Koh Lanta Thailand Travel Guide – Top 5 Things to Do & Best Diving
An island with everything – except the crowds.
What makes the perfect island? Is it soft white beaches, authentic food, or unforgettable adventures? Koh Lanta, nestled in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, offers all three — without the mass tourism of neighbouring islands. Just a short ferry ride from Krabi Town or a boat hop away from Koh Phi Phi and Ao Nang, this laid-back island has become a favourite for families, couples, and divers who want a slower, more authentic experience.
For ocean lovers, it’s also one of the best launchpads for exploring Thailand’s legendary dive sites, from manta-filled pinnacles to hidden lagoons.
If you’re planning a trip, here’s our complete Koh Lanta Thailand Travel Guide with the top five things to do, bonus tips, and practical advice for divers.
Why Visit Koh Lanta?
Unlike nearby Phi Phi or Phuket, Koh Lanta isn’t a party island. Instead, it’s known for its relaxed pace, long stretches of beach, and a community vibe that feels both welcoming and authentic.
Getting there: You can drive from Krabi Town and cross via car ferry, or catch boats from surrounding islands.
Best season: October to April is peak time for sunshine, calm seas, and open marine parks. From May to September, the “green season” brings fewer crowds and cheaper stays — though expect short afternoon downpours, limited boat schedules, and some park closures.
Who it’s for: Families, couples, eco-conscious travellers, and divers.
Top 5 Things to Do in Koh Lanta
5. Step Back in Time at Koh Lanta Old Town
Koh Lanta’s Old Town is a glimpse into the island’s history as a multicultural trading hub for Chinese, Thai, and Sea Gypsy communities.
Wander teakwood houses on stilts, some over a century old.
Browse local handicraft shops for souvenirs.
Relax in waterfront cafés with sweeping views across the sea.
It’s a slower pace of life compared to the island’s west coast beaches — and the perfect half-day escape.
4. Explore Mu Koh Lanta National Park
At the island’s southern tip, Mu Koh Lanta National Park is a showcase of wild beauty.
Beaches: Remote, quiet stretches where you may have the sand to yourself.
Hiking: Short jungle trails and the climb to the peninsula’s lighthouse with panoramic ocean views.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for cheeky monkeys. They’re clever and will happily grab snacks or shiny objects from your bag if you’re not careful.
If you love photography, sunset from the lighthouse is unforgettable.
3. Take the Four Island Tour (and Discover the Emerald Cave)
This boat trip whisks you away to four uninhabited islands with beaches, lagoons, and snorkelling. But the highlight is Koh Mook’s Emerald Cave.
You’ll swim through an 80-metre pitch-black tunnel with only your guide’s torch, before emerging into a hidden lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs. It feels like stumbling into a secret world.
💡 Pro tip: Stay overnight on Koh Mook. You’ll have easier access to Emerald Cave early in the morning before tour boats arrive, plus the chance to explore nearby Koh Kradan, often called one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand.
2. Discover Koh Lanta’s Beaches
Koh Lanta’s beaches are some of the best in Thailand — vast, low-key, and rarely crowded.
Kantiang Bay: A postcard-perfect crescent of sand framed by lush hills.
Long Beach (Pra Ae): The island’s hub, but still relaxed, lined with restaurants and bars.
Relax Bay: A hidden cove with reggae vibes, rustic beach bars, and stunning sunsets.
Whether you want a lively dinner on the sand or a quiet beer at dusk, Koh Lanta has a beach for it.
1. Go Diving or Snorkelling in World-Class Sites
For divers, Koh Lanta is the real prize. The island offers access to some of Thailand’s best underwater sites:
Hin Daeng & Hin Muang: Deep pinnacles covered in soft red and purple corals. Famous for manta ray sightings and occasional whale sharks.
Koh Haa (“Five Islands”): Caverns, swim-throughs, and crystal-clear lagoons — great for divers and snorkellers alike.
For new divers, Koh Lanta is one of the safest and most beautiful places in the world to get certified. For experienced divers, it’s a bucket-list destination that rivals any in Southeast Asia.
Bonus Tips for Koh Lanta
Rent a scooter or car: The island is large, and the best spots are spread out. Having your own wheels means total freedom.
Consider the green season: Cheaper stays, fewer tourists, but less predictable weather. Great if you don’t mind a bit of rain.
Stay connected: WiFi is available in most hotels and cafés, but a local SIM or eSIM is more reliable for navigating and trip planning.
Practical Travel Tips for Divers
Koh Lanta is remote enough that you’ll want to pack smart.
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Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, quick-dry clothing, dry bag, mosquito spray, and a portable charger.
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Diving kit: If you don’t travel with gear, most dive centres provide high-quality rental equipment.
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Pro tip: Snorkelling is excellent here, but currents can be strong. Always follow guide instructions and check your limits.
Download our free Andaman Coast Pro-Packing Guide to make sure you’re fully prepared for your trip
Watch our Full Koh Lanta Adventure Now
Koh Lanta like you’ve never seen it — from jungle trails to coral diving.
Final Thoughts – Is Koh Lanta Worth Visiting?
Koh Lanta isn’t for party seekers. It’s for travellers who want long beaches without the crowds, cultural depth, and some of the best diving in Thailand.
Whether you’re chasing mantas at Hin Daeng, swimming into the hidden lagoon of Emerald Cave, or just swinging in a hammock with a view, Koh Lanta has the balance of adventure and relaxation that makes it unforgettable.
✨ Don’t forget to:
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