recommended due to the hot and humid weather in Koh Lanta.

Where to stay by Koh Lanta’s northern beaches

Here are the best hotels by Khlong Dao and Long Beach (also known as Phra Ae) in the northern part of Koh Lanta.

The best hotels at Khlong Dao:

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  • Luxury: Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort – Private beach, large pool and great views from the northwest part of Khlong Dao.
  • Value for money: Golden Bay Cottage – Comfortable, family-friendly double rooms just metres from the best stretch of Khlong Dao.
  • Value for money: Lanta Garden Home – Affordable option with air conditioning, wifi and a private terrace.
  • Budget: Lanta at Home – Comfortable, budget-friendly hotel at Khlong Dao.

The best hotels at Long Beach:

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  • Luxury: Layana Resort & Spa – The best hotel on Long Beach.
  • Value for money: Peaceful Resort Koh Lanta – With a pool and set in beautiful surroundings at a great price, just around 300 metres from Long Beach.
  • Budget: Ozone Beach Huts – Simple double rooms with fan or air conditioning.
  • Budget: Lanta Long Beach Hostel – If you’re happy sleeping in a dormitory, this is the most affordable place with a pool in Koh Lanta.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Koh Lanta here.

Luxury: Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort

No expense has been spared at Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort (formerly Crown Lanta Resort and Spa).

With a private beach and large pool, it offers excellent swimming opportunities. Situated in the northwest part of Khlong Dao, the resort has stunning views thanks to its elevated position.

See pictures, prices and availability at Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort (adlink).

Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort on Khlong Dao
Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort on Khlong Dao is one of the best hotels in Koh Lanta. ©Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort (adlink)
The Grand Ocean Residence at Avani Koh Lanta
Staying at The Grand Ocean Residence isn’t exactly cheap, but in return, you get an impressive 235 m² of space to enjoy, including a pool and sea view. ©Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort (adlink)

Value for money: Golden Bay Cottage

While it’s not the cheapest option, the family-friendly Golden Bay Cottage offers great value for money.

Here, you’ll get a comfortable double room featuring wifi, fridge, desk and air conditioning – just a few metres from the best part of Khlong Dao.

See pictures, prices and availability at Golden Bay Cottage (adlink).

The pool at Golden Bay Cottage
The pool at the family-friendly Golden Bay Cottage. ©Golden Bay Cottage (adlink)
Golden Bay Cottage cottages at Khlong Dao
The double rooms are well-located on Khlong Dao and the prices are fair. ©Golden Bay Cottage (adlink)

Value for money: Lanta Garden Home

Lanta Garden Home is even more affordable, offering air conditioning, wifi, a private terrace and a prime location right next to Khlong Dao beach.

See pictures, prices and availability at Lanta Garden Home (adlink).

Lanta Garden Home seen from a drone
If you’re travelling with children in Koh Lanta and want to stay on budget, Lanta Garden Home is a great option. ©Lanta Garden Home (adlink)

Budget: Lanta at Home

If you’re happy to walk a few metres to reach the beach, Lanta at Home offers fantastic value for money at Khlong Dao.

The comfortable double rooms feature a king-size bed, air conditioning, fan, fridge and wifi.

Please note: Only children aged 12 and older can stay here.

See pictures, prices and availability at Lanta at Home (adlink).

Lanta at Home in Koh Lanta
Lanta at Home offers great value for money at Khlong Dao. ©Lanta at Home (adlink)

Luxury: Layana Resort & Spa

Layana Resort is the best hotel on Long Beach (also known as Phra Ae).

Situated right on the beach, the resort features two pools by the water – including an infinity pool.

The rooms are designed in modern Thai style, and they’re spacious and offer all the amenities you’d expect from a luxury resort.

Layana Resort also offers a gym, a library, a spa and a restaurant serving both international and Thai cuisine. Can we move in here, please?

See pictures, prices and availability at Layana Resort & Spa (adlink).

Layana Resort & Spa in Koh Lanta
At Layana Resort on Long Beach, it’s hard to decide whether to relax by the stunning pools or take a refreshing dip in the sea. ©Layana Resort & Spa (adlink)
Layana Resort & Spa from drone
An aerial view of the hotel. ©Layana Resort & Spa (adlink)

Value for money: Peaceful Resort Koh Lanta

Peaceful Resort is a great choice in the middle of Long Beach, just 300 metres from the shore.

Here, you can stay in a comfortable double room with wifi, a fridge, air conditioning and a private terrace or balcony with direct pool access.

See pictures, prices and availability at Peaceful Resort Koh Lanta (adlink).

Peaceful Resort
The pool at Peaceful Resort is located in beautiful green surroundings. ©Peaceful Resort (adlink)

Budget: Ozone Beach Huts

If you’re after a budget-friendly hotel at Long Beach, Ozone Beach Huts offers simple double rooms with a fan. It might get a bit warm, but if you don’t plan on spending much time indoors, it’s a great way to save some money.

Alternatively, you can upgrade to air conditioning for about twice the price.

Just metres from the swimming-friendly northern end of Long Beach, the charming bungalows are tucked away among swaying palm trees.

See pictures, prices and availability at Ozone Beach Huts (adlink).

Ozone Beach Huts
Affordable accommodation with a perfect location at Ozone Beach Huts on Long Beach. ©Ozone Beach Huts (adlink)

Budget: Lanta Long Beach Hostel

If you’re travelling solo, you can save a lot by staying in a dormitory.

Lanta Long Beach Hostel offers very affordable beds with access to the hostel’s large pool.

The rooms are equipped with both air conditioning and wifi.

See pictures, prices and availability at Lanta Long Beach Hostel (adlink).

Lanta Long Beach Hostel pool
If you don’t plan on spending much time indoors while in Koh Lanta, you might consider staying in a dormitory, such as at Lanta Long Beach Hostel. ©Lanta Long Beach Hostel (adlink)

Where to stay by Koh Lanta’s central beaches

Here are the best hotels by Klong Khong and Klong Nin, located in the central part of Koh Lanta.

The best hotels at Klong Khong:

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  • Luxury: Rawi Warin Resort & Spa – Private beach, large pool and stunning sea-view double rooms at great prices.
  • Luxury: Lanta Corner Resort – Also features a private beach and a large pool. Slightly cheaper sea-view double rooms.
  • Value for money: Khum Laanta Resort – Charming bungalows with a pool and direct beach access. Some huts include a small kitchen.

The best hotels at Klong Nin:

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Koh Lanta here.

Luxury: Rawi Warin Resort & Spa

The 5-star Rawi Warin Resort, located between Klong Khong and Klong Nin, isn’t cheap, but it offers exceptional value with a private beach, multiple pools (including one with a slide), a gym, a children’s play area and several on-site restaurants.

The Thai-style rooms feature sea views along with wifi, air conditioning, a fridge and a balcony.

For a luxurious stay in the heart of Koh Lanta, Rawi Warin is highly recommended.

See pictures, prices and availability at Rawi Warin Resort & Spa (adlink).

Rawi Warin Resort & Spa in Koh Lanta
Experience luxury without breaking the bank at Rawi Warin Resort & Spa. ©Rawi Warin Resort & Spa (adlink)
Rawi Warin Resort & Spa sunset
Doesn’t it look stunning? The sunsets in Koh Lanta are truly something special. ©Rawi Warin Resort & Spa (adlink)

Luxury: Lanta Corner Resort

Lanta Corner Resort is a family-run hotel with a small private beach (just north of Rawi Warin Resort) where you can swim at high tide. It also features a large pool for guests to enjoy.

The spacious, modern Thai-style rooms come with a king-size bed, wifi, air conditioning, a fridge, a tea/coffee maker and sea views.

See pictures, prices and availability at Lanta Corner Resort (adlink).

Lanta Corner Resort in Koh Lanta
The rooms at Lanta Corner Resort are spacious, modernly furnished and offer beautiful sea views. ©Lanta Corner Resort (adlink)
Lanta Corner Resort pool
The pool also looks pretty cool. ©Lanta Corner Resort (adlink)

Value for money: Khum Laanta Resort

Khum Laanta’s large, comfortable bungalows are set back from Klong Khong, but it’s just a two-minute walk from the pool to the beach.

The huts feature wifi, a desk, a terrace and air conditioning. Some even come with a small kitchen.

See pictures, prices and availability at Khum Laanta Resort (adlink).

Khum Laanta
Stay in a central yet peaceful location in Klong Khong at Khum Laanta. ©Khum Laanta (adlink)

Value for money: Lanta Il Mare Beach Resort

Lanta Il Mare Beach Resort, located right next to Klong Nin Beach, is a nice family-friendly hotel.

In addition to a shared pool, the rooms come with a fridge, desk, air conditioning, and small terraces – a great budget-friendly option!

See pictures, prices and availability at Lanta Il Mare Beach Resort (adlink).

Lanta Il Mare Beach Resort at Klong Nin in Koh Lanta
Lanta Il Mare Beach Resort offers great value for money, and it’s just a short walk from Klong Nin Beach. ©Lanta Il Mare Beach Resort (adlink)
The pool at Lanta Il Mare Beach Resort
The pool at Lanta Il Mare Beach Resort. ©Lanta Il Mare Beach Resort (adlink)

Value for money: Lanta Infinity Resort

Tucked behind the beach at the northern end of Klong Nin, Lanta Infinity Resort offers double rooms with green views, wifi and air conditioning at very reasonable prices.

The resort features a pool and is just a 5-6 minute walk to Klong Nin Beach.

See pictures, prices and availability at Lanta Infinity Resort (adlink).

Lanta Infinity Resort
Lanta Infinity Resort near Klong Nin Beach. ©Lanta Infinity Resort (adlink)

Budget: Lanta Emerald Bungalow

Lanta Emerald Bungalow is one of Klong Khong’s cheaper hotel options, offering a pool and a lush garden.

The cheapest rooms come with a fan only, perfect for those who don’t mind a little warmth but you can upgrade to air conditioning if needed.

The on-site restaurant serves a variety of cuisines, including Thai, international and European dishes.

See pictures, prices and availability at Lanta Emerald Bungalow (adlink).

Lanta Emerald Bungalow
Lanta Emerald Bungalow by Klong Khong. ©Lanta Emerald Bungalow (adlink)

Where to stay by Koh Lanta’s southern beaches

Here are the best hotels by Kantiang Bay, Khlong Jark Beach and Bamboo Bay in the south of Koh Lanta.

The best hotels on the southern beaches:

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Koh Lanta here.

Luxury: Pimalai Resort & Spa

Overlooking Kantiang Bay in southern Koh Lanta, Pimalai Resort & Spa offers 5-star luxury with amazing views.

The resort has private balconies, air conditioning, wifi, an infinity pool, a tennis court, a gym, a library and three restaurants. You name it.

With near-perfect reviews across booking platforms, it’s hard to argue against it being the island’s best hotel.

It’s certainly the most beautiful – and probably the most expensive, too…

See pictures, prices and availability at Pimalai Resort & Spa (adlink).

Pimalai Resort & Spa in Koh Lanta
Pimalai Resort enjoys an epic location overlooking Kantiang Bay. ©Pimalai Resort & Spa (adlink)
Pimalai Resort & Spa beach and pool
There’s (of course) also a pool by the beach – no wonder it’s considered Koh Lanta’s best hotel. ©Pimalai Resort & Spa (adlink)

Luxury: Baan KanTiang See Villa Resort

Baan KanTiang See Villa Resort is a luxury hotel in Koh Lanta’s south, overlooking Kantiang Bay.

The villas come with air conditioning, TV, desk, fridge, a small kitchen and a panoramic view of the bay.

The shared infinity pool includes a children’s pool – a great feature if you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Koh Lanta that welcomes families.

With just 8 villas, availability can be limited, so booking early is a good idea.

See pictures, prices and availability at Baan KanTiang See Villa Resort (adlink).

Baan KanTiang See Villa Resort
The view from Baan KanTiang See Villa Resort is breathtaking. ©Baan KanTiang See Villa Resort (adlink)

Value for money: Anda Lanta Resort

At Khlong Chak Beach, just north of Bamboo Bay, you’ll find the delightful 3-star hotel Anda Lanta Resort.

Enjoy spacious rooms equipped with wifi, fridge, desk, air conditioning and a private patio or balcony.

The resort features a pool, a restaurant and offers rentals for kayaks and snorkelling gear to help you explore the sea. While shopping options are limited, there are a few restaurants within walking distance if you prefer dining outside the hotel.

See pictures, prices and availability at Anda Lanta Resort (adlink).

Anda Lanta Resort
Lovely room with a balcony and sea view at Anda Lanta Resort. ©Anda Lanta Resort (adlink)

Budget: Klong Jark Bungalow

Klong Jark Bungalow offers some of Koh Lanta’s cheapest bungalows.

The basic bungalows come with a small terrace and a ceiling fan only, while an upgrade to air conditioning is available at a slightly higher rate.

If you’re looking for simple accommodation right by a beautiful beach, this is a great budget-friendly choice.

See pictures, prices and availability at Klong Jark Bungalow (adlink).

Klong Jark Bungalow drone image in Koh Lanta
At Klong Jark Bungalow, the beach is just a few metres away. ©Klong Jark Bungalow (adlink)
Klong Jark Bungalow budget room
The bungalows are simple, but the prices are just as modest. ©Klong Jark Bungalow (adlink)

Frequently asked questions about where to stay in Koh Lanta

Where is the best area to stay in Koh Lanta?

For most travellers, the best option is to stay on one of the beaches along Koh Lanta’s western coast.

Khlong Dao is the most popular, followed by Long Beach (Phra Ae). Klong Khong is more budget-friendly but has a rocky shoreline. Klong Nin offers a good mix of tranquillity and convenience.

The beaches further south are stunning but feel more secluded. Kantiang Bay has a fair number of hotels and restaurants, while places like Bamboo Bay are almost entirely untouched (and incredibly beautiful!).

Where is the best place to stay when visiting Koh Lanta for the first time?

If it’s your first trip to the island, where you stay in Koh Lanta will naturally shape your experience.

If you’re not a seasoned Thailand backpacker and are looking for a comfortable trip to Koh Lanta, we recommend staying at Khlong Dao, Long Beach or Klong Nin.

These three beaches offer excellent swimming, a range of family-friendly hotels and fantastic restaurants with an authentic Thai atmosphere.

Is Koh Lanta touristy?

Koh Lanta is a relatively developed island, offering a good selection of hotels, resorts, restaurants and modern healthcare facilities.

While it is undeniably influenced by tourism, it has managed to avoid the extreme over-tourism seen in destinations like Phuket, Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi.

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Is it expensive to stay in Koh Lanta?

The quality of hotels in Koh Lanta is excellent, with most located on or near beautiful beaches.

Overall, accommodation tends to be more affordable compared to other popular tourist islands in Thailand.

In short, you get great value for your money when choosing a place to stay on Koh Lanta.

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How to save money on hotels in Koh Lanta?

To save on accommodation in Koh Lanta, it’s wise to plan your visit outside the high season (especially from December to February). Hotel rates drop considerably during the rainy season (May to October).

Booking in advance also gives you access to a wider range of options, often at lower prices.

Consider staying in hotels that aren’t directly on the beach or explore options in Saladan and Old Town, where you can find some great deals.

For the best prices, opt for fan-only rooms. If you can handle the heat, you’ll save a significant amount.

Long Beach in Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is perfect for long walks along its soft, sandy beaches.

Best beaches and things to do in Koh Lanta

Once you’ve decided where to stay in Koh Lanta, the next step is to explore everything the island has to offer.

In our guide to the best things to do in Koh Lanta, we share our favourite experiences – from the most beautiful beaches to boat trips, national parks and other great activities.

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When to visit Koh Lanta

Seasons and weather

The best time to visit Koh Lanta depends on what you’re looking for.

The island has two main seasons: high season and low season.

Temperatures stay around 28°C (~ 82°F) year-round, with highs of 34°C (~ 93°F) and lows of 24°C (~ 75°F).

January and February tend to be the driest months, making it a popular time to visit Koh Lanta.

That said, weather patterns can vary from year to year, so having a bit of flexibility is always good.

Average temperature Koh Lanta Thailand Average rainy days (rain/snow) in Ko Lanta, Thailand

Koh Lanta’s high season (November to April)

During high season, the weather in Koh Lanta is fantastic with plenty of sunshine and very little rain.

The dry season runs from November to April, attracting more visitors – especially in December, January and February when conditions are at their best.

Temperatures rise towards April, but the coastal breeze and a dip in the sea help keep things comfortable.

We visited from late January into early February and had plenty of sunny days.

While Koh Lanta was clearly a popular destination, it never felt overcrowded.

That said, some hotels were fully booked, so if you’re planning a winter trip, booking accommodation in advance is a good idea.

Tip: Air-conditioned rooms cost more than those with just a fan, but in the high season, they’re worth it – especially towards March and April. Koh Lanta’s weather is always warm and humid, but it gets particularly hot as the season progresses.

Koh Lanta’s low season (May to October)

As with any destination, visiting Koh Lanta in the low season comes with both advantages and drawbacks.

From May onwards, rainfall increases, and during the summer months, it rains every other day on average.

This keeps the island green while also making it far less crowded.

Some hotels and restaurants close for part of the year, but many remain open. Accommodation prices drop significantly, making it possible to find excellent deals.

Koh Lanta’s weather is unpredictable, so while rain is more common, it’s still possible to get several sunny days in a row.

In short: Travelling in the low season can save you a lot on accommodation, but you’ll need to be prepared for a higher chance of rain.

South Thailand climate
Southern Thailand has a warm climate throughout the year. During the low season, rainfall is more frequent on average, but temperatures remain high and sunny days are still common.
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Our best tips for visiting Koh Lanta

  • Koh Lanta is a beautiful island. Make sure to bring a good camera! Here’s our guide to lightweight photography gear for high-quality travel content.
  • Koh Lanta is situated in southern Thailand, a region with a significant Muslim population. As a result, don’t be surprised if you hear the calls to morning prayer from the mosques and see local women wearing headscarves.
  • The locals are accustomed to Western tourists on the island, but it’s still a good idea to cover up a bit when you’re not on the beach out of respect.
  • Book accommodation well in advance if you’re travelling to Koh Lanta during the high season. While there will always be rooms available, many of the best hotels get fully booked months ahead of time.
  • ATMs and currency exchange spots are normally easy to find, especially in Saladan. It’s usually most cost-effective to withdraw money in baht, and to minimise extra fees, it’s a good idea to take out the maximum allowed amount at once.
  • The electrical outlets in Koh Lanta generally feature two round prongs, fitting both most European and Asian appliances, as well as the flat prongs of USA and Japan. The standard voltage is 220 volts.
  • Wifi is widely available in hotels and cafes, and it’s usually very fast. Saladan and Old Town have the strongest connections. If you need internet access elsewhere, consider buying a local SIM card or eSIM with data. We’ve previously used Airalo (adlink) with great success. At the big beaches, you can expect data on your phone to work – at least most of the time!
  • Digital nomads can check out the coworking site KoHub.
  • It’s hard to say how long to spend in Koh Lanta. The island is large enough to offer new experiences every day but compact enough that you can see all the highlights in about a week.
  • Avoid supporting elephant trekking! These animals endure cruel training methods to make them submissive. Read more about why you shouldn’t ride elephants here. Instead, visit Lanta Animal Welfare.
  • Koh Lanta is very family-friendly and a great destination for families. The beaches are safe and the locals are warm and welcoming, making it easy to feel at ease when travelling with children.
  • The island is especially popular with Scandinavians – there’s even a Swedish school here.
  • The sun is strong. Remember your sun protection and stay in the shade during the hottest hours in the middle of the day.
  • If you want to stay active during your holiday in Koh Lanta, you can get a short-term membership at one of the island’s gyms. There are also several places offering yoga and martial arts, especially Thai boxing.
  • Koh Lanta’s hospital is one of the largest in the region and is equipped with X-ray facilities. In addition, there are many small private clinics across the island.
  • Remember travel insurance! We compare the best travel insurance for digital nomads and long-term travellers here.
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Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading our guide on where to stay in Koh Lanta.

Hopefully, it has provided some inspiration for the best hotels on the lovely Thai island.

What are your thoughts on where to stay in Koh Lanta? Which area would you choose?

Feel free to ask us anything in the comments if you haven’t been to Koh Lanta yet as it will also benefit other readers. We are happy to help!

If you’ve already been there, it would be great to hear your best tips and tricks for accommodation or the best areas to stay.

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