Joanna James
Koh Lanta may be the Thai island you didn't even realize you needed. Its aqua-blue water, serene beaches, and relaxed vibe characterize this island, a new breath of fresh air on the list of over-touristed destinations. If tranquillity, loveliness, and realness are your thing, Koh Lanta is your best bet to unwind.
If it is a quiet, peaceful hideaway that you are in search of in Thailand, then Koh Lanta is where you must go. Whilst its more commercialized cousins gave up their island way to profit, Koh Lanta stood strong and maintained its island feel. The charm of this place is its simplicity—white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and a landscape that beckons you to relax and soak it all in. You won't find hordes of people and flashy resorts here. Instead, you'll have the opportunity to experience a real Thailand, where life is all about living for the moment and enjoying the great outdoors.
It's fairly simple to reach Koh Lanta, considering that it's located just off the mainland. If you're coming from abroad, the best is to fly to Krabi, and it only takes 1.5 hours to drive from the island. You can take a bus from the Krabi airport to the island, or if you're coming from one of Thailand's other major destinations, such as Phuket, a bus or ferry ride. Koh Lanta can also be accessed by boat from nearby islands, including the Phi Phi Islands. Either way, you'll find a more relaxed atmosphere immediately upon arrival on the island.
A tropical climate awaits you on Koh Lanta for beach lovers. The best time to visit is December to March when the weather is dry and sunny. Keep in mind that during this peak tourist season, the island will get a bit more crowded, and prices will be higher. However, if you’re looking for a quieter experience and lower costs, visiting between June and September is a great option. While the rainy season might get some showers, the island isn't closed down, and the landscape becomes a beautiful green that's entirely worth it.
One of the strengths of Koh Lanta is how simple it is to move around. The island itself is not big, only 16 miles long, so it's simple to see the main attractions in two days. But if you're not bothered slowing down and taking your time then it's well worth waiting on for a bit longer. Four days is the perfect amount of time to stay—long enough to appreciate the island's natural beauty, eat some local food, and relax. With fewer crowds and less to distract you, Koh Lanta is the perfect place to disconnect and recharge. For an experience that's simply pure luxury, stay at the Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort, where you can indulge in comfort while soaking up the island's tranquil atmosphere. While there, learn about the things to do in Krabi, including stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and scenic trails that make the region even more magical.
Koh Lanta is not necessarily for everyone. If you're searching for a holiday that's full of action and also features luxury resorts and wild nightlife, then perhaps you need to go somewhere else. But if you want peace, beautiful beaches, and genuine Thai culture, then Koh Lanta is where you need to be. The island can win your heart with its simplicity and charm. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, enjoying the local food, or chatting with the friendly locals, Koh Lanta offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience that’s hard to find in Thailand’s more tourist-heavy spots.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
