Koh Lanta Yai makes up the largest part of the Koh Lanta archipelago, located in southern Krabi province. It is less well-known than other Thai islands, but those who visit love it for its beautiful natural landscapes and the great hospitality of its local residents. Here, Thai culture at its best is featured, making it a wonderful place for family getaways.
Location
The island is only 70 km from Krabi, which means a ferry ride from local piers Ao Nang or Khlong Chilat will get you there in about a half an hour, plus another 20 minutes by ground transport if you’re coming from the airport. There is also an option to travel from Phuket International Airport, which will see you travelling about an hour on the road and another four hours with a stop at Ko Phi Phi Don Island or Cape Riley by sea. For either option, it’s best to check with your tour operator about times, as ferries depart in the morning only and the schedule can vary.
Beach Vacations
The main beach on Koh Lanta Yai is Klong Dao, located on the west coast along with the other eight beaches on the island. The east side of the island is made up of mountains and jungles.
The Koh Lanta National Marine Park is based in the far south of the island and protects the jungle, rainforest areas, and the many surrounding islands.
Activities & entertainment
Koh Lanta is not unlike other Thai escapes offering traditional island resort activities. You’ll certainly want to strap on an oxygen tank and check out the fabulous coral reefs located not far from the hotel beaches. Then there’s snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, long-tail boat trips to nearby islands, lessons and matches in Muay Thai or Thai boxing, elephant tracking, cooking courses, and so much more. The traditional local game of handmade beach tennis – think tennis and beach volleyball mixed together, will keep your early evenings occupied. Games start at 16.30 in front of the Hans restaurant.
Stray a little farther from the beach and you’ll find orchids in the plenty at nearby greenhouses, or check out the Khao Mai Kaew cave labyrinth. Even the local architecture, featuring famous Thai stilt houses, is a sight to see. And don’t forget to make some time for the clan of “Sea Gypsies”, a tribal culture dating back more than 1,000 years, who own a part of the island and keep it supplied with fresh fish and seafood.
Craving a little nightlife? Check out the town of Saladan, where a modest option featuring evening entertainment is on offer. Generally, however, the same services and facilities are available here as in any Thai resort town: shops, bars, restaurants, hotels, massage and SPA-salons, cultural shows, and more.
Prices
Accommodation costs vary from high-end to budget, though prices in bars and restaurants are very reasonable.
Please note:
Koh Lanta Yai, like the rest of the province of Krabi, is one of the most multicultural regions in Thailand. Locals speak in a southern dialect, which is sometimes difficult to understand even by Thai people, so patience is a must. International languages, other than English, are not spoken here.