Several beaches on the west coast of Ko Lanta Yai are each strung with a line of resorts and bungalows. This region is an important destination for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts, who come to the islands to view the coral reefs and the ocean life, including manta rays and whales. There is also an abundance of tropical plant life, including the remnants of the ancient rainforests.
The Ko Lanta archipelago consists of 15 islands located off the southwestern shore of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. The largest of these is Ko Lanta Yai, commonly called Ko Lanta. The entire archipelago is part of the Mu Ko Lanta National Park, and the park’s offices are located at the southern tip of the Ko Lanta Yai where the island’s primary paved road turns into a dirt road.
Ko Lanta is the most popular island in the archipelago, prized for the nine white sandy beaches that encircle its shores. The most popular beaches are located on the west side of the island. Klong Dao boasts a two-mile-long stretch of soft white sand and clear shallow water. Visitors can find accommodations in every price range along the beaches on the island’s northern shores. It’s popular with a significantly older crowd than nearby Ko Phi Phi and its attract mostly tourists seeking a holiday away from the parties although there are plenty of bars on the island. The southern part of the island is less developed, but there are pretty coves and beach to discover in the south as well.
The geography of the archipelago is marked by soaring limestone rocks and karsts. Although Ko Lanta is flatter than its neighbors, the dozens of rocky islands and islets offshore offer shelter for sea life, making them ideal location for scuba diving adventures. Mangrove forests cover much of the island. In the center of Ko Lanta are the Khao Mai Kaew Caves, a series of limestone caves featuring large stalactites and stalagmites. For visitors who find the trek to the caves a bit daunting, elephant rides offer an option that will make the journey as memorable as the destination.
Pimalai Resort and Spa
At Pimalai, rekindle your love for nature amidst lush tropical forests and the endless Andaman waters. Discover Koh Lanta’s best kept secret, nestled within the solitude and serenity of surrounding mountains.
The name "Pimalai" is derived from ancient Sanskrit, meaning, "a little patch of Heaven". True to its name, Pimalai brings you the perfect combination of nature and luxury, but one of a different kind - the luxury of being in a unique and exclusive environment, without the fuss that comes with it; the luxury of experiencing an out of the beaten track destination, and the luxury of being pampered by friendly island natives who not only perform their duties, but give you that little extra something that makes all the difference.
Built around a respect for nature, seek refuge in Pimalai for a luxurious and elegant beach resort experience with genuinely friendly service by a dedicated crew. Situated away from the hustle and bustle of crowded beaches and close to the Lanta Marine National Park, Pimalai is the perfect destination for that dream vacation, romantic wedding or honeymoon, diving trip or even business meetings. The 1 hour long journey to Koh Lanta via our resort’s speedboat from Krabi mainland may be tiring to some, but the incredible sights of Thailand’s smaller islands during this trip will be truly unforgettable.
Amidst 100 acres of tropical vegetation, direct access to over 900 meters of pristine sandy beach, lose yourself in the sights and sounds of nature, with buzzing cicadas, birds and eagles hovering majestically above, and mischievous squirrels and monkeys on the trees surrounding you. With 121 accommodation units comprising of serene villas, elegant suites and quaint rooms, this unique resort surrounded by famous snorkeling and diving spots takes you closer to nature than you could ever imagine.