Money & Payments
Thai Baht exchange, ATM locations, card acceptance, and a realistic daily budget for Koh Lanta travellers.
Verified 2026 · Island Seeker Editorial
quick answer
Koh Lanta uses Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are available in Saladan town and along the main road near Hat Khlong Dao, though the selection is limited compared to larger Thai tourist destinations. Budget travellers can manage on THB 1,000–1,500/day ($27–$41); mid-range travellers spend THB 2,000–4,000/day. Credit cards are accepted at most resorts and restaurants in tourist areas, but smaller guesthouses and local shops often prefer cash. Carry enough THB before heading south — ATMs become scarce past Khlong Khong.
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Koh Lanta Overview
Currency
Thai Baht (THB)
ATM fee
THB 220 per withdrawal
Card acceptance
Resorts & larger restaurants
Budget/day
THB 1,000–4,000
ATMs are concentrated in Saladan town (the main ferry pier and commercial hub at the north tip) and along Route 4245 near Hat Khlong Dao (the most popular beach). There are branches of Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank (KBank), and SCB visible from the main road. All charge a THB 220 foreign transaction fee per withdrawal on top of whatever your home bank charges — withdraw in larger amounts to minimise fees.
There are no ATMs south of Khlong Khong. If you are staying at Kantiang Bay, Klong Chak, or Bamboo Bay, bring sufficient cash from Saladan or Hat Khlong Dao before travelling south. Many resorts in the south do accept card payment, but for tips, local food, and tuk-tuks, cash is essential.
Currency exchange counters are available in Saladan town and at some Hat Khlong Dao guesthouses. Rates are reasonable for USD, EUR, GBP, and AUD. Exchange in advance at the airport (Krabi Airport has exchange counters) for similar or slightly better rates.
Budget travellers staying in simple guesthouses (THB 400–800/night), eating at local restaurants and market stalls (THB 60–150 per meal), and renting a motorbike (THB 200–300/day) can manage on THB 1,000–1,500 per day. Mid-range travellers at standard beachside bungalows (THB 800–2,000/night), eating a mix of local food and tourist restaurants (THB 200–400 per meal), spend THB 2,500–4,000/day. Luxury resort guests budget THB 6,000–15,000/day including resort dining.
Koh Lanta is generally 20–30% cheaper than Phuket or Koh Samui for equivalent accommodation and food — it remains one of Thailand's better-value beach destinations. Some prices have increased significantly since 2022 as tourism rebounded, but local food is still very affordable.
Tipping is not mandatory in Thailand but is appreciated. At restaurants: round up the bill or leave THB 20–50 on casual meals, THB 50–100 at nicer restaurants. For massages: THB 50–100 tip per hour is standard. For boat tour guides: THB 100–200 per group. Motorbike taxi and songthaew drivers don't expect tips.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at most resort hotels, mid-range restaurants, dive shops, and larger guesthouses. Small local restaurants, beach stalls, and market vendors are cash only. Some establishments add a 2–3% surcharge for card payments.
questions & answers
Where can I find an ATM in Koh Lanta?
ATMs are in Saladan town (north pier area) and along the main road near Hat Khlong Dao. Bangkok Bank, KBank, and SCB have machines. All charge THB 220 per foreign withdrawal. There are no ATMs south of Khlong Nin — carry cash if heading to Kantiang Bay or further south.
What is the best way to pay in Koh Lanta?
A mix of cash and card is ideal. Use card at resorts, dive operators, and larger restaurants. Use cash at local restaurants, market stalls, motorbike hire, boat trips, and smaller guesthouses. Carry THB 1,000–2,000 in smaller bills at all times.
How much does a meal cost in Koh Lanta?
Local Thai restaurants and market stalls: THB 60–120 for a full dish (pad thai, rice dishes, noodle soups). Tourist-oriented restaurants: THB 150–350 per main course. Nice beachfront restaurants: THB 300–600 per person for a meal with drinks. Fresh seafood from beach restaurants: THB 250–500 per dish depending on species.
Can I get by with just a card in Koh Lanta?
Not easily. While cards are accepted in many places, you'll frequently need cash for motorbike hire, local food, boat trips, market stalls, and tips. ATM fees are high (THB 220 per transaction), so withdraw plenty when you're near an ATM in Saladan or Hat Khlong Dao.
Is Koh Lanta expensive compared to other Thai islands?
No — Koh Lanta is one of the more affordable Thai beach destinations. Accommodation, food, and activities are typically 20–30% cheaper than equivalent options on Phuket or Koh Samui. It's comparable in cost to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao, though with a different (less party-focused) character.
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