Koh Lipe
Often called the 'Maldives of Thailand,' Koh Lipe is a tiny island in the far south of the Andaman Sea, within the Tarutao National Marine Park. Despite being just 2 kilometers wide, Lipe boasts some of Thailand's most pristine beaches and crystal-clear water teeming with marine life. The island is home to the Chao Leh (sea gypsy) community who have lived here for generations. Car-free and walkable in 20 minutes from one end to the other, Lipe offers a uniquely intimate tropical island experience.
Beaches on Koh Lipe
Pattaya Beach
The main arrival beach and the longest on the island, with turquoise water and soft white sand. Speedboats dock here and the beach can get busy during the day, but the water clarity is consistently excellent. Great snorkeling directly from shore.
Sunrise Beach
A stunning east-facing beach with some of the best snorkeling on the island right off the shore. As the name suggests, the sunrise views are spectacular. The beach is lined with resorts but feels less crowded than Pattaya Beach.
Sunset Beach (Haad Pramong)
A small, intimate beach on the west side perfect for watching the sun dip behind the Andaman Sea. Rocky at the edges with a sandy center, offering excellent snorkeling around the boulders. Less developed with a handful of beach bars.
Karma Beach
A hidden gem on the northern tip of the island, accessible by a short trail. This secluded cove has crystal-clear water and excellent coral for snorkeling. Rarely crowded, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
Things to Do on Koh Lipe
Island Hopping in Tarutao Marine Park
$$Full-day tours visit nearby islands including Koh Adang (with its viewpoint hike), Koh Rawi (pristine beaches), and Koh Jabang (stunning coral). The marine park protects some of Thailand's healthiest reef systems. Longtail boats can be chartered or join group tours.
Snorkeling
$-$$Some of the best snorkeling in Thailand is found right off Koh Lipe's beaches. No boat needed for amazing coral and fish at Sunrise Beach and Sunset Beach. For even better sites, half-day trips visit Koh Hin Ngam (with its unique stacked-stone beach), Koh Yang, and the famous 8-Mile Rock.
Walking Street
$-$$The island's main 'road' connecting Pattaya Beach to Sunrise Beach, lined with restaurants, bars, dive shops, massage parlors, and small shops. The evening atmosphere is charming with fairy lights and the smell of fresh grilled seafood. Try the fresh fish barbecue stands.
Scuba Diving
$$-$$$The waters around Koh Lipe offer some of Thailand's best diving with sites like Stonehenge (dramatic rock formations), 8-Mile Rock (large pelagic fish), and soft coral gardens. Whale sharks and manta rays are occasionally spotted. Several PADI dive centers operate on the island.
Koh Adang Viewpoint Hike
$A moderately challenging hike on neighboring Koh Adang (a 15-minute longtail ride from Lipe) leading to Chado Cliff viewpoint with breathtaking panoramic views of Koh Lipe and the surrounding islands. The hike takes about 45 minutes one way.
How to Get to Koh Lipe
Flight to Hat Yai + Minivan + Speedboat
5-6 hoursFly to Hat Yai airport (1.5 hours), then take a minivan to Pak Bara Pier (2 hours), then a speedboat to Koh Lipe (1.5 hours). This is the most common route. Combined tickets are available. Boats run from mid-October to May only.
Flight to Trang + Transfer + Speedboat
5-6 hoursFly to Trang airport, transfer to Pak Bara Pier, then speedboat to Koh Lipe. An alternative to Hat Yai with sometimes better flight prices. Nok Air and AirAsia serve Trang.
Langkawi (Malaysia) Ferry
1.5 hours from LangkawiInternational ferries connect Langkawi (Malaysia) to Koh Lipe during high season (October-May). Immigration is handled at a floating platform. A unique option for those traveling between Thailand and Malaysia.
Overnight Bus/Train + Speedboat
16-18 hoursOvernight bus or train from Bangkok to Hat Yai or Trang, then minivan to Pak Bara, then speedboat to Lipe. The budget option requiring patience. Sleeper trains to Hat Yai are comfortable.
Book Transport to Koh Lipe
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Where to Stay on Koh Lipe
Sunrise Beach
$$-$$$$The most popular area for mid-range and upscale stays, with the best snorkeling right off the beach. Resorts range from simple bungalows to luxury beachfront rooms. Book well in advance for peak season.
Pattaya Beach
$-$$$Convenient location near Walking Street and the main arrival point. Good range of budget to mid-range options. Can be noisy from boat arrivals during the day.
Sunset Beach
$$-$$$The most peaceful area with a handful of boutique resorts and bungalows. Perfect for romantic getaways. Limited dining options but Walking Street is just a short walk away.