Lanta Island
Ko Lanta is the largest
island in a group of more than fifty lying just off
the Krabi coast. Easily visited by express boat from
Ban Hua Hin and Krabi on the mainland, or from Ko
Phi Phi. Ko Lanta itself is really two islands, Ko
Lanta Noi to the east is separated by a very narrow
channel from Ko Lanta Yai to the west.
Modest beach accommodation
is available on Ko Lanta Yai, a long, slender portion
of sand and coral with low, forested hills down the
middle.
Ko
Lanta National Marine Park : are fifteen islands in
the Lanta group were declared in an effort to protect
the fragile coastal environment. Ko Rok Nawk is especially
beaufiful, with a crescent-shaped bay featuring cliffs
and a white sandy beach and a stand of banyan trees
in the interior. The intact coral at Ko Rok Nai and
limestone caves of Ko Talang are also worthy of an
outing. These uninhabited islands offer plenty of
coral along their western and southwestern shores.
With visibility of up to thirty metres in good weather,
there are hard and soft corals, a plethora of small
reef dwelling fish.
The main beach on Lanta
is Klong Dao, a three kilometers sweep of white sandy
bay for swimming and sunbathing. The northern end
of the beach is quieter. The prettiest beach areas
are found along the northwestern side of the island.
Because it's long, wide and flat, this is also a perfect
beach for walking and jogging as well.
Tham Khao Mai Kaew
: Located in the centre of Ko Lanta Yai, these
limestone caves make a fascinating cool break from
the beach. Narrow entrances through which the visitor
has to squeeze alternate with great domed charmbers.
Ko Jam and Ko Si Boya
: These large islands are inhabited by a few fishing
families and a complete escape from beer bars. Another
interesting natural formation with remarkable characteristics
is the trekking route to the Samet Daeng viewpoint.
This is because there are interesting plants and animals
en route. Similarly Ko Si Boya : like its neighbour,
this is a beautiful, relaxed and largely undeveloped
island where the main source of entertainment other
than swimming and sunbathing is watching the locals
fishing.
