Do you dream of dazzling white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and swaying palm trees – without the crowds of tourists and ridiculously high price tag?
Well, let me introduce you to Koh Lanta. This untouched beauty has so much to offer. From its stunning beaches, mouth-watering food, fiery sunsets and welcoming locals – it’s not a place you’ll want to miss.
Plus, it’s WILDLY good bang for your buck. Especially compared to some of its neighboring islands (yes, I’m looking at you Phi Phi).
Koh Lanta is a bigger Island than you’d expect, with many little towns and limited transport options. So choosing where to stay in Koh Lanta is an important decision to be tasked with.
Lucky for you, that’s where I come in. I recently lived on this wonderful island for 6 months and explored every little nook of it. I have a lot of wisdom to pass on to make deciding where you’re going to stay a hell of a lot easier.
So, let’s get to it and find out where in Koh Lanta is best for you.
Saladan Village
Saladan Village is located at the northern end of the island. It is a busy port town and, for most travellers, it is the first place they set foot on the island.
Phra Ae Beach
Phra Ae Beach is located on the west coast of Koh Lanta, just south of Klong Dao Beach and Saladan Village. Home to a stunning white sand beach that stretching more than three kilometres, Phra Ae Beach is a haven for backpackers and travellers looking to kick back, relax and soak up some rays.
Klong Khong Beach
Klong Khong Beach is a village located on the central west coast of Koh Lanta. By day, it is a low-key and relaxed village that attracts backpackers, hippies and yogis with its relaxed way of life.
Lanta Old Town
Lanta Old Town is a well-preserved fishing village set on the east coast of the island. The island’s main centre until the mid-20th-century, Lanta Old Town is a traditional Thai village steeped in history and culture.
Klong Dao
Klong Dao is a beautiful beach in northern Koh Lanta. It is located just one kilometre from the pier in Saladan and is one of the first beaches travellers encounter on the island.
Koh Lanta is well established on the Thailand backpacking route. Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Koh Lanta.
Modern room in guesthouse | Best Airbnb in Koh Lanta
This beautiful guesthouse room is the best choice you can make when staying in Koh Lanta. It’s a 5min walk to Klong Nin beach and you’re surrounded by good places to eat and shop. The Airbnb offers breakfast and great tours that you can book through the host – perfect for your first time at Saladan Village. The massive common area is great to make new friends too.
Hub of Joys | Best Hostel in Koh Lanta
This modern hostel is located just steps from fantastic Phra Ae Beach. It provides private and dorm-style accommodations with plenty of amenities and stunning sea views. They also offer free all-day breakfast, bike rentals, and personal lockers. This safe and clean hostel is our favourite in Koh Lanta.
Note that Koh Lanta’s best hostels do book up during peak season.
Fresh House | Best Hotel in Koh Lanta
Fresh House is our pick for the best hotel in Ko Lanta. Located in Lanta Old Town, this rustic three-star property is close to eateries, bistros and the shoreline. It provides a range of amenities including an outdoor terrace, on-site car hire, and a charming in-house restaurant.
About Koh Lanta
Located in Southern Thailand, Koh Lanta is among the best islands in Thailand.
The region consists of several islands, the largest of which are Koh Lanta Noi and Koh Lanta Yai. Most of the tourist action takes place on Koh Lanta Yai, which will be simply referred to as Koh Lanta throughout this post.
The island stretches 30 kilometres long and measures six kilometres wide. It’s home to nine stunning beaches, mangrove forests and a handful of interesting villages. There are lots of nice beaches in Ko Lanta including Klong Nin.
Saladan Village is the first place most travellers will arrive in Koh Lanta. Travel south to the west coast and you’ll arrive in Klong Dao. A popular beach in Koh Lanta for families, Klong Dao boasts warm clear waters, white sand beaches, and a myriad of ways to rest and relax.
Further down the coast is Phra Ae Beach. A lively and vibrant village, Phra Ae Beach is a haven for backpackers and party people who are interested in fun times, cheap drinks and good value accommodations.
Head south from here to the village of Klong Khong. Boasting a great mix of bars and restaurants, Klong Khong is an excellent destination for travellers, yogis, and backpackers who are looking for a good night out.
And finally, on the east side of the island is Lanta Old Town. The island’s original town centre, Lanta Old Town is a well-preserved fishing village rich in history and culture.
Koh Lanta’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
In this next section, we’ll take a look at the five best villages to stay in Ko Lanta. Each offers something a little different for travellers, so be sure to read each section carefully and pick village the best suits your needs.
For the First Timers – Saladan Village
Saladan Village is located at the northern end of the island. It is a busy port town and, for most travellers, it is the first place they set foot on the island.
A bustling market village, Saladan caters to tourists. It’s where you’ll find a good selection of restaurants and accommodations, which is why it’s our pick for where to stay in Koh Lanta for the first time.
Saladan Village – also known as Baan Salada – is a haven for shoppers. Tucked throughout this charming village are a myriad of stores and boutiques, markets and shops offering up everything from fashion and accessories to handicrafts and souvenirs. If you’re looking to add to your wardrobe, you’ll definitely want to stay in Saladan Village.
Modern room in guesthouse | Best Airbnb in Saladan Village
This beautiful guesthouse room is the best choice you can make when staying in Koh Lanta. It’s a 5min walk to the beach and you’re surrounded by good places to eat and shop. The Airbnb offers breakfast and great tours that you can book through the host – perfect for your first time at Saladan Village. The massive common area is great to make new friends too.
Peacock Hostel | Best Hostel in Saladan Village
With its fantastic seaside location, this hostel is the perfect budget accommodation option in Saladan Village. It is set close to the centre and is within walking distance of great restaurants and shops. This large wooden house is clean and well maintained, and it boasts colourful décor and unique artwork.
Na Vela Village | Best Hotel in Saladan Village
Na Vela Village is our pick for where to stay in Saladan Village. Situated mid-way between Saladan Village and Klong Dao Beach, this property is the perfect base for shopping, dining, sunbathing and exploring. It has nine comfortable rooms with great amenities. There’s also an on-site restaurant and bike rentals available.
Lanta MP Place Hotel | Best Hotel in Saladan Village
This hotel is centrally located in Saladan Village and is ideally situated for exploring the island. Everything you could possibly need, from eateries and bars to shops and spas, is at your doorstep. This charming two-star hotel features a swimming pool and an on-site bike rental.
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View on Osprey View on REIOn a Budget – Phra Ae Beach
Phra Ae Beach is located on the west coast of Koh Lanta, just south of Klong Dao Beach and Saladan Village. Home to a stunning white sand beach that stretching more than three kilometres, Phra Ae Beach is a haven for backpackers and travellers looking to kick back, relax and soak up some rays.
One of the more developed areas of the island, Phra Ae Beach is also our pick for where to stay in Koh Lanta if you’re on a budget. Lining the beach and tucked on every street is a selection of affordable hostels and good value motels that will appeal to travellers of all ages, styles and budgets.
Small bungalow close to beach | Best Airbnb in Phra Ae Beach
If you’re looking for an affordable place, this might be the right one for you. The cute little bungalow is pretty simple but still a very relaxing and comfortable Airbnb. You will have the hut to yourself, which comes with a fan, a private bathroom and – the most important part – a mosquito net. The beach is in 5min walking distance, as well as shops and restaurants.
Hub of Joys | Best Hostel in Phra Ae Beach
This modern hostel is located just steps from fantastic Phra Ae Beach. It provides private and dorm-style accommodations with stunning sea views. They also offer free all-day breakfast, bike rentals, and personal lockers. This safe and clean hostel is our pick for where to stay in Phra Ae Beach.
Ser-En-Dip-I-Ty | Best Hotel in Phra Ae Beach
Ser-En-Dip-I-Ty is our choice for the best hotel in Phra Ae Beach. It offers three-star accommodations with well-equipped rooms, air-conditioning and a variety of features, like refrigerators and bottled water. Conveniently located in Phra Ae Beach, this property is a short walk from the beach, bars, and lots of restaurants.
Long Beach Chalet | Best Hotel in Phra Ae Beach
This is one of our favourite hotels in Phra Ae Beach thanks to its large rooms, stunning pool, and its close proximity to the beach. Guests of this property can enjoy private beach access as well as a swimming pool, sun-soaked terrace and a relaxing bar.
For Nightlife – Klong Khong Beach
Klong Khong Beach is a village located on the central west coast of Koh Lanta. By day, it is a low-key and relaxed village that attracts backpackers, hippies and yogis with its relaxed way of life.
By night, this part of the island is where you’ll find a good mix of bars and clubs, which is why Klong Khong Beach is our pick for where to stay in Koh Lanta for nightlife. Here you can enjoy everything from laid back bars and pubs to thriving dance floors and all night beach parties.
Love to eat? Klong Khong Beach is also home to a vast array of restaurants that offer up delicious dishes from around the world.
Private room in resort | Best Airbnb in Klong Khong Beach
What’s the one thing you don’t want after a night out? Loud room mates. That’s why we chose this private room. The Airbnb might be located in a quiet and peaceful resort, but it’s still affordable. You can cure your hangover by staying the private airconditioned room or the massive pool outside. Beautifully designed in Thai style and very clean, this place is the right one for you.
Lanta Memory Resort | Best Hotel in Klong Khong Beach
Whether you want to spend your days lounging on the beach or exploring the island, this hotel is a fantastic base for whatever you fancy. It has 20 air-conditioned rooms with private showers and refrigerators. You’ll also enjoy bike rentals, luggage storage and a sun-soaked terrace.
Wayla Hostel | Best Hostel in Klong Khong Beach
Based in buzzing Klong Khong Beach, this hostel makes an excellent base for your time in Koh Lanta. It is just steps from the beach and is close to excellent pubs, eateries and activities. This hostel offers comfortable beds with reading lights, personal lockers and wifi. Breakfast is also included with each reservation.
Thai Smile Bungalows | Best Hotel in Klong Khong Beach
Thai Smail Bungalows is our top choice for where to stay in Klong Khong Beach. This charming property has six rooms with essential amenities and comfortable beds. Guests also have access to free wifi and a myriad of outdoor activities, like fishing, snorkelling and horseback riding.
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Grab an eSIM!Coolest Place to Stay – Lanta Old Town
Lanta Old Town is a well-preserved fishing village set on the east coast of the island. The island’s main centre until the mid-20th-century, Lanta Old Town is a traditional Thai village steeped in history and culture. Here you’ll find a labyrinth of winding streets and alleys lined with teak houses and restaurants on stilts.
This is our pick for the coolest neighborhood in Koh Lanta. Unlike many of the other towns and village on the island, Lanta Old Town has maintained its charm and character throughout the years. It’s where simply taking a walk down the streets can transport you back in time to a bygone era.
Unique seafront villa | Best Airbnb in Lanta Old Town
This seafront villa must be one of the coolest places in Lanta Old Town. Now, when we say “seafront”, we mean it! Your suite is built right over the sea. You can jump straight out of the window into the water. The whole home has been built with quality hardwood. Enjoy the amazing view in your hammock on your private balcony while using the high-speed wifi.
Fresh House | Best Hotel in Lanta Old Town
Fresh House is our pick for where to stay in Lanta Old Town. Set at the heart of the village, this rustic three-star property is close to eateries, bistros and the shoreline. It provides a range of amenities including an outdoor terrace, on-site car hire, and a charming in-house restaurant.
Alanta Villa | Best Hotel in Lanta Old Town
Enjoy four-star accommodations at the centre of Old Town Lanta at this fantastic resort. You’ll have access to free wifi, a swimming pool and a variety of great amenities. Each villa comes complete with air-conditioning, a kitchenette, free wifi and a mini bar. There’s also a sun deck and beauty centre on-site.
Lanta Harbour | Best Hostel in Lanta Old Town
This hostel is located at the heart of Lanta Old Town. It is within walking distance of the beach and is surrounded by stunning sea views. Outfitted with contemporary nautical décor, this hostel provides an on-site gallery and library. Guests can enjoy private or share accommodations, modern amenities and a restful atmosphere.
For Families – Klong Dao
Klong Dao is a beautiful beach in northern Koh Lanta. It is located just one kilometre from the pier in Saladan and is one of the first beaches travellers encounter on the island.
Thanks to its white sand, soft waves and warm waters, Klong Dao Beach is our pick for where to stay in Koh Lanta for families. It’s where children of all ages can swim, splash and play safely in the water, without having to worry about riptides or epic waves.
Additionally, Klong Dao is home to a good selection of resorts and hotels, which makes it easy to find comfortable and affordable accommodations for larger crowds.
Incredible beachfront house | Best Airbnb in Klong Dao
From your terrace, right into the sand. This beachfront house is an amazing stay for you and your family. This place is very private and calm but located on the beach. Enjoy the sunset from your garden while your kids are playing in the private pool. You’ll have everything you need in this Airbnb, apart from a kitchen but there are numerous restaurants, as well as shops and laundry places around.
Ananda Lanta Resort | Best Hotel in Klong Dao
The Ananda Lanta Resort is our pick for where to stay in Klong Dao. It is close to popular sightseeing attractions and there are plenty of dining and shopping options nearby. Guests of the resort will have access to a Jacuzzi, a coffee bar, a swimming pool and a kids club.
Lanta Garden Home | Best Hotel in Klong Dao
Thanks to its great location, stunning pool, and delicious restaurant, this is one of our favourite places to stay in Klong Dao. It offers stylish rooms with contemporary amenities. There’s also an outdoor pool, on-site bike rentals, and easy access to kayaking, canoeing and the beach.
SabaiDee Lanta DigiNomad | Best Hostel in Klong Dao
This colourful and comfortable hostel is ideally located in Koh Lanta. It is on the main road of Klong Dao Beach and is in close proximity to Saladan Village, as well as great restaurants and cafes. Built from shipping containers, this hostel offers comfortable beds, a cosy environment and plenty of great amenities.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Koh Lanta
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Koh Lanta and life on the island.
What To Pack For Koh Lanta
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Koh Lanta
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Koh Lanta
There’s no arguing that Koh Lanta is a beautiful island. It has stunning white sand beaches, glistening azure waters, and lush natural surrounding. But this paradise also offers a rich history, unique culture, and a great selection of incredible dining opportunities. No matter your age or interests, there are plenty of things to see, do and eat in Koh Lanta.
In this guide, we’ve covered the best areas to stay in Koh Lanta. If you’re still not sure where to stay, here is a quick recap of our favourite places.
Hub of Joys is a modern hostel in Phra Ae Beach. It has charming rooms, stunning sea views and each reservation includes a free breakfast.
Fresh House is also a great hotel to stay at in Koh Lanta thanks to its rustic décor, charming atmosphere and its fantastic location in Lanta Old Town.
While traveling Thailand is very safe, it’s super important to make sure you get travel insurance!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Thailand.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Koh Lanta.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Thailand instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Thailand to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Thailand.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
