Lanta Intanin Resort

Lanta Intanin Resort is a mid-priced resort in Ban Klong Nin that stands out for its choice of room sizes. Many small Koh Lanta hotels offer little more than doubles and twins, but this one has five room types, from a Superior Room and Deluxe Double rooms, one with a garden view, to a Family Room and a Family Suite with two bedrooms. That makes it a practical option for families and small groups who want to stay together without paying for two separate rooms. The resort is a short walk from Klong Nin Beach, about five minutes on foot, with Nui Beach a pleasant seventeen-minute stroll in the other direction. Khlong Khong Beach is a short drive, Long Beach is around thirteen minutes by car and Klong Dao around sixteen, so the whole run of the west coast is within reach for a day of beach hopping. Klong Nin itself has restaurants, small shops and a handful of beach bars, giving enough variety for a week's stay.

Rooms include air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a refrigerator, a flat-screen TV, a coffee and tea maker, an electric kettle, a rainfall shower and free toiletries. There is a garden to sit in, a billiards table for evening games, a safe at the front desk and tour and ticket assistance for booking boat trips.

Free uncovered self parking is available. Breakfast is available for a fee and an airport shuttle can be arranged for an extra charge per vehicle. There is no elevator, and pets are not allowed, so guests with mobility needs should ask about ground-floor rooms.

Families will like the space. The two-bedroom suite gives parents and children separate sleeping areas, and the family rooms suit a group of three or four. The beach is close enough for short walks with children, though the sea is not always calm, particularly in the wet months, so follow any warning flags. Ask the resort about babysitting or child-friendly restaurants in the area, and carry sun protection, because the midday sun is strong.

For day trips, tour operators collect from hotels in Klong Nin for the four islands, Koh Rok and Koh Haa, the mangrove kayaking and the old town. Boat days start early, so ask for an early breakfast or a packed meal. Krabi International Airport is a drive of well over an hour and a half, including the ferry, so book a transfer in advance and allow time for the crossing.

The dry season from about November to April is the best time, with calm seas and open islands, and rates rise at Christmas and New Year, so book ahead. From May to October the island is quiet and green, some businesses close and bargains appear. Whenever you travel, read recent guest comments, confirm what your rate includes and check the cancellation terms when you book.