Lading Island: Is It Worth Visiting?
Practical information about Koh Lao Lading
Have you ever heard of Lading Island or Koh Lao Lading?
It’s a drop-dead gorgeous island tucked away in the Andaman Sea. But wait, I can already hear you saying, “Thailand has a ton of islands, is Lading Island really that special?” Trust me, it is!
Having travelled across Southeast Asia for a solid five months, I’ve discovered some spectacular islands like Koh Rong Samloem, Hong Island, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, but Koh Lading?
It’s a dream that sticks with you.
So, strap in as we dive deep into Koh Lading.
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Where Is Koh Lading Lading?
Koh Lao Lading, aka Paradise Island, is located in the Andaman Sea and is part of the Hong Archipelago of islands.
The best thing about it is the easy access. Fast boats and slower long-tail boats venture out each day and allow people to soak up all the beauty they offer.
When I arrived on the white sandy beach at Koh Lao Lading, I instantly had to pinch myself.
Thankfully, yes, it was real!
Koh Lao Lading Map
How do I get to Koh Lading?
We got a 1-day tour to visit Koh Lading, the Hong Islands, and snorkel in the Andaman Sea. And seriously, it was one of the best days exploring Thailand.
A common way tours are organised across Thailand includes a minivan. We were collected at the hotel and dropped off at Nang An Pier near the town of Ao Nang.
You can purchase tickets to many of the islands at the piers in Krabi or Phuket, or arrange through your hotel directly.
Overall, it is very easy to reach Lading Island by boat. So no need to worry about this.
A private boat will cost much more, but you will have more time on the island. When we visited on the tour, we were there for maybe an hour.
What Is There To Do In Koh Lading?
Spoiler alert – don’t expect a crazy adventure at Lading Island.
It is rather a place to slow down, relax and escape from the craziness of the world.
Sure, you can do many interesting adventures close by, like reaching the 360-degree viewpoint on Hong Island or going party crazy in Koh Phi Phi, but after a while, it becomes exhausting.
If you’re more like me and appreciate the simple pleasure of soft white sand, perfect swimming water and beautiful karst landscapes, then Lading Island is for you.
On Lading Island, you can swim in the MOST perfect water, snorkel too, or have fun swinging in the huge swing found at one of the palm trees.
The Andaman Sea has epic water for snorkelling, so make the most of the opportunity when visiting Lading Island.
I have included some popular tours below which may be of interest.
Lading Island Tours
- Ao Nang: Hong Islands Tour by Speedboat or Longtail Boat
- Krabi: Island Hopping Tour by Private Longtail Boat
- Krabi: Hong Islands Private Longtail Boat Tour
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Final Thoughts On Koh Lading
Thailand’s islands are famous for their beauty, and places like Koh Samui, Koh Lipe and Koh Phi Phi are usually the most popular.
But should people consider Lading Island more? Yes, they should! Epic. Magical. Worth every penny. That’s how I would describe it. I will revisit the island, that’s for sure.
With an island so small it may turn you off visiting, but honestly, it felt like a tropical haven. Even though I already visited this place, I will make sure to return in the future when I go back to Krabi.
The water is crystal clear, the boat trip there is fun, and it doesn’t take forever. The only difficult part was leaving! If you’re on the fence about visiting Lading Island, I would recommend you go to make magic memories on this little island of bliss.
Planning a trip to Southeast Asia? Check out my packing list to bring exactly what you need!
Thanks for reading,
James
FAQs
What Is Lading Island?
Lading Island is a magnificent, small island in the Andaman Sea, close to Krabi. It is part of the Hong Archipelago. Many people visit on day trips from Phuket and Krabi.
Are There Facilities On Lading Island?
There are toilets on the island, and apart from that, there is not much else. If you visit privately, you will have to prepare lunch to stay for a long time. If you visit on a tour, they will likely provide lunch, fresh fruit, and water.
Can I Stay Overnight On Lading Island?
There is no accommodation on Lading Island, so it will be hard to stay overnight. The best plan is to visit on a tour or get a private boat and enjoy the day on the beach.
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