Koh Lanta Beaches

The west coast of Koh Lanta is one long empty beachfront that really gives you the feeling of being isolated from civilization without the inconveniences associated with being miles away from human habitation. Although there are resorts all along the 25 km (15 miles) of seaside they are largely made from natural materials and blend right in with their surroundings, allowing you to feel as if you're the only person on earth. Even during the height of tourist season there are never many people on Koh Lanta and the island remains one of Thailand's best kept secrets.

A main road runs parallel to the beaches on the western side and its here that you'll find most of the restaurants, shops and services, as well as the entrances to the resorts. If you need a ride this is the place to hail the local taxis, motorbikes with large sidecars equipped with bench seats. During high season you're spoiled for choice but many of these places close down during the low season.

The two northernmost beaches of Koh Lanta are the closest to the dock and Ban Saladan, the main town of Koh Lanta, with the result that they are the most populated areas with more resorts, restaurants and shops. Of course 'populated' by Koh Lanta standards is still pretty sparse and these small villages are quite basic. The middle island beaches tend to attract the backpacker set and those looking to escape from everyone. There are still resorts and services but they tend to small, ramshackle family run places bursting with local charm. Farther south you find Klong Nin and Klong Hin beaches, both gaining popularity with European holiday-makers looking for total relaxation. The beaches at the far southern end of the island, near Moo Koh Lanta National Park are the remotest and the most untouched by man. There are scattered resorts here, with the standout being the unforgettable five star Pimalai Resort, which provides the serenity of nature and all the luxury you would expect from a top quality resort.

Klong Dao Beach

3 km (1.8 miles) of soft powdery white sand and incredibly calm water make this the most popular beach on Koh Lanta. Known all over Thailand for its unrivalled sunsets, this beach has attracted the highest number of upmarket hotels and resorts and has more services than any other beach. Despite being the most popular beach, Klong Dao is far from overdeveloped and what resorts there are remain unobtrusive and simple, preserving the secluded atmosphere. At the south end of the beach local fisherman use the natural rock harbour as a base and there are usually picturesque fleets of longtail boats moored there.

Klong Dao is only 3 km (1.8 miles) from the main town area of Koh Lanta, Ban Saladan, where you will find most of the restaurants and bars as well as numerous shops and the major market on the island. Ferries coming to Koh Lanta from the mainland dock at Ban Saladan and travellers arriving on the island will find banks, internet cafés and tour booking agencies here.

Phra Ae Beach (Long Beach)

Just south of Klong Dao Beach lies Phra Ae Beach, also known as Long Beach, another long and lonely stretch of sand. The dunes on the inland side slope gently down to meet the warm inviting water which laps against the soft sand. The tides here are very mild and there's rarely any current so this is another great place for a swim, a jog or just lazing around soaking up sunshine. There are quite a few modest resorts along this stretch and a few top end resorts have started to eye the area, which means there are plenty of restaurants and little shops where you can pick up sundries. Restaurants and bars dot the dunes overlooking Long Beach and you can find an array of simple Thai restaurants to pizzerias and resort-style fine dining.

Klong Kong and Klong Tob

These two beaches are nearly identical stretches of golden sands and clear waters. Fringed with palm trees, these beaches often host parties that go until dawn during the high season. If you're looking for a little fun to go with your relaxation try these two out, as they are known for having the friendliest locals of Koh Lanta.

Klong Hin and Klong Nin

Two more stretches of palm trees and golden sands. The farther south you go on Koh Lanta, the more rustic and remote the surroundings become. Klong Hin and Klong Nin are the last two beach areas that are easily accessible from the main road. Klong Hin is especially perfect for swimmers, being sheltered from the currents by its southern location.

Kan Tiang Beach

This far from the main town on Koh Lanta and you get into real rustic territory. The road narrows and becomes a series of dips and dives that can provide some spectacular sea views. During the rainy season you will probably need some sort of four wheel drive vehicle to penetrate this far south. Fortunately any resort will be able to arrange such transport to and from Ban Saladan. Those intrepid enough to make the trip will be richly rewarded with a pristine and unspoilt area of staggering natural beauty. This area has only a smattering of resorts including the top-quality Pimalai Resort.

Nui, Ao Mai Pai and Ao Klong Jark

Rugged and wild, these small beaches offer an incredible deserted island feel for those willing to travel to them. Klong Jark features a sort of 'waterfall' popular with Thais and foreigners alike while Ao Mai Pai has some of the best snorkelling you'll find from the beach. Nui Beach is small and may take some time to find but it'll be worth it when you're the only person for miles around, even in the middle of high season.