
Planning a trip to Thailand and wondering where to stay in Koh Lanta? Based on our extensive experience on the island, we've recommended the best beaches in Koh Lanta and the best places to stay. Read on to find out which beaches and areas will suit your preferences.
Did you know that there is an island in Thailand that is not overcrowded but still well-developed, vegan-friendly, and home to a wide array of stunning tropical beaches? That island is called Koh Lanta, and it’s our favorite tropical island in Southeast Asia. Koh Lanta is also a place that we've called home on occasion for several months over the past couple of years.
In early 2013, on a one-way ticket to Thailand, I arrived in Koh Lanta, my very first destination of a trip that would morph into a life of travel. I spent the next 3 months on the sleepy island as a volunteer at Lanta Animal Welfare. During that time, I fell in love with the island and got to know the beaches in Koh Lanta like the back of my hand. Since then, I've returned with Adam in tow and introduced him to the magic of Koh Lanta as well.
Like all tropical islands, the biggest attraction of Koh Lanta is the sea which is why we thought we’d help you find the best beaches in Koh Lanta. In this guide, we’ll highlight our favorite Koh Lanta beaches and what we like about each one, provide options of where to stay in Koh Lanta for every budget, as well as other great tips to make your trip to Thailand as memorable as possible.
Related Post: Our Top Picks for Things To Do in Koh Lanta
Here are the best Koh Lanta beaches and our tips on where to stay in Koh Lanta
How to Get to Koh Lanta

Located a 2-3 hour drive from Krabi, Koh Lanta is very accessible yet surprisingly overlooked among many tourists visiting Thailand. Koh Lanta also happens to be a lot larger than many of the other famous Thai islands which means there is a lot to explore.
Pro Tip: Visit Koh Lanta between March and May which is when things start to slow down and low season slowly begins to get the best deals and all the beaches in Koh Lanta to yourself.
Koh Lanta is a world away from its chaotic and busy neighbor Koh Phi Phi, but there can still be a big difference between high and low season. That being said, if you visit Koh Lanta outside of the holidays, it will be a lot less crowded.
Getting Around Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a big island which means the distance between beaches can be far sometimes especially when you want to visit the more secluded Koh Lanta beaches. As always in Thailand, a scooter is the easiest way to get around Koh Lanta. Some hotels in Koh Lanta offer shuttles to and from beaches, and there is also a few tuk-tuks, however, it is always more practical driving yourself.
If you’ve never driven a scooter before you might as well learn in Koh Lanta. The roads are in pretty good shape for long stretches and the traffic is quite manageable compared to the rest of the country.
Just make sure to stay safe, always wear a helmet, and have the right travel insurance before you get started.
On that note, don't forget to pack some reef safe vegan sunscreen. The sun is strong on Koh Lanta and sunscreen is expensive to buy on the island.
1. Khlong Nin Beach

In our opinion, Khlong Nin is one of the best beaches in Koh Lanta for several reasons. First and foremost, Khlong Nin beach is huge which means there is always space for you especially in low season when you basically have the whole beach to yourself. There are also sunbeds and chairs available for the small price of a tropical smoothie so you can lounge and sip drinks all day long.
If you're interested in a beautiful tranquil beach that isn't super remote nor super busy, staying near Khlong Nin is a great choice.
If you visit Koh Lanta in the super low season you can expect most of the beachside businesses to be closed, but there is a 7-Eleven and several restaurants within walking.
Reason to Visit: Our favorite Koh Lanta beach because it is less crowded yet convenient and in our opinion one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
Where to stay on Khlong Nin Beach:
Our Top Pick: Thai Island Dream Estate
Thai Island Dream Estate beachfront resort offers everything from suites to two bedroom villas with private pools and kitchens with direct access to the beach or pool. A perfect choice for a luxurious stay on one of the best beaches in Koh Lanta.
Other places to stay on Khlong Nin:
Peace Paradise Beach Resort - A kid-friendly beachfront resort with rooms in different price classes. Rated well for its cleanliness and comfortable rooms, this is a perfect pick for the family vacationer looking to enjoy the tranquility of this Thai island.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
Lanta Miami Resort - This is a midrange best seller located in a stunning location on our favorite Koh Lanta beach with world class snorkeling right in front of the hotel. This beach resort also has a highly regarded restaurant on the premises.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
2. Phra Ae Beach (Long Beach)

Phra Ae is one of the main Koh Lanta beaches where many of the bars, restaurants, and hotels are located. It’s decently close to Saladan which is the main “town” of the island.
While Long Beach is beautiful, it can be a bit more busy than some of the other Koh Lanta beaches. It also gets rocky which can make swimming difficult and uncomfortable.
In the end, it all depends on what you’re looking for. If you prefer access to many restaurants, hotels, and a central location that isn't overly developed Long Beach is perfect, but if you want some seclusion there are better Koh Lanta beaches.
Reason to Visit: The sunsets at Phra Ae are particularly breathtaking, and the beach is quite close to Saladan and the ferry pier.
Where to stay in Koh Lanta near Phra Ae Beach:
Our Top Pick: Layana Resort & Spa
Layana Resort & Spa offers well-maintained luxury suites and villas serviced by a team of highly trained professionals on one of the most popular beaches in Koh Lanta. Enjoy a stunning jungle view from your private terrace or a villa directly on the beach and order a massage in your room whenever you feel like it. Or take it one step further and book the extravagant two story, two bedroom, two bathroom mansion with a private pool
Note that Layana is adults only!
Other places to stay on Long Beach:
Lanta Casuarina Beach Resort - Spacious and clean rooms in the midrange price class at a laidback beachfront resort. The extreme affordability coupled with incredible reviews has made this resort one of the best places to stay in Koh Lanta.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
My Place Boutique Hotel - Budget-friendly rooms in a well-kept hotel with a good reputation. The rooms come in different price classes with all the amenities you could need.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
3. Ba Kantiang Bay Beach

Kantiang Bay is a small beach community located almost at the Southern tip of Koh Lanta and is as far away from Saladan as you can get. In many ways, Kantiang is the last community on the east side of the island before resorts become fewer and beaches more secluded.
The stunning beaches around Ba Kantiang Bay are some of the best beaches in Koh Lanta and are well worth a visit. The landscape also changes around Kantiang Bay and with more hills and cliffs you can experience some of the most scenic views on the island there.
Reason to Visit: Dramatic backdrop of cliffs and hills that simply can't be beat. If you want to be surrounded by stunning scenery during your trip to Koh Lanta, Kantiang Bay is a must visit.
The best place to stay in Koh Lanta around Kantiang Bay:
Our Top Pick: Pimalai Resort & Spa
Pimalai Resort & Spa is potentially the best resort on Koh Lanta, Pimiali Resort & Spa was specially designed for people looking for a little extra. This hotel is located on a hill with half of the resort in the jungle and the other half on the beach, offering top story suites and private beachfront villas. The rooms are huge and equipped with everything you could possibly need, but you really come here for the immaculate service and seclusion
Other places to stay in Kantiang Bay:
The Houben Hotel - An adult only, midrange 4-star hotel nestled on a hilltop with a stunning view overlooking Kantiang Bay. This hotel is run by a Belgium couple that does not cut corners.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
The Sea @ Lanta Hotel - Great budget hotel only steps away from the ocean offering an impressive view for the price.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
Alama Sea Village Resort - Midrange bamboo cottages, 250 meters from the ocean, infinity pool, and awe-inspiring scenery.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
4. Bamboo Bay

Bamboo Bay is a true paradise and by far one of the best beaches in Koh Lanta. It’s located almost at the southern tip of the island and quite a far drive from the main beaches just after Kantiang Bay. However, it is worth the drive a hundred times over, trust us.
The beach itself is magical and huge, stretching for well over a kilometer lined with palm trees and hilltops. There are only a handful of shacks selling drinks and food here and 1 or 2 resorts which means it is usually empty. During low season most of the businesses here close down meaning you’ll have to bring water and food. And if it ever gets too hot in the sun, you can seek shelter in the treeline surrounding the beach.
Reason to Visit: Bamboo Bay is the best Koh Lanta beach for an unforgettable secluded getaway.
Where to stay on Bamboo Bay:
Our Top Pick: Lalaanta Hideaway Resort
Lalaanta Hideaway Resort is a high-class resort with its own private beach in one of the most secluded areas of Bamboo Bay. The rooms are of the highest quality with luxury beds and couches yet it is fairly priced.
As a bonus, the beachfront restaurant offers the perfect setting for a romantic dinner.
If you’re looking to relax and enjoy this tropical island to the fullest, a few nights at LaLaanta Hideaway is a must.
Bamboo Bay Resort - A clean and simple resort that doesn’t stretch the wallet but still provides all the luxurious benefits of a tropical beachfront resort. Great value for money and excellent reviews!
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
5. Khlong Dao

Khlong Dao is the first beach you come to after Saladan, and similar to Long Beach, you’ll find a lot of hotels, restaurants, and bars here. This is also where the Koh Lanta Thai boxing stadium is located as well as where the weekly fresh market is held. Khlong Dao can be considered the main hub of Koh Lanta, and for that reason, it can get busier than the other beaches.
This Koh Lanta beach is home to several famous bars and restaurants, most notably Time for Lime - a beachfront restaurant operated in collaboration with the animal shelter Lanta Animal Welfare. All of the money you spend at Time for Lime goes directly to the shelter to support the animals of the island.
Reason to Visit: This Koh Lanta beach boasts a huge stretch of sun-kissed sand which is perfect for volleyball and other beach games or sunbathing.
Where to stay in Koh Lanta for convenience: Khlong Dao:
Our Top Pick: Costa Lanta Hotel
Costa Lanta is a super modern beachfront hotel with garden view villas. There is a highly regarded restaurant on the premises as well as what feels like an almost olympic sized pool.
Parts of the Khlong Dao beach have been closed off for guests of Costa Lanta so that you can enjoy the tranquility that you deserve. Costa Lanta is also an adult only hotel.
Other places to stay on Khlong Dao:
Klong Dao Sunset Villa - This is a budget hotel boasting some of the highest ratings of all the hotels on the island. The location is unparalleled and the rooms are comfortable.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
Lanta Sea House - A multitude of rooms and bungalows on the beach for travelers on a budget. The hotel is popular among families with kids.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
Khlong Khong

Khlong Khong is another popular beach lined with great restaurants, fun bars, and some of Koh Lanta's biggest beach parties.
At certain stretches of the beach, the water rolls into the restaurants during high tide, which is great for a beautiful beach lunch but can cut your visit short. The beach is also not ideal for swimming since it is very rocky.
Khlong Khong attracts a younger hippy backpacker crowd so if that's your thing, you'll feel right at home.
Reason to Visit: Fun nightlife in Koh Lanta consisting of hippy beach bars and parties.
Where to stay in Koh Lanta near Khlong Khong:
Our Top Pick: Sea Sand Sun Resort
Sea Sand Sun Resort offers beachfront villas and family rooms with a pool overlooking the ocean as well as world-class service. A great option for the family or a couple looking for a perfectly relaxing vacation on the beach.
The location is also perfect with walking distance to restaurants, stores, and shopping opportunities.
Other beautiful hotels on Khlong Khong beach:
Phutara Lanta Resort - Midrange hotel on the beach with a huge pool and a pool bar. Ocean view double rooms, beachfront villas, poolside suites - this hotel has it all.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
Coco Lanta Resort - Midrange beachfront hotel with a laid-back atmosphere and an infinity pool.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
Baan Maiphai Lanta - Super budget for backpackers looking to stretch their budgets. Rooms are listed for $11 but often offered for $9 and below.
Check availability and prices on Agoda.
If you ever find yourself running out of time, Koh Lanta is a quick drive to Penang, Malaysia where you can do a Thai visa run.
Pin This Koh Lanta Beach Pin for Later!

This page contains affiliate links which means we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you when using our link to make a purchase.