Beaches in Koh Lanta

Beyond any doubt the beaches on the island of Koh Lanta rate as some of the worlds best, and safest. From the 31 km long beach in the north at Klong Dao to the more rugged coves at the most southerly point, Koh Lanta is a special place. The main island is Koh Lanta Yai,, but there are some 52 islands in the group. The whole area comes under the offices of the Lanta National Park.

When choosing a place to stay, then the west coast has a massive variety of hotels – from the spectacularly expensive Pimalai Resort and Spa at $240 a night to the less well appointed Lanta Bee Garden Bungalows at $12 a go. But the Bee does have a beachfront location and it’s just a few steps away from the sea!

Klong Dao Beach

This is a very long expanse of white fine sand, with clear shallow waters, making it very safe for families with small children. Being the closest point to the main town on the island means it also has a higher number of open bars, hotels and restaurants. It is around here you will find any evening entertainment, which is very low key. Generally the idea is to sit and watch the sun drop into the Andaman Sea with a cool cocktail in hand, whilst reflecting on how hard life can be at times.

Phra-Ae Beach

Really a continuation of the Klong Dao, with a good collection of resorts on the edge of the sand. This stretch just goes on and on south, with slightly fewer places to stay the further south you go.

Klong Khoang Beach and Klong Nin Beach

The last of the sandy beaches on the west coast where some resorts have their own stretch of sand. All water sport activities can be arranged by these more luxurious hotels, including sailing.

However, to preserve the islands quiet nature and to be environmentally friendly, there are no motorized sea activities such as jet skis on Koh Lanta. From here on south the coast line becomes more rugged until the most southerly point of the island where you will find a lighthouse perched on a rocky outcrop. The beaches here are stony, so not surprisingly there has been less development in this area. The offices for the National park are here.