Why Not Bar
Sitting right on the beach on Ko Lanta Yai, Why Not Bar draws a loyal crowd with its relaxed, sandy-toed atmosphere and a lineup of live entertainment that regularly includes guitar performances, sing-alongs, and fire shows from around 8:30pm. The combination of beachfront access, affordable drinks, and evening entertainment makes it a standout option among Ko Lanta's quieter nightlife offerings. Visitors can expect a laid-back, unpretentious vibe that suits the island's character well. The bar doubles as a dining spot, with food drawing consistent praise alongside the drinks — the banana coffee shake in particular gets a mention from regulars. Afternoons bring a mellower crowd looking to unwind after a day of snorkelling or beach time, while evenings pick up with music and a sociable mix of tourists and locals. The creative seating and beachside setting add character without any sense of formality. Good to know: Why Not Bar is located within walking distance of the Pimalai Beach Resort, making it convenient for guests in that area, though it draws visitors from across the island. Since opening hours are not listed online, it is worth checking ahead during low season or quieter periods. Ko Lanta is accessed by ferry from the mainland, so travellers staying off-island should plan their return journey around the ferry schedule. Casual beachwear is entirely appropriate for both afternoon and evening visits.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Why Not Bar, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
A short walk from the Pimalai Beach Resort and attached to it's own Hotel, it was a welcome $break on the cost of eating out. Wine as per usual is expensive in Thailand (฿1,650 - £40) but the food is very inexpensive and delicious typically ฿150-250 per meal. Thai Green curry was delicious washed down with Singha beer. Having it's own hotel it cater for it's own market, which kept prices down, we half expected it to be expensive as it is very close to Pimalai Resort & Spa 5*. We had an entertaining evening with the Fire Show that is on most evenings at 8.30pm, to our surprise a lot of the performers were children from the local school... They all seemed to love performing and it added to the spectical, but coming from the UK we could help but wonder... This would never be allowed in the UK!
Fantastic bar and restaurant! The dj was brilliant and the live music awesome. From Tracy chapman to bob Marley to grateful dead. Guy was a genius on the guitar. And fun to sing along. 8:30pm fire show that was slightly concerning as it was kids and lots of fire but all okay! They knew what they were doing. 😬😳 Great curry. Went back 3 nights in a row! Even had a fantastic Halloween party!! Great value.
Cool bar. We only came for a couple of drinks in the late afternoon but a chilling spot on the beach. Banana coffee shake was delicious and my girlfriend’s ice coffee was too. Unfortunately we made the mistake of not saying she didn’t want sugar in it (most places ask) but that’s our mistake. Great service here
Tips for Visiting Nightlife & Bars
Carry Your Passport or a Copy
Clubs and some bars check IDs strictly, especially in Bangkok's Thonglor, RCA, and Sukhumvit areas. A photo of your passport info page on your phone usually works, but carrying a laminated photocopy is safer.
Know the Closing Times
Legal closing time is 2 AM for most venues, though enforcement varies. In Bangkok's designated entertainment zones (RCA, Silom Soi 2/4, Khao San), some clubs stay open until 4 AM. Islands tend to be more relaxed about hours.
Buy Bucket Drinks Cautiously
Island bucket drinks (mixed spirits in a small bucket) are cheap and fun but notoriously strong and inconsistent. Stick to one, stay hydrated, and never leave your drink unattended at beach parties.
Also Popular in Krabi
Ko Lanta
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Ko Phi Phi Don
Largest island in the Ko Phi Phi archipelago, featuring scenic inlets, beach resorts & restaurants.
Emerald Pool
A natural spring-fed pool in Krabi's jungle, famed for its striking emerald-green water and peaceful rainforest setting.
Wat Tham Suea
Expansive temple complex in lush jungle surrounds known for its gold Buddha statue & cave network.
Similar Nightlife & Bars Across Thailand
Nana Plaza
A multi-level nightlife complex on Sukhumvit Road packed with bars, music, and adult entertainment.
Khao San Road
Bangkok's iconic backpacker street packed with bars, street food, live music, and chaotic after-dark energy.
Café del Mar Phuket Beach Club
Upscale beachfront club in Kamala serving sundowners, DJs, and sunset views on Phuket's quieter west coast.
Illuzion Phuket
One of Phuket's biggest nightclubs, sitting at the heart of Bangla Road's famous entertainment strip.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus/minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.
Getting around
- •Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
- •Songthaews in Ao Nang
- •Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
- •Motorbike rental