Koh Lanta Beaches - 17 Tips for Beautiful Days at the Beach

In our opinion, the most beautiful beaches on Koh Lanta are Relax Bay, Beautiful Beach and Bakantiang Beach. However, as the island offers many more beaches than these and tastes differ, we give you tips for a total of 17 beaches on Koh Lanta. Ranging from unspoiled beaches in the south to family-friendly beaches in the north.

The 17 Most Beautiful Beaches on Koh Lanta – Our Experiences

Except for the beach in the national park, found at the southern end of Koh Lanta Yai, all beaches are on the west coast. The island itself is one of the most laid-back islands in Thailand, far from the hustle and bustle of major tourist hotspots. White sandy beaches, gentle waves, and turquoise waters – Koh Lanta offers a few postcard-perfect beaches. Some are well-developed, with restaurants and bars, while others are almost deserted and idyllically located. In our overview, we present 17 of the most beautiful beaches on Koh Lanta. You’re guaranteed to find a beach that perfectly suits your needs.

Accommodation on Koh Lanta – Our Hotel Tip

The Lanta Sand Resort & Spa is located directly on the popular Long Beach and offers a beautiful beachfront location. Rooms and bungalows are modernly furnished and equipped with everything you need – from air conditioning, TV, refrigerator, to free Wi-Fi. The rooms have either a terrace or balcony, some even have their own plunge pool or direct access to one of the swimming pools.

Our recommended hotel features a total of four swimming pools, a playroom for children, a small fitness center, and a spa for massages. Sand Restaurant serves a diverse breakfast buffet in the morning, and The Sand Sunset Bar offers delicious drinks in the afternoon and evening to enjoy the sunset.

Additionally, there is a 24-hour reception that is happy to assist, absolutely friendly staff, and a tour desk at the reception. Nearby, you’ll also find a few dining options if you’re on foot. We felt completely comfortable and would choose the resort again for a stay on Koh Lanta.

If you prefer to stay at another beach on Koh Lanta, there is a large selection here on the island.

1. Laem Kho Kwang Beach (Twin Beach)

Laem Kho Kwang Beach, also known as Twin Beach, is located in the north, not far from the main town, Ban Saladan. If you’re looking for quiet, uncrowded beaches, this is the place for you. The atmosphere here is very laid-back, and there are a few accommodations, such as the Twin Bay Resort.

It might not be the most beautiful beach on Koh Lanta in our opinion, but its fine sand and calm waters make it perfect for relaxing and swimming. The waves are usually very mild, making it a great beach for families with children. Along the coast, you’ll find small beach bars and restaurants serving local dishes and cold drinks. Laem Kho Kwang Beach is still something of a hidden gem, as many people simply overlook it.

2. Klong Dao Beach

Directly south of Laem Kho Kwang Beach is Klong Dao Beach. It’s a crescent-shaped beach stretching about three kilometers. The sand is very fine and slopes gently into the sea, so the water here is usually shallow, making Klong Dao Beach a popular destination for families.

There are many accommodations, restaurants, bars, massage spots, and small shops along the beach. If you’re expecting sun loungers and parasols like on larger islands such as Phuket, you might be disappointed. Only a few hotels offer these, giving Klong Dao Beach a much more natural vibe, which we definitely prefer.

A downside is that there’s not much natural shade from trees, though you can find some spots if you look. Klong Dao Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on Koh Lanta, and you can easily spend a relaxed day there – swimming, strolling, dining, and enjoying the sunset.

3. Phra Ae Beach (Long Beach)

Phra Ae Beach, usually called Long Beach, stretches for several kilometers along the west coast and is the longest beach on Koh Lanta. With its fine, golden sand and clear turquoise water, this beach offers ideal conditions for swimming and sunbathing. The gently sloping coastline makes swimming quite pleasant, though it does get deep relatively quickly. Be aware that at high tide, parts of the beach may be washed over.

Most visitors to Koh Lanta stay at Long Beach, since there are many hotels and restaurants along the shore. You’ll find all kinds of travelers here: couples, solo travelers, and families. We also stayed at Long Beach in the Lanta Sand & Spa Resort and can highly recommend it.

Because the beach is so long, people disperse, so it never feels crowded—it’s always peaceful and relaxed. Swimming, beach walks, or ending the day watching the sunset at one of the beach bars is what you can expect here. Phra Ae Beach also provides access to the main road, where you’ll find many more restaurants, bars, or shops. It’s an ideal starting point for exploring the island.

4. Relax Bay

Relax Bay, also known as Casa Bay, is a hidden little gem. Although this might raise expectations, you won’t be disappointed. This small, secluded bay features soft, light-colored sand and clear turquoise water, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet. There are only a handful of resorts and restaurants here, which contributes to the tranquil, secluded atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a quiet retreat, this is the spot. The downside is that there aren’t many options for activities or dining on site. Having a scooter or car would be helpful here to get to nearby places like Ban Saladan.

5. Secret Beach

This tiny, hidden cove lies between Relax Bay and Beautiful Beach (see next section). There’s no direct road access, and the best way to reach it is by traversing the rocks north of Beautiful Beach. The path isn’t particularly difficult, and you’ll almost certainly have the beach to yourself.

There’s nothing to do here, but if that’s exactly what you’re seeking, it’s perfect. Relax, swim, soak up the sun – all of that is possible here. Just remember to bring your own drinks or snacks, as there are no bars or anything similar where you can buy them.

6. Beautiful Beach

The Beautiful Beach certainly lives up to its name and, in our opinion, is the loveliest of the Koh Lanta beaches. The turn-off to this secluded beach is often overlooked, so it doesn’t attract many visitors. You can access the Beautiful Beach via an unpaved road branching off from the main road. A small sign reading “This way to a beautiful beach” points you in the right direction.

This secluded beach impresses with its soft, white sand and clear turquoise water. A charming, simple beach café run by locals offers refreshing drinks and light snacks. We recommend bringing at least some water along, though.

The atmosphere at Beautiful Beach is laid-back, with a few shady spots under the palm trees at the northern end of the beach. Swimming here is also great – the water isn’t too shallow yet still suitable for children. The surrounding rocks and clear water also make it a nice spot for snorkeling, especially at high tide.

7. Tricky Trocky Beach

Similar to Secret Beach, Tricky Trocky Beach is another hidden beach. There’s a path leading south from Beautiful Beach through a coconut plantation or along the rocks on the coastline. Some visitors manage to drive there, but we suggest walking.

Among the Koh Lanta beaches, Tricky Trocky Beach is still a hidden gem. Its scenery is distinctive, framed by high, steep cliffs. You’ll find shade on the beach, peace and quiet, and during high tide, the water is also good for snorkeling.

We don’t really recommend this beach for families with children. While kids can play in the sand, the many rocks in the water and the somewhat challenging path make it less child-friendly. But if you’re seeking solitude and don’t need anything else – no restaurants or bars – Tricky Trocky Beach is worth a stop.

8. Klong Khong Beach

Klong Khong Beach is located roughly in the middle of Koh Lanta’s west coast. It’s mainly known for its relaxed, alternative vibe. Many people refer to Klong Khong Beach as Hippie Beach or Freedom Bay. Here, you’ll still find simple bungalows on the shore, hammocks with a view, small reggae bars, and sometimes bonfires at night.

The sand is mostly very fine and soft. However, swimming at low tide can be difficult since many rocks and corals become visible. During high tide, the water is calm and clear, making it perfect for a swim. Many guests like to come here at sunset to enjoy it in one of the laid-back beach bars.

If you’re looking to party a bit, Koh Lanta doesn’t have a huge scene. However, the Mushroom Bar on Klong Khong regularly hosts parties that draw a good crowd. So that’s an option if you’re interested. Otherwise, you’ll find plenty of hotels along the beach, from affordable bungalows to small boutique resorts, as well as beachfront restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Heading a few meters inland toward the main road gives you even more choices.

9. Klong Tob Beach

Klong Tob Beach is a smaller stretch among the Koh Lanta beaches and is somewhat split in two. The first section is right along the coastal road and isn’t really suitable for swimming. There are barriers, lots of rocks, and this is where local long-tail boats are moored.

The second section of Klong Tob, however, is much nicer. It’s also rocky but located in a quiet bay. At high tide, unlike the first section, you can swim here. Along this stretch, there’s also a selection of accommodations. The lovely Lanta Palace Resort and Beach Club offers direct beach access and a beach bar for food and drinks. Otherwise, Klong Tob Beach is pretty low-key, but it’s not far from Klong Nin Beach, where you’ll find many more resorts, restaurants, and shops.

10. Klong Nin Beach

The next of the Koh Lanta beaches is Klong Nin Beach. It offers a mix of natural beauty and a laid-back village atmosphere. Everything here moves at a relaxed pace. The sand at Klong Nin Beach is fine and soft, and the water is a bit deeper, making it good for swimming. Despite its growing popularity, the beach has maintained its tranquil charm, which is particularly appealing to families and couples.

Near the beach, you’ll find some shops, restaurants, and bars, so there’s something to do away from the sand as well. There are also plenty of accommodations ranging from simple bungalows to luxury resorts, so there’s something for everyone.

A road also leads from Klong Nin Beach through the middle of the island to the other side of Koh Lanta – an ideal starting point for a trip to Old Town. And the south, with the Koh Lanta National Park, is easy to reach, so you can plan various activities in the area.

11. Nui Beach

Nui Beach is slightly hidden, though it’s easy to get to. However, to reach the beach, you’ll have to go through the Diamond Cliff Restaurant & Resort. You can, for instance, park your scooter there and take the stairs from the restaurant down to the beach, even if you’re not a guest or ordering food. This small bay is truly picturesque, and you won’t find crowds here.

The sand isn’t super fine, and you’ll sink in a bit when walking. Toward the southern end, the water is also very nice for swimming and gets somewhat deeper. Even on a cloudy day, like during our visit, Nui Beach still looks gorgeous. If you plan to stay at the beach for a while, bring drinks and snacks so you don’t have to climb the stairs back to the restaurant – there are no other bars or shops on the beach.

12. Klong Hin Beach

If you’re seeking peace and authenticity, check out Klong Hin Beach. This beach is roughly one kilometer long and not very developed. Restaurants and accommodations can only be found at the northern and southern ends. In the south, a new promenade was recently built, allowing visitors to enjoy a pleasant stroll.

The sand at Klong Hin Beach is coarse and darker than at many other Koh Lanta beaches. At low tide, many rocks become visible, which limits swimming. However, if you want some peace and quiet, you can spend a few relaxing hours here. There are spots where swimming is better, for example, the northern part near the Lanta Coral Beach Resort.

13. Bakantiang Beach

Around 1.5 kilometers long, Bakantiang Beach is one of the quietest and most beautiful Koh Lanta beaches, despite having a few accommodations. You’ll find tropical nature all around, and the fine sand plus clear water make for a relaxing day at the beach. Swimming is great here, so nothing stands in the way of cooling off in the sea.

The southern end of Bakantiang Beach is quite rocky, so we wouldn’t recommend swimming there. Our highlight was definitely the view from the Phu Pha View Restaurant, which also serves delicious food and has a sort of terrace with a great vista of the beach.

If you’re looking for shops, restaurants, or, say, a 7-Eleven, you’ll find all of that in the small village behind the beach. You won’t be missing anything unless you’re after big activities or parties. If you want peace and quiet plus a few conveniences, Bakantiang Beach could be the right choice for you.

14. Nui Bay

Also known as Ao Nui Beach, Nui Bay lies in a small cove that isn’t too easy to access. This idyllic beach is marked by turquoise water and soft sand, all surrounded by lush tropical nature. Many still consider Nui Bay a hidden gem, as very few visitors actually make their way here.

The beach is accessible only on foot via a steep path, partly with built-in steps. If you make the effort, you’ll be rewarded with nearly untouched nature. There’s also a small beach bar, though it’s not always open. It’s definitely a good idea to bring something to eat and drink.

You’ll often encounter monkeys at Nui Bay, but otherwise, you can enjoy plenty of peace and have the beach almost to yourself. A trip here can certainly be worthwhile. Swimming is possible if it’s not low tide.

15. Klong Chak Beach

A largely unspoiled beach in the south of Koh Lanta is Khlong Chak Beach, sometimes spelled Klong Jark Beach. The sand here is often a bit coarser and darker, but the calm surroundings invite you to linger. You’ll find very few visitors. At low tide, the water is extremely shallow and not at all suitable for swimming, though high tide makes it possible. There are a few accommodations and restaurants directly at the beach, but otherwise, it’s pretty quiet.

A highlight if you stay at Klong Chak Beach is the Klong Chak Waterfall nearby. You can reach it via a trail that’s not too difficult, taking about half an hour to hike. Additionally, in this part of Koh Lanta, you may see monkeys along the road or in the trees.

16. Bamboo Beach

Bamboo Beach, also known as Haad Mai Phai, is located in the southern part of Koh Lanta and is considered one of the most unspoiled, tranquil beaches on the island. The beach is framed by two steep headlands on either end, offering fine sand, though swimming at most spots is not ideal due to rocks in the water. If you’re looking for natural beauty, however, this place fits the bill.

Despite its remote location, there are a few accommodations at Bamboo Beach that blend into the rainforest atmosphere. One of them is the LaLaanta Hideaway Resort, which also includes the Ahoy Bar. If you want something to eat, you can order from the resorts on site, and you can still hang out on the beach even if you’re not a hotel guest.

For us personally, Bamboo Beach wasn’t a highlight, as we found other beaches more appealing. But everyone has different tastes, and if you’re seeking peace and quiet, this beach could be just right for you.

17. Ta Naoad Beach (Sand Beach)

Ta Naoad Beach, also known as Sand Beach in the Mu Koh Lanta National Park, is located at the very south of the island. You can only visit the beach in combination with the national park, so there’s an admission fee of 200 baht per person. In return, you’ll find a well-maintained environment and a few activities. You can walk to the lighthouse or hike a rainforest trail, then relax at the beach.

This beach is very beautiful, with soft sand, and you can find some spots under the trees for shade. Swimming is possible here at high tide, but be cautious – there are some rocks in the water, so the seabed isn’t ideal. Nevertheless, it’s still a really nice beach to spend some peaceful time. You won’t find many visitors, and if you’re lucky, you might even have the beach to yourself.

Koh Lanta: Tours and Tickets

Do you prefer to travel with a guide who knows the area very well? Then we recommend a guided tour with a local. This way you can get to know Koh Lanta in a completely different way. GetYourGuide offers a wide selection of exciting tours for Koh Lanta.

How to Get To Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta does not have its own airport, which is why the best way to arrive by plane is via Krabi International Airport. Various airlines, such as AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Thai Air and more, fly to Krabi from within the country and Qatar Airways or AirAsia from abroad. For more information on flights and times, kindly check Skyscanner.

Further arrivals can be made either by bus or minivan from Krabi. Another option would be to reach Koh Lanta by ferry from e.g. Ao Nang, Phuket or Koh Phi Phi. There are daily connections to Koh Lanta in both variants. Prices, times and tickets can be found on 12go.asia.

Which one do you think is the most beautiful among the Koh Lanta beaches? Do you have any other tips? Feel free to share your experiences on the island.