Laidback Island Life On Koh Lanta

Despite Koh Lanta’s close proximity to the famous Thai party island, Koh Phi Phi, it couldn’t be more different in scenery and ambience. Lanta is a land of swaying palms, dreamy sunsets and long, sweeping beaches – think of it as the laidback, older sister to hyper-energetic Phi Phi.

However, that’s not to say that Koh Lanta is a lost paradise awaiting discovery. It is the largest island in the protected archipelago that makes up Mu Koh Lanta National Park and has come a long way since the days when it was only inhabited by intrepid backpackers and the Chao Ley sea gypsies who call Lanta their home.

There are plenty of bars, eateries and places to stay on Lanta, yet it manages to retain its chilled-out, island vibe, enticing an older travelling crowd content to laze on creamy beaches, knock back a few drinks of an evening and enjoy a mind-blowing sunset. Don’t get me wrong, Lanta can serve up the odd party on occasion, but, in general, it is relaxed fun that reigns here.

Although a popular destination, the variety of excellent beaches means that there’s plenty of space for all – you can still hop on a scooter and ride off on the well-maintained roads to find a place to get away from it all whilst still enjoying access to all manner of conveniences.

What To Do On Koh Lanta

The big draw of Lanta is its easygoing atmosphere and stunning, world class beaches. There are lots to choose from and your favourite may depend on the different vibes and clientele – why not explore them all before making your choice?

Klong Dao is nearest to Saladan, the port town and entry point of the island. This beach is very developed with plenty of places to eat and drink but it’s still a looker and a great spot for a sunset drink. Long beach is close by and also very beautiful – the bars and restaurants here are quite spread out so although there is a lot going on, it maintains a semblance of space and tranquillity.

Towards the middle of the sunset coast, Klong Nin may not have the most impressive beach, but the area has a real, backpacker village feel to it with quirky bars and cafes to choose from. Neighbouring Klong Khong also has a smattering of beach bars, which tend to put on fire shows and the odd party night.

However, if you’re in search of a real knockout of a beach, then journey on to Kantiang Bay. This breath-taking beach is a long, wide expanse of the softest, palest sand you can imagine, encircling a sheltered bay, providing ideal conditions for swimming. There is a good range of accommodation to choose from here, from budget beds to flashier pads.

Finally, one more Lanta beach area that’s worth a mention is located right at the southern tip. Cape Tanod offers a glimpse of old school Lanta, a secluded National Park beauty where peace and tranquillity are the order of the day and it is possible to pretend that the tourists of Lanta are far away.

Aside from lazing on glorious beaches, Lanta offers a few, interesting opportunities to get in touch with good old Mother Nature. Travel the roads inland and you can expect to encounter charming, rural villages and scenic, rice paddies nestled in amongst the greenery. Head towards Klong Nin village to explore the Mai Kaew caves – a guide and good shoes are a must in order to enjoy the cavernous depths peppered with stalactites and stalagmites.

If you are interested in diving, your best bet is to arrange a trip through one of the tour operators based in Saladan. Hin Daeng and Hin Muang are a short boat ride away from Lanta and are world famous dive sites teeming with stunning coral and tropical fish. You might even get lucky and spot some whale sharks if you visit at the right time of year.

There are also several cookery schools that have set up shop on Lanta; try Time For Lime at Khlong Dao where you can learn how to prepare delicious seafood, Thai style, right there on the beach. Or take a bit of pampering time and treat yourself to a luxurious massage at Serenity Massage and Spa in Saladan.

Where To Eat And Drink

No matter where you choose to base yourself on Koh Lanta, you will not go hungry or thirsty – there are plenty of options for travellers to grab a bite or sink a few drinks.

Drunken Sailors is a quirky coffee shop at Kantiang Bay with excellent coffee and tasty fruit shakes to linger over whilst Kunda Anti-Pop Café, situated on Klong Khong offers fantastic vegetarian and vegan meals as well as a tattoo shop at the front, should you wish to take home a more permanent souvenir from your holiday.

Irie Bar on Long Beach is one of the more reliable party spots on the island – they also offer simple but flavoursome food, cocktails and frequent live music.

Whether you choose to explore the island thoroughly or select your favourite little corner of paradise to relax in, rest assured that on Koh Lanta, it’s quite easy to lose track of time and forget about the rest of the world.

By Alex Saint. Images courtesy of Alex Saint, Jon Hanson and Jens Petter Salvesen.