Zooming down the coast on two wheels, sun on your shoulders, salt in the air, along the endless road that hugs this magical island from top to bottom…
I’ve spent most of the last year living on Lanta, and in that time I’ve visited every beach on the island, many of them more times than I can count. Some are perfect for quick swims, some for fiery sunsets, some for snorkelling and others for families.
It doesn’t take long to understand why beach-hopping becomes a way of life here. You can scoot from bay to bay, pulling over whenever the water sparkles a different shade of blue, stopping for a swim, a coconut, or a stroll along the sand.
What makes it even better is how laid-back everything feels here. Unlike Koh Lanta’s neighbours *cough* Koh Phi Phi *cough*, the beaches here aren’t overrun. There’s no elbowing for towel space and no party boats thumping in the distance. Just long, golden stretches of sand.
So think of this as your semi-local guide to choosing the right beach for the kind of day you want.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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When to Go to Beaches on Koh Lanta
As you’ll notice when planning a trip around Thailand, the country operates on two contrasting seasons, and Koh Lanta is no different.
The high season is from January to May and is the best time to visit Koh Lanta’s dazzling beaches. The water is crystal clear, the beaches are drop-dead gorgeous, the vibes are high, and the temperature is even higher. Of course, it attracts more people, but luckily, there is enough space on Koh Lanta’s beaches for us all to fit comfortably 🙂
I wish I could say there is never a bad time to visit Koh Lanta’s beaches, but there definitely is. Koh Lanta’s monsoon season hits from around June to December. The wind changes, the water turns choppy, and the brown colour of the sea is much less inviting. Many businesses close down, so there are limited options for accommodation, cafes and restaurants over these months.
It’s also key to note that ALL of the best beaches on Koh Lanta are on the west coast of Koh Lanta. The east side has almost none. Also, the further south you go, the quieter the beaches become, so I’d highly recommend hiring yourself a set of wheels and exploring the coast!
Long Beach: The Easygoing Favourite
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Best for: Long walks, easy swims, sunset drinks and first-timers.
- Vibe: Lively but relaxed. A mix of backpackers, family-friendly, and locals.
- Good for swimming? Yes.
- Good for sunset? Very good.
- Facilities: Plenty. Restaurants and bars line the sand.
- How easy is it to reach? Easy, there are multiple beach accesses along the coast.
- How long to spend: Half day to full day.
Long Beach, as the name suggests, will bless you with its endless stretches of white sand and clear blue seas. Not only this, but it is also lined with restaurants, bars and resorts. It’s not as intense as it sounds – most of the restaurants and bars are not too built up, and the resorts are no more than two storeys high.
Another reason it’s so popular is that it’s not as impacted by the tides as other beaches, and you can pretty much swim here all day long, which isn’t the same for all beaches on the island.
There are loads of places to enjoy a drink at sunset, enjoy a fire show, play volleyball, take out a paddleboard or just jump in for a dip. There are a few spots around where you can set up your travel hammock and chill in the trees.
When deciding where to stay in Koh Lanta, staying near Long Beach is a good idea if you want to be close to all the action.
Best Places to Stay Near Long Beach/Phra Ae:
Long Beach Chalet – SHA Extra Plus
I’m a big fan of this spot. I have spent A LOT of time at their on-site cafe called Escape Cafe. The property is seriously amazing; right on the beach, with a pool, bar, restaurant and cafe on your doorstep.
Blanco Hostel Lanta
This hostel provides every time. Most of my friends who came to visit stayed here and absolutely raved about it. It’s super social, has clean rooms and even has a pool! Not to mention, you’re mere steps from the beach.
Bamboo Beach: The Secluded Southern Escape
- Best for: Seclusion, wild scenery, quiet swims, escaping the crowds.
- Vibe: Peaceful, remote, untouched. Some days, we were the only ones there!
- Good for swimming? Yes. It’s generally calm, but it can get choppy in the monsoon season.
- Good for sunset? Decent, the sun sets behind the headland, but the light is beautiful.
- Facilities: Pretty basic, just one bar that’s set up to sell smoothies and snacks. However, they do also have a shower and some shaded covers.
- How easy is it to reach? Moderate to hard, you have to go down a pretty steep road. Plus, it’s all the way down the bottom of the island, which can take about 45minutes from Saladan (the busy top area).
- How long to spend: Half a day.
Bamboo beach is fairly long, so you can walk down and perch up wherever tickles your fancy. Take a good book with you and spend a day relaxing, swimming and wandering. I’d suggest making a cheeky 7/11 stop beforehand for snacks and drinks, as options are limited on the beach.
If you continue to drive about five minutes past the entrance to Bamboo Beach, you’ll come to the Koh Lanta National Park, which is also a great day out. There’s a nice walk through the jungle where you’ll find monkeys, lizards and more (if you’re lucky).
As it’s nearly at the bottom of the island and away from a lot of the tourist hot spots, there are limited places to stay. However, I’ve noted the best (and really only) place to stay below.
Best Place to Stay Near Bamboo Beach:
LaLaanta Hideaway Resort
If you want a remote stay near the beach, this is it. Nestled into Bamboo Beach, this hotel offers artistic seclusion with a private beach, two pools and beachfront dining – a tranquil paradise.
Beautiful Beach: The Peaceful Curve
- Best for: Quiet swims, soft sand, relaxed beach days.
- Vibe: Peaceful, low-key, small sandy beach, lightly developed.
- Good for swimming? Yes, it’s generally calm and clear in high season. It’s less impacted by the tides.
- Good for sunset? Beautiful. Take a couple of Changs and enjoy them with plenty of others around. It’s a popular sunset spot.
- Facilities: Basic, just a couple of small bars/restaurants nearby.
- How easy is it to reach? Easy, just turn off the main road, not too far on from Long Beach. However, they have recently started to charge a small fee to enter… but it’s worth it, in my opinion.
- How long to spend: Half a day.
Beautiful Beach is one of my favourite beaches on the island. It’s a smaller beach, with just a couple of huts offering beers, coconuts, food and massages. The sand is LUSH, the palm trees line the sand (perfect for a portable hammock set up), and the water is crystal. There is some pretty cool life under the sea here that you won’t want to miss out on! So be sure to BYO snorkel as you won’t find a rental place for them when you arrive.
As it’s fairly secluded from the main road, there is nowhere to stay that is directly on the beach. However, I’ve noted my favourite places nearby below.
Best Places to Stay Near Beautiful Beach:
Arthaya Villas
If you’re after a peaceful escape in pure luxury, Arthaya is the perfect place for you. You’ll be a 10-15 minute walk from Beautiful Beach and when you’re not lounging on the sand, you can relax by the pool or indulge in the on-site cafe.
Lanta Beautiful Beach House
Offering simple but comfy rooms with a semi-equipped kitchen and a small terrace, Lanta Beautiful Beach House is the perfect budget place to stay if you’re keen to be close to the beach.
Klong Dao: The Family-Friendly Favourite
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Best for: Families, calm swims, beach runners/ walkers, relaxed beach days.
- Vibe: Peaceful, friendly, beachfront resorts.
- Good for Swimming: Yes. But when the tide is low, it can be a very calm, shallow entry.
- Good for Sunset: Very Good for sunset, especially toward the southern end.
- Facilities: Plenty of restaurants, cafés, beach bars and shops all the way along.
- How Easy to Reach: Easy!
- How Long to Spend: Half Day to Full Day.
I loved coming to Klong Dao for my morning and evening walks. The sand is pretty firm, and you’ll find it’s a popular place to take a stroll or go for a run. The mornings are like a highway of travellers getting their dose of exercise. The white sand is so fine on this beach that it feels like you’re walking on powder.
This beach is also super popular with the locals, especially at the top of the beach. There are a few food stalls and areas where fishermen are sorting through their catch of the day.
There are a few boats that come and go from this beach, as it’s a popular pickup spot for those doing the popular four-island snorkelling tour. This tour is great, but if you LOVE snorkelling, I preferred the Koh Rok and Koh Haa tour – we saw loads of coral and fish that we didn’t see on the four islands tour.
Best Places to Stay Near Klong Dao:
Twin Lotus Resort and Spa – Adult Only Hotel
This adult-only paradise has everything you could ever want on-site, it’s literally a luxury village on the beach. Home to a pool (on the beach), a restaurant, a spa, and an exercise room, plus they put on a load of activities to get involved in.
Little Beach Garden
There is just something about this place that feels warming and magical. With dorm beds and private rooms available in beach huts, this place is paradise.
Secret Beach: The Tucked-Away Gem
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Best for: Quiet swims, escaping the crowds, a peaceful mid-day stop.
- Vibe: Calm, local, understated.
- Good for Swimming: Yes, it’s usually calm in high season, but not so when the tide is low; it’s super rocky and not really swimmable.
- Good for Sunset: Beautiful and more peaceful than its neighbours.
- Facilities: Basic (a couple of simple spots nearby)
- How Easy to Reach: Easy to Moderate, you’ll need to walk over from Beautiful Beach or Relax Bay.
- How Long to Spend: Quick Stop to Half Day.
Secret Beach is a small cove area, the sand is lush, and the sea is beautifully clear. The surrounding area is jungle and palm trees. You’ll likely come across cows on your wander to the beach; these guys sometimes like to hang out on the beach too, which is pretty fun!
Take your snorkel if you’re heading to Secret Beach, it’s not the best snorkelling in the world, but I’ve seen some pretty cool sea life here. Especially around the rocky areas on either side.
Best Places to Stay Near Secret Beach:
Lanta Casa Blanca
If you want to stay on the beach, in your own luxury paradise – Lanta Case Blanca ticks ALL the boxes you could imagine. The resort backs onto Relax Bay, so you can spend your days swimming out the front or walking 5 minutes along to cut through to Secret Beach.
Queen Lanta Resort
Queen Lanta Resort holds a special place in my heart. I stayed here for nearly five months! The beautiful family who run the place offer cosy rooms, the best service and they have a BANGIN cafe on-site. If you stay here, say hi from me!
Nui Bay: The Rugged Southern Cove
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Best for: Seclusion, dramatic scenery, quiet swims.
- Vibe: Peaceful, wild, and remote.
- Good for Swimming: Yes, calm in high season, can get waves in the monsoon.
- Good for Sunset: Really nice sunsets. You can’t see it dropping off the horizon, but the sky lights up beautifully.
- Facilities: Basic. A small bar and massage hut, depending on the season.
- How Easy to Reach: Moderate, steep path down and windy roads to get to the entrance.
- How Long to Spend: Half Day.
Nui Bay is seriously special… not to be confused with Nui Beach, which is further north. Nui Bay is a hidden gem toward the south, just past Kantiang Bay. The sea is usually glassy and flat here, perfect for paddling around and exploring what’s nearby. The sand and sea are seriously stunning. We usually snorkelled on the right-hand side of the beach, near the rocks, but it is BYO snorkel. Here you’ll find vibrant coral and fish.
Its only downfall is that it doesn’t have a lot of shade. Koh Lanta’s weather can produce some seriously hot days. If you have an umbrella, I’d bring it and make sure you take some good suncream. It is also prone to a few cheeky monkeys in the evenings who like to start encouraging beach-goers to get off the beach. So watch out for your things!
There is accommodation within easy access to Nui as it’ll get you travelling off the beaten path, but I’ve given the best resort and hostel in Koh Lanta that are close to Nui Bay below.
Best Places to Stay Near Nui Bay:
Anda Lanta Resort
Located right on Klongjark Beach, this beach resort offers cosy rooms, a lush pool and an on-site restaurant and bar. If you can pull yourself away, you’re just a short drive around the corner to Nui Bay.
Aha Lanta Cozy Hostel
This is my kind of hostel. The hostel has created the perfect space to socialise and meet other travellers without the party vibe. A yummy breakfast is included and you’re not too far (by bike) from Nui Bay.
Kantiang Bay: The Luxury-Meets-Laid-Back Bay
- Best for: Scenic views, calm swims, relaxed beach days.
- Vibe: Peaceful, upmarket, polished but still low-key.
- Good for Swimming: Yes, in the high season, the season is gorgeous and glassy!
- Good for Sunset: Incredible sunset spot. I’d recommend perching up Phu Pha View Restaurant for a drink and delicious Thai food to watch it.
- Facilities: Moderate, there is a mix of beach bars, cafés, and a few higher-end spots.
- How Easy to Reach: Easy to reach.
- How Long to Spend: Half Day to Full Day.
Kantiang Bay is a beautiful beach hidden away from the masses. The tourists who hang out on this beach often stay in the boujee resorts along the beach (I’m looking at you, Pimalai). This means that the beach is often quiet, as these resort-dwellers are often relaxing by their beachside pools.
The beach itself is fairly south, close to Nui Bay, meaning that it’s away from a lot of the northern busyness. It is lovely for hanging out, splashing around in the sea and enjoying a drink at one of the small restaurants on the beach. It’s backed by lush forest and hills, adding to its picture-perfect views.
Best Places to Stay Near Kantiang Bay:
Pimalai Resort & Spa
Guys, this is seriously the creme de la creme. It is the nicest place I’ve ever seen… I can’t even begin to explain it – other than it is PURE luxury and has everything you would ever need on-site. I mean the reviews speak for themselves. If you want luxury, trust me, this is where you want to stay.
Cashewnut Tree Resort
Set in a gorgeous garden environment, just five minutes from the beach, this place is the best budget accommodation nearby. If you need a break from the sun, you’re close to plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you busy and full too.
Klong Nin: The Mid-Island All-Rounder
- Best for: Sunset drinks, long walks, relaxed beach days.
- Vibe: Laid-Back, boho, friendly and a few extra weed and mushroom bars here (if that’s your thing!)
- Good for Swimming: Yes, it’s generally calm in high season and lovely for swimming.
- Good for Sunset: Very good and really popular!
- Facilities: Plenty of beach bars, restaurants, cafes, and small shops.
- How Easy to Reach: Easy, you can access it through any of the cafes and restaurants along the beach.
- How Long to Spend: Half Day to Full Day.
Klong Nin is one of those beaches that quietly wins people over. It’s a long, easygoing stretch of sand lined with barefoot bars, local restaurants, and a few boutique stays, all with that relaxed island energy.
The water is usually calm in high season, making it lovely for swimming, and the beach is wide enough for long evening walks. As the day winds down, Klong Nin really comes into its own, the lanterns flick on, music buzzes from the beach bars, and the whole shoreline turns into one long sunset watching spot.
Best Places to Stay Near Klong Nin:
Andalay Boutique Resort
Right on Klong Nin, Andalay is all about easy days: beachfront pool, simple bungalows, warm staff, and sunsets you watch from a beanbag with a cold drink.
Lanta Valom buri
A quiet little hideaway near Klong Nin, with clean rooms, friendly owners, and a peaceful garden vibe. You can’t go wrong.
Relax Bay: A Quiet Curve Between the Crowds
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Best for: Quiet swims, mellow days, more lively nights, families, couples.
- Vibe: Peaceful, cosy, but at night, there can be loud music and a few mushrooms consumed.
- Good for Swimming: Yes, but not great at low tide.
- Good for Sunset: Really beautiful sunset spot, there are a few bars with beers to enjoy it.
- Facilities: Moderate, there are a few beach bars, restaurants, and small resorts.
- How Easy to Reach: Easy, it’s just off a side street from the main road.
- How Long to Spend: Half Day.
Relax Bay is a small, sheltered curve of sand with a naturally calm, easygoing feel. It’s tucked just south of Long Beach, but feels far more intimate, with just a handful of simple beach bars and small resorts.
Most days are mellow, but some of the beachfront bars host low-key parties or DJ nights, especially in high season. Think fire shows, chilled electronic sets, and sunset gatherings that develop into the evening. No big dance parties but plenty of weed, mushrooms and chill vibes.
Best Places to Stay Near Relax Bay:
Relaxed Bay Resort
Beachfront bungalows, a pool overlooking the sand, a delish restaurant, and a super relaxed vibe.
Nare Guest House
Another personal favourite of mine, the owners of this place became good friends of mine! Honestly, this is easily the best value apartment in this area.
Klong Jak Beach: The Local, Low-Key Escape
- Best for: Quiet swims, relaxed afternoons, a peaceful break from the busier beaches.
- Vibe: Local, calm and laid-back.
- Good for Swimming: Yes, it’s a beautiful swimming beach.
- Good for Sunset: Gorgeous sunset spot, grab a Chang and enjoy!
- Facilities: Basic, just a few simple beach bars and restaurants.
- How Easy to Reach: Easy to reach from the road, but it’s located quite far down the island.
- How Long to Spend: Quick Stop to half a day.
Klong Jak Beach is one of the island’s quieter southern stretches, a long, simple sand backed by jungle and a handful of chilled-out beach bars. It’s the kind of place you head in for a swim or a slow lunch and end up staying longer just well.. because!
The water is usually calm in high season, and the beach never feels crowded, even when the island is busy. It’s also close to the Klong Jak waterfall trail, so it works well as a relaxed stop before or after a jungle walk.
Best Place to Stay Near Klong Jak Beach (there aren’t many accommodations around!):
Klong Jark Bungalows
More than comfortable wooden bungalows, jungle surroundings, and a quiet south?coast feel. An off-the-beaten-path stay.
How I’d Choose Between These Beaches
With so many beaches offering different vibes, it helps to think about what kind of day you actually want. Here’s how I’d narrow it down based on the experience you’re after.
- If I only had one beach day: Long Beach.
- If I wanted beauty and fewer people: Bamboo Beach.
- If I wanted to swim and stay a while: Klong Dao or Klong Nin.
- If I were travelling with kids or wanted convenience: Klong Dao.
- If I wanted a more hidden feel: Nui Bay or Secret Beach.
- If I wanted snorkelling and a more active beach day: Nui Bay.
- If I wanted something more polished and quiet: Kantiang Bay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Koh Lanta
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect them. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Koh Lanta.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
The Side of Koh Lanta I Keep Missing When I Leave
Lanta got to me in a way I didn’t expect. There’s this slow, steady energy to the island that you can only really feel once you’re on a scooter, drifting down the west coast of the island with the sea flashing in and out between the trees.
Beach-hopping on Lanta becomes a way of life when staying on the island. You stop when something catches your eye, you swim when it’s hot, you keep going when the road pulls you south, and you end up drinking coconuts like they’re going out of fashion.
And the south really does feel different. Quieter. Wilder. The beaches feel more isolated down there, where it’s just you, the heat, and the crystal clear waters. Once you get there, I’m sure you’ll understand how a year later… I’m still here.
- Find the best corner of the island for you with our guide on where to stay on Koh Lanta.
- Elevate your travel expertise check out these Thailand travel tips.
- Check out this guide to staying safe in Thailand to enjoy tour trip to the fullest.
- Embrace your backpacker spirit and stay at the best hostels on Koh Lanta.
- Or… broaden your horizons and find the best places to visit in Thailand.
- Our in-depth Thailand packing list has all the info you’ll need for your trip.
Great guide to Koh Lanta’s beaches! Long Beach sounds perfect for those seeking action, while Bamboo Beach offers a peaceful escape. Love the personal touches and accommodation tips!
I really want to see Beaches in Thailand. And the pictures were giving me a real feel. I am really impressed. I am doing your information to make my trip to Thailand easier. Thanks for such a nice presentation.