How to get there?
From Bangkok
Take a flight from Bangkok to Hat Yai
From Hat Yai you will have to take a bus of around 2 hours that will take you to the port of Pak Bara
In Pak Bara you will have to take a 2-hour speedboat to Koh Lipe
From Langkawi
Speedboats leave from Rassada Pier in Phuket every day, prices vary depending on whether you want to pick up from the hotel and the time, you can find multiple options:
Recommendations:
The journey is at least 5 hours, do not drink too many liquids because the bathroom in the boats is not very hygienic, take pills for seasickness and prepare for a hectic trip!
From Phuket
The ferry from Langkawi to Koh Lipe is around 2 hours, keep in mind that departure might change depending on the weather conditions, so have patience!
Ferris from Langkawi just work during hight season (October to June)
Get your Ferry tickets here:
Get your plane tickets here:
Koh Lipe, often referred to as the "Maldives of Thailand," is a tropical gem nestled in the Andaman Sea. This idyllic island is renowned for its pristine, crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, and a diverse array of vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
As part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, Koh Lipe offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Visitors can explore its enchanting underwater world through snorkeling and diving adventures, or simply relax on the postcard-worthy beaches.
The island is also known for its welcoming atmosphere, featuring a charming village with a vibrant street scene, where you can savor delectable Thai cuisine and immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you seek adventure or seek serenity, Koh Lipe is a true paradise for those looking to escape to a tropical haven in Southern Thailand.
What to do?
1. Diving Paradise
Koh Lipe stands as a premier diving destination in Thailand, situated along the Andaman Sea's edge within the pristine Tarutao Marine National Park.
The underwater world teems with activity, featuring dynamic rock formations, striking pinnacles, vibrant corals, and an impressive array of over 100 fish species. This is an absolute must-experience in Thailand!
While visiting the island, make sure to embark on a journey to discover the wonders of Stonehenge and 8 Mile Rock. Here, you'll encounter an extraordinary array of marine life, including majestic whale sharks, thriving schools of barracudas and snappers, enchanting batfish, and a myriad of other captivating species, all thriving amidst an indescribable diversity of coral formations.
2. Enjoy the Thai New Year
The Thai New Year, known as "Songkran," is one of the most significant and celebrated festivals in Thailand. It typically falls in mid-April and marks the arrival of the traditional Thai New Year. Songkran is a time of joyous festivities and a symbol of renewal and cleansing, both physically and spiritually. The most famous aspect of Songkran is the nationwide water festival, where people splash water on one another as a way of washing away the old year's misfortunes and welcoming the new year with a fresh start. Streets become lively with people armed with water guns, hoses, and buckets, engaging in friendly water fights. Traditional customs during Songkran also include the pouring of scented water on Buddha images and the hands of elders as a sign of respect and to receive blessings.
Songkran is a time when families come together, and people pay visits to temples to make merit and offer alms to monks. In addition to the water festival, many towns and villages host parades, cultural performances, and other events to celebrate Songkran. Traditional Thai food and desserts are prepared, and families reunite to share meals and exchange blessings. The atmosphere is one of happiness and unity, and Songkran is a time when Thai people embrace their cultural heritage and traditions, demonstrating the importance of family, respect for elders, and the cleansing of the past for a brighter future. Overall, Songkran is a vibrant and exuberant celebration that beautifully encapsulates the spirit and warmth of Thai culture.
3. Walking Street
Koh Lipe's bustling epicenter, the Koh Lipe Walking Street, reigns as the island's primary hub and a top attraction for tourists. Spanning approximately 480 meters from Pattaya Beach to the southern end of Sunrise Beach, this lively thoroughfare is adorned with a myriad of shops and exquisite dining establishments. While the street remains open throughout the day, it truly comes alive after sunset. A visit here is an absolute must during your island sojourn!
4. Go Beach Hopping
Beach hopping on Koh Lipe is one of the most popular activities for visitors to the island, as it allows you to explore the different beaches, each offering a unique atmosphere and natural beauty. Here's more information on some of the main beaches you can visit while beach hopping in Koh Lipe:
Pattaya Beach: Pattaya Beach is the main and busiest beach on Koh Lipe. It's where most of the island's accommodations, restaurants, and bars are located. The beach offers soft, golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making it an excellent place for swimming and water sports. You can also find various long-tail boats and speedboats departing from here for island-hopping trips.
Sunrise Beach: As the name suggests, Sunrise Beach is an excellent spot to witness breathtaking sunrises. It's located on the east side of the island and is less crowded than Pattaya Beach. The beach is known for its calm and shallow waters, making it a good place for swimming and snorkeling. You can also find a few beachfront resorts here.
Sunset Beach: Sunset Beach, located on the west side of the island, offers stunning sunset views in the evenings. It's a quieter and more serene option compared to Pattaya Beach. The water is generally calm and great for swimming and snorkeling. There are a few accommodations and restaurants along the beach.
Koh Lipe Castaway Beach: This secluded beach is accessible only by boat and is known for its tranquility. It's an excellent place to escape the crowds and enjoy the pristine natural surroundings. You can arrange boat transfers or kayaking to get here.
Bila Beach: Bila Beach is a small and secluded bay on the northern tip of Koh Lipe. It's a bit hidden and less visited by tourists, offering a peaceful escape from the more popular beaches. Snorkeling is excellent here due to the coral formations.
Secret Beach: As the name suggests, Secret Beach is somewhat of a hidden gem on Koh Lipe. It's a small, less-visited beach accessible through a jungle trail. The beach has a calm and shallow lagoon, making it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling.
5. Sunset Beach
True to its name, Sunset Beach is renowned for its mesmerizing sunsets that typically grace the horizon around 6:00 pm. The evening sky transforms into a breathtaking canvas of colors, with the silhouette of Tarutao National Park adding to the allure.
During the day, Sunset Beach provides a serene escape with ample privacy, offering a range of activities, including exceptional snorkeling opportunities. In the evening, you can savor a couple of cocktails at the Zodiac Bar, serenaded by the soothing sounds of the waves.
6. Go Island Hopping
Island hopping in Koh Lipe is a fantastic way to explore the pristine beauty of the surrounding islands and their unique attractions. Several tour operators on Koh Lipe offer island-hopping excursions that take you to nearby islands, allowing you to experience a variety of activities and natural wonders. Here's more information on island hopping in Koh Lipe:
Koh Adang: Koh Adang is the largest island in the Tarutao National Marine Park and is known for its lush forests, hiking trails, and beautiful beaches. Island-hopping tours often include a visit to Adang, where you can hike to the viewpoint for panoramic vistas, relax on pristine beaches, and snorkel in clear waters. There are also designated camping areas if you want to spend the night.
Koh Rawi: Koh Rawi is another stunning island with powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. You can enjoy snorkeling and swimming here, and some tours provide picnic lunches. It's a serene and relatively undeveloped island, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Koh Butang: Koh Butang is a small island known for its snorkeling spots and coral reefs. You can explore the underwater world, encountering colorful marine life and vibrant coral formations. It's a great spot for snorkeling enthusiasts.
Koh Tarutao: Koh Tarutao is the main island in the Tarutao National Marine Park. It's a large, lush island with diverse flora and fauna. You can take guided jungle treks to explore the island's interior, visit the former prison, and relax on the beaches.
Small Remote Islands: Some island-hopping tours include stops at tiny, remote islands with pristine beaches. These secluded spots offer a sense of exclusivity and serenity, and you can enjoy the beauty of nature away from the crowds.
Snorkeling and Marine Life: Many of these islands are surrounded by coral reefs, making them perfect for snorkeling. You'll have the opportunity to observe a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral formations. Snorkeling equipment is often provided as part of the tour.
Beach Activities: While visiting these islands, you can enjoy various beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Some tours may also include beach picnics and relaxation time.
Photography: Island hopping provides plenty of opportunities for photography, capturing the stunning landscapes, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Don't forget your camera or smartphone to document your adventure.
7. Day Hike in Koh Adang
A mere 15-minute longtail boat ride away from Koh Lipe lies the enchanting and tranquil paradise of Koh Adang. This island boasts pristine, crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands, and an abundance of remarkable marine life in its vicinity.
A must-do on your day trip to Koh Adang is a visit to the island's scenic viewpoint. Ensure you choose a day with clear skies, as a brief hike will reward you with a breathtaking panoramic vista of Koh Lipe.
