Koh Lanta's Southwest Coast

The lower half Koh Lanta’s west coast is, if it is possible, even more laid back than the north. A larger proportion of Muslim population means a less hedonistic bar scene but some excellent high quality and boutique hotels have been built here due to the simply fantastic beaches. Some find the south a little more expensive than the north, due to the fewer number of restaurants and the high standard of accommodation and food.

Klong Nin and Kantiang Bay are the two main beaches, with Klong Nin almost exactly halfway down the island and Kantiang some 10 minutes south from here. Klong Nin is definitely becoming a rival to Saladan, as the hotels, bars, restaurants and shopping are opening here at a rapid rate while Kantiang Bay still remains an idyllic little village limited by the size of the bay.

However, if you want to really get away from it all, head past Kantiang to one of the last three beaches on the island. The road becomes less driveable in parts, so you need to be careful and drive slowly when on a motorbike or indeed in a car.