Much of the Koh Lanta island is owned by a clan of 'Sea Gypsies,' a tribal culture dating back more than a thousand years. They are natural fishermen and keep the island supplied with fresh eating fish and seafood including shrimp, crayfish, oysters and more.

The rest of the island is under the control of the Ko Lanta National Marine Park that protects the jungle and forest areas. Tree cutting is strongly restricted so most resorts are set in natural surroundings.

The twenty thousand residents outnumber the tourists at all times. The traditional economy of fishing, coconut and rubber plantations, rice paddies, prawn farming and fruit are now supplemented by growing tourism.

Even in mid-season it is possible to walk three kilometers down some beaches and pass only a dozen or two other visitors.

The island residents have maintained their grace and charm, and the island does not have the strongly business 'feel' that is prevalent on some of the more developed islands and beaches.