Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) as a class of anionic clays have extensive applications due to their unique structures. Nowadays, the emphasis is laid on the development of LDH coatings for corrosion resistance and medical applications. Thus, this review highlights synthetic methods of LDH coatings and LDH-based composite coatings on magnesium alloys. Special attention is focused on self-healing, biocompatible and self-cleaning LDH-based composite coatings on magnesium alloys.