Phra Ae Beach (Long Beach)
A roughly 3 km stretch of white sand, the island's main backpacker-to-midrange hub, lined with beach bars, hammocks, restaurants and a lively but relaxed sunset scene.
- Category
- Beaches
- Entrance fee
- Free
- Hours
- Open 24 hours (daylight recommended for swimming)
- Best time
- Nov-Apr dry season; famous for sunset and beach bars in the evening
- Time needed
- Half day
- Difficulty
- Easy
About Phra Ae Beach (Long Beach)
Long Beach is the island's main hub for the backpacker-to-midrange crowd, and it's where a lot of people base themselves. You get a long stretch of white sand lined with beach bars, hammocks and restaurants, and a sunset scene that's lively but still relaxed rather than a full-on party.
Honestly, this is the best strip for food and bars on Lanta, so it's a great pick if you want somewhere to eat, drink and watch the sun go down within walking distance of your room. It has a good social energy without being overwhelming.
One caveat for swimmers: the north end can have soft, steep drop-offs and occasional debris, so pick your spot. Evenings are the draw here, and the dry season is the time to come.
Highlights
- Long white-sand beach and the island's main social hub
- The best beach bar and food strip on Lanta
- Hammocks and a lively but relaxed sunset scene
- Great walkable base for backpacker-to-midrange travellers
Tips
- Come in the evening for the bars, food and sunset
- Choose your swim spot carefully; the north end has soft, steep drop-offs and occasional debris
- Great base if you want food and nightlife within walking distance
- Visit in the Nov-Apr dry season and swim in daylight
How to get there
About 4-6 km south of Saladan (~10-15 min by scooter or songthaew)