Tucked away in the southern Andaman Sea, Koh Lipe, Thailand is a breathtaking island paradise that promises crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, and a vibrant underwater world. Often dubbed the “Maldives of Thailand,” this stunning island is part of the Tarutao National Marine Park and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of more commercialised Thai islands. If you’re seeking the perfect tropical getaway, Koh Lipe should be at the top of your travel bucket list! In my complete guide to Koh Lipe – Thailand – you’ll learn everything to create a perfect trip!
HOW TO GET TO KOH LIPE?
Reaching Koh Lipe might require a bit of effort, but the journey is well worth it. The island can be accessed via speedboat or ferry from popular destinations like Langkawi (Malaysia), Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Lanta. The nearest airport is Hat Yai International Airport, followed by a transfer to Pak Bara Pier, where daily ferries and speedboats depart for Koh Lipe.
- From Phuket: The speedboat ride from Phuket to Koh Lipe typically takes 5 – 5,5 hours, with stops at islands like Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi. Alternatively, you can take a ferry to Koh Lanta and then transfer to a speedboat to Koh Lipe.
- From Krabi: A direct speedboat from Krabi to Koh Lipe takes around 5 hours, while an alternative route includes traveling via Koh Lanta, which may add some time depending on transfers.
- From Langkawi, Malaysia: A direct ferry service operates between Langkawi and Koh Lipe, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. This is a popular option for travelers coming from Malaysia, as Langkawi has an international airport with good connectivity. If you are traveling from Langkawi, you will need to hand over your passport at the departure point for immigration processing. Once you arrive in Koh Lipe, you can retrieve your passport from a designated hut near the arrival pier.
WHEN TO VISIT KOH LIPE?
The best time to visit Koh Lipe is between November and April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for outdoor adventures. The monsoon season, from May to October, brings occasional heavy rains, but the island remains open for visitors.
WHERE TO STAY ON KOH LIPE?
Koh Lipe offers accommodations for all budgets, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury beachfront resorts.
High budget Koh Lipe hotels (with links below):
- Irene Resort – A serene beachfront resort surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful escape with modern villa accommodations.
- Casa Bulow – A boutique stay with cozy rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for couples and small groups. Located by the prime beach in Koh Lipe.
- Idyllic Concept Resort – A stylish boutique resort on Sunrise Beach, known for its elegant rooms and direct beach access.
Medium budget Koh Lipe hotels (with links below):
- Akira Lipe Resort – A high-end beachfront resort with modern amenities, infinity pools, and luxurious villas.
- Ananya Koh Lipe Resort – Modern resort-style accommodation with relaxed settings.
- Castaway Resort – A rustic yet comfortable eco-resort featuring wooden bungalows and a laid-back island vibe.
Low budget Koh Lipe hotels:
- Bloom Cafe & Hostel – A budget-friendly option with a relaxed atmosphere, great for backpackers and solo travelers.
- The Chic Lipe – A trendy, affordable guesthouse with comfortable rooms and easy access to Walking Street.
- The Cliff Lipe – Chic bungalows suspended above a gorgeous beach
WHAT TO DO ON KOH LIPE?
1. Relax on Koh Lipe’s stunning beaches
2. Snorkeling and diving in Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is a snorkeling and diving haven, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Some must-visit dive sites include:
- Stonehenge – A spectacular underwater site with towering coral formations.
- 8 Mile Rock – A deep-sea dive site with incredible marine biodiversity.
- Koh Tarutao and Adang-Rawi Islands – Perfect for snorkeling excursions and island hopping.
3. Explore Walking Street
Koh Lipe’s Walking Street is the heart of the island, lined with charming restaurants, street food stalls, bars, and souvenir shops. Whether you’re craving Thai delicacies like Pad Thai, fresh seafood, or a refreshing coconut shake, this bustling area has something for everyone.
4. Kayaking, paddleboarding and island hopping
Rent a kayak and paddle around Koh Lipe’s stunning coastline or embark on an island-hopping tour to explore nearby islands like Koh Adang, Koh Rawi, and Koh Tarutao. These islands boast unspoiled beaches, lush jungle trails, and mesmerizing snorkeling spots.
5. Hike to Koh Adang Viewpoint
Just a short boat ride from Koh Lipe, Koh Adang offers an amazing viewpoint where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Koh Lipe and the surrounding turquoise waters. The hike takes about 45 minutes and is well worth the effort.
6. Visit the Chado Cliff on Koh Rawi
Take a short trip to Koh Rawi, another beautiful island near Koh Lipe. The Chado Cliff viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and is a must-visit for adventure seekers.
THE BEST BEACHES ON KOH LIPE
Koh Lipe has some of Thailand’s most spectacular beaches, each offering a unique experience:
- Pattaya Beach – The most famous and lively beach, featuring powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant nightlife scene with beachfront bars and restaurants.
- Sunrise Beach – Located on the east coast, this beach is perfect for early risers who want to enjoy breathtaking sunrises. It also offers excellent snorkeling and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Sunset Beach – A quieter, more secluded beach on the west side of the island, ideal for enjoying stunning sunset views in a peaceful setting.
- Sanom Beach – A small hidden beach just south of Pattaya Beach, offering a serene escape with soft sands and shallow waters.
- Bulow Beach – A less crowded, picturesque beach with pristine waters, perfect for those looking for a quiet retreat.
- Galah Beach – One of Koh Lipe’s lesser-known gems, this beach provides a private, untouched feel and is great for unwinding away from the crowds.
WHERE TO EAT ON KOH LIPE?
If you love food as much as you love travel, Koh Lipe won’t disappoint. The island is packed with incredible places to eat, whether you’re after fresh seafood, local Thai flavours, or a little taste of home. Here are some must-visit spots to satisfy your cravings:
- Benny’s On The Beach – This place is an absolute vibe. Amazing beach views, chilled music, and Mediterranean-style dishes that’ll make you want to stay forever. Oh, and the cocktails? Next level.
- Sunrise Beach Restaurant – If you want fresh seafood with your toes in the sand, this is the spot. Their Thai curries are packed with flavour, and the ocean backdrop makes everything taste even better.
- Elephant Koh Lipe – A top pick for those looking for Western-style breakfasts, big burgers, and refreshing smoothie bowls. The cozy setting makes it a great place to kick back and chill.
- Rak Lay Restaurant – Looking for that authentic Southern Thai experience? This spot serves up seriously good grilled seafood and spicy dishes that’ll have you coming back for more.
- La Luna Italian Restaurant – Because sometimes you just need a good pizza. This Italian gem serves up wood-fired pizzas and hearty pastas in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
- Nee Papaya – A local favorite where you can score some of the best Pad Thai and papaya salad on the island, all for a budget-friendly price.
No matter what you’re in the mood for, Koh Lipe’s food scene is guaranteed to keep your taste buds happy while you soak in those island vibes. Also, remember than the Walking Street is home to some of the most incredible street food you’ll find in Thailand.
IS KOH LIPE EXPENSIVE TO VISIT?
Compared to other Thai islands that are closer to the mainland, Koh Lipe is definitely on the pricier side. Due to its remote location and reliance on boat transport for supplies, costs for accommodation, food, and activities tend to be higher than in places like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, or Koh Samui.
Accommodation Prices
Budget travelers can still find hostels and guesthouses for around 500-1,000 THB per night, but mid-range stays start at 2,000-4,000 THB per night, and luxury beachfront resorts can cost upwards of 6,000 THB per night. During peak season (November-April), prices tend to be even higher.
Food & Drink Costs
Eating out in Koh Lipe is generally more expensive than in places like Krabi or Phuket. A meal at a local Thai restaurant might cost around 150-300 THB, while a seafood dinner or international cuisine can range from 400-800 THB per person. Drinks and cocktails at beachfront bars can cost 150-250 THB each.
Transportation Costs
Getting to Koh Lipe is also more expensive compared to other islands. Speedboats from Pak Bara Pier cost around 600-1,000 THB one way, while trips from Phuket or Krabi can cost between 1,500-2,500 THB per person. If coming from Langkawi, Malaysia, the ferry ticket price is approximately 1,200-1,500 THB per person.
Activities & Fees
Snorkeling trips and island-hopping tours generally range from 1,000-2,500 THB, depending on the duration and locations visited. Scuba diving trips cost around 3,000-4,500 THB per dive session. The national park fee of 200 THB also adds to overall costs.
Is It Worth It?
Despite being more expensive, Koh Lipe is worth every baht for travelers seeking pristine beaches, incredible marine life, and a more secluded tropical experience. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Thai island, Koh Lanta or Koh Tao might be better choices, but if you don’t mind spending a bit more for stunning landscapes and fewer crowds, Koh Lipe is unbeatable.
HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND ON KOH LIPE?
The ideal amount of time to spend in Koh Lipe depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. 4 to 5 days is usually perfect for most travellers, allowing enough time to relax on the beaches, explore the island, and take part in activities like snorkeling, island-hopping, and experiencing the local food scene. Koh Lipe is a very small island – you can explore everything during one day, but since getting here is not easy and the island is absolute heaven, make the most of it! If you’re a diving enthusiast or want to fully unwind, you might enjoy extending your stay longer to take in the slower island pace. While Koh Lipe is small, it has a laid-back charm that makes it easy to lose track of time, so if you can, give yourself an extra day or two to soak up the beauty.
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