THE ISLAND

Ko Lanta with its vast beaches along its 25 km west coast is already a popular beach holiday destination, but it’s still a long way from the development and popularity of nearby Phuket or Ko Phi Phi. Ko Lanta is the largest of more than 50 islands in an archipelago in Andaman Sea protected by the Ko Lanta Marine National Park. This makes Ko Lanta not only a beach holiday spot but a perfect base for diving and snorkeling trips.

The name Ko Lanta usually refers to the larger island of two – Ko Lanta Yai, the adjacent smaller and less developed island is called Ko Lanta Noi.

Ko Lanta has a population of approximately 15 000 people. The majority of the local population is moderate Muslims and there are no religious tensions in the area. The island is also relatively free of crime and other vices.

Most of Ko Lanta’s nightlife is concentrated on the north-western side of the island. The action gradually dies down to the south away from Saladan town, but on high season frequent parties are held all over the island’s beaches and bars. 

The nearest airports are at Krabi, Trang, and Phuket. All three airports have direct road and/or boat connections with Ko Lanta. There are regular daily ferry boats operating between Ko Lanta and Krabi, Phuket, and Ko Phi Phi.

Diving & Snorkeling 

Near Ko Lanta the Andaman Sea offers some of the best diving conditions in Thailand for both beginners and advanced divers. There is enormous variety of coral reefs, marine life, caves, rocks, islands and islets with stunning visibility and beautiful underwater landscapes, all accessible from Ko Lanta by an hour or few of boat ride. 

Snorkeling can be done around several nearby islands and islets which are all accessible from Ko Lanta via speedboat or long tail boat.

If you don’t mind little swimming you can go snorkeling just off the Relax Beach.

Ask for a diving, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, trekking and any other trips at Sea Culture, we are always glad to find an experience just for you.

Khao Mai Kaew Caves 

Monsoon rains have created a complex of caves and tunnels in the center of the island which house impressive stalactites and stalagmites, some of the caves are very large and one contains a pool. The mandatorily guided trip to the caves offers several wow-effects and 1,5-2 hours of good aerobic exercise.

Thai cooking courses

Several cooking schools on Ko Lanta offer tourists a chance to learn to cook their favorite Asian dishes.

THAI BOXING

There are two boxing arenas on Ko Lanta which host regular events. One also holds training camps popular among tourists who wish to learn the art of Muay Thai.

Lanta animal shelter

An unusual aspect about Ko Lanta is that there are almost no stray dogs on this island. And one of the main reasons for that is the Lanta Animal Welfare.

You can visit the animal shelter, volunteer to work there or help by donating or just taking the friendly dogs living at the shelter for a walk.

Find out more at www.lantaanimalwelfare.com

Moving markets

While Ko Lanta’s handicraft and clothing markets tend to stay at one place, mostly near Saladan town, the food market is moving to a different marketplace every day of the week. Food market is near Sea Culture usually on Thursdays. It’s worth a visit for local fruits, vegetables, seafood and finger-food.

Lanta Old town

Ban Ko Lanta on the eastern coast of the island was the original port and commercial center which provided a safe harbor for Arabic and Chinese trading vessels sailing between Phuket, Penang and Singapore.

There are handicraft shops along the main street, some pier restaurants offer up fresh catch and have views over the sea, a small afternoon market is open on Sundays.

Massage & Yoga

If your feet, back or entire body requires a relieving touch you can find reasonably priced Thai massage almost anywhere on Ko Lanta. You can enjoy massages also in different spots on Relax Beach.

For alleviating both body and mind yoga classes are open in several places on Ko Lanta, some are located near Sea Culture.