Long Beach (Phra Ae) Koh Lanta
Long Beach (Phra Ae) on Koh Lanta offers a vast expanse of soft sand, clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets, complemented by lively beachfr...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for sunset
Long Beach (Phra Ae) Koh Lanta
Best Time
Prime time for sunset
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Long Beach (Phra Ae) on Koh Lanta offers a vast expanse of soft sand, clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets, complemented by lively beachfront bars and restaurants.
"Amazing sunset view and plus points cause it’s not crowded."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Arrive early to secure a good spot at a beachfront bar for the spectacular sunset views.
🚶♀️ Explore the Length
Walk the entire beach to find your preferred spot; conditions vary from clean and sandy to rocky.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Sunset Spectacle
Along the entire stretch of Long Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky in vibrant hues, best enjoyed from a beachfront bar.
Pristine Sands and Clear Waters
Northern sections of Long Beach
Enjoy swimming and relaxing on soft, white sand with calm, turquoise waters perfect for a dip.
Beachfront Dining and Relaxation
Along the main strip of Long Beach
Dine with your toes in the sand at numerous restaurants and bars offering diverse cuisines and chilled vibes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunset Views
Beach Conditions Can Vary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Arrive early to secure a good spot at a beachfront bar for the spectacular sunset views.
🚶♀️ Explore the Length
Walk the entire beach to find your preferred spot; conditions vary from clean and sandy to rocky.
🏊♀️ Swim Safely
Enjoy swimming in clear waters, but be mindful of potential jellyfish, especially in certain seasons.
🍹 Beachfront Bars
Numerous bars offer a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy drinks and the ocean breeze.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Arrive early to secure a good spot at a beachfront bar for the spectacular sunset views.
🚶♀️ Explore the Length
Walk the entire beach to find your preferred spot; conditions vary from clean and sandy to rocky.
🏊♀️ Swim Safely
Enjoy swimming in clear waters, but be mindful of potential jellyfish, especially in certain seasons.
🍹 Beachfront Bars
Numerous bars offer a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy drinks and the ocean breeze.
💆♀️ Beach Massages
Indulge in relaxing massages right on the sand for a true island experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Long Beach (Phra Ae) is celebrated for its stunning sunsets and long stretch of beautiful sand, offering a mix of relaxation and vibrant beachfront life. While many praise its clear waters and numerous dining options, some visitors note that beach cleanliness and rockiness can vary, and caution is advised regarding potential jellyfish.
"This is a nice beach with a long stretch of beautiful sand. These photographs were taken in the early morning, so it's empty, and the place is all for you. It gets busy during the day, especially during sunset, where there are a lot of bars to sit from, and it enjoy the view. The demographic is mixed with young and old and families with kids. During the night, the beach is literally empty and quiet. There are massage places on the beach which is nice. It's a nice beach in my opinion to chill out."
Zhlange
"Pra-Ae Beach/Long Beach can be a beautiful beach that is wonderful for swimming....BUT you have to be in the right part of this beach.......good waves to play in and float...gets deep very fast but not any strong rip currents or any rocks ...at least that was me experience staying at Lanta Sand Resort for a couple weeks.......This was by far the most enjoyable water I have experienced in Thailand...which includes Ao Nang, Railay and Phi Phi so far. The resort does a great job of keeping their significant area of beach very clean which is not the case as you walk further south....Long Beach gets extremely dirty in spots and can get very rocky too."
Dimitri Roussos
"Beautiful beach. Quiet and clean. Plenty of restaurants along the beach."
Avital P.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Koh Lanta by ferry from Krabi Town or Ao Nang, or by car/van from Hatyai. Once on the island, taxis or songthaews (shared taxis) can take you to Long Beach (Phra Ae).
Yes, renting a scooter is a popular and convenient way to explore the island. Taxis and songthaews are also readily available.
You can fly from Bangkok to Krabi Airport and then take a ferry or minivan transfer to Koh Lanta. Alternatively, overnight buses are available.
Yes, many tour operators offer direct transfers from popular tourist hubs like Phuket and Krabi to Koh Lanta.
The journey from Krabi to Koh Lanta typically takes around 2-3 hours by ferry or minivan and ferry combination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Long Beach (Phra Ae) is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee.
Long Beach is accessible 24/7, though beachfront bars and restaurants have their own operating hours.
Generally, there are no fees for using the beach itself. Some beachfront bars or restaurants may charge for loungers if you're not a patron.
Yes, there are numerous resorts, bungalows, and hotels located directly on or very close to Long Beach.
Long Beach itself is not within the national park, but if you plan to visit the Mu Koh Lanta National Park, there will be an entrance fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, enjoy beachfront massages, dine at various restaurants, and watch the sunset. Snorkeling trips can also be arranged.
Yes, the northern parts of Long Beach are excellent for swimming with clear waters and gentle waves. Be aware that some southern sections can be rocky.
Jellyfish can be present, especially during certain seasons. While some may be harmless, it's advisable to be cautious.
Late afternoons are popular for sunset views, while early mornings offer a peaceful, uncrowded experience.
It can get busy during the day and especially for sunset. Mornings are typically quiet and less crowded.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a wide variety of options, from local Thai cuisine to international dishes, at the numerous beachfront restaurants and bars.
Yes, beyond the beachfront restaurants, you can find more budget-friendly local eateries and street food stalls a short walk from the beach.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options, and many can adapt dishes to be vegan upon request. Thai cuisine is generally adaptable.
Absolutely! Long Beach is famous for its numerous bars lining the shore, perfect for enjoying a drink while watching the sunset.
While specific recommendations vary, exploring the beachfront establishments will offer a great selection. Look for places with good reviews and lively atmospheres.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of beach offers beautiful scenery, especially during sunrise and sunset. The clear water and palm trees provide great backdrops.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. 
Look for the silhouette of longtail boats against the sunset, or capture the vibrant colors of the sky reflecting on the wet sand.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be respectful of other beachgoers' privacy.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and sunsets. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying at resorts that offer family amenities or are located in the cleaner, more accessible northern parts of the beach. While the beach can get busy during sunset, mornings offer a more peaceful environment for families to enjoy. Be mindful of jellyfish and supervise children closely when they are in the water.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for local eateries and street food stalls away from the immediate beachfront for delicious and inexpensive Thai meals. Many bars offer happy hour deals, and simply enjoying the beach and sunset requires no cost. Renting a scooter can also be an economical way to explore the island.
💖 Couples
Consider booking a beachfront bungalow for a more intimate experience. The relaxed vibe of the beach makes it perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying quiet moments together. The availability of beach massages also adds to the romantic appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Long Beach (Phra Ae)
While the northern sections are often praised for their cleanliness and swimmable conditions, it's worth noting that the beach's condition can vary as you move south. Some areas might become rockier or less pristine, especially during certain times of the year. However, the overall experience is one of laid-back island charm, with plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy the tropical scenery.
Many travelers find Long Beach to be a perfect balance between natural beauty and accessible amenities. It's a place where you can enjoy a tranquil morning swim, have lunch with your feet in the sand, and then settle in for one of the island's most spectacular sunset displays.
+1Sunset Magic at Long Beach
To truly appreciate the sunset, it's recommended to arrive a bit before the main event to find a comfortable seat. The demographic on the beach during sunset is mixed, with couples, families, and solo travelers all coming together to witness this daily spectacle. The transition from daylight to twilight creates a magical ambiance, making it a must-do experience for anyone visiting Koh Lanta.
Beyond just watching, many visitors enjoy capturing the moment through photography. The silhouettes of longtail boats against the colorful sky, or the reflections on the wet sand, offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Navigating Beach Conditions and Water Safety
Water safety is also a consideration. The waters are generally calm and good for swimming, with no strong rip currents reported by some visitors. However, there have been mentions of jellyfish, particularly during certain seasons. While not all are dangerous, it's wise to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Local advice or signs on the beach can provide further guidance.
For the best swimming experience, focus on the northern and central parts of Long Beach, where the sand is softest and the water is clearest. Always pay attention to any local advisories regarding water conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit