Seaside Sanctuary Restaurant

Set on a timber deck built over the water, Seaside Sanctuary puts you right in the heart of Lanta Old Town’s waterfront. Long-tail boats drift past the mangroves, the breeze comes off the bay, and at high tide you’re practically dining above the sea. It’s the spot locals tap for a lazy lunch after wandering Old Town’s wooden shophouses, or an easy dinner when you want island pace without the west-coast crowds. The kitchen leans into Thai seafood done right. Think whole grilled fish perfumed with herbs and lime, crab fried rice that’s generous on the meat, bright papaya salads, and prawn curries with a proper kick. Non‑seafood eaters and vegetarians won’t go hungry — there are plenty of stir‑fries, noodles and veggie plates — plus fresh fruit shakes and cold beers to keep the heat in check. Come early for a calm, sunlit lunch, or aim for dusk when the deck glows and the water laps below. It’s open daily from 7am to 10pm, so you can slide in whenever hunger hits. Ask for a table on the edge of the deck for the best views, then settle in and let Old Town’s slower rhythm do the rest.