Long Beach (Phra Ae), Koh Lanta: Liveliest Beach Strip

Long Beach, known locally as Phra Ae, is Koh Lanta's longest continuous beach and the island's social centre. A wide ribbon of sand runs for kilometres, with the highest concentration of hotels, restaurants, bars and dive shops on the island right behind it. It is the default first-time base for good reason: everything is in one place and the rest of the island is within easy reach.

What to see and do at Long Beach

• Long swims and sunset walks: wide, sandy and good for strolling, especially in the late afternoon. Swim where lifeguards or flags indicate, and check conditions in the rainy season.
• The widest choice of restaurants: from cheap Thai food to seafood and international menus. The Long Beach restaurant guide has the best choices.
• Bars and evening life: most of the island's beach bars and casual nightlife are on this stretch, though it is far calmer than Phuket or Phi Phi.
• Activity bookings: tour desks and dive and snorkel operators line the road, and hotel pickups for island tours are simple to arrange from here.
• A useful base: Old Town is a short ride across the island, and quieter beaches lie to the south.

Conditions and who it suits

Long Beach can have rip currents, particularly in the rainy season. Heed warning flags, ask locally before swimming in rough conditions and avoid swimming after drinking. Tides also change how much sand you have to walk on.

It suits first-timers, couples and groups who want a range of restaurants, nightlife and hotel styles in one place, from budget bungalows to comfortable mid-range resorts. If you want serenity, look to Klong Nin or Kantiang Bay instead.

It is at its busiest from December to February, so book accommodation ahead in that window. Many smaller places close or discount heavily in the wet months.

Frequently asked questions

Last updated September 2026.