The west coast of Koh Lanta is one long empty beachfront that really gives you the feeling of being isolated from civilization without the inconveniences associated with being miles away from human habitation.

Although there are resorts all along the 25 km (15 miles) of seaside they are largely made from natural materials and blend right in with their surroundings, allowing you to feel as if you're the only person on earth. Even during the height of tourist season there are never many people on Koh Lanta and the island remains one of Thailand's best kept secrets.

A main road runs parallel to the beaches on the western side and its here that you'll find most of the restaurants, shops and services, as well as the entrances to the resorts. If you need a ride this is the place to hail the local taxis, motorbikes with large sidecars equipped with bench seats. During high season you're spoiled for choice but many of these places close down during the low season.

The two northern most beaches of Koh Lanta are the closest to the dock and Ban Saladan, the main town of Koh Lanta, with the result that they are the most populated areas with more resorts, restaurants and shops. Of course 'populated' by Koh Lanta standards is still pretty sparse and these small villages are quite basic. The middle island beaches tend to attract the backpacker set and those looking to escape from everyone.

There are still resorts and services but they tend to small, ramshackle family run places bursting with local charm. Farther south you find Klong Nin and Klong Hin beaches, both gaining popularity with European holiday-makers looking for total relaxation. The beaches at the far southern end of the island, near Moo Koh Lanta National Park are the remotest and the most untouched by man. There are scattered resorts here, with the standout being the unforgettable five star Pimalai Resort, which provides the serenity of nature and all the luxury you would expect from a top quality resort.

The most popular beach in Koh Lanta, Klong Dao Beach was a virgin paradise ten years ago. Known all over Thailand for its unrivalled sunsets, this beach has attracted the highest number of upmarket hotels and resorts and has more services than any other beach. Even more people know about this beach, you can actually find yourself doing some thinking alone on the beach if you care enough to blot out the crowd.

Klong Dao Beach is a children-friendly beach thanks to its shallow water, low tides and spotless wide brown sand. The 3-km beach is currently one of the most developed beaches on the island now-the number of high-end resorts has increased in recent years, joining the family owned bungalows and other middle-range and budget hotels. It is perfect for swimming. When the water is low, the wide beach is great for beach side sports such as volley ball. It is also a great natural morning running track.

The three-kilometer beach is currently one of the most developed beaches on the island now. The number of high-end resorts has increased in recent years, joining the family owned bungalows and other middle-range and budget hotels. The vibe is higher during the peak season and brings along more restaurants, bars and beach activities.

At the south end of the beach local fisherman use the natural rock harbour as a base and there are usually picturesque fleets of longtail boats.

Klong Dao Beach, 3 km (1.8 miles) of soft powdery white sand and incredibly calm water make this the most popular beach on Koh Lanta. Known all over Thailand for its unrivalled sunsets, this beach has attracted the highest number of upmarket hotels and resorts and has more services than any other beach.

Despite being the most popular beach, Klong Dao is far from overdeveloped and what resorts there are remain unobtrusive and simple, preserving the secluded atmosphere. At the south end of the beach local fisherman use the natural rock harbour as a base and there are usually picturesque fleets of longtail boats moored there.

Klong Dao is only 3 km (1.8 miles) from the main town area of Koh Lanta, Ban Saladan, where you will find most of the restaurants and bars as well as numerous shops and the major market on the island. Ferries coming to Koh Lanta from the mainland dock at Ban Saladan and travellers arriving on the island will find banks, internet cafés and tour booking agencies here.