5 Must-Visit Beaches in Koh Lanta for a Dream Vacation

A shadow set with a big white umbrella protects a guy laying on a lounger chilling on his phone on the white sand beach Klong Nin in Koh Lanta.

KOH LANTA IS HOME TO 12 BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, AND AFTER SPENDING 8 WEEKS ON THIS ISLAND, WE’VE NARROWED IT DOWN TO OUR TOP 5—BEACHES YOU ABSOLUTELY SHOULDN’T MISS. BUT IF YOU'RE CURIOUS TO DO BEACH-HOPPING OR CRAVE A DIFFERENT VIBE, WE’VE PUT TOGETHER A QUICK GUIDE TO HELP YOU DISCOVER MORE OF WHAT THIS ISLAND HAS TO OFFER.

Koh Lanta is a tranquil island in the Krabi region, just a short journey from Krabi Town. We chose it for its laid-back charme—an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of Thailand’s more crowded islands. Craving peace, relaxation, and a break from the tourist crowds, we wanted a place where we could unwind in our own little bubble during our world trip. Koh Lanta offers something for every traveler, whether you’re seeking secluded beaches, family-friendly resorts, a romantic getaway, outdoor adventures, or simply a quiet retreat to recharge.

✈︎ Not sure how to plan your trip to Thailand? Let us help! Check out our Thailand Travel Essentials — your one-stop guide to destinations, costs, packing, and more.

There are a lot of things to do in Koh Lanta and covered it all in on another blog post. If you’re wondering how to get here, where to stay and where to get the best food, check out this article.

READ | Top Things to Do in Koh Lanta: Explore, Eat & Unwind

HOW TO GET AROUND KOH LANTA?

We rented a scooter, the most convenient and budget-friendly way to explore Thailand’s islands. Koh Lanta’s roads are generally wide, well-maintained, and relatively calm, making it a manageable option even for those with limited riding experience. However, if you’ve never ridden a scooter before or feel unsure, it’s best to avoid it—for your safety and the safety of others!

If you prefer an alternative, you can explore the island by taxi or pick-up truck. While this is more expensive, it’s a great option for families or larger groups.

We didn’t miss a thing while relaxing at the beach thanks to our Saily eSIM. It kept us online, so we could easily find the next restaurant, best hotel deals, and stay connected with friends & family.

PRICE | ฿200- ฿300 | €6 - €8 | US$6 - $8 per day for a scooter.

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OUR TOP 5 BEACHES IN KOH LANTA

Khlong Nin

We love the vibe of this beach – it's authentic and smaller than other areas. There are plenty of restaurants, many offering fire shows, BBQs, and live music performances. It’s not as crowded as Khlong Dao, and it has a more relaxing, laid-back atmosphere compared to other areas and beaches. The sand is not as fine, but it still an award-winning beach.

BEST FOR | backpackers, budget-friendly, eating & drinking and enjoying life

SHADE | you will find plenty of umbrellas for rent or restaurants offering shade

FACILITIES | there are many restaurants, bars, and shops in the area

People sunbathing on Klong Nin Beach in Koh Lanta next to dozens of umbrellas.

People relaxing under straw umbrellas in sand bags watching the ocean on Klong Nin Beach in Koh Lanta.

Kantiang Bay

This is a long, peaceful white-sand beach located in a quieter area, yet still well-developed with plenty of restaurant and bar options. It’s not crowded, which makes it a perfect spot to relax, and its spaciousness means there’s room for everyone to enjoy the calm atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind and take it all in without feeling overwhelmed.

BEST FOR | couples

SHADE | it is a bit difficult to find shade here

FACILITIES | the main street offers restaurants, resorts, shops, and massage parlors, while the beach has a few cozy restaurants and a laid-back bar

EAT | Black Swan & K.Himalaya Indian Restaurant

A couple of white sailing yachts anchoring in the blue water of Kantiang Beach in Koh Lanta.

Ao-Nui Bay

The sand is incredibly soft and fine, almost white, but what truly makes this beach special is the breathtaking view of the limestone cliffs on either side. While similar views can be found at other beaches, the bay here gives you a sense of being more enclosed, adding to its charm. It’s a stunning spot, perfect for swimming. Though there are some rocks, the crystal-clear water allows you to see them easily. The view from the beach to the sea and the viewpoint is spectacular, making it feel almost surreal.

You won’t miss it while driving by, as there are always plenty of scooters parked on both sides of the street. It’s a popular spot, and although the parking lot might seem busy, you’ll still find a place to unwind and enjoy. While it may seem like a smaller beach compared to others on the island, there’s plenty of space for everyone.

The path involves some uneven, rocky stairs, but it’s an easy route to navigate, even in sandals.

BEST FOR | couples

SHADE | a few palm-leave canopies and space under bushes and trees. Arrive early to grab a spot

FACILITIES | Just a small shack restaurant, selling Thai food and some drinks.

TIP | Watch out with the monkeys on the stairs. It is a perfect place to spot some, if you haven’t been lukcy yet. Monkeys love to steal your food and drinks, sunglasses and phones. So grab your valuables or store them properly while going on the stairs.

Colorful painted signs pinned to a tree in a forest leading the way to Ao Nui Bay in Koh Lanta.

A couple sitting on the beach of Ao Nui Bay watching at the clear blue water of the ocean.

A volleyball placed in the sand of a beachvolleyball field with a mountain covered with trees of Ao Nui Bay in Koh Lanta.

A grey makaki mother holding her baby sitting on the ground looking straight into the camera at Ao nui bay in Koh Lanta.

Khlong Chak

We liked this beach a lot. It has a few restaurants, massage parlors, and bungalows. While it’s not overly crowded, there’s still enough happening, without feeling isolated. The sand is very fine and water crystal-clear look like out of a postcard, and it’s perfect for swimming. There are a few stones in the water, but nothing that would harm you.

BEST FOR | couples, solo traveler

SHADE | there are a few trees in which you can find shade, but mostly restaurants provide umbrellas and shade

FACILITIES | a few restaurants and two massage huts at the beach

Two white sun loungers facing the ocean on the beach of Kantiang Bay in Koh Lanta.

Bamboo Beach

We loved this beach for its remote location at the southern tip of Koh Lanta, making it far less crowded than others—though don’t expect total seclusion, especially in peak season. Its wide stretch of soft, golden sand is perfect for relaxing, but amenities are limited. Umbrellas and sun loungers are only available at the beachfront restaurant. The clear, shallow waters are great for swimming, with only a few rocks in the middle, but strong currents and waves can make it less ideal on windy days.

BEST FOR | couples & those willing to find calm and relaxation

SHADE | there are a couple of trees that provide some shade towards the end and beginning of the beach. The restaurant shack rents loungers for ฿ 50.

FACILITIES | one restaurant with a restroom and a beach massage-parlor

A few people strolling on bamboo beach in ko lanta with the tree covered hill in the background.

Beyond the Top 5: More Great Beaches

Kawkwang Beach

There is really not much going on at this beach, even though it is in a busy area with a lot of restaurants and stays nearby. It has a soft and powdery sand but it is very shallow and not possible to swim. It is great for relaxing, because you’ll probably be the only one laying down, only a few people pass by and sunbathing, as it’s the only beach oriented toward north, so you won’t see the sunset.

BEST FOR | couples & backpackers

SHADE | there are enough trees to give you shade

FACILITIES | a few restaurants and stays toward the main street

A close-up of a wave flushing on the golden sand towards a sea shell in Bamboo beach in Koh Lanta

A green palm tree packed with coconuts seen from below with the blue sky in the background.

Khlong Dao

The beach is long and wide. For us, it felt a bit too busy, located in a very touristy area near the main strip. It’s perfect for those who want to spend the whole day at the beach with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby. However, it doesn't offer an authentic Thai experience, as it’s more crowded with shops. It's a great spot for those who prefer not to drive around, as it's conveniently located.

It's great for bathing since there are no rocks, and the water stays shallow for a long way. However, you'll need to walk out a bit further before you can fully swim.

BEST FOR | everyone, family-friendly & couples, backpackers

SHADE | there are enough trees to give you shade, restaurants & shade sets

FACILITIES | on the main street you will find restaurants, stays for every budget, shops and massage parlors

Long Beach / Phra Ae Beach

Long Beach boasts a 4 km stretch of soft, golden sand, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. While the water isn’t crystal-clear, it’s still inviting for a refreshing dip. The beach offers plenty of space, so it rarely feels too crowded, despite being one of the most popular spots on Koh Lanta. With a wide selection of restaurants, bars, and accommodations lining the shore, it’s a great choice for all types of travelers.

BEST FOR | everyone, family-friendly & couples, backpackers

SHADE | there is a mix between restaurants and trees offering enough possibilites to find some shade

FACILITIES | Restaurants, accommodations for all budgets, shops, massage parlors, plus plenty of beachfront bars and dining spots.

People sunbathing on Klong Dao beach in Koh Lanta at sunset.

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Beautiful Beach & Secret Beach

A stunning spot, but its small size makes it feel crowded, and it’s not ideal for swimming or wading in the shallow water. Large rocks cover the seabed, so you’ll need to watch your step. To reach Secret Beach, head to the right at low tide, carefully cross the rocks, or take the path behind the massage shack.

BEST FOR | couples

FACILITIES | there is only one small food shack and one massage shack

SHADE | very limited

Khlong Khong

Klong Kong Beach is a laid-back, 3-kilometer stretch of golden sand with a rugged, bohemian vibe. The shoreline is lined with palm trees, beachfront bungalows, and rustic bars that light up with fire shows and reggae music at night. While it’s not the best beach for swimming due to scattered rocks in the water, it’s perfect for sunbathing, long beach walks, and enjoying stunning sunsets.

BEST FOR | backpackers

FACILITIES | a few restaurants along the beach

SHADE | there are umbrellas and shade options offered by the restaurants

Scenic view from Diamond Cliff Restaurant of the empty beach of Nui Bay at sunrise with rocks in the water and palm tress reaching over the beach.

Nui Beach / Diamond Cliff Beach

You can park at Diamond Cliff Restaurant and take the stairs down to the beach. The last steps are steep, but the effort is worth it. Nui Bay feels secluded and is less crowded than other beaches. Some areas have rocks, while others are clear—so watch your step. There are no restaurants or shacks directly on the beach, so bring snacks, drinks, or grab a meal at the restaurant above. The sand is golden and slightly coarse but still beautiful. The water isn’t completely crystal-clear, but the atmosphere makes up for it.

BEST FOR | couples & backpackers

FACILITIES | the restaurant at the top

SHADE | several free shade huts are available

TIP | bring an extra beach towel to put on the shades, as you can still get sunburn with the green plastic transparent shade.

White sand beach of Mu Ko Lanta National Park with the white lighthouse at the end of the clear blue bay.

A black water monitor climbing up the sand in Mu Ko Lanta National Park.

Mu Ko National Park

This crescent-shaped beach is absolutely stunning, with dreamy white sand, calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming, and very few rocks. Arriving early lets you enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.

You can easily reach the beach via a short path from the parking lot—no hiking required. While there’s a scenic one-hour trail in the park, it’s not essential for visiting the beach. We even spotted an Asian monitor lizard along the shore. They’re harmless, but it’s best to observe them from a distance. To visit, you’ll need to pay both an entrance and parking fee for the national park.

BEST FOR | family-friendly & accessible, hiking-lovers

SHADE | you can find some shade under the trees along the beach

FACILITIES | One restaurant on the beach, plus a café and drink stand near the parking lot, restrooms are available

TIP | bring snacks and drinks along, if you want to stay for the day

OPEN | 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

ENTRANCE FEE | ฿200 | €6 | US$6 per adult

PARKING FEE | ฿20 | €1 | US$1 per scooter