In contrast to other Thai islands, Ko Lanta did not feel touristy to me, even though tourism is present everywhere there. The laid back atmosphere on the island makes it a perfect place for rest and relaxation when visiting Thailand. Ko Lanta still has something of the wild and natural about it. In the very north you can visit Saladan: a small, traditional fishing town where you can get something to eat, purchase souvenirs and see stilt houses.
By hiring a scooter you can explore the island and visit waterfalls, caves, and the national park in Ko Lanta's south. Sporting types can hire a kayak to explore the verdant mangroves, where you can encounter swans. The only thing I find regrettable is that no hiking trails or roads have been built in the center of the island. Ko Lanta is quite mountainous and I'm sure tourists will enjoy a little walk up to the summits to see the views you get from the top.
I needed an island where I could rest and relax after the decadent madness of Phuket. Ko Lanta seduced me with its peacefulness and unspoiled nature. I followed other travelers who'd reserved accommodation in the center of the island and, despite my difficulties in finding cheap accommodation at the last minute, I really liked this part of the island; it isn't as excessive as the northern part. I went on a guided tour of the four other islands close by, of which Ko Muk, with its Emerald Cave, is magnificent, and did some snorkelling. One evening, we went to a bar where a group of Thai people were playing hard rock classics. It was magical!
The little added bonus: despite the many tourists, you can find abandoned beaches if you are prepared to venture off on a scooter. This is a lively island, but not excessively so.
The minor drawback: I didn't manage to find a good restaurant. It felt a bit like it was about packing the tourists in, with no real quality available.