Southern Thailand’s Koh Lanta is a tranquil island renowned for its long sandy beaches, verdant mangroves, and laid-back atmosphere. So here’s a list of fun things to do while you’re in the area!
1. Best Beaches
Koh Lanta’s beaches are a sight to see and relax in as well. Two popular beaches worth visiting are Laem Kho Kwang Beach and Long Beach, where the vibes are tranquil and the waters are perfect for swimming. There is plenty of room to relax on Koh Lanta, with many things to do in Krabi, so if you’re thinking of venturing further beyond the blue beaches, look into hotels or villas like Avani+ Koh Lanta Krabi Resort that provide excursion activities.
2. Gorgeous Mangroves
Birdsong, the splash of paddles, and the occasional monkey call are some sounds you’ll hear as you explore the Koh Lanta mangroves in a longtail canoe or kayak through meandering channels shadowed by overhanging roots and branches. Two famous mangroves are the Thung Yee Pheng Mangrove Forest and Ko Lanta Noi. You’ll be able to see a diverse array of animals in the mangroves, including birds, monitor lizards, crabs, mudskippers, and occasionally even playful macaques. The mangroves are a relaxing must-see spot for any nature lover.
3. Tham Khao Mai Khew Caves
With a view of the island’s untamed landscapes, historic limestone structures, and undiscovered jungle mysteries, Tham Khao Mai Khew offers nature enthusiasts and daring tourists a singular way to experience Koh Lanta outside of its beaches. Local guides often share stories about the cave’s geology and history, pointing out intriguing rock formations along the way, so if you’re up for an informative adventure, this spot is for you.
4. The Lanta Old Town
Whether it’s wandering down the pier at sunset, touring little temples and shrines, or just taking in the relaxed pace of everyday life, Lanta Old Town is about soaking up the ambience, in contrast to the bustling tourist destinations. Here you can gain a bit more historical knowledge at the Koh Lanta Community Museum, and taste an authentic cultural blend in the cuisine. The Laanta Lanta Festival, a festival of cuisine, music, and culture, is held here as well.
5. Famous Koh Lanta National Park
Jungle trails wind through the rainforest inland, where you might spot a variety of birds, monkeys, and monitor lizards. The park’s offshore highlights Koh Lanta’s rich marine life with coral reefs and small islets that are also popular for diving and snorkelling. Located on a cliff overlooking two bays and the Andaman Sea, the famous lighthouse on Laem Tanod Cape is the main attraction. The quiet, pristine beaches surrounding the bay are perfect for a leisurely swim, picnic, or hike and are usually considerably less crowded than Koh Lanta’s main sand beaches.
6. Emerald Cave
Tucked away on Koh Muk’s west coast is a secret treasure called Emerald Cave. After a thrilling day of swimming, the lagoon’s sparkling white sand beach, bordered by tall limestone cliffs, provides a peaceful haven. The contrast between the darkness and light makes the discovery of this spot all the more amazing.
7. Maya Bay
Situated in a gorgeous harbor on Koh Phi Phi Leh, it feels like a private cove because it is encircled on three sides by tall limestone cliffs. Today, tourists arrive at the bay from adjacent Loh Sama Bay by a floating pier or a brief walk, which heightens the sensation of exploration and adventure.
