Koh Lanta Unveiled: Your Passport to Tropical Tranquility

This travel guide includes:

1. How to arrive?

2. Where to stay?

3. Where to eat?

4. Beach Bars and Nightlife Magic

5. Must-Do in Koh Lanta

6. Best Beaches

7. Fitness

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1. How to arrive?

Embark on your journey to the enchanting island of Koh Lanta with ease. The primary gateway to this tropical paradise is through Krabi International Airport, offering flights from major cities in Thailand and other international destinations. From Krabi, you can choose various transportation options to reach Koh Lanta, including ferries or minibuses (shared or private). Personally, I prefer the shared minibus to avoid uncertainties with sea conditions. You can easily book your transport online or explore options in Krabi or Ao Nang upon arrival, where numerous choices await at every corner.  

The following link might be very helpful to book your transport online:

12Go: Book Trains, Buses, Ferries, Transfers & Flights

12go.asia

2. Where to stay?

Explore a spectrum of accommodations, ensuring a blissful stay tailored to your preferences.

Tamarind twin Resort

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This wonderful accommodation near Long Beach provides an ideal mix of comfort and charm. The spacious and clean rooms are equipped with everything you need. With attentive staff and a tranquil ambiance, Tamarind Twin Resort is a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful escape in Koh Lanta.

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Tamarind Lanta Resort

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Tamarind Lanta Resort is right next to Tamarind Twin, and they're somehow connected despite having different receptions. The building is nice, and the rooms have the same style as those in Tamarind Twin Resort. There's a cute little restaurant next to the Tamarind resorts where you can enjoy affordable breakfast and lunch.

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Lanta Sand Resort&Spa

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Situated in a prime beachfront location, this resort seamlessly combines comfort and sophistication. If you're craving a touch of luxury and an authentic resort experience, look no further than Lanta Sand Resort. The rooms are incredibly spacious – in fact, a standard double bed room is almost as large as two double bed rooms combined.

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3. Where to eat?

During my one-month stay in Koh Lanta, I had the opportunity to try various restaurants, and the following are the ones I can highly recommend:  

Baja Taco

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This little cute restaurant near Old town delivers an authentic taste of Mexico in a laid-back atmosphere. Their diverse menu, featuring savory tacos and fresh burritos with locally sourced ingredients, creates a culinary experience that's second to none. Personally, I can attest that I've savored the most delicious tacos of my life at this charming restaurant, making it a must-visit spot on the island.

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Yang Garden

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If you are in the mood for some fine dining, this is the right place. The setting was very welcoming and serene. Yang Garden offers a delightful fusion of traditional and international recipes. My visit to Yang Garden was a gastronomic journey where I tasted the most exquisite dishes, making it a standout dining experience in Koh Lanta.

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Diamond Cliff Beach Restaurant & resort

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Diamond Cliff restaurant is conveniently located next to Nui Beach. Access is easy, whether you choose to ascend some stairs from the beach or enter directly from the street. The restaurant boasts an incredible view, making it an ideal spot for sunset drinks or dinner. With a diverse menu, ranging from traditional Thai dishes to delightful seafood and fish options, Diamond Cliff offers a wide variety of culinary choices.

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Loro Loco Pizza Cuisine Restaurant

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If you want to enjoy some pizzas and traditional Italian cuisine, then Loro Loco is a must-visit. I've been there with Italian friends, and they all agreed that these are some of the best pizzas they've ever tried. So, if Italians approve, that says a lot.

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Mays kitchen

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Mays Kitchen is among the best Thai restaurants I've ever visited. In addition to their exceptional Thai dishes, the evening BBQ is a standout feature. The BBQ chicken, in particular, was one of the best I've ever tasted. Every dish is meticulously prepared, from aromatic curries to mouthwatering stir-fries. Mays Kitchen is a must-visit destination for an authentic taste of Thailand.

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The Garden Restaurant

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The Garden Restaurant in Koh Lanta is a tranquil dining oasis. The restaurant presents a delightful fusion of international and Thai flavors. I particularly enjoyed the entrance adorned with charming lights, adding to the overall pleasant atmosphere.

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Tuesday Morning Small Talk Cafe and Chill Out

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This charming café with a sea view is perfect for a delightful breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Offering a variety of healthy options, the dishes and drinks are beautifully prepared and served, making it a wonderful spot for any meal.

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Where Else Garden

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Discovering Where Else Garden in Koh Lanta is like stumbling upon a hidden oasis. While it may not appear as a restaurant from the street, this gem boasts a uniquely decorated garden that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. With its charming ambiance, Where Else Garden offers a tranquil escape, making it the perfect spot to enjoy delicious meals surrounded by lush and distinctive surroundings.

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Turtle Beach Restaurant

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Turtle Beach Restaurant is a beachfront gem that combines stunning views with delectable dining. With its toes in the sand setting, this restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal by the sea. From fresh seafood to flavourful Thai dishes, Turtle Beach Restaurant captures the essence of island living, providing a perfect blend of culinary delights and a tranquil beach experience.

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Patty's Secret Garden by the Sea

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Patty's Secret Garden is located at Klong Khong Beach and offers a delightful blend of Thai and Western cuisine. Enjoy a pleasant dinner directly at the beachfront or combine a relaxing beach day with a delicious lunch at this charming spot.

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Funky Fish Beachfront Restaurant & Bar

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I discovered Funky Fish during one of my beach days, and I found myself returning nearly every week, at least twice. I truly enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere; it's right on the beach and offers excellent food at very reasonable prices. Whether you're there for a leisurely lunch or to catch a stunning sunset with evening cocktails, Funky Fish promises a memorable seaside experience, boasting a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. Don't miss out on their delicious breakfast options as well.

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Sayang Restaurant ซายังเรสเตอรองท์

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Sayang Restaurant is located directly at Long Beach and offers a variety of Thai and Indian food, including a very nice BBQ at night featuring a variety of fish options. The dishes are delicious, and I've personally savored the best mashed potatoes along with the chicken BBQ.

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4. Beach bars and Nightlife Magic

Explore the laid-back charm of Koh Lanta with its cozy bars and relaxed nightlife scene. While not the typical party island, its reduced and intimate atmosphere makes it the perfect destination for those seeking a more laid-back and authentic experience. However, there are still some spots where you can find lively party vibes.

Free Descent Bar

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Free Descent Bar is renowned for its Karaoke nights on Saturday evenings. With a laid-back atmosphere, even those who haven't sung Karaoke before will feel proud to take the stage for the first time. Additionally, the bar is open on other days and hosts various themed parties, providing a diverse and enjoyable experience throughout the week.

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Joker Bar

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Joker Bar provides a welcoming setting and offers a variety of games, including pool billiards and big Jenga. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by neon colors, allowing you to paint literally the whole bar and yourself for a lively and interactive experience.

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Horizon Bungalow Restaurant and Bar

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Horizon Bungalow Bar boasts a delightful beach bar, making it the perfect spot to savour refreshing drinks and catch a stunning sunset. On select days, they host a DJ, providing an opportunity to dance on the charming little dancefloor.

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Pangea Beach Bar

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Pangea Beach Bar is a tropical paradise for beach lovers and party enthusiasts alike. With its vibrant atmosphere and beachfront setting, Pangea offers a unique blend of relaxation and lively entertainment. Whether you're unwinding with a refreshing cocktail under the sun or dancing to the beats during their lively parties (on select days), Pangea Beach Bar promises a memorable experience on the shores of Koh Lanta.

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Ozone Beach House

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Ozone Beach Bar is a delightful spot right on Long Beach, offering a variety of very nice cocktails and other drinks. It's the perfect place to unwind, enjoy the sunset, and listen to some great music.

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Lym's Bar & Restaurant @ Koh Lanta

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This is a lovely complex with a restaurant, beautiful gardens, and a charming beach bar at Long Beach. Whether you choose to enjoy a stunning sunset from the restaurant or relax on one of their cozy bean bags in the sand with a cocktail, it will be a lovely experience.

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Escape Café

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This lovely café is situated right on Long Beach. It boasts the ambiance of a typical coffee shop, and to enhance your experience, they even provide free sunbeds for you to enjoy while having a drink or coffee.

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5. Must-Do in Koh Lanta

Explore the breathtaking beauty of the National Park in the South, where lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails await your discovery.

Mu Ko Lanta National Park

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Koh Lanta National Park, located in the southern part of the island, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park offers inviting hiking trails amidst lush landscapes, and the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island invite snorkelers and divers to explore an underwater paradise. I embarked on the hour-long hiking round trip, an ideal activity for encountering the island's native monkeys, although, unfortunately, none were spotted on this particular day. Following the hike, visitors can unwind on the pristine beach and enjoy a brief stroll to a scenic viewing platform, completing the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in this picturesque national park.

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Embark on a day excursion to the picturesque Koh Rok, where crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches await, promising a memorable tropical getaway.

Koh (Ko) Rok

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Koh Rok stands out as one of my favorite islands and a top choice for day-trips. This small, picturesque island boasts pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters that exude an undeniable paradise-like charm. The day tours enhance the experience with opportunities for snorkeling around the island, where I discovered a mesmerizing underwater world featuring vibrant corals and a diverse collection of fish in stunning colors. While there's also a charming roundtrip on the island, it's worth noting that it takes about an hour – a detail we underestimated. In hindsight, we found ourselves yearning for more beach time rather than committing to the full roundtrip, a lesson learned for future visits.

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For a productive work environment, make your way to KoHub, the island's premier co-working space, offering a blend of convenience and tropical vibes for remote work.

KoHub

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If you are a remote worker, you must definitely visit and work from KoHub. Having traveled all over Thailand and explored various co-working spaces, I can confidently say that KoHub is one of the best choices. The daily organized events facilitate easy networking and connecting with like-minded people. The workspace is fantastic, adorned with a tropical ambiance that enhances the overall experience. Additionally, the cafeteria offers convenient options for breakfast and lunch. KoHub provides a unique and welcoming space, striking the perfect balance between productivity and relaxation.

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6. Best Beaches

These are my 4 favourite beaches in Koh Lanta, each for a different reason.

Long Beach, Koh Lanta

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Nestled on the western coast of Koh Lanta, Long Beach offers the perfect blend of tranquility and natural beauty. With its long stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this beach is a paradise for those seeking a peaceful escape. Long Beach also provides excellent options for dining with a variety of restaurants, beach bars, and massage places to enhance your overall experience.

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Nui Beach

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Tucked away on the southern tip of Koh Lanta, Nui Beach is a hidden gem for those seeking seclusion and natural beauty. This pristine beach is surrounded by lush greenery, offering a more secluded atmosphere compared to some of the busier spots on the island. The golden sands and clear, emerald waters create a postcard-perfect setting. There are options for visitors to find a bit of shade. Accessing the beach involves a short jungle walk or descending from the Diamond Cliff restaurant down a series of small steps, leading you to the serene shores of Nui Beach.

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Bamboo Beach

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Situated on the southwestern coast of the island, Bamboo Beach stands out as a serene and unspoiled escape. You'll find natural shade and a unique, tropical ambiance. Bamboo Beach offers simplicity and natural charm, creating a truly idyllic coastal experience. Consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby Natural Park for an enriched exploration of Koh Lanta's natural beauty.

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Klong Khong Beach

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I especially liked Klong Khong Beach for its typical beach vibe, offering plenty of options for restaurants, beach bars, and massage places. The beach itself is pleasant, but caution is advised regarding tides, as it can become rocky and less suitable for swimming during low tide. Nevertheless, the overall atmosphere on the beach is welcoming and adds to the charm of this coastal retreat.

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7. Fitness

Stay active and healthy during your visit by discovering fitness options on the island, including work-outs, Muay Thai, yoga studios, and outdoor activities tailored to wellness enthusiasts.

Slava Total Workout

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Slava is an excellent personal trainer who offers one-hour group circle training. Classes are typically held from Monday to Friday, with both morning and afternoon sessions available. The workout is challenging yet manageable for individuals who may not be very fit; Slava is willing to adjust the program accordingly. He is highly attentive to any injuries you may have and ensures you only do exercises that suit your capabilities. I thoroughly enjoyed attending his classes and getting some exercise in, especially considering the delicious food in Thailand – I felt the need for some physical activity!

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Oasis Yoga Bungalows

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Oasis offers a serene and rejuvenating experience nestled in the heart of nature. The tranquil surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for your yoga practice, allowing you to connect with your inner self. The skilled instructors guide you through sessions that cater to all levels, ensuring a harmonious blend of challenge and relaxation. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a beginner, Oasis offers a peaceful retreat to nurture your body and mind.

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Lanta Muay Thai Academy

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Lanta Muay Thai Academy is a dedicated space for the art and discipline of Muay Thai. The skilled trainers, many of whom are seasoned fighters, share their knowledge with passion, emphasizing technique, conditioning, and the rich cultural aspects of Muay Thai. If you're eager to experience this traditional Thai sport, a visit to this academy is a must. You can even combine it with Slava's workout, as he conducts sessions either in the same center or in his own adjacent fitness place.

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Phra Ae Public Health Park

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Nestled amidst the lush beauty of the island, this park is a sanctuary for health enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With well-maintained walking trails surrounded by vibrant flora, the park offers an ideal setting for outdoor activities and relaxation right at the beach. Whether you're jogging, practicing yoga, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, the refreshing atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for a bit of exercise.

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Koh Lanta, with its blend of adventure and tranquility, is not just a destination; it's a journey that leaves an indelible mark on the soul, inviting you to return and rediscover its timeless allure.

I hope you enjoyed this brief travel guide for Koh Lanta and that it enhances your stay, making it wonderfully stress-free, full of relaxation and joy. Happy Travels! :)

Here is the actual weather forecast for Koh Lanta, but here's a piece of advice: don't pay too much attention, as it usually always shows rain, and it rained just at certain times during my stay (I visited in November).