12 Must-Visit Beaches on Koh Lanta for Your Ultimate Adventure
KOH LANTA BEACHES — QUICK GUIDE
Best Time to Visit: November–April (dry & sunny)
How Many Beaches: 12 stunning beaches along the west coast
Perfect For: Swimmers, sunset lovers, families, adventure seekers
Best Sunset Spots: Long Beach, Relax Bay, Klong Nin
Calm & Quiet: Kantiang Bay, Bamboo Beach
Adventure Areas: Mu Ko Lanta National Park, Nui Bay
Why Visit: Golden sand, crystal water, peaceful vibes & unforgettable sunsets
Best Places to Stay (Booking.com):
• Layana Resort & Spa — Adults Only (Luxury)
• Pimalai Resort & Spa — 5-Star Luxury
• Lanta Casa Blanca — Beachfront Mid-Range
When we first arrived on Koh Lanta, we couldn’t wait to explore the entire island, especially with the goal of finding the best beaches. Excited and ready for adventure, we hopped on a motorbike and set off to discover what this beach lover’s paradise had in store.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hideaway or a lively shoreline filled with restaurants and activities, Koh Lanta truly has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll share the beaches and areas we loved most—so you can quickly find the perfect spot for your own Koh Lanta experience.
This post is not in any special order, but every beach we mention is worth visiting. We also point out our personal favorites and the must-see beaches if you are short on time. With about 20 beaches on the island, each day felt like a new adventure. From the first beach we visited, we knew Koh Lanta had something special, with clear water for snorkeling and soft sand perfect for relaxing.
Some beaches are lively with restaurants, bars, and water activities, while others are quiet and hidden for a more peaceful escape. Koh Lanta truly has a beach for every type of traveler, and exploring them showed us that this island is a real beach-hopping paradise.
Short on time?
Secret Beach
Secret Beach on Koh Lanta is a true hidden gem, loved for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Getting there takes a little effort, since you need to take a short hike or walk over the rocks along the coastline. It is not as well marked as other beaches, but don’t let that stop you.
The quiet setting and stunning views make the journey worth it. Once you arrive, you will find a calm, untouched spot that feels far from the crowds, perfect for anyone looking for a more private beach experience.
Once you arrive, you will find soft golden sand and clear water that is perfect for swimming. Secret Beach is small and has no restaurants or shops, so bring your own water and snacks. The lack of facilities creates a calm, natural setting away from the crowds.
There are no restrooms or amenities, so plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon. It is an ideal spot to relax, read, swim, or enjoy a quiet picnic while taking in the peaceful beauty of Koh Lanta’s coastline.
Map of Koh Lanta’s 12 Beautiful Beaches
We created a simple map to help you explore all 12 beautiful beaches across Koh Lanta.
The map above showcases our top 12 beaches in Koh Lanta. To view a larger version, click here .
Beautiful Beach
When you visit Secret Beach, make sure to stop by Beautiful Beach right next door. You can walk over the rocks during low tide to get there. Beautiful Beach quickly became one of our favorite spots on the island, and we ended up returning almost every day. The name fits perfectly because it truly is a beautiful beach.
Why We Loved Beautiful Beach
Beautiful Beach is easy to reach and has its own parking area. There is a small shack on the sand where you can get smoothies, juices, coconuts, and snacks. We especially loved the mango smoothie. You can also rent a kayak for an amazing sunset experience, and this beach is one of the best places on the island to watch the sun go down.
Just keep in mind that many people come here for sunset, so it can get a little crowded.
What Makes Beautiful Beach Unique
Beautiful Beach also has massage spots, and getting a massage while watching the sunset is an amazing experience. Some evenings, we even had unexpected visitors. Instead of dogs, cows often wander onto the beach during sunset, and tourists love them. Some walk by, while others settle on the sand to enjoy the view.
Stunning Sunsets and Relaxing Waters
The sunsets at Beautiful Beach are truly breathtaking. Each evening, the sky fills with shades of orange, pink, and purple as the sun slowly drops below the horizon. It creates a peaceful, magical atmosphere that is perfect for photos or simply enjoying the moment. The colors reflecting on the calm water make the scene even more memorable.
The beach is also great for swimming, with warm, clear water and no corals to worry about. It is an easy place to relax, and we spent many hours here soaking up the sun and watching incredible sunsets.
Klong Nin Beach
Lanta Klong Nin Beach is a long stretch of soft white sand that is perfect for afternoon walks and watching the sunset. At low tide, you may see some rocks, which can make swimming a little harder, but the beach remains a peaceful place to relax. Located on the west side of the island, it is known for its colorful sunsets and calm atmosphere.
The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, hipster cafes, and great places for dinner. We often walked here before sunset and stayed for a meal afterward. You will also find massage spots, small gift shops, and even a letter shop that personalizes journals. In the evenings, beanbags are set out for people to enjoy the view, and the area is home to the beautiful SriLanta Resort and Spa, which adds to the charm of this beach.
Discover & Book Things to Do
Relax Bay Beach
Relax Bay Beach was the first beach we visited in Koh Lanta. Located between Beautiful Beach and Long Beach, it is a calm white sand beach with warm, turquoise water that feels peaceful from the moment you arrive. The beach has plenty of massage spots, several water activities, and cozy bungalows along the shore. It is also home to the charming beachfront Lanta Casa Blanca.
Food and Convenience at Relax Bay
Relax Bay has several restaurants that serve tasty Thai food and refreshing drinks, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with a beautiful view. We had our first dinner here, and if you want more options, check out our post on the 10 Best Places to Eat in Koh Lanta.
There is also a 24-hour 7-Eleven just a short 5 to 7 minute walk away. Since Relax Bay is less crowded than other beaches, it is perfect for sunbathing, reading, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of Koh Lanta.
Coconut Palm Beach
Coconut Palm Beach is one of the cutest beaches on the island. This hidden gem is lined with tall coconut palms, giving the beach its name and adding to its tropical charm. The soft golden sand and calm, clear water make it a perfect place for swimming or relaxing.
What Makes Coconut Palm Beach Special
Unlike the more developed beaches on Koh Lanta, Coconut Palm Beach remains quiet and untouched by mass tourism. You will not find large resorts or busy bars here, which makes it a peaceful escape. Even with the lovely Blue Andaman Lanta Resort nearby, the beach feels calm and uncrowded.
There is only one beachfront restaurant, Lanta Meeting Point, where you can enjoy a simple meal with a relaxing view. This beach is perfect for peaceful walks or spending the day in the shade of the palm trees.
Bamboo Beach
Bamboo Beach is a true paradise and one of our favorite beaches on Koh Lanta. Secluded and surrounded by beautiful mountains, it is perfect for anyone looking for a quiet escape. If you plan to stay nearby, LaLaanta Hideaway Resort is the only accommodation, and it is a real gem with two pools, a restaurant, and its own private beach. The area is peaceful, and the beach is about 45 minutes from Saladan Pier.
Getting to Bamboo Beach
We visited Bamboo Beach several times, and parking was always easy. You can park along the road or take the dirt path to park closer to the sand. The drive is beautiful, passing through a jungle where you may see monkeys in the trees or even on the road, along with the sounds of many birds in the background.
What to Expect at Bamboo Beach
When you reach the end of the road, you will see friendly chickens and beautiful dogs wandering around. The beach has one small bar where you can enjoy a mango smoothie on a hot day. If you are visiting with kids, they will love the swings along the beach, which add a fun touch to this peaceful spot.
Facilities at Bamboo Beach
Bamboo Beach has public toilets and showers, all set up in a simple, island-style way. You can also enjoy a relaxing beach massage in one of the small huts nearby. The beach is very clean, with beautiful turquoise water that is perfect for a peaceful swim or lounging on the soft sand while enjoying the quiet surroundings.
Why You Should Stay at Bamboo Beach
We recommend staying here for at least two days to truly enjoy this part of the island, Bamboo Beach, and the relaxed atmosphere of the resort. It is the perfect place to unwind, whether you are lounging by the pools, taking a sunset swim, or enjoying a beachside massage. Keep in mind that Bamboo Beach is remote and far from nightlife and busy restaurants, making it ideal for anyone looking for a quiet and refreshing escape surrounded by beautiful nature.
Nui Bay Beach
Nui Bay Beach is one of our favorite hidden spots on Koh Lanta. This small, quiet beach feels untouched and is a great escape from the busier areas. With no resorts around, it offers soft sand, clear water, and a peaceful place to relax. A small local shack serves refreshing drinks, and rustic palm leaf umbrellas provide shade, adding to the laid-back vibe.
How to Reach Nui Bay
To reach Nui Bay, you will park along the main road and take a short hike down man-made steps, which adds a little adventure to the visit. The path goes through lush greenery and leads you to a beautiful, quiet beach. Once you arrive, you can rent a kayak from the local shack and explore the coastline at your own pace. Just keep in mind that swimming is best in certain areas, since the rocky seabed can make some spots less ideal.
A Peaceful Moment at Nui Bay
The quiet beauty of Nui Bay Beach inspires reflection and gratitude. As you take in the gentle waves, swaying palm trees, and soft golden sand, it becomes easy to appreciate how precious each moment is. Enjoy the simple joys, slow down, and cherish the little things, because life moves quickly and every day is a gift. Remember, it’s only temporary, so make the most of every beautiful moment.
Bakantiang Beach
Kantiang Bay, also called Bakantiang Beach, is a beautiful coastline that stretches almost 2 kilometers and is perfect for a quiet morning walk. The mountains around the bay create a stunning backdrop, although there is very little shade on the beach, especially on sunny days. The beach is rarely crowded, and the warm, clear water with a long, stone-free shoreline makes it great for swimming or relaxing. When we visited, we almost had the entire beach to ourselves, which made the experience even more peaceful.
Kantiang Village
Just before you reach Bakantiang Beach, you will come across the small and charming Kantiang Village. It has gift shops, tour services, restaurants, and massage spots, making it a great place to stop for a break or pick up a few souvenirs. If you need cash, there is an ATM in the village, and there is also a 7-Eleven for snacks or essentials before heading to the beach. If you want to see our favorite must-try 7-Eleven products in Thailand, check out our blog for the full list.
Location and Nearby Spots
Bakantiang Beach is about 30 minutes from Lanta Old Town and only 10 minutes from Khlong Chak Waterfall, making it a great base for exploring both the beach and nearby nature. If you are here around lunchtime, Same Same But Different Restaurant is a great place to enjoy a meal, a mango smoothie, or a fresh coconut.
Atmosphere at Bakantiang Beach
During our visit, friendly dogs wandered around and kept us company, adding to the relaxed feel of the beach. There is also a bar called Why Not, known for its hippie vibe, live music, and fire shows. It is a fun place to unwind and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the area.
A Unique Wall of Shoes
While we were there, we learned something interesting. During the monsoon season, shoes wash up on the shore, and the restaurant collected them over just three months to create a unique wall of shoes. It is a surprising reminder of how the sea brings things to the beach.
Where to Stay at Bakantiang Beach
If you plan to stay at Bakantiang Beach, Pimalai Resort and Spa is a beautiful choice. It offers luxury and serenity, perfectly matching the peaceful surroundings of the area.
Phra Ae Beach (Long Beach)
Phra Ae Beach, also called Long Beach, is the longest beach on Koh Lanta, stretching about 5 kilometers. It has golden sand, plenty of shade from pine trees, and a mix of palms that gives the beach a unique look. Even though it is one of the busiest beaches on the island, you can still find quiet spots, especially on the right side.
Long Beach is close to Saladan Village, the first stop when you arrive in Koh Lanta. The village is full of gift shops with souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts. The night market is a highlight, offering great street food, fresh produce, and local treats that give you a taste of the region. It is also a good place to meet friendly locals and enjoy the village atmosphere.
Dining and Activities at Long Beach
This lively beach is great for water sports and has many restaurants and beach bars along the shore. Many tourists stay here because it is in a convenient location, only a 10 minute drive from both Saladan Pier and Lanta Old Town. One place we recommend is Mr. Wee’s at the north end of the beach, where the pizza is a must try. If you want more ideas, check out our post on the 10 Best Places to Eat in Koh Lanta.
Island Hopping and Relaxation
From Long Beach, it is easy to go on island hopping trips or try different water sports. Many tour services operate right from the beach, and most offer similar prices, unlike other islands where prices vary a lot. Along the shore, you will also find plenty of massage spots that get busy later in the day, especially before sunset. It is the perfect way to relax after exploring or enjoying water activities while watching the beautiful sunset.
Kayaking and Snorkeling at Long Beach
You can rent a kayak and enjoy the calm water, or try snorkeling right from the shore. We even spotted a few tropical fish without snorkeling, while many others were out in the water exploring the sea life. It is a fun and easy way to enjoy the beauty beneath the surface.
Where to Stay at Long Beach
Phra Ae Beach has a wide range of accommodations, making it convenient for visitors. It is also home to the beautiful Layana Resort and Spa, a luxury option right on the beach. Even though it is the busiest beach on the island, Long Beach remains one of our favorite places in Koh Lanta.
Sunset Views at Long Beach
The sunsets here are absolutely breathtaking, with colors that change so beautifully it feels like a fairytale. It is one of the most stunning places to watch the sunset on Koh Lanta.
Klong Hin Beach
Klong Hin Beach on the southwest coast of Koh Lanta feels like a place where time slows down. If you want to escape the crowds, this quiet stretch of white sand is the perfect spot to relax. With very few hotels nearby, you can easily end up having the beach almost to yourself, just as we did. The peaceful setting makes you appreciate the beauty of nature even more.
The water is crystal clear and great for swimming. During low tide, you will see some rocks along the shore, but they are easy to avoid and even make the snorkeling better. We spent hours exploring the marine life, swimming with colorful fish, and enjoying the calm atmosphere of this beautiful beach.
Sunset and Serenity at Klong Hin
The sunsets at Klong Hin Beach are unforgettable. As the day fades, the sky fills with deep oranges and purples, creating a beautiful glow over the sand. Watching the sun drop below the horizon in such a quiet place is a moment you will remember long after you leave.
Klong Hin Beach feels like a true hidden gem. It is peaceful, beautiful, and untouched by mass tourism, making it a perfect retreat for anyone who wants to recharge away from the crowds. If you are in Koh Lanta and need a quiet slice of paradise, this is the place to find it.
Sunset Rock Viewpoint & Tricky-Trocky Beach
While visiting Sunset Rock Viewpoint in Koh Lanta, we stumbled upon a little gem—Tricky-Trocky Beach. Tucked away at the southernmost tip of Koh Lanta, this tiny off-the-beaten-track beach is one of those places that feels like a secret. It’s not well-known, and judging by how secluded it is, it’s probably one of the least-visited beaches on the island.
A Hidden Pirate-Like Beach
To reach Tricky Trocky Beach, you hike down a hill surrounded by palms, which adds a sense of adventure. When we arrived, it felt like a scene from a pirate story, a hidden spot where a crew might rest after a long journey. The beach is very small, with space for only about 10 people. But during our three week stay in Koh Lanta, we never saw anywhere close to that many people here or on most beaches, except for Long Beach and Beautiful Beach.
Why Visit Tricky Trocky Beach
The beach is not ideal for swimming because of the rocks and pebbles, but it is perfect for snorkeling. The marine life is vibrant, and we saw many colorful fish swimming through the rocks.
A highlight of our visit was the view from Sunset Rock Viewpoint and the palm forests below. From the beach, you get the same beautiful scenery. It is a quiet, unique spot that feels like a small hidden paradise, great for anyone looking for a peaceful snorkeling escape.
Klong Khong Beach
During our time in Koh Lanta, we spent most of our days at Klong Khong Beach. It was our local spot, only a quick 3 minute walk from our resort. This beach has a lot to offer, and it quickly became one of our favorite places on the island.
Why We Loved Klong Khong
Klong Khong is a great mix of relaxation and excitement. The beach is lined with excellent restaurants, and the nightlife is lively, similar to Long Beach. What we loved most were the sunsets. We watched many of them here, and each one felt better than the last. Klong Khong might have the best sunsets on the island.
What to Expect at Klong Khong
The water at Klong Khong is crystal clear and great for swimming at high tide, and at low tide the beach has a unique, almost otherworldly look. There are plenty of water sports, and the beach barbecues were one of our favorite experiences. Cooking your own food by the water while watching fire shows made the nights feel alive. With palm trees, peaceful evening walks, and a relaxed atmosphere, Klong Khong is beautiful at any time of day.
Final Thoughts on Klong Khong
If you want an unforgettable experience in Koh Lanta, Klong Khong Beach is the place to be. And if you want to discover our top 10 favorite restaurants on the island, visit our blog for the full guide. Whether you enjoy great food, stunning sunsets, or fun nights by the beach, Klong Khong Beach has it all.
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