Koh Lanta, Thailand, is one of those magical Thai islands that still feels like a well-kept secret. With its laid-back atmosphere and slow pace, it is the perfect spot to slow down and savour the good life. One of the best things to do in Koh Lanta is simply kick back on your favourite Koh Lanta beach.
Renowned for their postcard-perfect beauty, Koh Lanta’s Beaches are mostly located on the west side of the island. They boast amazing views and excellent swimming in the crystalline waters of the gorgeous Andaman Sea.
Each of Koh Lanta’s beaches has a unique charm and a distinct personality. The beaches on the island’s north end feature golden sand, more amenities and more visitors. As you head south, the sand becomes whiter, the beaches feel a little more remote and you can find lots of wide-open space.
Want to catch an epic sunset from the perfect Koh Lanta beach? Enjoy our guide to the best beaches on Koh Lanta.
Klong Dao Beach
Located at the northern end of the island, Klong Dao Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Koh Lanta Yai. Well-appointed with hotels, dining options, bars and travel services, Klong Dao Beach has a lively atmosphere suited to families or anyone who wants to stay in the heart of Koh Lanta activities.
Klong Dao’s beautiful fine sand and shallow water make it one of the best Koh Lanta beaches for swimming and cooling off in the sea.
Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach)
Just south of Klong Dao Beach, Long Beach is over 4 km long and is famous for its gorgeous golden sand, swimmable waters, beautiful views and amazing sunsets. A wide selection of hotels and restaurants on Long Beach serve travellers of every budget.
Long Beach offers a good mix of conveniences and natural beauty. Its open and relaxed feel makes it a popular choice for visitors.
Klong Khong Beach
Moving south, you will find Klong Khong Beach, which has a relaxed atmosphere, shady trees and a chill, backpacker-friendly vibe.
The sea floor here is a little rocky, and there is a steep dropoff which makes Klong Khlong less popular with families and swimmers. It’s still a great place to relax and enjoy a massage, drink or snack on the beach.
Klong Nin Beach
As we continue south, the sand becomes whiter and there are even fewer people. Klong Nin is the Koh Lanta beach where you start to feel this transition.
Klong Nin’s calm atmosphere, picture-perfect sea views and swim-friendly terrain make it a hit with travellers who appreciate the mix of mid-range accommodations and natural beauty. Despite the quiet feel here, you will still find a good selection of hotels and dining options.
Nui Beach
Moving down to Nui Beach, you will really start to experience the charm of the southern white sand Koh Lanta beaches. Edged with cliffs and featuring very few amenities, Nui Beach can feel very secluded.
This slice of Lanta paradise may not be for everyone, though. Access can be challenging, swimming is complicated by rocks at low tide and shade is limited. Some visitors report being harassed by monkeys on the trail. Nevertheless, intrepid explorers will be rewarded with sweet seclusion and breathtaking views.
Kantiang Bay (Bamboo Bay)
The beach at Kantiang Bay is a favourite Koh Lanta beach for many who have visited the island. The southern hub for Koh Lanta resorts and dining, Kantiang Bay (or Bamboo Bay) has all the conveniences a traveller could need, yet the long beach here feels open and relaxing.
The rolling forest backdrop, soft white sand, ample marine life and gorgeous sea views make for a very inviting day on the beach.
Because of its quiet atmosphere and easy access to great food and accommodations, Kantiang Beach is the perfect place to stay to experience the vibe of Koh Lanta’s gorgeous southern beaches.
Bakantiang Beach
Another calm, beautiful beach in the south is Bakantiang Beach. It features a picturesque rocky outcropping, soft white sands and crystal-clear water. As you venture this far south, you will notice that the food and accommodation options start to thin out, so Bakantieng feels even more remote and secret.
The surf here is pleasantly shallow far out into the water, so it’s a great beach for swimming. Many travellers like to stop here for some beach time after checking out nearby attractions like Khlong Chak Waterfall and the Bat Cave.
Nui Bay
Nui Bay is a small Koh Lanta beach located just south of the Noon Sunset Viewpoint. Its white sands and clear blue waters make it a must-visit beach on Koh Lanta.
With relatively few restaurants, bars and hotels here, this is a beach you might get all to yourself! Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware that a curious band of monkeys may try to get food from you.
Khlong Chak Beach
A heavenly southern Koh Lanta beach that offers a long stretch of sand with relatively few other visitors in sight, Khlong Chak Beach is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sea.
There are a few quiet restaurants and bars, but it never gets too busy here. It almost feels like you’re going back into Thailand’s past when you visit this hidden gem.
Bamboo Beach (Had Mai Phai)
One of the southernmost beaches on Koh Lanta, Bamboo Beach has a secret, wild and secluded feel. Visitors who find their way here often come back again and again.
Had Mai Phai is relatively undeveloped and a wonderful spot for swimming, snorkelling, lazing in your own private paradise or even surfing. Again, watch out for the monkeys at this one!
Join Us in Paradise
We hope this guide to the best beaches in Koh Lanta has sparked some inspiration for your travel itinerary. Whether you settle down at your favourite Lanta beach or make it a mission to explore all of them, you are sure to have a wonderful island holiday.
For an unforgettable stay at our wellness-focused boutique resort hotel with breathtaking sea views, look no further than Vacation Village Phra Nang Lanta!