Are you a digital nomad dreaming of an island escape that combines serene beaches, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences?
Table of Contents
Koh Lanta offers a paradise where each corner tells an exciting story, and every sunset promises a new adventure.
Join us as we delve into the must-stay places in Koh Lanta, revealing hidden spots and sought-after retreats that promise to make your stay nothing short of magical.
Key Highlights
- Koh Lanta’s diverse regions, from the bustling streets of Saladan Village to the peaceful shores of Kantiang Bay, offer a unique combination of adventure, culture, and pleasure, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads, couples, and family travelers.
- Koh Lanta is well-known for its wide selection of accommodations, which include everything from luxurious resorts to reasonably priced hostels. This guarantees accommodations for all visitors without sacrificing the genuine island experience.
- The island offers a unique chance to interact with the environment and local culture. Digital nomads may fully experience the island’s rich history and stunning scenery by discovering Koh Lanta Old Town’s historical charm and participating in the lively nightlife and beach parties at Khlong Khong.
- Budget-conscious nomads can find lodging at BOHO Hostel and Aha Lanta Cozy Hostel. At the same time, upscale properties like Pimalai Resort & Spa and Layana Resort & Spa offer opulent accommodations. These locations highlight the variety of lodging choices the island offers.
- Koh Lanta’s relaxed atmosphere, safe surroundings, and abundant activities catering to families, single travelers, and budget-conscious visitors make it a popular destination for many digital nomads. This demonstrates how adaptable it is as a travel destination.
- Koh Lanta’s diverse experiences surpass the traditional beach vacation, which is just waiting to be explored. The island promises a compelling trip for everyone who visits, making it more than just a destination but a treasure trove of memories waiting to be made, from its tranquil beaches to its vibrant cultural scenes.
Best Places To Stay in Koh Lanta
We identify the top spots to put your feet in the sand, enjoy the sun, and allow the island’s spirit to turn your vacation into a voyage of exploration, from the bustling streets of Saladan Village to the quiet shores of Kantiang Bay.
Our comprehensive article is your gateway to the best places to stay in Koh Lanta, where every moment is a wonder waiting to be discovered, whether you’re a digital nomad seeking solitude and spiritual experience, a family searching for fun-filled days by the sea, or a couple on a romantic holiday.
1. Saladan Village
Saladan Village, situated on the northernmost point of Koh Lanta, is the first settlement to be reached after arriving by ferry, speedboat, or minivan from Koh Phi Phi, Krabi, Phuket, and Koh Lipe.
In addition, the village is conveniently close to many beaches, including Kaw Kwang, Klong Dao, and Long Beach, and is accessible by car or tuk-tuk.
Best known for its magnificent wooden houses above the lake, this main entry and exit point from Koh Lanta also offers a wide selection of services, such as restaurants, resorts, bars, stores, banks, travel agencies, pharmacies, massage parlors, and spas.
The bars Fat Monkey and Cheeky Monkey are located south of the main road for about five minutes. They are practically impossible to miss because they are situated right on this busy thoroughfare.
No matter where you stay in Koh Lanta, you’ll probably get to shop here because there are plenty of markets and gift shops around the area.
My favorite here is Wednesday night. Saladan hosts a bustling market where you can sample various Thai cuisines on a stick.
Best places to Stay at Saladan Village in Koh Lanta
Here are some excellent places for you:
| Luxury stays | Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort DEEPSPACE cabin |
| Mid-range luxury stay | La Chambre Boutique @ Ko Lanta Lanta Pura Beach Resort |
| Budget stay | Non Du Lay Guesthouse |
2. Phra Ae Long Beach
Phra Ae, or Long Beach, is on the west coast of Koh Lanta. It is closest to Saladan Village and Klong Dao Beach.
Phra Ae Beach is a gorgeous three-kilometer-long white sand beach. I recommend this as a must-visit spot for fellow nomads, backpackers, and tourists who want to unwind and soak up some sun.
This is my preferred beach for extended stays. Although it is a little farther than Khlong Dao from Saladan, the beach is excellent and much better for swimming at around 4km (2.5 miles).
Thai food, foreign cuisine, and fresh seafood BBQ are available directly on the beach at several Long Shore restaurants. There is also lively nightlife with numerous cocktail bars and a Karaoke bar.
One of the top eateries on the island is Red Snapper, while Fruit Tree Coffee Shop is fantastic for breakfast and pastries.
If you are looking for a place near the beach, I recommend Escape Cafe, which is right on the beach and serves outstanding coffee and Two Scoops gelato.
Lanta Animal Welfare is not far away if you want to play with kittens or take a dog for a stroll. There are a few gyms, Lanta Yoga classes, 7-Elevens, and gift shops for souvenirs.
Best places to Stay on Phra Ae Long Beach in Koh Lanta
Here are some top-rated accommodation options in Phra Ae Long Beach if you wish to stay there without emptying your wallet and bank account:
| Luxury stays | Layana Resort & Spa Lanta Sand Resort & Spa |
| Mid-range luxury stays | Lanta Village Resort El Matcha Lanta Resort |
| Budget stays | BOHO Hostel |
3. Khlong Khong
Khlong Khong is a 15-minute drive from Saladan and is located south of Long Beach. But just be aware that you can’t swim here during low tides. The water is narrower and stony, making it unsuitable for swimming.
Klong Khong Beach has many bars, restaurants, and motels. Several pubs on this beach are even quite well-known and have proven themselves time and time again.
You’ll want to check out Koh Lanta’s nightlife and parties! Although the island is more laid-back and quiet, you can go bar-hopping at night.
The serene ambiance on the beach distinguishes Klong Khong Beach from the other beaches in Koh Lanta. Klong Khong feels less crowded and commercialized because it isn’t one of the most well-known beaches.
Freedom Bay and Hippie Bay are additional names for Khlong Khong Beach, which suggests something. Budget-conscious nomads and backpackers like the area because it is more affordable.
Koh Lanta residents recognize The Freedom Bar for its full and half-moon parties with live music and DJs. But they still find an excuse to celebrate even when no moon exists! There are also spectacular fireworks displays at the Freedom Bar.
It is an excellent area to unwind on one of the sofa cushions throughout the day and at night and meet other tourists.
You can also unwind in one of the numerous hammocks or comfortable chairs with reggae music playing in the background.
Best places to Stay on Klong Khong Beach in Koh Lanta
Want to stay close to bars and restaurants when getting ready for a party? These locations provide their parties in addition to being close to the greatest ones:
| Luxury stays | Alanta Pool Villa Baan Thai Lanta Resort |
| Mid-range luxury stays | The Lazy Lodge Lanta Casa Blanca |
| Budget stays | Sunanta Bungalow |
4. Kantiang Bay
Kantiang Bay is in the southern part of the island. It is a 35-minute drive from Saladan and 15 minutes from National Park.
Given that the tree-covered mountains descend directly to the expansive, sandy beach, this 2-kilometer-long beach is among the most picturesque on the island. Swimming in the calm water is very safe and relaxing.
If you don’t mind the more extended travel from Krabi and the limited selection of restaurants and shops, it’s a great, quiet location for you.
On this underappreciated Thai island, the vibe feels more exclusive because it is less crowded than other beaches worldwide—all without paying exorbitant rates for lodging and food!
If your primary goal is to unwind and have a peaceful vacation, you’ll adore both Kantiang Bay and Koh Lanta’s southern region.
Other than climbing hills, there are sun loungers, water sports equipment that may be rented, and a bar and restaurant right on the sand at the beach.
Best places to Stay at Kantiang Bay in Koh Lanta
Do you want the peaceful seas and breeze without the crowds and people? These lodging options will make you have an excellent time and teach you to value tranquility:
| Luxury stays | Pimalai Resort & Spa – SHA Extra Plus The Houben |
| Mid-range luxury stays | Kantiang Bay View Resort Alama Sea Village Resort |
| Budget stays | Aha Lanta Cozy Hostel |
5. Khlong Nin
Make your way to Khlong Nin beach in the Middle Koh Lanta region. This region has some fantastic deluxe lodging options for romantic getaways!
Khlong Nin feels more like a village than the beaches further north because of its narrower, tree-lined road.
It’s a beautiful choice if you prefer a more sedate setting without being as far from civilization as the southern beaches.
Digital nomad couples can spend their holidays here, and hotels here provide beautiful sunset views, candlelit dinners, and other enjoyable activities to assist you and your partner unwind or have time on adventures.
Koh Lanta Old Town is just across the island, making it convenient to take day trips north or south. It’s roughly halfway down the island.
This place has a beautiful beach. Although it is just about 2 kilometers, it is still long enough for a swim and a great walk.
There are more beachside bungalow resorts than upscale hotels, giving the area a more relaxed, hippy air.
There are plenty of casual restaurants, and French Bakery makes excellent pizza and baguettes. However, there are fewer options than further north.
Best places to Stay at Klong Nin Beach in Koh Lanta
Here are some accommodation choices to add extra special touches to your trip, whether you’re surprising a special someone or marking an anniversary:
| Luxury stays | Lanta Palace Beach Resort & Spa SriLanta Resort and Spa |
| Mid-range luxury stays | Nirvana Beach Resort Nature Beach Resort Koh Lanta |
| Budget stays | Beach Home Lanta |
6. Koh Lanta Old Town
Koh Lanta’s Old Town on the East Coast can be an exciting choice if you’re seeking something new, even though most tourists stay on the West Coast.
I should warn you, though, that there are no beaches on the East Coast. Nevertheless, it is more serene, greener, and less developed.
I recommend the old town for nomads who want to experience the other side of Koh Lanta other that its beaches.
The closest beach is at Khlong Nin, across the island, where you’ll see sunrises rather than sunsets.
You can explore the Lanta Old Town, meet the people, go cave sightseeing, laze on the beach, or opt for a more environmentally friendly alternative by visiting the nearby National Park.
The Old Town features a laid-back atmosphere with Chinese influences. On the main street, there are wooden shop houses.
When entering Old Town, you’ll first notice a tiny roundabout with a sizable Buddhist shrine in the center. The Koh Lanta Community Museum, the Old Town Pier, and a Chinese temple are nearby.
The Old Town is a charming neighborhood with wooden cottages perched over the lake. Even though restaurants and gift shops now occupy every structure, the area is still lovely.
When I first visited this place, it surprised me how many people were present and how many companies were open during the off-season; in some ways, it feels livelier than the West Coast.
Best places to Stay in Old Town, Koh Lanta
Here are some lodging options to assist seasoned visitors who want to venture outside of the “normal” routes:
| Luxury stays | Baan Chainarong Resort Lantawa Villa |
| Mid-range luxury stays | Tonmai Suites I Talay Lanta |
| Budget stays | Deep House Sea View |
Final Thoughts: Best Stays in Koh Lanta
As the sunset gleams a golden glow over the island, it’s hard not to be captivated by the serene beauty and the charm of the must-stay places in Koh Lanta.
Every destination offers digital nomads a different piece of beauty, from the bustling streets and wooden cottages perched on the stilts of Saladan Village to the serene vistas of Phra Ae Long Beach.
The rustic appeal of Khlong Khong, with its laid-back vibe and vibrant nightlife, contrasts beautifully with the tranquility of Kantiang Bay, where the tree-covered mountains meet the sandy shores.
Not to mention the historical charm of Koh Lanta Old Town and the cozy rural atmosphere of Khlong Nin, all of which offer a tranquil escape from the busier tourist areas.
Ultimately, it becomes clear that Koh Lanta is more than just a place to visit; it’s a mosaic of experiences just waiting to be explored.
Our comprehensive guide to the best areas to stay in Koh Lanta is an ideal travel companion for digital nomads planning a trip to this charming island. It guarantees that every second spent there will be one of exploration, leisure, and a strong bond with nature and its rich culture.
So, pack your bags, make your way to Koh Lanta, and prepare to be enthralled by the peace, adventure, and splendor this Thai paradise offers.
FAQs
Koh Lanta has many accommodations to suit all tastes and price ranges, from luxurious resorts and boutique hotels to affordable guesthouses and beachside bungalows.
Yes, Koh Lanta offers an array of family-friendly spots with calm beaches, family-friendly accommodation choices, and kid-friendly activities to ensure everyone has a wonderful time on vacation.
Koh Lanta is a popular destination for solo travelers because of its laid-back vibe, secure surroundings, and range of lodging options and activities that allow for independent exploration of the island and meeting new people.
Indeed, Koh Lanta is an excellent choice for tourists on a modest budget. It offers inexpensive lodging, affordable dining options, and a range of free or cost-effective activities, including hiking and beach hopping.
Koh Lanta boasts several must-see beaches, each with its own unique charm. From the bustling Long Beach (Phra Ae) to the tranquil waters of Kantiang Bay, there is something for every type of beach enthusiast to enjoy.
