Hello, I’m Lee. If you ever meet me on Phuket, you’ll usually find me somewhere between Patong and Promthep Cape – or on one of the islands nearby. Today I’m taking you to Koh Lanta. This is the island when you want to leave Phuket’s hustle behind for a few days. Less partying, more sand, more relaxation.
In this guide I’ll show you exactly how to get from Phuket to Koh Lanta, which ferries run, which beaches you shouldn’t miss, and what I personally recommend. No travel agency talk – just my honest tips.
| Location | Southwest coast of Thailand, Krabi Province – west of Phuket, Andaman Sea |
|---|---|
| Arrival from Phuket | Ferry from Rassada Pier or Bang Rong Pier; combined minibus and ferry transfers available |
| Ferry Travel Time | Approx. 2 hours (depending on operator and route) |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April (dry season, calm sea, regular ferry connections) |
| Main Beaches | Long Beach (Phra Ae Beach), Kantiang Bay, Klong Dao Beach |
| Activities | Snorkeling, diving, kayaking through mangroves, island hopping, Lanta Old Town, Mu Ko Lanta National Park |
| Entrance / Costs | Island itself is free; National Park entrance approx. 200 THB, scooter rental from approx. 200 THB per day |
| Lee’s Tip | Take the first ferry and stay at least 3 nights – the island reveals its charm from day 2 onwards |
Most visitors start their trip in Phuket Town or at one of the nearby piers. There are two main options: the public ferry and private transfers by longtail or speedboat.
Most visitors start their trip in Phuket Town or at one of the nearby piers. There are two main options: the public ferry and private transfers by longtail or speedboat.
👉 Check Ferry to Koh Lanta Now(Note: If an English ferry page exists, replace with its English URL. Otherwise link to the German page and add a language note.)
My tip: Book your ferry in advance, especially in high season from November to April. Boats sell out quickly – and nothing is worse than standing at the pier with no ticket left.
If you don’t want to drive to the pier in Phuket yourself, there are also combined transfers (minibus + ferry). Many operators pick you up directly at your hotel in Patong, Kata or Karon.
Koh Lanta consists of two main islands – Lanta Yai (the larger, inhabited one) and Lanta Noi (less touristic). The beaches are almost all on the west coast of Lanta Yai and connected by a single main road.
This is the best-known and longest beach on the island. The water slopes gently, ideal for families and swimming. Along the beach you’ll find bars, restaurants and small accommodations – but without the mass tourism you know from Patong.
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, head to the southern end of the island. Kantiang Bay is surrounded by hills, the sand is fine and the water crystal clear. Perfect for a relaxed day with a book and snorkel mask.
Centrally located, easy to reach and relaxed. Ideal if you don’t want long transfers from the road to the beach.
There’s more to Koh Lanta than just the beach. Here’s what I recommend:
On Koh Lanta you eat well and affordably. From street food stalls at Long Beach to upscale beach restaurants with sunset views, everything is available. Definitely try the catch of the day – grilled fish with lime and chili.
The dry season from November to April is ideal. Then the sea is calm, ferries run regularly and the sun shines almost every day. In the rainy season (May to October) some ferry connections may be limited and the beaches are less inviting.
