Mu Ko Lanta National Park is one of the most famous marine national parks in southern Thailand, covering numerous islands in the Andaman Sea. Officially established in 1990, the park spans more than 84,000 rai of protected land and sea, including tropical rainforest, coastal cliffs, coral reefs, and small islands rich in biodiversity. One of its most popular attractions is the Laem Tanod area, located at the southern tip of Koh Lanta Yai.

Laem Tanod is a scenic cape extending into the sea and surrounded by large numbers of toddy palm trees, which inspired the name “Tanod.” The area’s most iconic landmark is the white lighthouse, standing prominently on a hill overlooking the Andaman Sea. The lighthouse has become one of the most photographed locations on Koh Lanta, especially during sunset when golden light reflects beautifully across the ocean and coastline.

One of the unique features of Laem Tanod is its two contrasting coastlines visible from the same viewpoint. On one side lies a peaceful white sandy beach with clear water suitable for swimming and relaxing, while the opposite side features a rugged rocky shoreline filled with naturally shaped stones and dramatic waves crashing against the rocks during monsoon season.

The national park is also home to a 1.7-kilometer nature study trail that passes through dense tropical rainforest. Along the trail, visitors can experience giant trees, tropical plants, vines, and the sounds of wildlife in a natural environment. Several elevated viewpoints along the route provide panoramic views of the forest and the Andaman coastline.

In terms of biodiversity, Mu Ko Lanta National Park supports a variety of wildlife species, including long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, bats, hornbills, and many species of seabirds. The surrounding marine ecosystem is equally rich, with coral reefs and colorful marine life such as parrotfish, reef fish, and starfish, making the park an important conservation area in the Andaman region.

The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April, when the sea is calm and crystal clear, making it perfect for sightseeing, photography, and nature walks. During the monsoon season from May to October, waves become stronger, but the forest turns especially lush and green, offering a peaceful atmosphere for nature lovers.

Facilities inside the park include parking areas, restrooms, a small visitor welfare shop, resting areas, campsites, and park accommodations for travelers who wish to stay overnight and enjoy sunrise and sunset in a tranquil natural setting.

Compared with the busier beaches of Koh Lanta, the atmosphere at Laem Tanod remains peaceful and natural. Visitors can spend time relaxing by the sea, enjoying ocean breezes, watching sunsets, and exploring untouched rainforest landscapes. The destination is suitable for nature travelers, couples, families, hikers, and photography enthusiasts.

• From Klong Nin Beach, drive south along the island’s main road for approximately 10–12 kilometers. The final section of the road becomes steeper and more winding as it climbs through the hills, but the route is fully paved. At the end of the road, visitors will reach the national park checkpoint and parking area.

• Be cautious of monkeys around the parking area and visitor facilities, as they may grab food or belongings

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring drinking water if planning to hike the nature trail

• The best photography lighting is during the late afternoon before sunset

• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat because the cape area can be very hot during daytime

• Swimming is possible at the western beach, but visitors should always check sea conditions before entering the water

Admission Fee:

Thai Visitors

• Adults: 40 THB
• Children: 20 THB

Foreign Visitors

• Adults: 200 THB
• Children: 100 THB

Vehicle Fees

• Motorcycle: 20 THB
• Car: 30 THB

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:30 AM – 05:30 PM