Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Koh Lanta?
Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Koh Lanta?
Not sure how much time you'll need in Koh Lanta, Thailand? Most people spend two to five days in Koh Lanta during their visit. After all, the off-the-beaten-path island will let you swim at the beach, admire the wonderful scenery, snorkel or scuba dive, and discover the nearby hiking trails.
Koh Lanta is an island that's off the west coast of Thailand between Koh Phi Phi and the mainland. It's a quieter island that doesn't see the huge tourist crowds of other nearby places. The beaches are long and beautiful and the towns maintain their local charm.
Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Koh Lanta? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.
Is 3 days enough time in Koh Lanta?
Three days is usually not enough time to experience the off-the-beaten-path island of Koh Lanta, so you may find yourself somewhat rushed. You don't want to miss the main attractions such as the beaches, the beautiful scenery, scuba diving and snorkeling, and the hiking, as well as Long Beach. You'll likely want more than three days, as many tourists set aside around two to five days for their visit. However, if your schedule is tight, we have a handful of recommendations to make the most of your journey below.
How to spend 3 days in Koh Lanta
The beautiful beaches await you in Koh Lanta, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Koh Ha Koh Rok Day Tour by Opal Travel Speed boat ($47)
- Full Day Sea Cave and Mangrove Kayaking Tour From Koh Lanta ($52)
- A full Day Haa & Rok islands from Koh Lanta( By Speed Boat) ($39)
Koh Lanta is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. It's among Thailand's most beautiful islands and it's not as touristy or built up as some of the more popular areas.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Koh Ha Koh Rok Day Tour by Opal Travel Speed boat ($47)
- A full Day Haa & Rok islands from Koh Lanta( By Speed Boat) ($39)
- Half day Mangrove by Kayaking or Longtail boat from Koh Lanta ($21)
Scuba diving and snorkeling around Koh Lanta is very popular. Spend the day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Maya Bay, Monkey Bay and Phi Phi Island Snorkeling Tour from Koh Lanta ($61)
- Snorkeling Tour to Koh Rok by Speedboat from Koh Lanta ($52)
- Lanta 4 Islands + Emerald Cave Snorkeling Tour ($32)
You'll absolutely want to spend some time enjoying the food scene in this island, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine for a meal or two. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Cooking Class and Market Tour at Lanta Thai Cookery School on Koh Lanta ($54)
Known for it's hiking, Koh Lanta sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.
This island is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.
Is 4 days enough time in Koh Lanta?
Many visitors choose to spend around four days exploring Koh Lanta. This would give you the chance to experience the island's most popular activities such as the beaches, the beautiful scenery, and scuba diving and snorkeling. Since many visitors prefer to spend around two to five days here, we have a few suggestions of things to do.
Koh Lanta, Thailand
How to spend 4 days in Koh Lanta
Having 4 days in Koh Lanta will provide you with more time to take in the best activities in the island.
Perhaps the most famous place in Koh Lanta is Long Beach, so don't miss it. It might not be at the top of your list, but it's worth experiencing during your trip.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Koh Lanta.
Is 5 days enough time in Koh Lanta?
Five days is more than enough for an in-depth trip to Koh Lanta, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. Swim at the beach, admire the wonderful scenery, snorkel or scuba dive, and discover the nearby hiking trails on your own schedule. Then, take some boat trips or day tours around the surrounding area.
How to spend 5 days in Koh Lanta
With 5 days in Koh Lanta, you'll have a bit more time to enjoy everything that the island has to offer.
After you've explored most of Koh Lanta, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Koh Lanta.
More Info
If you're looking for more information about Koh Lanta, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.
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