We were back in Thailand – and of course back on Koh Lanta Yai! Already on our first visit, the island impressed us with its relaxed vibes and beautiful beaches, and this time it didn’t disappoint. Koh Lanta is located southeast of Ao Nang/Krabi and is perfect if you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing holiday. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about Koh Lanta – from the most beautiful beaches to exciting excursions and practical travel tips. Enjoy browsing!
- General information about Koh Lanta
- Visa & Entry to Koh Lanta
- Best time to travel to Koh Lanta
- Arrival to Koh Lanta
- Duration of your Koh Lanta holiday
- Where to stay on Koh Lanta?
- Our accommodation on the island
- Getting from A to B
- Koh Lanta sights & Highlights
- The most beautiful beaches on Koh Lanta
- The most popular excursions and tours
- Restaurants, food stalls and cafes
- Our best travel tips for Koh Lanta
- Costs Koh Lanta – our expenses for 7 days
- The most frequently asked questions about Koh Lanta
- Our conclusion
General information about Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is located in the south of the Krabi province in the Andaman Sea, about 810 kilometers from Bangkok. The island actually consists of two islands separated by a narrow strait: Koh Lanta Noi (Little Lanta) in the north and Koh Lanta Yai (Greater Lanta) in the south. Most visitors are drawn to the main island, Koh Lanta Yai.
Koh Lanta is predominantly inhabited by Thai Muslims, which is why you’ll also see women wearing headscarves. There are a few small mosques, but Islam is generally practiced in a rather relaxed manner here. So you can relax on the beach, swim, and even buy alcohol as usual.
Visa & Entry to Koh Lanta
As a German citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Thailand as long as you are traveling as a tourist. Upon arrival by plane or land, you will automatically receive a 60-day residence permit, which you can extend once for another 30 days on site. Your passport must be valid for at least six months upon entry. In some cases, you may be required to present a return or onward ticket – but this is not always checked.
From May 2025, you will again have to fill out a form to enter Thailand – but this time digitally. The old TM6 form will no longer be available in paper form on airplanes, but will be replaced by the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). You can fill out the form either individually or online for groups. Click here to go directly to the official website: To the digital entry form.
Best time to visit Koh Lanta
Roughly speaking, the best time to visit Koh Lanta is from November to April, as it hardly rains during these months and temperatures are summery to hot. Nevertheless, even during this time, storms or rain can occasionally occur. From January to April, it is the dry season, and it can get really hot – often, no rain falls at all during these months. At the end of April, the first rainfall brings a much-needed cooling effect.
When they hear the term “rainy season,” many people immediately think of months of continuous rain and prefer a different destination. In fact, however, the rainy season doesn’t mean that it rains all day long. Most of the time, it’s just short, heavy showers, and temperatures remain pleasantly warm. Cooling off can actually be quite pleasant. The rainy season can last until December, with rainfall being particularly frequent in May, October, and November.
From June to September, the weather is changeable, with alternating periods of sunshine and rain. However, the sea can be quite stormy during this time, so many ferry connections are cancelled. The water temperature, however, remains consistently warm throughout the year, at a pleasant 27 to 29 degrees Celsius. More on this topic here: Best time to travel to Thailand.
Getting to Koh Lanta
Since Koh Lanta doesn’t have its own airport, the quickest way to get there is via the south of Thailand. It’s best to fly to Phuket or Krabi Province, as these are the easiest ways to get to the island. There are no direct flights from Germany, but with a stopover – usually in Doha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or Bangkok – you can easily reach your destination.
A flight to Krabi is the most convenient option, as Koh Lanta Yai can be reached from there in about two hours by minivan and car ferry. You can also continue your journey from Phuket, either by ferry or minivan across the mainland. If you fly to Bangkok, you’ll either have to take a domestic flight to Krabi or Phuket, or plan for a long bus or train ride.
We recently flew with Qatar Airways from Frankfurt via Doha to Phuket. We were even able to spend the first part of the trip in business class—a unique experience! The upgrade cost €500 per person and was worth every cent! We returned from Bangkok via Doha to Hamburg. A great airline with very good food, great service, and absolute punctuality.
Your options at a glance
- Flight to Krabi or Trang: The nearest airport is Krabi (approx. 70 km away). From there, you can travel directly to Koh Lanta by minivan (approx. 2 hours) or private transfer. Trang also offers a similar travel option. From Phuket, it takes about 5-6 hours by van.
- Ferry from Phuket or Koh Phi Phi: If you’re coming from Phuket or another island, you can take the ferry. The crossing takes 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the route. Buses and minivans also depart from Phuket.
- By land by minivan or rental car: Koh Lanta is connected to the mainland by a car ferry. Minivans run regularly from Krabi, Ao Nang, or even Bangkok. You can also arrive with a rental car and take the ferry.
Tip: We usually book our tickets via the website 12go.com*. You receive the ticket by email and can simply show it on your phone on the day of departure.
Overview of the most important routes
Duration of your Koh Lanta vacation
We spent a week on the island on both visits and would do it again. Of course, you can circumnavigate Koh Lanta by scooter in one day – but is that really the point of your trip? If you want to discover more beaches, caves, and highlights, it’s worth staying a few days longer. Especially if you’re planning a diving trip.
For a truly relaxing vacation on Koh Lanta, we recommend at least 7 days. Not only can you discover a lot here, but you can also simply unwind. The many beautiful beaches, the good food, and the relaxed atmosphere make Koh Lanta the perfect island for anyone who wants to enjoy a relaxing stay far away from party tourism and mass tourism.
Where to stay on Koh Lanta?
On Koh Lanta, there are accommodations for every budget – from simple bungalows to luxurious beachfront resorts. Choosing the right place depends on whether you prefer peace and quiet or prefer to be close to restaurants and bars.
The further south you go on Koh Lanta, the quieter and more secluded it becomes – while the north is still well developed, the south has relaxed beaches and less hustle and bustle.
The west coast is the most tourist-friendly and offers the most beautiful beaches, while the east coast is more rural, with small villages, mangrove forests, and the charming Lanta Old Town. Most vacationers choose to stay along the west coast – and we would recommend it too.
Klong Dao Beach – perfect for families
This gently sloping sandy beach is located near Saladan, the island’s main town. It is ideal for families with children, as the sea is calm and the beach is wide. There are many resorts right on the water as well as some smaller accommodations nearby.
Popular Hotels on Klong Dao Beach
- Cicada Lanta*
- Laguna Beach Club Resort*
- Southern Lanta Resort*
- Lanta Villa Resort*
- Jai Tiki Retreat – Adult Only*
️ Long Beach – a mix of peace and entertainment
Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach) is one of the most popular beaches on Koh Lanta. Here you’ll find a good selection of restaurants, bars, and accommodations—from simple bungalows to upscale resorts. Perfect for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere but still not wanting to be completely isolated.
Popular Hotels on Long Beach
- Layana Resort & Spa*
- Lanta Sand Resort & Spa*
- Sayang Beach Resort*
- The Sun Long Beach Resort*
- Lanta Pearl Beach Resort*
Klong Khong Beach – relaxed and a bit alternative
If you like it relaxed, alternative and a bit hippie-like, then this is the right place. Klong Khong Beach has many small beach bars with hammocks, relaxed resorts and a very chilled-out atmosphere. However, the beach is not ideal for swimming everywhere, as there are some rocks in the water. Nevertheless, it’s a very beautiful area!
Popular hotels on Klong Khong Beach
- The Lazy Lodge*
- Coco Lanta Resort*
- Matcha Lanta Resort*
- Lanta Beachfront Resort*
- Khum Laanta Resort*
Klong Nin Beach – perfect for peace and relaxation
Klong Nin Beach is a quiet, beautiful beach that is perfect for those who want to relax but don’t want to be completely isolated. There is a mix of cozy bungalows, boutique resorts and several restaurants right on the beach. What’s especially nice is that you often have the feeling that you have the beach almost to yourself – especially in the morning hours.
Popular Hotels on Klong Nin Beach
- Serene Lanta Resort*
- Baan Pakgasri Hideaway*
- Nirvana Beach Resort*
- Thai Island Dream Estate*
- Cliff Lanta Suite*
Kantiang Bay – beautiful bay in the south
Somewhat more secluded in the south of Koh Lanta lies Kantiang Bay – a beautiful beach with only a few resorts. It’s very quiet here, and you often have almost the entire beach to yourself. Perfect for a romantic stay or absolute relaxation.
Popular Hotels on Kantiang Beach
- Pimalai Resort & Spa*
- Alama Sea Village Resort*
- Puteri Lanta Family Villas*
- Anda Lanta Resort*
- Baan KanTiang See Villas*
Our accommodation on the island
During our last stay on Koh Lanta we stayed at the Treeya Lanta* – and it was a really good choice! The small, stylish complex is quietly located, but still not far from the most beautiful beaches. We particularly liked the relaxed atmosphere, the quiet location, the friendly staff and the lush green garden.
The bungalows are modernly furnished, offer plenty of space and have their own terrace where you can relax. The rooms are equipped with a refrigerator, air conditioning, a tea-making station, and a safe, as well as a bathroom with a toilet and shower. A small but delicious breakfast is served by the pool in the morning.
The location is also ideal: From here, you can reach Long Beach in 2 minutes, but at the same time, it’s far enough away to truly unwind. Perfect for anyone looking for comfortable, well-maintained accommodations with a personal touch! Book a bungalow here*.
Getting from A to B
Koh Lanta is a relatively relaxed island where you can easily get from A to B. The main island is about 27 kilometers long (north-south) and at its widest point, around 6 kilometers wide (east-west). There are several options, depending on how flexible you want to be:
Rent a scooter
Most travelers rent a scooter (approx. 200–300 baht per day) to explore the island on their own. The roads are mostly well-maintained, and traffic is also fairly relaxed—especially compared to other places in Thailand. However, we noticed more potholes in the north, which became much less frequent in the south.
Fuel is not expensive on Koh Lanta—a liter of gasoline costs about 35–40 baht. You can get gasoline every few hundred meters, either from bottles on the side of the road (50–60 baht) or at a proper pump. It’s best to fill up at official gas stations, as the gasoline is not only cheaper there but also of better quality. The gasoline in bottles on the side of the road is often diluted and consumes more quickly.
Important information: To rent a scooter, you officially need a passport and an International Driver’s License. While nobody usually wants to see your driver’s license, if you get stopped by the police, it’s a good idea to have one with you.
We recommend the Nare Scooter Rental Shop. The owner is super friendly, has well-maintained scooters, and doesn’t require a deposit or your passport—a copy is sufficient. You can also book tickets for your onward journey and even have your laundry done with them.
Rent a car
If you prefer more comfort, you can rent a car. This is a convenient alternative, especially for families or groups. The prices are higher than for scooters, but you are independent of the weather. Good local providers: Noom Car & Motorbike Rental or Rent a car Koh Lanta.
Songthaews & Taxis
On Koh Lanta, there are songthaews (shared taxis) that go to various beaches and towns. Prices are negotiable, but usually more expensive than in other parts of Thailand. Private tuk-tuks and taxis are also available, especially for shorter distances or evening rides.
- Short distances (within a beach or town): approx. 50–100 baht per person
- Medium distances (between two beaches): approx. 100–200 baht per person
- Longer distances (e.g., Long Beach → Kantiang Bay): approx. 300–500 baht per person:
Tip for families: We saw many families renting a private tuk-tuk. Usually, the man drove, while the woman and children sat in the seats. A cool and flexible way to explore the island together!
Koh Lanta Sights & Highlights
Koh Lanta is more than just beaches and the sea. Of course, the endless sandy beaches and cozy beach bars with hammocks and cool drinks invite you to relax. But the island has a lot more to offer: dense jungles, impressive caves, small villages and cultural highlights that you shouldn’t miss.
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Koh Lanta Old Town
Koh Lanta Old Town is located on the east coast of the island and, with its colorful wooden houses on stilts, still exudes real island flair. Many of them are over 100 years old and date back to the time when the town was still the island’s trading center. Along the waterfront promenade you will find cozy restaurants with terraces directly over the water. Perfect for a relaxed lunch with a view of the sea. Recommended: Pinto Restaurant & Mayuri’s Bar.
There are no large markets in Koh Lanta Old Town, but there are many small shops selling handmade jewelry, clothing, and lovely souvenirs. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a unique souvenir. After shopping, you can visit the Buddhist temple Wat Koh Lanta or the Chinese shrine on the wooden jetty next to the Di Farina Pizzeria restaurant.
In addition to Buddhist and Chinese temples, you’ll also find an old harbor here, which is now used almost exclusively by fishing boats. Tours to the surrounding islands, such as Koh Bubu, Koh Talenbeng, Koh Por, or Koh Kradan, also depart from here – perfect if you want to explore even more of the surrounding area.
Mu Koh Lanta National Park
In the south of Koh Lanta lies the Mu Koh Lanta National Park – a highlight for all those who love nature and adventure. Here, you can hike on an approximately 2.7 km long trail through the dense jungle, go swimming, or simply enjoy the view from the lighthouse. Directly below the tower awaits a beautiful, often almost empty beach – perfect for cooling off after the tour.
The hike starts directly at the parking lot and leads through the jungle. Due to the high humidity, it can get quite sweaty, as the route is constantly uphill and downhill. If you want to skip the hassle, you can simply walk from the parking lot to the beach in 5 minutes.
Another adventure awaits in the island’s interior: the Khao Mai Kaew Cave. Here, you’ll find giant stalactites and stalagmites, narrow crevices, and dark chambers full of bats. A local guide costs 100 baht and will also take you to the small Khlong Chak Waterfall.
Tip: Get an entrance ticket to the national park! This also allows you to visit the cave and waterfall for free. Without a ticket, you’ll have to pay extra there.
Visitor Information National Park
- Entry Fee: 200 Baht per person (cash only)
- Opening Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Highlights: Lighthouse, beach, jungle hike
- Caution: Macaques are nimble thieves – keep an eye on food and bags!
Mangrove Forests
The mangrove forests on Koh Lanta are an exciting change from the beaches and are best explored from the water. Especially on the east coast, around Tung Yee Peng, you can paddle through the dense waterways or take a longtail boat through the mangroves.
The most fun is by kayak – you glide through the narrow channels while monkeys do gymnastics in the trees and monitor lizards glide through the water. But be careful: The macaques are quite cheeky and like to jump onto your kayak when they smell food!
In addition to the impressive natural surroundings, there are also floating fish farms and small restaurants where you can try fresh fish or seafood. Whether by kayak, boat, or on foot, the mangroves are a cool way to discover a completely different side of Koh Lanta.
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Lanta Animal Welfare
Lanta Animal Welfare is an animal welfare organization on Koh Lanta that cares for stray dogs and cats on the island. Here, injured and abandoned animals are cared for, given medical treatment, and – if possible – rehomed. We’ve been there twice so far and highly recommend visiting the facility.
You can only visit the animal shelter as part of a guided tour (adults 250 baht; children 150 baht). You’ll learn all about the work and the animals. Lanta Animal Welfare is funded entirely by donations and relies on volunteers. So if you feel like doing something good, stop by – the animals appreciate every bit of support!
There’s also a cooking school on site where you can book various cooking classes. 100% of the proceeds go to the animal welfare project and are an important support for the work of Lanta Animal Welfare. We would have liked to attend a cooking class, but ultimately ran out of time.
The most beautiful beaches on Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta’s beaches are impressive! Especially in Thailand, there are truly many dream beaches and bathing bays. It’s simply fun to lie under the tropical sun by the crystal-clear water and enjoy life. Most beaches also have cool beach bars where you can relax.
1. Khlong Dao Beach – Perfect for Families
One of the most popular beaches on Koh Lanta and ideal if you’re looking for a mix of relaxation and amenities. The wide, gently sloping sandy beach is especially popular with families. There are many restaurants right on the beach, and the sunset here is also stunning.
The German restaurant Nang Sabai is very popular. Here you can not only enjoy hearty German dishes, but also a wide selection of Thai specialties. During our world trip, after ten months on the road, we were really craving German food again – and Nang Sabai was the perfect place to go.
Our food tips for Khlong Dao Beach
- Majestic Bar Koh Lanta
- Kaw Kwang Bistro
- Nang Sabai
2. Long Beach – Endless sandy beach
At 3 kilometers, Long Beach is the longest beach on the island. Fine sand, turquoise water, and a super relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for long beach walks or early morning runs. There are plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and bars here, but still enough space to retreat.
Our food tips for Long Beach
- Lym’s Bar & Restaurant
- Mr. Wee Restaurant
- Chilly Beach Bar & Restaurant
- Thai Cat Restaurant
- Escape Café
3. Tricky Trocky Beach – insider tip for those seeking peace and quiet
A small, hidden beach that is often overlooked. There’s nothing here – just fine sand, large palm trees, imposing cliffs, and turquoise water. Perfect if you’re looking for a quiet corner. We scrambled from the southern end of Beautiful Beach over the stones and rocks into this secret cove. Sturdy shoes are a good idea, but slippers will also do.
4. Klong Khong Beach – Relaxed Hippie Vibes
This beach is known for its relaxed atmosphere and cool beach bars with beanbags, fairy lights, and reggae music. It’s quiet during the day, but a popular spot for sunsets, fire shows, and cocktails in the evening.
Our food tips for Klong Khong Beach
- The Sound Shack Bar
- Moomsabai Food & Drink
- Devy Ale Café
- Lazy Bird Café
5. Klong Nin Beach – A Mix of Tranquility and Restaurants
Klong Nin offers a good mix of quiet corners and restaurants right on the beach. Here you can relax and swim without it getting too crowded. In the evening, there are several cozy bars for a sundowner and plenty of cool fire shows. These usually start between 7 and 8 p.m., depending on the bar/restaurant.
Our Food Tips for Klong Nin Beach
- Mr. Lek Bar
- Mr. Love Bar
- Hungry Shack Burger
- The Breezy Bar
6. Nui Beach – The small, wild beach of Koh Lanta
Nui Beach is a small, secluded bay on the west coast of Koh Lanta, roughly between Klong Nin Beach and Bakantiang Beach. Unlike the more famous Nui Bay, which lies further south, this beach is even wilder and less visited. Crystal-clear water, fine sand, and various shady spots await you here. Be sure to visit the Diamond Cliff Restaurant. From there you have a great view of the beach and the sea.
7. Bakantiang Beach – A dreamy, quiet sandy beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in the south of Koh Lanta. The fine sand, clear water, and few people make it the perfect place to relax. A great tip for anyone seeking peace and quiet. If you come from Ao Nui Bay and reach the last bend, you’ll have a great view of the entire beach.
Our food tips for Bakantiang Beach
- Why Not Bar
- Kilgiz.coffee
- Drunken Sailors
- Po-pla Restaurant
8. Nui Bay Beach – Small bay with a postcard feel
A secluded, beautiful bay with fine sand and crystal-clear water. Since there is hardly any infrastructure here, you should bring your own snacks and drinks. A small path leads from the road through the nature down to the beach – sturdy shoes are a plus, but flip-flops are also fine.
The sea shines in turquoise blue, the water is crystal-clear, and the sand is wonderfully soft. There used to be a small beach bar with a massage parlor here, but on our last visit everything seemed deserted. In addition, there was unfortunately a lot of garbage in the forest and on the beach (as of January 2025).
9. Khlong Chak Beach – Pure Nature
We also really liked Khlong Chak Beach in the south of the island. There are no large resorts or beach bars here – instead you will find fine sand, clear water and a super relaxed atmosphere. We recommend a visit to the Kung Fu Bar at the southern end of the beach. This reggae beach bar not only offers cooling drinks but also delicious Thai dishes.
Our food tips for Khlong Chak Beach
- Kung Fu Bar
- U Bay Bar & Restaurant
- Simply Lift Restaurant
10. Bamboo Beach – Untouched Idyll
Bamboo Beach is one of the quietest beaches on the island. There are hardly any accommodations or restaurants here, but it’s pure nature. Perfect if you want to have an entire beach almost to yourself. The huge palm trees right on the beach are particularly beautiful.
Our food tips for Khlong Chak Beach
- Baan Phulae Restaurant
- Ahoy Bar
- Bamboobay Halal Restaurant (great view)
11. Mu Ko National Park Beach – Lonely Beach
Located in the very south of the island is this beautiful, often deserted beach in Mu Koh National Park. Perfect after a hike through the jungle or a visit to the lighthouse. The beach is very clean, the sea crystal clear, and the scenery simply stunning. There is a fee to enter the national park (200 baht), but it’s worth it for the peace and quiet and the natural experience.
The most popular excursions and tours
From relaxing boat trips to action-packed activities. A classic is island hopping to Koh Rok and Koh Haa, where crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches await you. Also on Koh Lanta, look out for the “4-Island Tour” (boat tour to Koh Ngai, Koh Mook (with the Emerald Cave), Koh Kradan, and Koh Chuek).
For those looking for more adventure, you can kayak through the mangrove forests of Thung Yee Peng or hike in Mu Ko Lanta National Park and visit the lighthouse. The island also has a lot to offer underwater: the diving and snorkeling spots around Hin Daeng and Hin Muang are among the best in Thailand.
If you prefer to stay on dry land, you can stroll through small boutiques and stilt houses in Lanta Old Town or try your hand at making curries and Pad Thai in a Thai cooking class. For a more athletic experience, try Muay Thai training, where you’ll learn the basics of traditional Thai martial arts. And of course, a sunset boat tour is a must – perfect for a relaxing end to the day.
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Other popular tours
- Learn the art of Muay Thai – Adin Muay Thai School*
- Evening course at the Lanta Thai Cookery School*
- Full-day Ko RaPu & Ko Phee & Ko Talabeng (3 caves)*
- Tung Yee Peng Village Eco-Tour with lunch/dinner*
- 4-Island tour: Koh Chuek, Koh Ngai, Koh Mook and Koh Kradan*
Diving on Koh Ha
Diving on Koh Lanta was a real highlight for us! There are numerous diving schools here that offer a variety of tours – perfect for beginners and advanced divers. An introductory dive cost between 3,500 and 4,500 baht and started early in the morning. After being picked up from our accommodation, we took a boat out to the best dive spots around Koh Lanta.
Our first underwater experience was off Koh Haa. Tours usually include food, drinks, and a dedicated dive instructor for a maximum of two people. We went with Phoenix Divers* and had a truly great experience, but many other schools on the island also seem professional.
Restaurants, food stalls and cafes
You can feast on wonderful food on the island. We especially enjoyed the many markets. Here, you can find inexpensive and, above all, delicious food. You can also buy fruit and vegetables, as well as clothes, accessories, toys, sunglasses, and much more.
There is still no large shopping center or supermarket on Koh Lanta. But you can find the essentials at any convenience store or 7-Eleven. There is also a smaller Tesco Lotus on the island.
Here are our recommendations for Koh Lanta:
- May’s Kitchen: Favorite restaurant with an authentic atmosphere.
- Devy Café: Cool restaurant on Khlong Khong Beach (game nights & live music).
- Yah Thai Food Restaurant: Very good and affordable Thai dishes.
- Fruit Tree Lodge: Good breakfast menu, delicious coffee.
- Chilly Beach Bar: Cool bar for an evening sundowner.
- Fusion Beach Bar: Cool bar for an evening sundowner.
- The Garden Restaurant: Great restaurant near Lanta Animal Welfare.
- Diamond Cliff Restaurant: Delicious food with a panoramic view of Nui Beach.
- Mr. Love Bar: Cool bar on Klong Nin Beach, great fire shows in the evenings.
- Kung Fu Bar: Very cool reggae bar with delicious food on Khlong Chak Beach.
- Spaghetti by Mangia: Delicious pasta and pizza near Long Beach.
- Lazy Bird: Café with a good breakfast menu.
- Moomsabai Food & Drinks: Delicious Thai dishes right on Khlong Khong Beach.
- Hungry Shack Burger: Very tasty burgers on Klong Nin Beach.
- Escape Café: The island’s best coffee on Long Beach + delicious cakes!
Our best travel tips for Koh Lanta
⚕️ Pharmacies: There are several well-stocked pharmacies on Koh Lanta, especially in Saladan and along the main road. If you need medication, just ask for a pharmacy. You can also get painkillers and other basic medications at 7-Eleven or supermarkets.
Medical Care: The island has several small clinics that can provide quick help in an emergency. There are several medical facilities in Saladan, including an international clinic. For major treatments, however, you’ll have to go to Krabi or Phuket.
Supermarkets: Mini markets like 7-Eleven and local shops can be found all over the island. They offer everything you need for everyday life. There are no large supermarkets like Big C or Lotus on Koh Lanta, but there are well-stocked grocery stores in Saladan.
⛽️ Gas Stations: There are a few gas stations for scooters and cars along the main road. Alternatively, gasoline is sold in glass bottles at street stalls (approx. 40–60 baht per bottle). For better and cheaper fuel, we recommend official gas stations.
Laundry Service: Laundry is very inexpensive on Koh Lanta. A laundry service usually costs 40–50 baht per kilo. Many accommodations also offer washing machines for your own use.
ATMs: ATMs are available in many locations, especially in Saladan and along the main road. There is a 220 baht fee per withdrawal, so it’s worth withdrawing larger amounts. Card payments are accepted in some restaurants and hotels, but most shops only take cash.
Electricity: German plugs (Type C, F) often fit Thai outlets, but not always. Schuko plugs (Type F) in particular don’t work everywhere. A travel plug adapter* is therefore recommended.
Internet: We used an e-SIM from Airalo* on Koh Lanta (30 days of unlimited internet) and had a stable connection everywhere. We were online immediately after landing. With our code “NICOLE2629” you get €3 credit for free (and we’ll get it too as a thank you). More on this topic here: eSim for Thailand – Providers, Prices & Our Recommendation.
Sale of Alcohol: In Thailand, there are set times for alcohol sales: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. and 5 p.m.–midnight in supermarkets, 7-Eleven, and other stores. On Buddhist holidays or election days, there is a complete ban on the sale of alcohol.
Drone: Flying a drone in Thailand is only permitted with registration with the CAAT and a permit from the NBTC. Violations can result in heavy fines. If you want to keep things simple, you can use a drone service* that will organize the necessary documents.
Costs on Koh Lanta – Our Expenses for 7 Days
Our total expenses for one week on Koh Lanta were €1,274.05, or €637.02 per person. This includes travel from Krabi, onward travel to Koh Phangan, seven nights at the Treeya Lanta, a rental scooter including gasoline, meals in restaurants and food stalls, shopping, leisure activities, and minor expenses such as tips and laundry.
Frequently asked questions about Koh Lanta
The island is known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and family-friendliness.
Koh Lanta is well-developed for tourism, but considerably quieter and less crowded than other Thai islands such as Phuket or Koh Phi Phi.
We recommend 7 days for a restful and relaxing stay (at least 5 days).
The best time to visit Koh Lanta is from November to April, when the weather is dry and sunny and the sea remains calmer.
The most beautiful places on Koh Lanta include the tranquil Kantiang Bay, the expansive beaches such as Long Beach and Klong Nin, as well as the Mu Ko Lanta National Park with its iconic lighthouse.
Our Conclusion
Even after 10 years, Koh Lanta is still one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand for us. Away from the north, things are quiet here, and you can wonderfully relax and unwind. Koh Lanta has beautiful beaches that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
The island offers just the right mix of beautiful beaches, a relaxed island feel, and enough infrastructure to make you comfortable. If you want to experience Thailand without the party crowds, but with plenty of serenity, this is the place for you.