Ko Lanta Yai
Large, laid-back island south of Krabi with a string of long west-coast beaches, a relaxed vibe and easy access to nearby dive/snorkel sites.
- Category
- Islands
- Entrance fee
- Free to visit the island (Mu Ko Lanta NP fee only applies at the southern park HQ/Koh Rok)
- Hours
- N/A (island)
- Best time
- Nov–Apr; many businesses close in low season
- Time needed
- 2+ nights recommended
About Ko Lanta Yai
Ko Lanta is for travelers who want calm over nightlife. It is a big, laid-back island with a string of long west-coast beaches and a mellow pace, and it is genuinely underrated next to the busier Krabi hotspots.
Give it a couple of nights. It rewards a slower stay, with easy access to nearby dive and snorkel sites and enough beach to spread out on.
The big caveat is seasonal: Lanta nearly shuts down in the May to October monsoon, so time your visit for the dry season when everything is open.
Highlights
- String of long, quiet west-coast beaches
- Relaxed pace, much calmer than Phi Phi
- Easy access to nearby dive and snorkel sites
- Rewards a multi-night, slow stay
Tips
- Plan at least a couple of nights
- Visit in the dry season, much of the island closes May–Oct
- Getting there takes minivans and car ferries, or a high-season speedboat
- Best for calm seekers, not nightlife hunters
How to get there
~2–2.5 hr from Krabi Town by minivan + car ferries, or high-season direct speedboat/ferry from Ao Nang/Krabi (~400–600 THB)