Secrets of Koh Lanta: Your Adventure Handbook

Step into the tranquil haven of Koh Lanta, a serene contrast to the bustling scenes found elsewhere in Thailand. This captivating island invites you to embrace the art of relaxation as your primary pursuit. With its idyllic white sand beaches beckoning, you'll savor the blissful solitude that defines Koh Lanta. Whether you opt for leisurely sun-drenched days or embark on thrilling scooter expeditions to the island's national parks, Koh Lanta ensures a truly delightful escape.

Weather

November to April (Dry Season): Clear skies, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. December - February tend to be the coolest months making it peak season.

May to October (Wet Season): Expect higher humidity and frequent, intense showers. September and October typically see the most rainfall.

How to get to Koh Lanta

Arriving by ferry from Phuket was my chosen route, and I can't recommend it enough. While it may take a bit longer than a speedboat, the journey was comfortable, offering breathtaking views along the way. The ferry made a stop at Koh Phi Phi, where I transferred to a smaller boat bound for Koh Lanta. Despite the change, the process was seamless – a ferry crew member located me onboard and provided clear instructions. Easy peasy. When traveling to the pier in Phuket, I suggest arranging transportation through your accommodation. I learned the hard way that Grab isn't as reliable in this area.

Upon arriving on the smaller boat from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta, I organized transportation to my hostel with the crew members, paying 150 Baht for the convenience. However, it's worth noting that arranging your own transportation upon docking at the pier could potentially save you some money. Nonetheless, the process was straightforward.

When it was time for me to depart, I booked my onward journey to Ao Nang directly through my hostel.

❀ Navigating travel in Thailand has been one of the simplest and most

straightforward experiences I've encountered. It's an ideal choice for

both new and solo travelers. The locals are incredibly friendly, and

your hostel staff will be more than happy to assist with booking

various activities and transportation options. ❀

Where to Stay

❀ Best Stay Hostel - Among the most sought-after hostels on Koh Lanta, this hostel boasts a vibrant social atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for solo travelers like myself. Its prime location near the beach and within walking distance of numerous restaurants added to its appeal. The staff were incredibly welcoming and accommodating, and the complimentary breakfast was a delightful bonus. What more could one ask for?

Transportation

Tuk Tuks: Tuk-tuks are plentiful on the island, as are trucks with open beds for transportation. Simply step out onto the street and flag one down with ease. I often found tuk tuk's lined up along the busier corners.

Scooter Rentals: While many hostels provide scooter rentals, I observed that they often only had scooters available early in the morning. As an alternative, I opted to rent my scooter from Noom Scooter Rentals, conveniently located approximately 100 meters south of Best Stay Hostel.

What to Do

Mu Ko Lanta National Park: This stunning national park offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature. Take the hour-long nature walk, where you might spot some of Thailand's native wildlife. I recommend following the trail clockwise to end at the beach. Entrance was 200 Baht I believe. Don't miss the opportunity to climb up to the lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views and great photo ops! There's also a café here offering refreshing smoothies and snacks.

Khlong Chak Waterfall: Located in the southern part of the island within the National Park territory, this waterfall doesn't require a separate ticket if you visit on the same day as you did the National Park. However, parking costs 40 Baht per bike. Wear sporty water sandals or embrace your inner barefoot adventurer for the approximately 30-minute walk, much of which involves trudging through the river. Along the way, make sure to stop by the bat cave – a proper cave with spiders, bats, and intriguing nooks to explore if you're feeling brave! Although the waterfall is not particularly large, it offers a charming setting to relax and unwind. Optional: While it seemed straightforward, some families chose to hire a guide for the trip to the falls.

Beach Hopping: Koh Lanta boasts some of the most picturesque beaches I've ever seen, with pristine white sand and crystal-clear blue waters. Don't miss exploring:

Bamboo Beach
Long Beach
Nui Beach
Nui Bay
Kantiang Bay

Koh Lanta Old Town: Wander through the charming streets, perfect for souvenir shopping and leisurely window shopping. If you're lucky, you might catch a small night market near the pier, like we did on a Friday.

Boat Trip: Embark on a day trip for island hopping and snorkeling in the mesmerizing blue waters. The four-island trip is a popular choice among fellow travelers.

Take a Cooking Class: Learn the art of creating authentic Thai meals by joining a cooking class. Many hostels also offer these classes, providing a fun and educational experience.

Kayak through Mangroves: Rent a kayak and delve into Thailand's diverse nature, with a chance to spot various bird species and monkeys if luck is on your side!

Yoga: Whether you join a yoga or wellness retreat or simply find opportunities for yoga sessions around the island, it's a fantastic way to find your zen.

Volleyball: Look out for volleyball nets along Long Beach and Nui Bay. Grab a ball and some players for a guaranteed good time!

Where to Eat

❀ Tamarind Cuisine - This became my go-to spot, as I found myself dining here almost every day, sometimes even twice a day. The food consistently impressed me with its delicious flavors, and their mango sticky rice was simply divine!

Sam Pee Nong Family Seafood - A delightful discovery made while stopping for petrol, this restaurant boasts a stunning setting overlooking Bamboo Beach. Despite its picturesque location, prices were surprisingly reasonable. The menu features a variety of delectable dishes, with their noodles being a particular highlight.

N & N Restaurant - Indulge in delicious Thai cuisine accompanied by one of the best Thai Tea I encountered during my stay in Thailand.

The Backyard - For those craving Western fare, The Backyard is a must-visit. I enjoyed a memorable morning here indulging in a customizable smoothie bowl – simply select your base and choose five toppings to suit your preferences. The vibrant atmosphere adds to the experience.

Other Things to Note:

Glass House Co-Working Space: Koh Lanta is swiftly emerging as a digital nomad's haven, and the newly opened Glass House provides an excellent workspace for those needing a quiet area to get work done. While I didn't personally visit this workspace in Koh Lanta, my experience at the Glass House in Phuket was exceptional, with its beautifully laid-out environment.

Money: There are plenty of ATMs conveniently located throughout Koh Lanta. During my stay, I found that I had enough Baht on hand, but the ATM right outside Best Stay Hostel seemed to be quite popular. Cash exchange services are also readily available on Koh Lanta. Just ensure that your money is in perfect condition for acceptance.

SIM Card: While I typically purchase my SIM card upon arrival at the airport in a new country, if you find yourself in need of one upon reaching Koh Lanta, worry not. You'll find numerous convenience stores and phone shops on the island that sell SIM cards.

Laundry: There's no shortage of laundry facilities on Koh Lanta in case your hostel doesn't offer laundry services, although many do. Expect to pay between 40-60 Baht per kilogram for laundry services.

As we wrap up this guide to Koh Lanta, I hope it has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration for your upcoming adventure. From uncovering hidden gems to indulging in the island's natural beauty, Koh Lanta offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a beach enthusiast, an adventurous explorer, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this island has something special to offer every traveler. So, pack your bags, embark on your journey, and let Koh Lanta weave its magic on you. Here's to unforgettable experiences and cherished memories on this tropical paradise!