Kayaking
The east side of Koh Lanta is lush with mangrove forests to explore. You can bring some snacks for the monkey gangs that might board your boat and rob you. I’m kinda joking, but you really should hide anything you would be very upset to get taken into the trees. The 30km long canal is a relaxing scenic route, but kayaking along the beaches is nice too. There are towering cliffs along some stretches of the island which reveal hidden caves you can enter only when the water level is low. There are many places you can rent Kayaks or choose a package tour that will provide a guide to show you the best spots and usually snacks and a meal. We can help you arrange trips from Chill Out 🙂
Diving & Snorkeling
Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities in Koh Lanta. There are some spots to snorkel off the coast of the island, but it’s recommended to book a day trip for snorkeling. There are 2 called ‘Ko Rok Trip’ or ‘Four Islands Trip ( Koh Ngai, Koh Mook, Koh Chuek, Koh Kradan )’ that are the most popular. There are many scattered tiny islands that are right off the coast of Koh Lanta that are better for snorkeling due to all the white sandy beaches we have- awesome for swimming, not so much for clear and interesting shallow sea life. Koh Rok, a short longtail boat ride away is considered one of the most beautiful islands within the Koh Lanta National Marine Park. It’s famous for its abundant and colorful coral beds and breathtaking panorama. Waterproof camera is advised!
Koh Lanta is surrounded by many popular diving sites in the Andaman Sea such as Hin Daeng-Hin Muang and Koh Ha. There are more than 200 types of hard coral and 108 reef fish cataloged in a study underway with still thousands more unique and interesting things to check out. Many divers from around the world come to the Andaman Sea for it’s abundances of vibrant sea life diversity. There are many certified diving schools and centers to choose from- serving everyone from Master Divers to newbies looking to get their feet wet for the first time. Here’s the word on the street about diving here verse a place like Koh Tao: If your first priority is staying within a super tight budget, save the diving for Koh Tao. If you want a more personal experience with a little more care, smaller groups, and relaxed atmosphere, Lanta is a great place to dive. The reef is alive with flourishing life and you won’t be treated like a number here.
Island Hopping
There are many tour options to see some of the 52 surrounding mini islands. There’s one tour called the ‘4 Islands Tour’ that’s always a favorite. You get to snorkel in 2 places, have lunch (provided) on an amazing beach that looks like a postcard, and swim through the famous Emerald Cove. We can help you arrange trips and you’ll get picked up
Animal Welfare Center
These guys are great! Just a 10-15 minute stroll up the road, visiting Animal Welfare is the top rated unique activity on the island. Founded by the owner of Time For Lime, a great Thai cooking school and restaurant, this place is responsible for saving and improving the quality of life for countless animals here on the island. Unfortunately sometimes there’s even trouble in paradise and not everyone is kind hearted towards the stray animals here on the island- but luckily, Animal Welfare helps to keep the population under control and find loving homes for our furry friends. You can visit the center and get a free tour of the facilities by one of their volunteers. You can also take a dog down for a walk on the beach or just enjoy some puppy or kitten playtime. We are big supporters of what they’re doing here and recommend heading over to Time For Lime for a cooking class or dinner- where a portion of their profits go towards supporting the Center’s efforts. You can find out more about them (and even do an over-seas adoption!) by going to their website: www.lantaanimalwelfare.com
Caves & Waterfalls
Aside from the hidden caves you can access via kayak when the water level is low, there are some great natural wonders to explore inland on the island.
Khao Mai Keaw Cave – just inland from Klong Nin, you can take the 30 minute jungle hike to the small cave entrance (a guide is requires). Then once inside, you’ll be lead through passages big and small. Please remember to wear clothes that you are comfortable getting dirty. This is not recommended for people that suffer from claustrophobia.
Tiger Cave – You can see the turn off sign for this cave just south of Klong Nin along the main road. A little more hidden, but a fun adventure to find it while cruising the island.
Great Restaurants
Lanta is a great foodie island with many options for cuisine around the world. Below are just a few of our favorites, but feel free to ask us about other options if you have something specific that you’re craving- there’s a good chance that we know where to get it.
Restaurant 1 – information about it
Restaurant 2 – information about it
Restaurant 3 – information about it
Baan Chao Koh Cottages 