Things to Do in Koh Lanta: A Complete Guide to This Thai Paradise

Koh Lanta, an island district in Krabi Province, Thailand, is a hidden gem that has steadily become one of the top destinations for travelers seeking a more laid-back and authentic Thai island experience. Koh Lanta is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush national parks, vibrant marine life, and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike more crowded Thai islands, Koh Lanta retains its natural charm, offering visitors a peaceful retreat and ample opportunities for adventure and exploration. From pristine beaches to cultural landmarks, there are countless things to do in Koh Lanta that will keep you entertained and immersed in the beauty of this tropical paradise.

1. Relax on Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach)

One of the most popular things to do in Koh Lanta is to relax on Long Beach, also known as Phra Ae Beach. This stretch of soft golden sand is one of the island’s longest and most beautiful beaches, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the serene surroundings.

Highlights of Long Beach

• Swimming and Sunbathing: The beach’s gentle waves and shallow waters make it perfect for swimming, while its long stretch of sand is ideal for sunbathing. Whether you’re looking to relax with a book or take a refreshing dip in the Andaman Sea, Long Beach offers the perfect setting.
• Beach Bars and Restaurants: Along the shoreline, you’ll find plenty of laid-back beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a cold drink, fresh seafood, or traditional Thai dishes. The beach comes alive in the evening with vibrant beach bars offering live music and stunning sunset views.
• Spectacular Sunsets: Long Beach is one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is painted with brilliant pink, orange, and purple hues, making for a breathtaking and romantic setting.

Spending time in Long Beach is one of the must-do things to do in Koh Lanta, offering relaxation and natural beauty in equal measure.

2. Explore Mu Koh Lanta National Park

For nature lovers, exploring Mu Koh Lanta National Park is one of the top things to do in Koh Lanta. Located at the southern tip of the island, this national park covers both land and sea, offering visitors a chance to experience pristine rainforests, hidden beaches, and incredible wildlife.

What to Do in Mu Koh Lanta National Park

• Visit the Lighthouse: One of the park’s most iconic landmarks is its lighthouse, perched on a cliff overlooking the Andaman Sea. The hike up to the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding islands, making it a great spot for photography.
• Kantiang Bay: This secluded beach within the park is one of the island’s most beautiful and serene beaches. With its crystal-clear waters and soft sand, Kantiang Bay is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing in a peaceful setting.
• Hiking Trails: The park offers several hiking trails that wind through dense jungle, allowing you to spot wildlife such as monkeys, monitor lizards, and exotic birds. The trails vary in difficulty, making them suitable for casual and experienced hikers.

A visit to Mu Koh Lanta National Park is one of the most adventurous things to do in Koh Lanta, providing a chance to connect with nature and explore the island’s rugged beauty.

3. Take a Boat Trip to Koh Rok and Koh Haa

One of the most thrilling things to do in Koh Lanta is to take a boat trip to the nearby islands of Koh Rok and Koh Haa. These two islands are known for their incredible snorkeling and diving spots, offering crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Highlights of Koh Rok and Koh Haa

• Snorkeling and Diving: The waters around Koh Rok and Koh Haa are home to some of the best coral reefs in Thailand. Snorkelers and divers can expect to see various marine life, including clownfish, parrotfish, and even sea turtles. The clear visibility makes it easy to explore the underwater world.
• Pristine Beaches: Both islands boast stunning, unspoiled beaches where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty. Koh Rok, in particular, is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing or swimming.
• Day Tours: Several tour operators on Koh Lanta offer day trips to Koh Rok and Koh Haa, typically including snorkeling equipment, lunch, and guided tours of the islands. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day exploring the nearby marine wonders.

A boat trip to Koh Rok and Koh Haa is one of the best things to do in Koh Lanta for anyone exploring the island’s stunning marine life and pristine beaches.

4. Visit Lanta Old Town

For a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture, visiting Lanta Old Town is one of the most unique things to do in Koh Lanta. Once a bustling fishing port, this charming town on the island’s east coast is now a cultural hub filled with traditional wooden houses, local markets, and seafood restaurants.

What to See and Do in Lanta Old Town

• Explore Traditional Wooden Houses: Many houses in Lanta Old Town are built on stilts over the water and have been preserved for generations. Walking through the town feels like stepping back in time, with its wooden architecture and narrow streets.
• Local Markets and Shops: Lanta Old Town has several local markets and shops where you can buy traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce. It’s a great place to pick up a unique gift or try local delicacies.
• Seafood Dining: Known for its fishing heritage, Lanta Old Town is the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood. Many restaurants in the town offer delicious seafood dishes, including freshly caught prawns, crabs, and fish.

Visiting Lanta Old Town is one of the top cultural things to do in Koh Lanta, offering a chance to explore the island’s history and local way of life.

5. Experience a Thai Cooking Class

One of the most enjoyable things to do in Koh Lanta is taking a traditional Thai cooking class. Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors and aromatic ingredients, and learning how to prepare these dishes is a fun and interactive way to experience the local culture.

What to Expect in a Thai Cooking Class

• Learn to Cook Traditional Dishes: Most cooking classes in Koh Lanta teach you how to make popular Thai dishes such as pad Thai, green curry, and tom yum soup. You’ll learn about the different herbs and spices used in Thai cuisine and how to balance flavors to create authentic dishes.
• Market Visit: Many cooking classes include a visit to a local market, where you’ll shop for fresh ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local food culture and learn about traditional Thai ingredients.
• Enjoy Your Creations: After the class, you can sit down and enjoy the meal you’ve prepared. Cooking classes are typically held in beautiful outdoor settings, offering a relaxing and delicious experience.

Taking a Thai cooking class is one of the most delicious things to do in Koh Lanta, giving you a chance to bring a taste of Thailand home.

6. Dive at Hin Daeng and Hin Muang

For experienced divers, one of the most exciting things to do in Koh Lanta is diving at Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, two of Thailand’s most famous dive sites. Located south of Koh Lanta, these dive sites offer dramatic underwater rock formations and abundant marine life.

Diving Highlights at Hin Daeng and Hin Muang

• Deep Water Diving: Hin Daeng and Hin Muang are known for their steep drop-offs, making them ideal for deep water diving. The vertical walls are covered in vibrant soft corals, and the clear waters offer excellent visibility for spotting marine life.
• Whale Sharks and Manta Rays: These dive sites are famous for their large aquatic species, including whale sharks and manta rays. While sightings are never guaranteed, Hin Daeng and Hin Muang offer some of the best chances in Thailand to encounter these gentle giants.
• Colorful Coral Reefs: Besides the large marine species, the dive sites are home to an incredible variety of smaller marine life, including moray eels, lionfish, and schools of barracudas. The coral reefs are vibrant and teeming with life, making every dive an unforgettable experience.

Diving at Hin Daeng and Hin Muang is one of the top things to do in Koh Lanta for those seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure.

7. Visit the Khlong Chak Waterfall and Cave

For those who love hiking and nature, visiting the Khlong Chak Waterfall and Cave is one of the best things to do in Koh Lanta. Located in the jungle near the island’s southern end, this scenic waterfall is accessible via a short hike through lush tropical forest.

Hiking to Khlong Chak Waterfall

• The Trail: The hike to Khlong Chak Waterfall is relatively easy, taking 30-40 minutes through dense jungle. Along the way, you’ll cross small streams and pass through towering trees, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
• The Waterfall: While the waterfall is not particularly large, it’s a beautiful spot to relax and cool off after the hike. The falls are most impressive during the rainy season, with a steady water flow cascading into the pool below.
• Explore the Cave: Near the waterfall, you’ll find a small cave that you can explore. The cave is home to bats, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some wildlife along the trail, such as monkeys or monitor lizards.

Visiting the Khlong Chak Waterfall and Cave is one of the most refreshing things to do in Koh Lanta, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

8. Enjoy the Nightlife at Saladan Village

If you’re looking for a bit of nightlife, one of the best things to do in Koh Lanta is to visit Saladan Village, the island’s main port town. Saladan Village comes alive in the evening with restaurants, bars, and markets, offering a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

Nightlife in Saladan Village

• Seafood Restaurants: As the island’s main fishing port, Saladan Village is the best place to enjoy fresh seafood. Many restaurants are built on stilts over the water, offering beautiful ocean views while you dine on delicious prawns, fish, and crabs.
• Beach Bars: After dinner, head to one of the beachfront bars for a cocktail or cold beer. Many bars offer live music, fire shows, and a laid-back vibe, making it a great place to unwind after exploring.
• Night Market: The night market in Saladan Village is a great place to pick up souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts. You’ll also find plenty of food stalls serving up local snacks and desserts, making it a great place for a late-night treat.

Experiencing the nightlife in Saladan Village is one of the most fun things to do in Koh Lanta, offering a relaxed and enjoyable evening by the sea.

9. Take a Yoga Class on the Beach

For those looking to relax and rejuvenate, taking a yoga class on the beach is one of the most peaceful things to do in Koh Lanta. The island’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it the perfect place to practice yoga and meditation.

Yoga on the Beach

• Sunrise and Sunset Yoga: Many yoga studios and resorts on Koh Lanta offer sunrise or sunset yoga classes on the beach. Practicing yoga with the sound of the waves and the gentle sea breeze is a truly relaxing experience.
• Beachfront Studios: In addition to beach yoga, Koh Lanta has several beachfront yoga studios that offer a variety of classes, including Hatha, Vinyasa, and restorative yoga. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, you’ll find classes to suit your needs.
• Private Sessions: For a more personalized experience, many yoga instructors on the island offer private sessions that can be tailored to your preferences. It’s a great way to deepen your practice in a peaceful and supportive environment.

Taking a yoga class on the beach is one of the most relaxing things to do in Koh Lanta, providing a perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with nature.

10. Explore the Mangroves at Tung Yee Peng Village

For a unique and eco-friendly adventure, one of the best things to do in Koh Lanta is to explore the mangroves at Tung Yee Peng Village. This traditional fishing village on the island’s east coast is surrounded by a network of mangrove forests and is known for its eco-tours.

Mangrove Exploration at Tung Yee Peng Village

• Kayaking Through the Mangroves: One of the best ways to explore the mangroves is by kayak. Paddle through the narrow waterways, surrounded by towering mangrove trees, and watch for wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and crabs.
• Eco-Tours: Several local operators offer eco-tours of the mangroves, where you can learn about the importance of mangrove ecosystems and their efforts to protect them. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of Koh Lanta while supporting sustainable tourism.
• Cultural Experience: Besides the mangrove tours, you can also visit Tung Yee Peng Village to learn about the local way of life. The village is known for its traditional fishing practices, and you can observe the locals going about their daily activities.

Exploring the mangroves at Tung Yee Peng Village is one of the most eco-friendly things to do in Koh Lanta, offering a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty and local culture.

Conclusion: Discover the Best Things to Do in Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a tropical paradise that offers something for every traveler. From its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters to its rich cultural heritage and adventurous activities, there are countless things to do in Koh Lanta that will make your visit unforgettable. Whether snorkeling at Koh Rok, exploring the mangroves at Tung Yee Peng Village, or simply relaxing on Long Beach, Koh Lanta promises a memorable and enriching experience in one of Thailand’s most beautiful and laid-back islands.

Table of Summary

Activity	Description
Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach)	Relax on the island’s longest and most beautiful beach, known for its golden sand and vibrant sunsets.
Mu Koh Lanta National Park	Explore lush rainforests, hike to the lighthouse, and relax on secluded beaches like Kantiang Bay.
Boat Trip to Koh Rok and Koh Haa	Snorkel and dive in crystal-clear waters, explore vibrant coral reefs, and relax on pristine beaches.
Lanta Old Town	Discover traditional wooden houses and local markets, and enjoy fresh seafood in this historic fishing village.
Thai Cooking Class	Learn to cook traditional Thai dishes and enjoy a hands-on culinary experience.
Hin Daeng and Hin Muang Diving	Explore two of Thailand’s most famous dive sites, known for whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral reefs.
Khlong Chak Waterfall and Cave	Hike through the jungle to a scenic waterfall and explore a nearby cave.
Saladan Village Nightlife	Enjoy seafood dining, beach bars, and a lively night market in the island’s main port town.
Beach Yoga	Rejuvenate with a yoga class on the beach, surrounded by the sound of the waves and the island’s beauty.
Mangroves at Tung Yee Peng Village	Kayak through mangrove forests and learn about eco-tourism and local fishing traditions.

Things to Do in Koh Lanta FAQ